Shotgun Life | The Best in Wing and Clays Shooting

Author: Shotgun Life Staff

Brown’s Lodge & Hunting Ranch – South Dakota Pheasant Hunting & Fishing

Saturday, August 30, 2025
Written by Shotgun Life Staff
Categories: Destinations
Tags: #allinclusivehuntingsouthdakota, #brownshuntingandfishinglodgte, #pheasantuplandhuntingsouthdakota, #shouthdakotapheasanthunting, #southdatokafishing
Browns

Located on the banks of Lake Oahe and the Missouri River, Brown’s Lodge & Hunting Ranch offers the ultimate outdoor experience in South Dakota hunting and fishing. All-inclusive packages combine world-class hunting, guided fishing, and first-class accommodations for an unforgettable adventure.

All-Inclusive South Dakota Hunting Packages

Wild Pheasant & Upland Bird Hunting – Hunt across thousands of acres of private land carefully managed for prime pheasant habitat. Enjoy expert guides, seasoned bird dogs, and classic South Dakota hunting traditions.

Prairie Dog Hunting in South Dakota – High-volume varmint hunting on wide-open prairie lands, perfect for sharpshooters seeking a fast-paced challenge.

Premier Lake Oahe Fishing Trips

Fish the Missouri River and Lake Oahe for trophy walleye, smallmouth bass, northern pike and more. Guided fishing trips are tailored for beginners and seasoned anglers alike, with everything provided for a stress-free experience. Visit https://www.shotgunlife.com/go/thkk

How to Measure the Trigger Pull Weight of a Shotgun

Saturday, August 30, 2025
Written by Shotgun Life Staff
Categories: Briefs
Tags: #shotguntrigger, #shotguntriggerpullgauge, #shotguntriggerpullweight

When it comes to shooting sports, the trigger pull weight of a shotgun can greatly impact the accuracy and performance of the shooter. Understanding how to measure and adjust the trigger pull weight is essential for ensuring a comfortable and consistent shooting experience. In this article, we will discuss the importance of measuring trigger pull weight, the tools needed for the job, and provide a step-by-step guide on how to accurately measure the trigger pull weight of a shotgun.

trigger

Understanding the Importance of Measuring Trigger Pull Weight

The trigger pull weight of a shotgun refers to the amount of force required to pull the trigger and discharge a round. A heavier trigger pull weight can make it more difficult for a shooter to accurately aim and fire their weapon, while a lighter trigger pull weight can result in unintentional discharges. By measuring and adjusting the trigger pull weight to a level that is comfortable and appropriate for the shooter, they can improve their accuracy and control over their firearm.

Tools Needed to Measure Trigger Pull Weight of a Shotgun

To accurately measure the trigger pull weight of a shotgun, you will need a trigger pull gauge. This tool is specifically designed to measure the amount of force required to pull the trigger. Additionally, you may need a small screwdriver or Allen key to make any necessary adjustments to the trigger pull weight. It is important to use a high-quality trigger pull gauge to ensure accurate and reliable measurements.

trigger pull gauge

Step-by-Step Guide to Accurately Measure Trigger Pull Weight

  1. Ensure the shotgun is unloaded and pointed in a safe direction.
  2. Attach the trigger pull gauge to the trigger of the shotgun.
  3. Slowly pull the trigger until it releases, taking note of the reading on the gauge.
  4. Repeat this process multiple times to get an average reading.
  5. If adjustments are needed, refer to the shotgun’s manual for instructions on how to adjust the trigger pull weight using the screwdriver or Allen key.

Measuring the trigger pull weight of a shotgun is a crucial step in ensuring a safe and effective shooting experience. By understanding the importance of trigger pull weight, having the necessary tools, and following a step-by-step guide, shooters can make adjustments to achieve a trigger pull weight that is comfortable and conducive to accurate shooting. Remember to always prioritize safety when handling firearms and consult a professional gunsmith if you are unsure about making adjustments to your shotgun’s trigger pull weight.

