Why We Use Sporting Clays for Hunting Practice

October 26, 2021

As we head into the fall, it’s almost time for upland hunting, specifically pheasant hunting season. This time-honored American pastime is beloved by many, but it can also present quite a challenge, especially if you haven’t hunted in awhile. Lucky for you (and all of the other hunting-enthusiasts out there), sporting clays was invented for this very reason.

Prepare for Pheasant Hunting with Sporting Clays

Before you head out and try to bag your share of pheasants, spending time shooting sporting clays gives you an opportunity to practice and sharpen your skills. Derived and expanded from the traditions of trap shooting, this sport was designed to replicate the unpredictable movement of the game you’ll be going after.

Since each sporting clay course has its own unique set-up, it keeps you on your toes. You might have multiple clays thrown at the same time, at varying heights and angles (sometimes even varying sizes). That means it’s up to you to be strategic about what and how you want to hit your target. You’ll be glad you have this skill under your belt when you’re out hunting and dealing with the unexpected behavior of birds.

The Benefits of Practicing with Sporting Clays

The more you practice before you head into hunting season, the happier you’re going to be with your results. Shooting clay targets can help you understand how to position yourself to account for different distances and angles. It also allows you to experiment to see what small (or significant) adjustments can ultimately make a big impact.

Taking time on a sporting clay course allows you to hone your:

• reflexes
• decision making
• aim
• accuracy
• patience

All of these skills will come in handy when you're out bird hunting.

It also gives you the opportunity to learn more about your gun, practice a variety of shooting techniques, and experiment with what works best for you. This is the time to really understand how you and your gun work together, and what you need to do to have a successful shot.

As any experienced hunter will tell you, repetition is truly the key to a successful hunting season, especially when it comes to wing shooting. Taking the time on a shooting clay course will get you ready to take on whatever comes your way.

Take it from us—you’ll be glad you took the time to develop these skills in a controlled environment before you’re out hunting pheasants or other game.

Happy Hunting Season

If you’re like us, you are ready to take advantage of upland hunting. And the more you practice now, the better luck you’ll have when the real thing comes along. To get you prepared on and off the range, Wild Hare and Peregrine Field Gear have everything you need. Shop our shooting vests, outerwear, upland vests as well as our other gear.

If you have a question, or need something specific, send us a message - our team is here to help you out this hunting season (and beyond).