Shotgun Life | The Best in Wing and Clays Shooting

Briefs

A series of brief articles cataloging the sport and gear for wing and clays shooting.

Charles Lancaster Gunmaker

Monday, January 05, 2026
Written by Shotgun Life Staff
Categories: Briefs
Tags: #britishgunmakers, #charleslancastergunmaker, #englishshotguns

Charles Lancaster was an important 19th-century English gunmaker and firearms innovator, best known for his work on oval-bore rifling and high-quality sporting guns.

Established in the early 19th century, Charles Lancaster Gunmaker has left a lasting legacy in the world of firearms. Known for their exceptional craftsmanship and innovative designs, Charles Lancaster’s influence can still be seen in the firearms industry today.

Although better known for rifles, Lancaster also made high-quality shotguns, including:

  • Muzzleloading and later breech-loading guns

  • Early adoption of lever-opening actions

  • Guns typically built on best London principles, often understated but elegant

Lancaster 1

The Legacy of Charles Lancaster Gunmaker

Charles Lancaster Gunmaker was founded in 1826 by Charles William Lancaster, a skilled gunsmith with a passion for creating high-quality firearms. Lancaster quickly gained a reputation for his innovative designs and precision engineering, setting a new standard for gunmakers in the UK. His dedication to perfection and attention to detail earned him numerous awards and accolades, solidifying his place as one of the most respected gunmakers of his time.

The legacy of Charles Lancaster continues to live on through their exceptional firearms, which are highly sought after by collectors and shooting enthusiasts alike. The company’s commitment to quality and craftsmanship has remained unchanged over the years, ensuring that each gun produced bears the mark of excellence that Charles Lancaster himself would be proud of. As a testament to their enduring legacy, Charles Lancaster firearms are still highly valued and cherished by those who appreciate the finer things in life.

Continuing the Tradition: Charles Lancaster Gunmaker Today

In July 2021, the new co-owners of the Charles Lancaster Group, George Juer (formerly of Purdey) and Tom Cosby (formerly of Atkin Grant & Lang and also of Purdey), have rolled their existing gun trade businesses into the new company. They will be joined on the Board by Francis Beardsworth and Margarita Booker, who have owned the Lancaster brand since the untimely passing of Margarita’s late husband, the great riflemaker, Ronald Wharton.

Lancaster

Today, Charles Lancaster Gunmaker remains a prominent name in the world of firearms, continuing the tradition of excellence and innovation that Charles Lancaster himself established over two centuries ago. The company’s dedication to craftsmanship and attention to detail is evident in every firearm they produce, ensuring that each piece is a work of art in its own right. With a commitment to preserving the heritage and legacy of Charles Lancaster, the gunmaker continues to push boundaries and set new standards for the industry. Whether it’s a classic side-by-side shotgun or a modern sporting rifle, Charles Lancaster Gunmaker continues to uphold the values and principles that have made them a household name in the world of firearms.

Charles Lancaster Gunmaker’s legacy is a testament to the enduring power of craftsmanship and innovation. From their humble beginnings in the 19th century to their continued success today, Charles Lancaster Gunmaker remains a revered name among gun enthusiasts and collectors around the world. As they continue to push boundaries and set new standards for the industry, it is clear that the legacy of Charles Lancaster Gunmaker will continue to thrive for generations to come.

Visit https://www.clguns.com/

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The Belladona Semi-Automatic Shotgun

Tuesday, December 30, 2025
Written by Shotgun Life Staff
Categories: Briefs
Tags: #belladonashotgun, #italiansemiautomatiicshotguns

The Belladonna semi-automatic shotgun is a rare and historically significant Italian long-recoil operated design created by gunsmith Terzilio Belladonna from Perugia, Italy.

This shotgun draws inspiration from classic semi-auto mechanisms (similar in operating principle to the famous Browning Auto-5), but it features elegant, simple Italian craftsmanship with a proud “Made in Italy” marking. The first prototype dates back to 1939, and examples are occasionally found in high-end Italian gun shops or collector circles, such as Fratelli Poli in Gardone Val Trompia.

Belladona 1

It’s a classic field/hunting-oriented semi-auto, typically in 12 gauge, with machined components (like an elevator cut from a solid steel block rather than stamped sheet metal) and a refined, understated appearance.

The Belladonna is known for its elegant finish, long-recoil operation, and unique features like an integrated rear sight, with prototypes starting in 1939 and production limited to around 900 pieces, making it a collector’s item rather than a common modern firearm. 

