Clay shooting is a dynamic, engaging, and empowering sport – and it’s no longer a male-dominated pursuit. More and more women across the UK are picking up a shotgun and heading to the shooting ground, drawn by the combination of skill, focus, and camaraderie that clay shooting offers. This beginner-friendly guide is designed specifically to help women who are curious about the sport get off to a confident start.

Whether you're interested in it as a hobby, a competitive challenge, or a unique way to spend time outdoors, clay shooting has a lot to offer. With the right approach and a bit of guidance, anyone can become a competent and passionate shooter.

Why Women Are Embracing Clay Shooting

There has been a marked increase in female participation in shooting sports across the UK. From countryside estates to urban clubs, women of all ages are discovering that clay shooting is a great way to unwind, meet new people, and develop a unique skillset. It’s also an inclusive activity – you don’t need a certain level of fitness or strength, and clubs are increasingly offering women-only sessions and instruction.

Promatic, a UK-based leader in clay trap manufacturing, is at the forefront of supporting inclusive shooting experiences. Their Sporting Traps and automated systems are widely used across shooting grounds, enabling consistent, safe, and enjoyable target presentation for all shooters.

Types of Clay Shooting to Explore

As a beginner, it’s helpful to know the different types of clay shooting available:

• Sporting Clays: Often the most accessible and fun for beginners, with targets mimicking real-life game scenarios – from fast crossers to low rabbits.

• Down-the-Line (DTL): A trap discipline using a single trap throwing targets away from the shooter.

• Skeet: Targets are launched from two fixed points, crossing in front of the shooter.

Sporting clays are an excellent starting point due to the variety and relaxed pace. Many clubs use Promatic’s Sporting Claymate System to automate these courses, ensuring smooth operation and a great introduction to the sport.

What to Expect at Your First Clay Shoot

If you're attending your first clay shoot or taster session, here’s what you can expect:

• Warm Welcome: Most clubs are very welcoming to newcomers and will provide basic safety training.

• Safety Briefing: You’ll receive instruction on handling a shotgun safely and wearing eye and ear protection.

• Beginner-Friendly Traps: The instructor will choose target presentations suited to first-timers.

• Supportive Atmosphere: You’ll be encouraged, not judged – everyone remembers what it’s like to start.

Wear weather-appropriate clothes, flat-soled shoes, and avoid anything too restrictive around the shoulders. Don’t worry about buying a shotgun at this stage – clubs will provide one that suits your size and build.

Choosing the Right Equipment

When you’re ready to invest in your own kit, focus on fit and comfort. Women often have different build characteristics to men – shorter arms, narrower shoulders – so gun fit is crucial. Many gun makers offer shotguns specifically designed for women.

Look for:

• A 12-gauge or 20-gauge over-and-under shotgun

• Adjustable comb or stock for better alignment

• Lightweight models to reduce fatigue

Don’t forget:

• Ear protection: Either ear defenders or custom moulded plugs

• Eye protection: Safety glasses in clear or tinted lenses

• Shooting vest: With padding and cartridge pockets

For target practice, Promatic's personal-use traps like the Huntsman XP provide the flexibility and reliability you need to train at home or on private land.

Tips to Build Confidence

• Take Lessons: One-on-one coaching ensures you learn correct technique from day one.

• Join a Women’s Shooting Group: Organisations like the Shotgun & Chelsea Bun Club offer social shoots and a welcoming atmosphere.

• Celebrate Progress: Don’t fixate on hits and misses – enjoy the experience and acknowledge your improvements.

• Use the Right Load: Start with lighter cartridges (21g or 24g) to reduce recoil and build comfort.

• Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to seek advice from instructors or fellow shooters.

With a bit of guidance, you’ll quickly gain confidence and discover your rhythm on the shooting ground.

Where to Go Clay Shooting in the UK

There are hundreds of excellent shooting grounds across Britain catering to shooters of all experience levels. When choosing a location, look for those that:

• Offer taster sessions and beginner coaching

• Use reliable equipment (such as Promatic traps)

• Have good safety records and supportive staff

Many grounds also cater to private events, such as hen parties or corporate days, making them ideal for social introductions to the sport.

