Shotgun shooting is an exhilarating and challenging sport that requires skill, precision, and proper technique. Whether you're new to shotgun shooting or have been practicing for some time, it's essential to be aware of common mistakes that can hinder your performance. In this article, we will explore five common mistakes often made when shooting a shotgun and provide tips on how to fix them.

1. Improper Mounting/Shouldering

The mistake: One of the most common errors is improper mounting or shouldering of the shotgun. Failing to mount the shotgun correctly can lead to inconsistent and inaccurate shots.

How to fix it: Ensure a proper shotgun mount by bringing the stock into the pocket of your shoulder firmly. Maintain a consistent cheek weld against the stock, aligning your dominant eye with the rib or sights. Practice mounting the shotgun smoothly and consistently before each shot to develop muscle memory.

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2. Poor Follow-Through

The mistake: Many shooters tend to stop their swing immediately after pulling the trigger, resulting in poor follow-through. This mistake can cause missed targets and affect your overall shooting proficiency.

How to fix it: Focus on maintaining a smooth and continuous swing even after pulling the trigger. Follow through with the movement and keep the shotgun moving along the target's path. This practice ensures that the shot pattern has ample time to intersect with the target, increasing the chances of a successful hit.

3. Overleading or Underleading

The mistake: Misjudging the lead, which refers to the distance ahead of a moving target that you need to aim in order to hit it accurately, is a common error in shotgun shooting. Overleading or underleading can result in missed shots.

How to fix it: Properly judging the lead comes with practice and experience. Start by observing the target's flight path and estimating its speed. Experiment with different lead distances during practice sessions to find the correct amount for different target speeds. Over time, you will develop a better sense of lead and improve your accuracy.

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4. Flinching or Anticipating Recoil

The mistake: Flinching or anticipating recoil is a natural reaction that can negatively impact your shooting. It can cause jerky movements and result in missed shots.

How to fix it: Focus on maintaining a relaxed and steady posture when shooting. Practice proper shotgun handling techniques such as a firm grip and controlling your breathing. Gradually increase exposure to recoil by starting with lighter loads and gradually moving up to heavier ones. This desensitizes your body to recoil, minimizing flinching and improving shot consistency.

5. Inconsistent Gun Mounting Shoulder Pressure

The mistake: Inconsistent shoulder pressure while mounting the shotgun can lead to variations in shooting accuracy. Uneven pressure can cause the shotgun to move off-target during the shot.

How to fix it: Ensure consistent shoulder pressure throughout the mount by firmly pressing the shotgun's stock into your shoulder pocket. Avoid excessive pressure or leaning into the gun, as this can also disrupt your balance and stability. Practice mounting the shotgun repeatedly, paying attention to maintaining constant pressure and balance.

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Conclusion

Avoiding these common mistakes and implementing the suggested fixes will help improve your shotgun shooting performance. Remember to focus on proper shotgun mount and shouldering, maintain good follow-through, judge the lead accurately, avoid flinching or anticipating recoil, and consistently apply shoulder pressure during gun mounting. Regular practice and self-awareness are key to overcoming these mistakes and becoming a more proficient shotgun shooter. Embrace the learning process and enjoy the rewarding experience of hitting your targets with precision and skill.

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