[Recon By Fire]

I have been an NRA member for some time yet have never shot a gun. Today, all of that changed and I can now say, "I have shot A gun." We went to the range and shot trap with a 12 gauge. Being behind the butt of that gun has really given me respect for how difficult it is to hit those things in the air. I was hoping that some of you could provide some insight on how I might improve my shot.

Being that this was my first time, I know the best thing for me learning more would to get back out on the range and shoot some more Other than that, what other kind of advise can you give a first timer?

[Dave McCracken]

Get some lessons from a qualified instructor.

Try different shotguns and get a US made name brand. Many of us like the Remington 870, but there are others of worth.

Once you have some lessons and a shotgun that fits you reasonably well,buy ammo, use up and repeat. Have fun!

And look at this board, it's quite possibly the best resource in the world for a new shotgunner.

Look at the 101 threads, I've written them to help newbies, and the usual suspects have added greatly to them also.

[sm]

Recon By Fire, Welcome to THR !

That guy (Dave, with the Buddha like grin) is right. Then some of us just drive him nuts.;)

Once you get the gun, the fit, the lessons, dry fire a bunch. Builds up stamina, muscle memory on gun mounting and trigger control...etc.

I also use weights when I do this...but I'm the rebel of the bunch.
I shoot at targets taped on the wall- to replicate the stations, hold points...etc. I always run straight when I do this :)


oh gotta go, Dave has me on latrine duty for being a bad student...again

[TooTaxed]

I'd suggest trying as wide a variety of shotgun types as you have readily available. You'll find that you like some better than others, and you simply shoot better with one you are comfortable with.

That said and done, it gets more complicated! My favorite guns are a short side-by-side 20-ga for upland birds (you can carry that light, flat receiver all day on your arm comfortably), over-and-unders for skeet and trap doubles, and an old Browning Auto (serial #263, latest patent date on the receiver 1903) for ducks and geese! Never have been comfortable or learned to use pumps efficiently, though several of my friends dote on them. My wife likes Remington 1100s for everything.

Can't beat getting lessons from a qualified instructor for fast improvement...and practicing frequently to develop the habits. Join a shooting league if you can. :D

[Wild Bill]

All the above are great advice.

In the time between now and the investment in the gun, instruction, and dry fire/range time you might also think about grabbing a few videos. There's a wealth of instruction out there from masters in the various sports.

It's a cheap and easy primer until you get geared up.

Good luck, and welcome to a lifetime addiction! :D