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Upland Hunting in Texas Hill Country at Joshua Creek Ranch

Friday, August 29, 2025
Written by Shotgun Life Staff
Categories: Destinations
Tags: #berettatridentlodge, #jjoshuacreekranch, #luxuryuplandhunting, #orvisendorsedlodge, #selectfederaloutitter, #texashillcountry, #texaspheasanthunting, #texasquailhunting

Hunt quail, pheasant, and mallard ducks in the Texas Hill Country. Joshua Creek Ranch offers guided upland hunts, luxury lodging, and trophy deer hunting.

Since opening in 1990, Joshua Creek Ranch has earned a reputation as one of the premier hunting destinations in America. Nestled in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, the ranch combines breathtaking natural scenery with world-class wingshooting and big game opportunities.

For more than 35 years, Joshua Creek Ranch has been carefully developed into a true sportsman’s paradise. Its diverse terrain—fertile creek and river bottoms, lightly wooded grass pastures, and dramatic limestone bluffs—creates ideal wildlife habitat for upland birds and native game.

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Fiocchi Launches Arkansas Steel — The Hard-Hitting Waterfowl Load Built for Serious Hunters

Wednesday, August 27, 2025
Written by Shotgun Life Staff
Categories: News
Tags: #duckhunting, #fiocchi, #fiocchiarkassassteel, #steelshot

August 2025 – CSG Member, Fiocchi of America, a leader in premium ammunition innovation, proudly introduces Arkansas Steel, the ultimate waterfowl hunting shotshell engineered for duck and goose hunters who demand uncompromising performance in the field.

The name pays homage to the storied waterfowling heritage of Arkansas and the famed Delta region — a place where world-class duck hunting traditions run deep. But while its roots honor the heart of the Mississippi Flyway, Arkansas Steel is lights-out no matter where you hunt. From the flooded timber of the Delta to the prairies of the Central Flyway or the coastal marshes of the Atlantic, this load is built to deliver results across the nation.

Designed to dominate the skies, Arkansas Steel’s 12-gauge, 3″ shell delivers a 1-1/5 ounce payload of #2, #3, or #4 steel shot at a blistering 1,550 fps. The result is devastating impact, superior downrange energy, and clean, ethical kills — even in the toughest wetland conditions.

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Beretta Debuts All-New Suprema Waterfowl Collection for Fall/Winter 2025

Friday, August 22, 2025
Written by Shotgun Life Staff
Categories: News
Tags: #berettahunting, #berettawaterfowlclothes, #waterfowlhunting

Friday, August 22, 2025 — Beretta proudly unveils its latest innovation in outdoor performance apparel with the launch of the Suprema Waterfowl Collection, a premium hunting clothing line engineered specifically for waterfowlers who demand superior protection, stealth, and comfort in the harshest environments.

Rooted in Beretta’s 500-year legacy of craftsmanship and innovation, the Suprema Waterfowl Collection brings cutting-edge design to serious hunters. The line blends traditional Beretta quality with advanced technical fabrics and purposeful features that stand up to punishing weather and terrain.

A standout feature of the new line is Colorblock Concealment™, Beretta’s proprietary advanced camouflage methodology. This technology enhances optical efficiency by leveraging natural shadow patterns in the most concealed environments, such as deep blinds and expansive fields. Through sophisticated layering of classic waterfowl color palettes, it fuses time-honored aesthetics with contemporary design principles to deliver optimized visual disruption, ultimately helping hunters blend in more effectively and hunt with greater confidence.

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After 43 Years with Holland & Holland, Chris Bird Retires as Head Instructor

Saturday, August 09, 2025
Written by Shotgun Life Staff
Categories: News
Tags: #chrisbird, #hollandandholland, #hollandandhollandshootinggrounds
Bird 1

After an incredible 43 years with Holland & Holland, we are announcing the retirement of Chris Bird, our esteemed Head of Instruction at the Shooting Grounds.