FAQs

1. Is clay shooting suitable for women with no prior experience with firearms?

Absolutely. Clay shooting is one of the most beginner-friendly shooting sports available. No prior experience with firearms is necessary. In fact, many women begin their shooting journey without ever having handled a gun before. Shooting grounds across the UK provide professional instructors who guide you through everything from safety basics to your first few shots. The structured and supportive environment means you'll feel comfortable asking questions and learning at your own pace. Additionally, clubs often provide firearms specifically fitted to suit women or beginners, so you won't be wrestling with a heavy or oversized shotgun. The increasing number of female-focused shooting events and social groups also creates a welcoming atmosphere. With just a single session, most women find that they not only enjoy the sport but feel empowered by the experience of learning a new, exciting skill.

2. What should I wear to my first clay shooting session?

Comfort and safety are key when dressing for a clay shooting session. Choose flat-soled, closed-toe shoes like trainers or walking boots to maintain stable footing. For clothing, opt for layers suited to the weather – clay shooting is an outdoor sport, and you’ll want to be warm and dry. A long-sleeved top and jacket are good for shoulder comfort when mounting the gun. Avoid overly tight or loose sleeves as they may interfere with your mount. Jeans or outdoor trousers are ideal for flexibility. Many shooters also wear a dedicated shooting vest, which adds padding to the shoulder and offers pockets for cartridges. Eye and ear protection is mandatory at most clubs – safety glasses and ear defenders are usually provided if you don’t have your own. Lastly, avoid jewellery and scarves that could get caught during movement. The overall goal is to stay protected, unrestricted, and confident.

3. Is there a specific type of shotgun better suited for women?

Yes, many manufacturers now design shotguns specifically for women, acknowledging anatomical differences that affect comfort and performance. Women often benefit from shotguns with a shorter length of pull (the distance from the trigger to the end of the stock), reduced overall weight, and adjustable combs or stocks to better align the gun with their eye level. A 20-gauge over-and-under shotgun is a popular choice for women starting out, as it has less recoil than a 12-gauge while still offering good performance. Some women still prefer a 12-gauge, especially when using lighter cartridges. When selecting a shotgun, it's best to try a few models and ideally get measured by a professional gun fitter. Many clubs have demo guns or offer trial sessions to help you determine what feels best. A properly fitted gun reduces fatigue, improves accuracy, and makes the entire experience more enjoyable.

4. How do I find a women-friendly shooting club or group?

Finding a club or group that supports women shooters has never been easier. Many shooting grounds across the UK have embraced inclusivity and offer women-only sessions, female instructors, or social groups that encourage camaraderie among shooters. National organisations such as the Shotgun & Chelsea Bun Club or Femmes Fatales UK organise regular events tailored to women, providing a relaxed and social atmosphere for both beginners and experienced shooters. Start by searching for clubs near you on the CPSA (Clay Pigeon Shooting Association) website, where many venues indicate if they offer women’s programmes. Social media is another excellent way to find like-minded groups in your area. Reading reviews or contacting the club directly to ask about their beginner support and inclusivity can also help determine if it’s the right fit. Don't be shy about attending a taster session – most clubs are very welcoming and will happily guide you through your first steps.

5. How does Promatic support women in clay shooting?

Promatic supports women in clay shooting by providing equipment that enhances access, enjoyment, and fairness for all shooters. As a manufacturer of premium clay traps and automated shooting systems, Promatic enables shooting grounds across the UK to offer consistent and customisable target presentations. This is particularly beneficial for newcomers, as instructors can tailor target speed, height, and trajectory to suit confidence levels. Their user-friendly systems, like the Sporting Claymate System, support both group instruction and solo practice. Additionally, their compact and mobile traps – like the Huntsman XP – are excellent options for women who wish to practise on their own land. By making reliable, accessible gear for clubs and individuals alike, Promatic is helping ensure that clay shooting is truly a sport for everyone. Their commitment to quality and inclusivity has helped thousands of women find confidence and community in clay shooting.