Master Sporting Clays: Techniques for Tackling True Pairs with the ShotKam Gen 4 Mini
Clay shooting is a sport of precision, skill, and constant improvement. Whether you’re an experienced shooter or just starting out, there’s always something new to learn. Our new 10-part video series, Master Sporting Clays, features FITASC champion Josh Brown, alongside Jonny Carter of TGS Outdoors, breaking down advanced clay shooting techniques using the new ShotKam Gen 4 Mini. Watch episode 1 below:
Let’s break down the highlights and takeaways from their first session, focusing on techniques for mastering true pairs at Barbury Shooting School.
The Game-Changing Gen 4 Mini
The ShotKam Gen 4 Mini, 33% lighter than previous models, has now become the go-to for many clay shooters. As Jonny mentions in the video, "smaller and lighter is definitely better for clay shooting," and for good reason. Balance is key in clay shooting, and the lighter design ensures your gun handles as naturally as possible. Though the previous Gen 4 didn't interfere with the gun’s balance, the Mini's reduced weight takes user experience to a whole new level.
Tackling True Pairs: The Mental Game
Shooting true pairs can be daunting for many shooters, even for experienced ones like Jonny. "True pairs add pressure," he admits, echoing the feelings of many in the shooting community. Unlike single targets or report pairs, true pairs require shooters to act quickly and decisively, which can confuse the brain.
But, as Josh Brown highlights, the key lies in broadening your comfort zone. Comfort zones are typically where we feel confident shooting a target—whether that’s early, late, or somewhere in between. Expanding that zone can make a world of difference, especially when faced with the high-pressure scenarios that true pairs present.
Finding the Right Strategy: Experimenting with Timing
When approaching true pairs, many shooters are tempted to analyze the targets extensively. However, it’s crucial to stay open-minded. Jonny and his coach, Josh, emphasize that while it’s helpful to visualize the sequence—starting with "pick-up points" and "kill points"—it’s equally important to remain flexible in your approach.
In their demonstration, Jonny initially thinks the midi target should be shot first. However, after shooting a few times, they realize that shooting the battue target first yields better results. This reinforces a key lesson: always test your strategy on the range. What looks logical in theory may feel completely different when you actually put your gun to the target.
Trust Your Eyes, Trust Your Training
The session reinforces the idea that instinct, built on proper training, is critical. Josh Brown advises: "Trust your eyes and your timing." Whether it's breaking a single target or tackling a true pair, the shooter’s ability to read the clay and respond with confidence is key to success. Training develops this instinct, allowing you to make smooth, controlled shots without overthinking the process.
They point out that often, hesitation occurs when the brain overanalyzes. It’s this hesitation that causes shooters to lose precious milliseconds. By learning to trust your eyes, you'll start to execute shots based on instinct rather than overcomplicating things with unnecessary adjustments.
The Takeaway: Expand Your Comfort Zone and Simplify Your Move
By the end of the session, Jonny walks away with valuable insights about his shooting. The ShotKam Gen 4 Mini provides the perfect tool to evaluate your shots and fine-tune your technique. For shooters looking to tackle true pairs, the key is to expand your comfort zone and learn to trust both your eyes and timing.
Next time you’re on the range, take a page out of Jonny’s playbook: experiment, refine your timing, and trust in the training you’ve put in. With the right mindset and the ShotKam Gen 4 Mini by your side, mastering true pairs will soon feel like second nature.
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