Chris joined the business in 1982 and has since become one of the most respected and recognisable figures in the shooting world. Over the decades, he has shared his exceptional knowledge and passion for the sport with thousands of clients, from complete beginners to experienced shots, always with the same patience, skill and good humour.

His contribution to Holland & Holland cannot be overstated. Chris has been instrumental in shaping the standards of excellence we are known for, mentoring generations of instructors and helping to make the Shooting Grounds the welcoming, world-class destination it is today.

“As General Manager of Holland & Holland, I’m lucky enough to work with some very skilled, passionate and experienced people. One of them is Chris Bird, Anyone who has visited Holland & Holland shooting grounds would need no introduction to Chris, but for those that don’t know him, he’s simply a legend, he’s taught a phenomenal amount of people how to shoot, in a style that has become so familiar, you will often hear -” Ah, you were taught by Chris Bird”


Chris has been with the business for 43 years and today he retires from working life. His hope is to go and enjoy time with his wife and of course some shooting from time to time. Chris has been a fantastic servant to the brand and helped pave the way for Holland & Holland, the future is bright because of the people like Chris, who help drive this brand. I personally, have only known Chris for a short time but already class him as a dear friend, so we say a huge thank you to Chris, enjoy your retirement, you will always be a part of the H&H team and welcome here anytime.”
– John Henderson, General Manager of Holland & Holland

We are deeply grateful for Chris’ dedication, professionalism and friendship over the years and while we will miss him greatly, we wish him the very best as he begins this exciting new chapter.”

Please join us in celebrating Chris’s remarkable career and in thanking him for over four decades of outstanding service.

www.hollandandholland.com

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Shotgun Life Announces “Shotguns for Sale” Free E-Letter

Thursday, August 07, 2025
Written by Shotgun Life Staff
Categories: News
Tags: #shotgunlife, #shotgunsforsale
Longthorne

August 7, 2025 – Shotgun Life, the first online magazine dedicated to the best in wing and clays shooting, has added the “Shotguns for Sale” e-letter to its roster. You can read Shotgun Life at www.shotgunlife.com.

“Shotguns for Sale” is distributed every weekday at 4:00 PM EST to opt-in subscribers. The free e-letter showcases a single shotgun per issue from bona fide dealers. The e-letter’s shotguns run the gamut from vintage to new and used modern sporting shotguns.

“We’re not dogmatic about provenance or price, but instead want to provide our readers with the most interesting wing and clays guns on the Internet from licensed retailers,” said Shotgun Life Publisher, Irwin Greenstein.

Although the shotguns presented come from multiple sources, every issue features an ad from Shotgun Life magazine advertisers.

Shotguns for Sale has been in beta tests since mid-July 2025. Individual e-letters have been averaging 1,631 impressions and 192 link clicks per shotgun, totaling 8,155 impressions and 960 clicks per week, that combined produce an above industry average click-through rate of 11.7 percent.

“The strategic advantage to Shotguns for Sale is that your firearms are not listed in “big box” sales sites or auctions,” Greenstein said. “Each shotgun makes its own case for purchase potential – often presenting enthusiasts with selections that may have never crossed their minds.”

For advertising and marketing opportunities contact:

Irwin Greenstein

Publisher Shotgun Life

229-236-1632

igreenstein@shotgunlife.com

James Dietsch

Sales Associate

405-415-5724

jamesdietsch@cox.net

About

Since launching in 2008, Shotgun Life continues as the leading online magazine for sporting shotguns, international wingshooting, recreational sporting clays and related educational editorial. It’s available at no charge at www.shotgunlife.com. Our fast-paced, ever-changing editorial draws loyal readers each and every day from around the world –  giving your products international exposure 24/7. Our advanced SEO platform generally ranks our editorial on the first page of Google results, often giving advertisers an evergreen resource to potential customers.

