XD Talk

williewvr · 07-04-2012, 06:07 PM

Pattern your shotgun with different loads and shot sizes too. The little things add up. I've seen some shotguns with holes in the pattern a goose could fly through.

XD9_Shorty · 09-05-2012, 10:23 AM

I use a full, but it's really not about the choke it's all about the technique and getting used to sometime flying. It will get easier and hope your still enjoying it.

LCFD#22 · 09-07-2012, 10:49 AM

I would say that full choke is way too tight for skeet. On the other hand if you're on the money side of the bird it'll work. As mentioned technique is way more important than choke sizes and shot sizes. I've shot next to a former junior world champion several times when he's using a .410 & he'll go 100 straight with it & make me look foolish in the process. It's all about technique and knowing your leads. Also, remember that station 8 is essentially a trick shot. It'll be frustrating until you find the right spot to hold the shotgun. Then you won't miss it.

dw32005 · 09-07-2012, 11:09 AM

I tend to stick with a modified, so im towing the line regardless of what and how far i shoot. Usually shoot 7 1/2 shot, the guys are right that it takes some skill to get good at shooting skeet. But its skill that can come from practice and expeirance. The more you shoot the better you'll likely get.

wakenda · 09-19-2012, 02:15 PM

i am new here but i would like to throw my 2 cents in. get yourself some large paper targets and shoot with different chokes at 20 yds 30 yds and 40 and you will get a good feel for what you and your shotgun are best at. i hope this makes sense to you.

kratty · 02-11-2013, 10:12 AM

As a new skeet shooter, at the moment you are handicapped by your equipment:
- first, as others have mentioned, full choke is a major problem. IC, C or the aptly named Skeet choke are a must.
- second, 20gauge is going to make it more challenging to hit clays. That said, once you become proficient with the 20, shooting with a 12 will feel like cheating with all the extra lead you'll be throwing!

To learn, I would suggest a 12 gauge with a wide-open choke. If you are sticking with your 20, then definitely open up that choke. That alone will improve your score.

But skeet is a game of angles, where repetition (aka Practice) is key to building consistency.

Spitter · 02-12-2013, 10:20 PM

Skeet is shot with four gauges 12, 20, 28 and .410... and with a "Skeet" choke.

Can you shoot Skeet with a tighter constriction, absolutely - however, use the correct equipment for the discipline... Skeet chokes and #9 shot, shotshells.

If you want a copy of a good pamphlet on Skeet tips, send me a PM and I'll email you the pdf.

Jay

Texas34 · 02-12-2013, 10:22 PM

Practice, practice, and more practice. I have a mossy 500 accuchoke and it shoots great. I shoot every weekend. Keep at it.

oldblazer · 02-15-2013, 06:31 PM

As others have said, practice - practice - practice.

I started with my Dad's Geha 12ga when I was 17 or so. A few years later I bought a Winchester 1897 (12ga, 20" cylinder barrel) when I was in college. Close shots were fairly easy with the '97, but I still missed a lot. Then I switeched to a Mossberg M500, (12ga, 28" accu-choke barrel using the improved choke) which worked much better, at least I didn't miss as often.

Years later I got more serious about hunting doves, squirrels, rabbits, and skeet using a different M500 (12ga, 28" improved), a Rem 870 (12ga, 24" improved) and now a Savage 67 (20ga, improved) I've come to the conclusion that technique and trigger time make all the difference.

There is no miracle formula for gauge/barrel length/choke; you need to know the capabilities of your firearm and your own limits in order to make the shot. I've hunted with a guy who used a 12ga full choke, and he consistantly takes down flying doves - but he's had decades of experience.

Pattern your gun, practice shouldering, then get out and make purposeful use of your time burning ammo. Find someone to watch you in action and critique your technique. Please note that you might need to adjust the stock to align it with your body shape. Have patience and have fun while being sure of your backstop.

jbkazam · 02-15-2013, 06:41 PM

If you are shooting actual skeet, not just clay targets, you should be shooting a choke no tighter than improved cylinder. Skeet choke would be best.

I know people who refer to shooting skeet as shooting any clay target, usually from a hand thrower.

Actual Skeet has 9 stations, and a high house, and a low house. Just making sure we're talking about the same thing.