Key Characteristics:

  • Designer: Terzilio Belladonna (Italian gunsmith).
  • Manufacturer: Fratelli Poli (Poli Brothers).
  • Type: Long-recoil semi-automatic shotgun.
  • History: First prototype in 1939; won a gold medal in 1957; around 900 made.
  • Features: Hand-finished, easy disassembly, distinctive sight, and retractable cocking handle.
  • Rarity: Very limited production makes it a collectible. 

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The Advantages of Plated Shotshells

Saturday, December 27, 2025
Written by Shotgun Life Staff
Categories: Briefs
Tags: #platedshotgunshells, #shotgunshells

Plated shotshells are coated with a thin layer of metal, typically copper or nickel, which offers a range of advantages over traditional lead shotshells. Plated shotshells have a distinct advantage over traditional lead shotshells due to their increased hardness and uniformity. The plating process ensures that each shot pellet is coated evenly, resulting in a more consistent pattern and improved accuracy. Additionally, the hard metal coating helps to maintain the shape of the pellets during firing, reducing deformation and improving penetration on targets.

Furthermore, plated shotshells are environmentally friendly as they eliminate the risk of lead contamination in the environment. Lead shot has been a major concern for wildlife and water sources, making plated shotshells a more sustainable and responsible choice for shooters. The use of plated shot also reduces the risk of exposure to lead for shooters, further enhancing the safety of using these shells.

plated 1

Enhanced Performance and Accuracy

The uniformity and hardness of plated shotshells contribute to enhanced performance and accuracy on the shooting range. The consistent shape and weight of the pellets ensure a tighter shot pattern, resulting in more hits on target and increased success in hunting or competitive shooting. The increased hardness of the plated pellets also allows for better penetration, making them ideal for shooting at longer distances.

Moreover, plated shotshells are less prone to deformation or damage during loading and firing, ensuring reliable performance shot after shot. The durability of the metal coating extends the lifespan of the shells, making them a cost-effective choice for shooters who value longevity and consistency in their ammunition. Overall, the enhanced performance and accuracy of plated shotshells make them a top choice for serious shooters.

plated 2

Long-lasting Durability and Reliability

One of the key advantages of plated shotshells is their long-lasting durability and reliability in various shooting conditions. The metal coating provides a protective barrier against corrosion and abrasion, ensuring that the shells remain in optimal condition even after prolonged storage or exposure to harsh elements. This durability makes plated shotshells a reliable choice for shooters who demand consistency and performance in all shooting situations.

Additionally, the reliability of plated shotshells translates to improved cycling in semi-automatic and pump-action shotguns, reducing the risk of jams or malfunctions during shooting sessions. The hard metal coating also minimizes fouling in the barrel, resulting in easier cleaning and maintenance of the firearm. The combination of durability and reliability makes plated shotshells a smart investment for shooters who prioritize performance and longevity in their ammunition.

plated 1 1

Here are the key advantages:

1. Harder, More Uniform Shot

Plating adds surface hardness to each pellet, helping it resist deformation during ignition and acceleration.

  • Rounder pellets stay round longer

  • Tighter, more consistent patterns

  • Less “flyer” shot leaving the main pattern

This is a major reason plated shells shine at longer ranges.

2. Improved Pattern Density

Because the pellets deform less and fly straighter:

  • Patterns are denser in the core

  • Fewer gaps or thin spots

  • More effective pellet strikes on target

This is noticeable with choked guns and well-fitted shotguns.

3. Better Penetration

Plated shot penetrates better than soft lead because:

  • Pellets retain shape on impact

  • Energy transfer is more efficient

This is why nickel-plated shot is favored for pheasant, late-season birds, and longer-feathered game.

4. Reduced Barrel and Choke Fouling

The plating acts as a barrier between lead and steel:

  • Less lead smearing in barrels

  • Easier cleanup

  • Reduced choke wear compared to soft lead

This is particularly helpful in tight chokes or high-volume shooting.

5. Cleaner Pellet Separation

Plated shot tends to work very well with modern wads:

  • Cleaner release from the wad

  • More predictable shot string

  • Better downrange performance

6. Extended Effective Range

All of the above combine to:

  • Maintain pattern integrity farther out

  • Increase effective killing distance (ethically)

Many hunters see real benefits beyond 35–40 yards.

