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01 // ABOUT
#01
About This Program
What to expect when you show up
Open Practice - Upper Trap and Skeet Range at Cherokee Rod & Gun Club in Kingsport, TN. Check with the host club for match details, start times, and registration.
02 // GEAR
#02
What to Bring
Equipment and gear for this program
1Shotgun: 12-gauge with 30" or 32" barrel (over/under, semi-auto, or pump)
2Choke: Improved Modified or Full for 16-yard trap; tighter for handicap
3Ammunition: 1-1/8 oz loads, #7.5 or #8 shot (about $8-12 per box of 25)
4Shooting vest: With large front shell pockets and padded shoulder
5Eye protection: Wrap-around shooting glasses, amber or orange lens for overcast
6Ear protection: Foam plugs ($0.50) or electronic muffs ($30-300)
7Shell pouch: If not wearing vest, clip-on pouch holds 25+ shells
8Hat or cap: Brim helps with sun glare and shell ejection
9Comfortable shoes: You will stand for 30-45 minutes per round
10Gun case: Soft or hard case required at most clubs for transport
Safety & Rules
Know these before your first shot
1Always keep muzzle pointed downrange, even when gun is empty
2Load only when on your station and it is your turn to shoot
3Call "pull" (or "pull" followed by your name on squad) loudly and clearly
4One shot per target in singles; two shots in doubles (second shot after first)
5Shoot within 3 seconds of calling pull or target is scored lost
6Rotate one station to the right after every 5 targets (called a "sub")
7Do not turn around with loaded gun; unload first if stepping off line
8No coaching or talking while another shooter is mounting their gun
9Scoring: Hit (1 point), Miss (0 points), Lost target due to malfunction (re-throw)
10Gun malfunctions: Keep muzzle downrange, raise hand, wait for scorer
01 // SESSIONS
#01
Upcoming Sessions
41 sessions scheduled - click any date to view details or register
04 // TIPS
#04
Pro Tips for Beginners
Advice from experienced shooters
Start at the 16-yard line—everyone does, including future champions
Borrow or rent before buying; most clubs have loaner guns available
Mount the gun the same way every time—consistency beats speed
Keep your head on the stock through the shot; lifting causes misses
Focus on the leading edge of the target, not the whole thing
Follow through after the shot; stopping the swing causes trailing misses
Practice your pre-shot routine until it is automatic
Shoot with experienced people and watch what they do
Join a club league; weekly competition accelerates improvement
Track your scores; patterns reveal which stations need work
Lesson from a certified instructor is worth 1000 rounds of practice
If you hit 23-24/25 consistently, consider moving to handicap for challenge