Shooting Sports & Competition

Shooting sports in the UK offer something for everyone, from the thrill of smashing your first clay to the patience and precision of hitting a steel plate at 600 yards. Whether your goal is leisure, field skills, or stepping onto the competition line, the journey starts with clear guidance and the right foundations.

This section brings together practical advice, expert insight, and real-world examples to help you grow as a shooter.

For those curious about clay pigeon shooting, our Getting Started in Clay Pigeon Shooting guide explains the disciplines of trap, skeet, and sporting clays, and offers simple drills to build confidence. It covers the essentials such as gun fit, choke selection, and club etiquette, giving you everything you need to make that first visit enjoyable and productive.

If your interest lies in long-range rifle shooting, the Beginner’s Long-Range Shooting Guide sets out the challenges of shooting beyond 300 yards and how to overcome them. From choosing a suitable calibre and investing wisely in optics, to learning wind reading and ballistics, it shows that skill and consistency matter more than simply buying the latest kit.

For those ready to test themselves, our Competition Shooting Guide demystifies the world of matches. It explains range commands, the importance of safety habits, and the gear you really need to get started. Whether you are drawn to Mini Rifle, PRS Rimfire, or practical shotgun, the guide sets you up to walk onto the firing line prepared, safe, and confident.

Together, these resources provide a pathway through every stage: from your first broken clay, to your first long-range hit, to your first competition stage completed without a hitch. At The Instinctive Shooter, our aim is to give you the knowledge and confidence to enjoy the sport responsibly, progress steadily, and share in the community that makes shooting such a rewarding pursuit.