Potential Trade-Offs

  • Cost: Plated shells are more expensive

  • Not always needed: At close ranges, plain lead performs similarly

  • Choke selection matters: They often pattern tighter—sometimes requiring a more open choke

Plated shotshells can offer a range of advantages that make them a superior choice for shooters seeking enhanced performance, accuracy, durability, and reliability in their ammunition. The metal coating provides a protective barrier against deformation, corrosion, and environmental contamination, making plated shotshells a responsible and sustainable option for environmentally conscious shooters. Whether you are hunting game or competing in shooting sports, plated shotshells are a reliable and effective choice for achieving success on the range.

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Does Shotgun Barrel Length Impact Target Lead?

Saturday, December 27, 2025
Written by Shotgun Life Staff
Categories: Briefs
Tags: #shotgunbarrellength, #shotgunfowardallowance, #shotguntargetlead

The relationship between shotgun barrel length and target forward allowance (also called lead or sustained lead) is a topic that generates a lot of discussion among clay target shooters, especially in disciplines like skeet, sporting clays, and trap. The key distinction is between the actual required lead (the real distance ahead of the target you must shoot to hit it) and the perceived lead (how much space you visually see between your muzzle/bead and the target in your sight picture).

lead 1

Actual Lead is Unaffected

The real physics of hitting a crossing clay target depends on:

  • Target speed
  • Distance
  • Shot velocity
  • Angle

Barrel length has virtually no meaningful effect on the actual forward allowance needed. The shot charge leaves the muzzle at essentially the same velocity (with modern smokeless powders, velocity gains flatten out after ~24–26 inches), and from that point onward, it travels in a straight line to the intercept point. So whether you use a 26″ or 34″ barrel, the true lead at the target remains identical.

lead 2 1

Perceived Lead: The Real (But Tiny) Difference

This is where barrel length comes into play — and it’s a matter of simple trigonometry (similar triangles).

When using a sustained lead technique (holding a constant gap ahead of the target), most shooters reference the lead relative to the muzzle or front bead (the “sighting plane”). A longer barrel creates a longer sighting plane (distance from your eye to the front bead/muzzle).

  • With a longer barrel, the same actual lead at the target appears as a slightly smaller gap at the muzzle in your field of view.
  • With a shorter barrel, the gap appears slightly larger.

Real-world example (from shooter discussions and calculations):

  • At a typical 21–25 yard crossing target requiring ~3–4 feet of actual lead…
  • Switching from a 28″ barrel to a 32″ barrel might reduce the perceived lead at the bead by roughly 0.1–0.5 inches (often calculated at ~0.09″ for 4″ of extra barrel length).
  • At longer ranges (e.g., 40 yards), this scales up to a perceived difference of a few inches at most.

Most experienced shooters describe this difference as theoretical — too small to reliably notice or adjust for in real time, especially since your hard focus should stay on the target (not the bead) for good shooting. Many top competitors switch between 26–34″ barrels without changing their lead picture.

Here are some typical sporting clays / trap-style shotguns to illustrate common barrel lengths:

(These show a progression from shorter ~26–28″ barrels to longer 30–32″+ barrels often seen in target guns.)

lead 3

Why Longer Barrels Are Still Popular for Target Shooting

While the lead effect is minimal, longer barrels (30–34″) are favored in trap, sporting clays, and long crossers because:

  • They add forward weight → smoother, more stable swing
  • Harder to stop the swing prematurely (helps avoid stopping behind the target — a common miss cause)
  • Better momentum and follow-through

Shorter barrels (24–28″) feel quicker and more maneuverable for upland hunting, skeet, or fast close targets.

Bottom Line

The relationship is real but extremely small — a longer barrel slightly reduces the perceived forward allowance at the muzzle, but it’s negligible for practical purposes. Focus on gun fit, swing dynamics, target focus, and consistent follow-through instead. The best barrel length is the one that feels natural to you and promotes a smooth, uninterrupted swing. Many excellent shooters thrive with anything from 26″ to 34″ once the gun fits well.

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How to Shoot Tower Pheasants

Saturday, December 20, 2025
Written by Shotgun Life Staff
Categories: Briefs
Tags: #pheasanthunting, #towerpheasanthunts

tower 1

Shooting tower pheasants—birds released from height to simulate very high, curling gamebirds—requires a mix of discipline, correct gun mount, and precise timing. Here’s a clear, field-proven approach used on serious tower shoots in the UK and increasingly in the U.S.

