Trap Shooting Guide
Master trap shooting with our comprehensive guide covering American trap, handicap trap, and Olympic trap formats.
What is Trap Shooting?
Trap shooting is a clay target sport where clay targets are launched away from the shooter at various angles. Shooters stand in a line behind the trap house, taking turns to shoot at targets released on their call.
Known for its consistent target presentation and emphasis on precision, trap shooting is an excellent discipline for developing fundamental shooting skills and building confidence with rising targets.
Types of Trap Shooting
Different formats offer varying levels of challenge
American Trap
16 yards
Single targets rising away from shooter
25 targets per round, 1 point each
The most common form of trap shooting with consistent target distance.
Handicap Trap
20-27 yards
Single targets, longer distance based on skill
25 targets per round, 1 point each
Shooters positioned at different distances based on their average scores.
Olympic/International Trap
15 meters
Variable trajectory targets, faster release
25 targets per round, more challenging
International competition format with unpredictable target angles.
Basic Rules & Scoring
Scoring System
- • Each broken target = 1 point
- • Perfect round = 25 points (25 targets)
- • Target must break visibly to score
- • No partial scoring - hit or miss
- • Competitions typically 100-200 targets
Shooting Procedure
- • Shooters rotate through 5 positions
- • 5 targets shot from each position
- • Call "pull" when ready for target
- • Targets released within 3 seconds of call
- • No practice targets once competition starts
Shooting Positions & Strategy
Understanding each position's unique challenges
Position 1
Far left position, targets angle right
Position 2
Left-center position, slight right angle
Position 3
Center position, straight away targets
Position 4
Right-center position, slight left angle
Position 5
Far right position, targets angle left
Key Shooting Techniques
Fundamental Techniques
- Stance: Square stance facing trap house, weight slightly forward
- Gun position: Start with muzzle pointing at target emergence point
- Visual focus: Watch for target appearance, track with eyes first
- Mount & move: Smooth gun mount while beginning target tracking
- Lead: Maintain appropriate lead based on target angle
- Follow-through: Continue swing after trigger pull
Advanced Tips
- Pre-mounting: Gun can be pre-mounted in most trap formats
- Rhythm: Develop consistent timing from call to shot
- Target reading: Learn to read target angles quickly
- Wind compensation: Adjust lead for wind conditions
- Mental routine: Same pre-shot routine for every target
- Confidence: Aggressive approach - break targets decisively
Equipment for Trap Shooting
Shotgun Setup
- Action: Single barrel, over/under, or semi-auto
- Barrel length: 28-32 inches common
- Chokes: Modified to Full, depending on distance
- Stock: Higher comb for rising targets
- Trigger: Adjustable trigger preferred for precision
Ammunition
- Shot size: #7.5 or #8 shot most popular
- Load: 1⅛ oz loads common for handicap
- Velocity: 1200-1350 fps
- Quality: Premium shells for consistent patterns
- Quantity: Bring extra - competitions are long
Competition & Scoring
Classification System
Shooters classified by average scores: AA (97%+), A (94-96%), B (90-93%), C (<90%).
Handicap System
Better shooters move back further, creating more equitable competition.
Championships
Local, national, and international competitions available at all skill levels.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Shooting Too Quickly
Take time to see the target clearly before shooting. Rushed shots often result in misses.
Insufficient Lead
Angled targets require more lead than you think. Practice leads for different angles.
Poor Gun Fit
A properly fitted gun is crucial for consistent trap shooting. Consider professional fitting.
Inconsistent Routine
Develop and stick to the same pre-shot routine for every target.
Track Your Trap Shooting Progress
Monitor your trap scores across different distances and positions. Identify patterns and track your improvement over time with TargetWise.