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Wing and Barrel Ranch Announces the Wine Country High Tower Open — A One-of-a-Kind Shooting Experience

Wednesday, August 06, 2025
Written by Shotgun Life Staff
Categories: News
Tags: #sonomawinecountry, #towershoot, #wingandbarrelranch
Wing and Barrel woman

Set in the heart of Sonoma wine country, Wing & Barrel Ranch is where sporting tradition meets refined luxury. Our private, members-only club is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts who appreciate both the thrill of the field and the elegance of wine country living. With a world-class sporting clays course designed by Chris Batha, lush landscapes, and curated culinary experiences, Wing & Barrel Ranch offers an extraordinary blend of sport and sophistication. For one exclusive day, we invite a limited number of guests to step inside this world.

Introducing the First Annual —
Wine Country High Tower Open
September 12–13, 2025 | Wing & Barrel Ranch

Be part of sporting history in the heart of California wine country. Join fellow competitors and outdoor enthusiasts for the inaugural High Tower Open—a premier shooting event held at the only tower of its kind in California, expertly designed by England’s David Wing.

This exclusive, non-sanctioned shoot features soaring tower targets and will be led by a world-renowned shooting instructor to be announced soon. Stay tuned for more details on this rare opportunity to compete at the highest level in a setting where luxury meets tradition.

Top Competitors Will Take Home:

$5,000 + the Brass Top Shot Trophy

$2,500 – Second Place

$1,000 – Third Place

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

FRIDAY, SEPT 12, 2025
Welcome Cocktail Party
Raise a glass to the start of an unforgettable weekend. Mingle with fellow shooters and sporting enthusiasts over handcrafted cocktails, light bites, and lively conversation—all set against the rustic elegance of Wing & Barrel Ranch.

SATURDAY, SEPT 13, 2025
Breakfast & Five-Stand Warm-Up
Begin the day with gourmet coffee, bites, and a warm-up session to get your eye in before the competition.

High-Tower Competition Begins
Two groups of 10 shooters will take on challenging targets launched from 60’ and 80’ towers—the only of their kind on the West Coast.

Scores Tallied + Sudden Death Round
Top shooters will move on to a thrilling final round with targets at 70’ and 80’.

Gourmet Lunch Reception
Enjoy elevated seasonal cuisine and vintner-member wines in the clubhouse while scores are finalized.

Awards Banquet
Gather for a celebratory dinner and the official announcement of winners, including the presentation of the Brass Top Shot Trophy and cash prizes.

LIMITED TIME OFFER:
$500 / per person

Any additional items, services, or activities will incur extra charges.

Fill out the form below or Contact sporting@WingandBarrelRanch.com directly to book today.

How to Measure the Inner Bore of Your Shotgun

Saturday, August 02, 2025
Written by Shotgun Life Staff
Categories: Briefs
Tags: #shotgunbores

Measuring the inner bore of your shotgun is an essential task for any gun owner or sports shooter. Understanding the dimensions of your shotgun’s bore can help in selecting the right ammunition, maintaining the gun’s accuracy, and ensuring safe shooting practices. In this article, we will discuss the importance of measuring your shotgun’s inner bore and provide a step-by-step guide on how to do it accurately.

smooth bore 9591866

Understanding the Importance of Measuring Your Shotgun’s Inner Bore

The inner bore of a shotgun refers to the diameter of the barrel where the ammunition travels before exiting the gun. Knowing the exact measurement of your shotgun’s inner bore is crucial for choosing the correct size of ammunition. Using the wrong size of ammunition can not only affect the accuracy of your shots but also potentially damage the gun. Additionally, regular measurement of the inner bore can help detect any signs of wear and tear, allowing for timely maintenance to prolong the gun’s lifespan.

bore gauge

Measuring the inner bore of your shotgun is also important for safety reasons. A properly sized bore ensures that the ammunition fits snugly and securely in the barrel, reducing the risk of misfires or other malfunctions. By accurately measuring the inner bore, you can be confident that your shotgun is in good working condition and ready for use during shooting activities. Overall, understanding the dimensions of your shotgun’s inner bore is essential for both performance and safety reasons.

