ZEN AND THE ART OF CLAY SHOOTING

I have made a lifetime study of shooting technique. I’ve a vast collection of books on the subject, I’ve taught thousands to shoot, and I’ve put much effort into a more scientific study of our sport. It is always interesting, though, to come up with a new perspective. Sometimes it emerges from a lesson, or just watching others breaking clays; sometimes it just comes to you.

One thing I’ve noted that is common to most great performers is that they don’t look as if they are putting much effort into it. They achieve economy of movement (partly a function of preparation and practice), and have mastered the art of relaxed focus. They rarely force it. I have one friend who came to me years ago for instruction and is now on a national sporting squad. We are shooting buddies now. His shooting always appears to be effortless, natural, yet you’d be hard pressed to identify any specific technique within it. There is nothing showy or exaggerated. He has mastered the basics, and the proof is routine mid-90