Set Up Correctly

  • Stand slightly open, feet shoulder-width apart
  • Front foot pointed where you expect to shoot
  • Weight slightly forward, knees soft
  • Gun Ready Position
  • Butt just off the shoulder pocket, muzzle up
  • Hands relaxed—no death grip
  • Eyes up and scanning, not glued to the bead

Read the Bird

  • Tower pheasants:
  • Start very fast and high
  • Slow as they apex
  • Then curl, stall, or drop steeply
  • Let the bird:
  • Clear the tower
  • Show its line
  • Begin to settle

Pick a Kill Zone

  • Choose one spot in the sky where you’ll shoot:
  • After the bird has committed to a line
  • Before it starts tumbling or dropping straight down
  • This prevents:
  • Chasing the bird
  • Over-swinging
  • Shooting behind

The Mount and Swing

  • Mount smoothly—don’t snatch
  • Bring the gun to your face first, then shoulder
  • Keep your head down on the stock
  • Swing through the bird
  • Start below and behind
  • Match speed
  • Accelerate through the beak
  • Pull the trigger while still swinging
  • Stopping the gun = missed bird.

Lead: Less Than You Think

  • Because tower pheasants:
  • Are often slowing
  • May be dropping vertically
  • Typical lead:
  • 12–24 inches on a crossing bird
  • Very little lead on straight-down or curling birds—often just cover the bird and pull through
  • Trust your eyes, not the bead.

Most of all, however, shoot safe. Always be aware of the shooters, dogs and bystanders around you.

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Why the Shoulder Pocket is Critical When Shooting a Shotgun

Saturday, December 20, 2025
Written by Shotgun Life Staff
Categories: Briefs
Tags: #shotgunfit, #shotgunmount, #shoulderpocket

When it comes to shooting a shotgun, proper shoulder placement is crucial for accuracy and comfort. One key aspect of shoulder placement is the shoulder pocket, a term often used in the world of shooting sports. In this article, we will delve into what the shoulder pocket is and why it is important when shooting a shotgun.

Understanding the Concept of the Shoulder Pocket

The shoulder pocket refers to the space between your shoulder joint and your chest where the stock of the shotgun rests when you mount the gun. This area provides a stable base for the shotgun to recoil against when fired, reducing felt recoil and allowing for better control of the firearm. Proper placement of the shotgun in the shoulder pocket also helps to align your eye with the barrel, improving your aim and accuracy.

To find your shoulder pocket, start by bringing the shotgun up to your shoulder and resting the stock in the space between your shoulder joint and chest. The stock should sit firmly in this pocket without any gaps or slippage. Adjust your stance and gun mount as needed to ensure a comfortable and secure fit in the shoulder pocket. With practice, mounting the shotgun in the shoulder pocket will become second nature, leading to more consistent and accurate shooting.

Pocket 1

Importance of Proper Shoulder Placement in Shotgun Shooting

Proper shoulder placement is essential for a number of reasons when shooting a shotgun. First, it helps to absorb and distribute the recoil of the shotgun, reducing the impact on your body and allowing for quicker follow-up shots. Additionally, shoulder placement affects the alignment of your eye with the barrel, which is crucial for accuracy. By consistently mounting the shotgun in the shoulder pocket, you can improve your shooting technique and overall performance on the range or in the field.

In shotgun sports such as trap, skeet, and sporting clays, mastering proper shoulder placement can make a significant difference in your scores. By focusing on the shoulder pocket and ensuring a consistent mount, you can eliminate variables that may impede your progress and become a more skilled shooter. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned competitor, paying attention to your shoulder placement when shooting a shotgun is key to unlocking your full potential.

In conclusion, the shoulder pocket plays a vital role in shotgun shooting, providing a stable base for the firearm and aiding in recoil management and accuracy. By understanding the concept of the shoulder pocket and practicing proper shoulder placement, shooters can improve their performance and consistency on the range. So next time you pick up a shotgun, pay attention to your shoulder pocket and feel the difference it can make in your shooting experience.

Pocket 2 1

Why the Shoulder Pocket Matters

  • Recoil management: Placing the butt in the shoulder pocket spreads recoil over muscle rather than bone, making recoil feel softer and more controllable.

  • Consistent gun mount: A repeatable mount into the same spot every time helps with instinctive shooting and consistent point of impact.

  • Control and swing: Proper placement keeps the gun stable during the swing, especially important in sporting clays, skeet, upland, and driven shooting.

  • Injury prevention: Mounting too far out on the shoulder or on the collarbone can cause bruising, soreness, or even nerve irritation.

