Master Shooting Techniques — From Basics to Better Accuracy

If you’re passionate about improving your shooting techniques, there’s no better place to learn, watch, and get inspired than The Game Fair. Whether you’re new to shotgun sports or sharpening your skills, this iconic UK countryside event is packed with expert instruction, live demonstrations, and the chance to explore the art of clay shooting up close.

What Are Shooting Techniques — And Why They Matter

“Shooting techniques” are the core skills that help you consistently break clay targets — from your stance to how you mount the shotgun and track the clay. Getting these basics right doesn’t just improve your scores; it makes the sport more fun and safer too.

At The Game Fair, world-class instructors demonstrate essential clay and shotgun shooting fundamentals, helping you understand how skill and confidence develop together.

Clay Shooting Techniques You’ll See Demonstrated

1. Proper Stance and Balance

Your shooting stance provides the foundation for everything that follows. A good stance keeps you balanced and stable so you can move fluidly when following a flying clay.

Start with:

• Feet shoulder-width apart
• Weight slightly forward
• Shoulders relaxed and facing the target

This balanced stance gives you control and comfort before each shot.

2. Mounting the Shotgun Smoothly

Knowing how to mount your shotgun plays a big role in hitting moving clays. A smooth mount means raising and positioning the shotgun to your shoulder with confidence, so your sightline aligns with the target.

At The Game Fair you can watch and practice this essential step in guided sessions.

3. Eyes on the Target

Focus on where the clay is going, not where it was. This simple shift helps your hands and body follow — improving your break rate and control. Sight habits like these are among the most useful clay shooting techniques for both beginners and more experienced shooters.

4. Follow-Through and Balance

Once you pull the trigger, don’t stop your motion. A good follow-through means continuing the natural swing of the gun — keeping your eyes and body in line with the clay even after firing. This builds muscle memory and gives you smoother, more accurate shots overall.

Shotgun Shooting Basics Every Shooter Should Know

Before you take your first shot:

• Always treat every gun as if it’s loaded
• Wear ear and eye protection — required on The Shootline at The Game Fair
• Never load until you are in position and ready to shoot safely

You’ll learn all of these shotgun shooting basics and more from qualified coaches on site — making your visit both fun and educational.

Accuracy Tips to Take Your Skills Up a Gear

Here are a few practical shooting accuracy tips that make a real difference:

Lead the target: Aim slightly ahead of where the clay is travelling — this gives your shot time to meet a fast-moving target.
Keep both eyes open: For many shooters, this increases depth perception and makes tracking easier.
Relax and keep moving: Tension can slow your tracking. Keep your body in motion with the clay for smoother shots.

These tips are often coached during live demonstrations along The Shootline and in one-to-one sessions.

Improve Your Shooting Skills with Live Demonstrations

Whether you’re just beginning or want to fine-tune your abilities, The Game Fair makes it exciting and accessible. From live demonstrations of clay shooting techniques to personalised guidance from expert coaches and access to Gunmakers’ Row where Britain’s best makers share their craft — this experience builds skills and excitement in equal measure.

Improve your shooting skills with live demonstrations — and discover techniques that will elevate your game!