Top Tips When Starting Out With Country Sports

 

Getting into country sports such as hunting and clay pigeon shooting is easier now than ever before, with many groups that can offer you advice and assistance, as well as organisations that can help you learn everything there is to know and build up your skills.


As with any skill or endeavour, you get out as much as you put in, and if you have the willingness to learn, people will be more than happy to teach you, and country sports photography services exist to chronicle your journey.


 Here are some tips to start out.


Start With Air Rifles

If you want to get a firearm for hunting you need to get a certificate from your local police force, which involves an application form, getting two referees, paying a fee and explaining why you need a shotgun or pistol.

 

A good place to start instead is with air rifles. So long as they are under 12ft-lbs of power, they can be used without a certificate, are relatively inexpensive, as is the ammunition, and many clubs offer ranges, lessons and shooting competitions.

 

An air rifle will help you learn how to handle a gun safely, how to shoot straight and how to sight in a scope.

 

Go To A Clay Pigeon Range

Aside from air rifles, another way to see if country sports are right for you is to go to an approved clay pigeon range or ground and learn to shoot from a qualified instructor.


They will be able to show you how to safely handle a gun, as well as the correct stance to use to fire as accurately as possible. You can also try using a gun without applying for a certificate as you are borrowing the gun, although many instructors will help advise you on the best way to apply.


Apply Early For Your Shotgun Certificate

For most guns, you need to apply to your local police department to legally obtain a firearm.

 

Whilst there are slight differences in the application form depending on the police force responsible, typically you need to submit the names of two referees with good character and who have known you for at least two years.

 

You also need to provide a good reason for every firearm you wish to get as well as ideally have evidence you have permission to shoot on land.