Step-by-Step Guide to Accurately Measure the Inner Bore of Your Shotgun

Here’s how you can measure it:

  1. Gauge or Bore Size: First, determine whether your shotgun is measured in gauge (like 12 gauge, 20 gauge) or bore (like .410 bore). Gauge is a measure of the number of lead balls of bore diameter that equal a pound in weight.

  2. Use a Caliper or Gauge: To measure the actual bore diameter, use a precision caliper or a bore gauge specifically designed for shotguns.

  3. Insert the Tool: Carefully insert the caliper or gauge into the bore of the shotgun. Ensure it’s inserted straight and not at an angle to get an accurate measurement.

  4. Take the Measurement: Once inserted properly, read the measurement on the caliper or gauge. This will give you the diameter of the bore.

  5. Check in Multiple Places: For a more accurate measurement, check the bore diameter in multiple places along its length, especially if the bore is not perfectly cylindrical.

  6. Record the Measurement: Note down the measurement for future reference when selecting ammunition or discussing your shotgun’s specifications.

Start by ensuring the shotgun is unloaded and remove any obstructions from the barrel. Insert the cleaning rod into the barrel from the chamber end until it touches the bore’s wall. Mark the cleaning rod at the point where it exits the barrel.

Next, carefully remove the cleaning rod from the barrel and measure the distance from the tip to the marked point using a measuring tape. This measurement represents the inner bore diameter of your shotgun. It is essential to take multiple measurements at different points along the barrel to account for any variations in bore size. Once you have gathered all the measurements, calculate the average to determine the most accurate inner bore diameter of your shotgun.

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What’s the Best Shotgun Rib For You?

Friday, August 01, 2025
Written by Shotgun Life Staff
Categories: Briefs
Tags: #shotgunribs

Not all shotgun ribs are created equal, as there are various types of ribs available on the market.

Krieghoff’s K-80 Parcours-X with optional engraving.

Here are some common types of shotgun ribs:

  1. Ventilated Rib: This type of rib has slots or holes along its length, designed to dissipate heat and reduce mirage effects caused by barrel heating.

  2. Solid Rib: A solid, non-vented rib that provides a continuous surface along the top of the barrel, often preferred for its simplicity and sometimes for aesthetic reasons.

  3. Tapered Rib: A rib that tapers from wider at the breech (near the receiver) to narrower at the muzzle, which can affect the handling characteristics and weight distribution of the shotgun.

  4. Flat Rib: A rib that is flat on top, without any additional contouring or shaping. It offers a straightforward sight plane for aiming.

  5. Raised Rib: A rib that is higher than the barrel, providing a more prominent sight picture. Raised ribs are often found on trap and skeet shotguns where precise aiming is crucial.

  6. Parallel Rib: A rib that runs parallel to the bore axis of the barrel, maintaining a consistent sight picture throughout its length.

  7. Stepped Rib: A rib that changes height at certain points along its length, which can sometimes provide a more versatile sighting arrangement.

Do High-Rib Shotguns Improve Your Performance? | Shotgun Life

Understanding the Differences Between Rib Styles

Each type of shotgun rib has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Ventilated ribs are popular for their ability to reduce heat mirage and improve target acquisition speed. Solid ribs, on the other hand, are favored for their simplicity and durability. Tapered ribs are known for their versatility, as they can accommodate different shooting styles and preferences. It’s important to consider factors such as shooting discipline, personal preference, and budget when choosing a rib style for your shotgun

Choosing the Right Rib for Your Shotgun Needs

When selecting a shotgun rib, it’s essential to consider your shooting goals and preferences. If you participate in fast-paced shooting sports like trap or skeet, a ventilated rib may be the best choice for improved target acquisition and faster handling. For hunting or field shooting where durability is key, a solid rib might be more suitable. Tapered ribs offer a middle ground for a wide range of shooting activities. Ultimately, the right rib for your shotgun needs will depend on your individual preferences and shooting style.

Whether you prioritize heat dissipation, durability or versatility, there is a rib style that will meet your needs. Remember to consider your shooting discipline, personal preferences, and budget when selecting a shotgun rib to enhance your shooting experience.

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