Titanium Chokes: Lighter, Stronger, Better?

Shotgun chokes can be manufactured from various materials including steel, stainless steel, and titanium.

Titanium is a strong, light metal known for its corrosion resistance and high strength-to-weight ratio. It is a naturally occurring element, often alloyed with other metals for various industrial applications, including aerospace, automotive, and medical sectors. Titanium’s inherent qualities make it an attractive choice for choke construction.

Read More

Do High-Rib Shotguns Improve Your Performance?

High-rib shotguns, or simply ‘high-ribs’, are not your typical shotguns. They are characterized by an elevated rib—the part that guides your eye to the target—extending from the rear to the muzzle of the barrel. This heightened design is not just for aesthetics; it serves a key purpose. It allows the shooter to adopt a more upright, comfortable head position, reducing neck strain and promoting better posture. This comfort translates into more focused, accurate shooting sessions, the first step towards improving performance.

Read More

The Knockdown Power of Waterfowl Duplex Shotgun Loads

Waterfowl Duplex Shotgun Loads, often referred to as duplex loads, are a type of shotgun shell designed to facilitate effective waterfowl hunting. They consist of two or more different sizes of shot layered or mixed together within the same shell. This combination allows the shooter to benefit from the characteristics of both shot sizes simultaneously. Typically, the larger shot is used to maintain lethal energy at longer ranges, while the smaller shot provides a denser pattern for close-range shooting.

Read More

Are Shotgun Palm Swells Worth the Hype?

Shotgun palm swells have long been a topic of debate among shooters. Some swear by them, claiming they improve their accuracy and control, while others argue that they have little to no effect on shooting performance.

Proponents of palm swells argue that they provide a more ergonomic grip, allowing for better control and shot placement. The larger grip surface area can help to distribute recoil more evenly, reducing felt recoil and allowing for quicker follow-up shots. Additionally, some shooters find that the palm swell fills the hand more completely, resulting in a more secure and stable grip on the shotgun.

Read More

Choosing the Perfect Clays-Shooting Instructor for You

Before you start your search for a clays-shooting instructor, it’s important to identify your goals and expectations. Are you looking to get started with clays-shooting as a beginner? Or are you an experienced shooter looking to improve your skills or compete at a higher level? Establishing your goals will help you find an instructor who specializes in your area of interest and can provide the targeted coaching you need.

Consider your learning style and what type of instruction you respond to best. Some people prefer a more hands-on approach, while others might benefit from a more theoretical style of teaching. Understanding your personal needs can help you choose an instructor who is best suited to your style of learning.

Read More

A Brief Explanation of Shot Strings

Shot strings refer to the formation and spread of the pellets after they are fired from the shotgun. When a shotgun is fired, multiple pellets are propelled in a cluster, with the formation and spacing of these pellets forming the shot string. The concept of shot string is crucial in shotgun shooting as it influences the shooting pattern and the subsequent damage on the target.

The length and spread of the shot string can depend on several factors. These include the type of shotgun used, the kind of ammunition, and the barrel choke. Moreover, external factors such as wind speed and direction, the distance to the target, and even the shooter’s technique can drastically affect the shot string. Therefore, understanding these variables is key for any shooter looking to enhance their shotgun performance.

Read More

How to Shoot the Different Sizes of Clay Targets

When it comes to clay pigeon shooting, one of the critical components that can affect your performance is the size of the clay targets. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned shooter, understanding the different sizes of clay targets can make a significant difference in honing your shooting skills and your overall shooting experience. Let’s embark on a journey to learn about the various clay target sizes, how they impact shooting techniques and their role in competitive shooting.

Read More

The Important Aspects of Shotgun Fit

To both novice and experienced shooters alike, the fit of a shotgun is paramount to accuracy, comfort, and safety, and can greatly impact the overall shooting experience. Whether for game shooting or clay pigeon shooting, a well-fitted shotgun can be the difference between successful shooting and missing your target. This article aims to delve deep into the importance of proper shotgun fit, the basics of shotgun fit, how to achieve the perfect shotgun fit, and potential issues with an improper shotgun fit.

A shotgun that fits properly will feel comfortable, natural, and almost an extension of your body. Essentially, it becomes a part of you, ensuring accuracy and control. The way a shotgun fits your body can have a significant impact on your shooting performance. It affects how quickly you can shoulder the gun, acquire the target, and fire accurately; all of which are crucial elements in clay shooting or hunting.

Read More

Shotgun Life Newsletters

Join an elite group of readers who receive their FREE e-letter every week from Shotgun Life. These readers gain a competitive advantage from the valuable advice delivered directly to their inbox. You'll discover ways to improve your shooting, learn about the best new products and how to easily maintain your shotgun so it's always reliable. If you strive to be a better shooter, then our FREE e-letters are for you.