Every great shot begins with a strong foundation. At Jacksonville Clay Target Sports, we believe that no matter how long you’ve been shooting, revisiting the fundamentals is key to consistent improvement. Whether you’re a newcomer learning the ropes or an experienced shooter fine-tuning your technique, success on the range always comes back to mastering the basics.
One of the most important elements is stance. A balanced, comfortable stance sets the tone for every shot. Keep your feet shoulder-width apart, weight slightly forward, and knees relaxed. This stable position allows for smoother movement and better control during your swing.
Next, comes mount and alignment. Bringing the gun to your face, not your face to the gun, ensures proper sight alignment and a more natural follow-through. Practice mounting the shotgun until it feels automatic, keeping your eyes focused on the target rather than the barrel.
Equally important is focus and timing. New shooters often rush their shots or try to predict the target’s path. The key is to let the target come to you. Track it smoothly, stay relaxed, and trust your rhythm. The more you focus on the target and less on “getting it perfect,” the more natural your shooting becomes.
At JCTS, we encourage every shooter to dedicate time to practicing these core techniques. Many members also find that participating in events like the Club Shoot Series or Shooting Stars program helps reinforce good habits while keeping practice fun and social.
Whether you’re aiming for your first broken clay or chasing a new personal best, getting back to the basics is never a step backward — it’s what keeps you improving. Consistency, safety, and confidence all start with the fundamentals, and there’s no better place to develop them than right here at Jacksonville Clay Target Sports.