Common mistakes

  • Too far out on the shoulder: Causes more felt recoil and can let the gun slip under recoil.

  • On the collarbone: Painful and often leads to flinching.

  • Too low or loose: Reduces control and consistency.

Proper placement tips

  • The toe of the buttstock should sit comfortably in the pocket without digging in.

  • The gun should come to your face first, then settle naturally into the shoulder pocket.

  • Your head should stay upright—don’t lower your head to meet the gun.

  • A properly fitted stock will naturally find the shoulder pocket without forcing it.

Given your interest in shotgun fit and stock design, this is one of those fundamentals that ties directly into length of pull, pitch, and recoil pad shape — all of which help the gun land in the shoulder pocket correctly every time.

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The Different Styles of Shotgun Grips

Saturday, December 20, 2025
Written by Shotgun Life Staff
Categories: Briefs
Tags: #shotgungrips

Shotgun grips come in various shapes, sizes, and materials, each designed to cater to different shooting styles and preferences. The most common types of shotgun grips include pistol grips, straight grips, and thumbhole grips. Pistol grips feature a vertical design that allows the shooter to hold the shotgun more securely with their dominant hand. Straight grips are straight in shape and provide a more traditional feel, popular among hunters and traditional shooters. Thumbhole grips have a hole for the shooter’s thumb to pass through, offering enhanced stability and control.

1. Straight Grip (English Grip)

Description:

  • No pistol-style curve; the wrist stays relatively straight.

  • Common on traditional side-by-side shotguns.

straight grip 300x170 1

Advantages:

  • Encourages quick hand movement and instinctive shooting

  • Easier to slide the hand back for opening the gun

  • Classic, lightweight feel

Disadvantages:

  • Less control under heavy recoil

  • Not ideal for high-volume shooting

Best for:

  • Upland hunting (quail, grouse, woodcock)

  • Walk-up shooting and traditional game guns

2. Pistol Grip

Description:

  • Pronounced curve like a handgun grip.

  • Very common on over/unders and semi-autos.

pistol grip

Advantages:

  • Strong control and recoil management

  • Comfortable for sustained shooting

  • Works well with heavier loads

Disadvantages:

  • Slightly slower hand movement for some shooters

  • Less traditional look

Best for:

  • Sporting clays, trap, skeet

  • Waterfowl and target shooting

3. Prince of Wales Grip

Description:

  • A compromise between straight and full pistol grip.

  • Gentle curve with a slimmer profile.

Prince 2

Advantages:

  • Good balance of control and elegance

  • More comfortable than straight grip for many shooters

  • Allows faster hand repositioning than a full pistol grip

Disadvantages:

  • Not as much leverage as a full pistol grip

Best for:

  • Driven game

  • Upland hunting with modern loads

  • Shooters who want versatility

5. Round Knob / Ball Grip

Description:

  • A straight grip with a rounded knob at the end.

  • Classic British design.

Prince 1

Advantages:

  • Helps maintain hand position

  • Retains straight-grip flexibility

Disadvantages:

  • Limited recoil control

Best for:

  • Traditional side-by-side game guns

Just as a wing and clays shooter strives for the perfect gun fit, they should consider the perfect grip for their shotgun.

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Fausti, Beretta, Purdey, Holland & Holland, McKay Brown, Fabbri and Vintage Classics Debut at the New Sprawling Mallards Shooting Supply & Apparel Destination

Tuesday, December 02, 2025
Written by Irwin Greenstein
Categories: Briefs

Enter the luxurious fine gun room of the new Mallards Shooting Supply & Apparel and you’ll be amazed at the names of legendary shotguns resting in the red-velvet-lined cases: Fabbri, Purdey, Perazzi, Buchan, Holland & Holland, Beretta Premium along with vintage collectibles from LC Smith, Winchester and Parker Brothers (plus a selection of stunning Rigby rifles).

It’s Grand Opening Saturday night on November 15, 2025. The classical Julian & Sons built gun room, safeguarded by a massive vault door, is jammed with guests browsing and chatting. Among them are Grant Buchan and his wife Holly. Grant owns Scottish shotgun makers McKay Brown and Buchan Guns. The Buchans arrived from Scotland to help promote the new relationship between McKay Brown and Mallards. Grant explained that he had parted ways with fabled Griffin & Howe, his original East Coast agent, in favor of Mallards because he strongly believed that Mallards is the more visionary of a business partner in the marketing of best shotguns and their new joint program of organizing and promoting Scottish estate driven shoots to Mallard clients.

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