Discover the Sport

What is Clay Target Shooting?

The thrill of the hunt, the precision of golf, and the rush of breaking a flying target into dust — all in one unforgettable morning out in the bushveld.

Book Your First Shoot

The Basics

Shotguns, flying clays, and a whole lot of fun.

Clay target shooting is a sport where you use a shotgun to break small clay discs — called clays or pigeons — that are launched into the air by spring-loaded machines called traps.

The clay flies fast and falls quickly. You have a second or two to read its line, swing through it, and pull the trigger. When you connect, the clay vanishes in a satisfying puff of orange dust. That's the moment everyone comes back for.

Shotgun resting beside a stack of orange clay targets

The Three Disciplines

Trap, Skeet & Sporting Clays

A clay pigeon ejecting from a trap machine

Trap

Clays launched away from you from a single bunker — fast, low, and predictable.

Skeet shooting tower against an autumn forest sky

Skeet

Clays cross in front of you from two towers — pure rhythm and timing.

A clay target in flight against the bushveld

Sporting Clays Our Discipline

Different stations simulate game birds and rabbits — the closest you'll get to a real hunt.

A Brief History

From English country estates to the Olympic stage.

1700s

Where It Began

English country gentlemen shot live pigeons released from cages — that's where the name 'clay pigeon' comes from.

1880s

A Humane Idea

Glass ball targets filled with feathers replaced live birds — the first real step toward the modern sport.

Top and bottom view of a single orange clay target

1880

The Clay is Born

American George Ligowsky patents the saucer-shaped clay disc, designed to mimic the flight of a bird. It's still used today.

1900

Olympic Sport

Clay target shooting debuts at the Paris Olympic Games — and has been on the programme ever since.

Why People Love It

Why one shot is rarely enough.

Instant Feedback

The clay either breaks or it doesn't. No scoreboards, no waiting — just immediate, addictive results.

Social & Inclusive

Anyone aged 13+ can shoot, regardless of fitness or experience. It's as much about the people as the sport.

Mental Focus

A calm mind, steady breath, and sharp eyes. It's a meditation that happens to involve a shotgun.

Safe & Structured

One-on-one coaching from a Master at Arms means you're guided every step of the way.

Clay in flight against the bushveldItalian Bettinsoli shotguns

What a Great Day Feels Like

It's the small things you remember.

  • The dry smell of the bushveld at sunrise.
  • The mechanical thwack of the trap as the clay launches.
  • The weight of a fine Italian shotgun against your shoulder.
  • The orange puff that means you got it.
  • The cheers from your group when you break your first one.
  • Cold drinks and a braai when you're done.

Just Show Up

You don't need…

Experience

Most of our guests have never held a shotgun before. We start at zero.

Your own gun

We provide premium Italian shotguns, ammo, and ear/eye protection.

A hunting background

Clay shooting stands on its own as a sport. No hunting required.

Perfect aim

We coach you through stance, swing, and timing. Most people break a clay on day one.

Ready to Try It?

Book a beginner session and find out why one shot is never enough. We'll handle the rest.