Down The Line (DTL)
Complete Shooting Guide
Master the fundamentals of DTL shooting with our comprehensive guide covering rules, scoring, positioning, and techniques.
5 Stations
Fixed positions
5 Targets
Per station
125 Points
Maximum score
16-20m
Shooting distance
What is DTL Shooting?
Down The Line (DTL) is the most popular clay shooting discipline in New Zealand and Australia. It's an excellent starting point for new shooters as it teaches fundamental skills while providing consistent target presentations.
In DTL, shooters move through 5 stations in a line, shooting at targets released from a single trap house. The targets fly away from the shooters at varying angles, making it an ideal discipline for learning target reading and gun mounting.
Rules & Scoring System
Basic Rules
- 5 shooters per squad
- 25 targets per round (5 per station)
- Gun down position until call
- Call "Pull" to release target
- Two shots allowed per target
Scoring System
First Barrel Kill: 3 points
Target broken on first shot
Second Barrel Kill: 2 points
Target broken on second shot
Miss: 0 points
Target not broken
Station Positioning & Technique
Key Positioning Tips
Station 1 (Far Left)
Targets break right. Stand with left foot forward, body angled right to accommodate swing.
Station 3 (Center)
Straight away targets. Balanced stance, weight slightly forward for follow-through.
Station 5 (Far Right)
Targets break left. Right foot forward, body angled left for smooth swing.
Essential Technique
- • Mount gun to pre-mounted position
- • Watch for target emergence
- • Smooth swing and follow-through
- • Consistent lead for each angle
- • Quick target acquisition
Equipment & Choke Selection
Recommended Chokes
Cylinder/Improved Cylinder
Ideal for beginners, wider pattern, more forgiving
Modified
Balanced choice for all stations
Improved Modified
For experienced shooters seeking tighter patterns
Ammunition
- • Load: 28-32 gram cartridges
- • Shot Size: 7.5 or 8 shot
- • Velocity: 1200-1300 fps
- • Quality: Consistent, well-known brands
Pro Tip: Use our Choke Selector Tool to find the perfect choke for your shooting style.
Strategy & Mental Game
Shooting Strategy
- • Develop consistent pre-shot routine
- • Focus on target, not gun barrel
- • Call for target at optimal timing
- • Maintain smooth, controlled movements
- • Plan your hold point for each station
Mental Preparation
- • Stay relaxed and focused
- • Visualize successful shots
- • Don't dwell on missed targets
- • Maintain consistent breathing
- • Build confidence through practice
Ready to Track Your DTL Progress?
Use TargetWise to track your DTL scores, analyze your performance across stations, and identify areas for improvement.