Skeet Shooting Guide
Master the precision sport of skeet shooting with our comprehensive guide to rules, techniques, and competitive strategies.
What is Skeet Shooting?
Skeet is a clay target shooting sport where targets are launched from two fixed stations at either end of a semi-circular field. Shooters move through eight different shooting positions, challenging their ability to track fast-moving targets at various angles.
Originally developed in the 1920s as practice for bird hunters, skeet has evolved into a precise Olympic sport requiring excellent hand-eye coordination, timing, and consistency.
Basic Rules & Scoring
Scoring System
- • Each broken target scores 1 point
- • Perfect round = 25 points (25 targets)
- • Target must break visibly to score
- • Miss = 0 points, no partial scores
- • Competitions often shoot multiple rounds
Target Presentation
- • High house target: 10 feet above ground
- • Low house target: 3 feet above ground
- • Targets cross at designated point
- • Singles: One target at a time
- • Doubles: Two targets simultaneously
Station Positions & Targets
Each station presents unique angles and timing challenges
Station 1
Far left
High house single, Low house single, High house first (doubles)
Station 2
Left
High house single, Low house single, Low house first (doubles)
Station 3
Left center
High house single, Low house single
Station 4
Center
High house single, Low house single
Station 5
Right center
High house single, Low house single
Station 6
Right
High house single, Low house single, High house first (doubles)
Station 7
Far right
High house single, Low house single, Low house first (doubles)
Station 8
Center (between houses)
High house single, Low house single
Key Techniques for Success
Shooting Fundamentals
- Stance: Comfortable, balanced position facing the target crossing point
- Mount: Consistent gun mount to cheek and shoulder
- Lead: Maintain consistent lead ahead of target
- Follow-through: Continue swing after trigger pull
- Timing: Smooth, flowing motion without stopping
Mental Game
- Focus: Concentrate on front edge of target
- Routine: Develop consistent pre-shot routine
- Confidence: Trust your instincts and training
- Recovery: Don't let misses affect next shot
- Visualization: Picture successful shots before calling "pull"
Equipment for Skeet Shooting
Shotgun Setup
- Action: Semi-auto or over/under preferred
- Barrel length: 26-28 inches optimal
- Chokes: Skeet or Improved Cylinder
- Stock fit: Properly fitted for consistent mounting
Ammunition
- Shot size: #9 shot most common
- Load: 1 oz or 1⅛ oz loads
- Velocity: 1200-1300 fps
- Quality: Consistent, reliable shells important
Tips for Improvement
Practice Regularly
Consistent practice develops muscle memory and timing essential for skeet success.
Master Timing
Learn the rhythm of each station. Timing varies significantly between positions.
Compete Often
Competition experience builds confidence and reveals areas for improvement.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Stopping the Gun
Keep the gun moving through and after the shot. Stopping leads to misses behind the target.
Inconsistent Mount
Practice your gun mount until it becomes automatic. Inconsistent mounting affects accuracy.
Wrong Foot Position
Position feet to allow natural body movement toward target breaking point.
Looking at Barrel
Focus on the target, not the barrel. Your peripheral vision will align the gun.
Ready to Master Skeet Shooting?
Track your skeet scores, analyze your performance by station, and identify areas for improvement with TargetWise.