What is english skeet?
Skeet shooting originated in the USA, but the English version has its own unique rulings. Targets are fired horizontally over the range from two houses of differing heights, one high and one low. Two firing positions are situated by each house with five others linking the two together at an equal distance through a semi- circular curve. A typical round would normally have 25 targets.
 
How is english skeet shot?
A group of 5 shooters would shoot each in turn from each firing position. The start would normally be the left position under the high house. The first targets to be fired would be two singles (high then low house), followed by a simultaneous pair. These are shot from each peg except for 3 and 5 as only singles are shot on these pegs. The 25th and final target can be either a repetition of the first target to be missed or a final single from the last shooting position. This is only used if the shooter is currently on a perfect score. Preceding the centre shooting position the high target must always be shot first on the pairs. At the centre position the shooter must inform the referee about which of the two from the pair they are going to shoot first. The remaining pegs would see the low target shot first. The shooter has the option to call for the target with their gun pre-mounted but usually the shooter would find it beneficial to call with their gun partially our of their shoulder.
 
How is english skeet scored?
The score is simply formed from how many targets are broken by a shooter.
 
What is the best gun to use?
In the past, Skeet guns have been very lightweight, short in length (around a 28" barrel or less), and were usually very openly choked. Modern thinking incorporates a 30" barrel with substantially less choke with an improved cylinder or quarter in both barrels. If you are using a multichoked gun put in your two most open chokes or alternatively purchase a pair of your gun manufacturers skeet tubes so the two barrels will match pattern.
 
What is the best cartridge to use?
You must use a size 9 shot or smaller, seeing loads up to 28 gr. Plastic wads can again be beneficial if rules permit. Use cartridges that allow a manageable recoil, this is usually more comfortable for the shooter and allows a faster acquisition of the second target in the pairs.
 
Shooting tip...
Don't try to anticipate the doubles. Keeping calm is generally better as you have enough time to make both shots. Always aim to shoot the first target over the centre peg, do this correctly and you will have ample time to make a smooth swing and hit the second target.
 
Safety tip...
Sometimes, 'no birds' make an entrance across the range. It would be wise to ignore them, don't follow their line with your gun.
 
A beginner's average rating...
75% and over would be a good goal to achieve at an early stage.
 
An expert's average rating...
To mix it with the best around 95%- 100% is required.