Shooting Simulated Field

Simulated Field Target Shooting is one of the most popular and fastest growing shooting sports and as the name suggest is a form of clay target shooting where the targets are thrown to represent the quarry that hunters would normally pursue using a shotgun, such as duck, quail, pheasant and even rabbits. In some cases it is also known as sporting clays. Simulated field target shooting began as a way that hunters could practice and keep their eye in after the game seasons had closed.

Other clay target disciplines such as skeet and trap have set target trajectories that are the same at every range. Simulated field utilises the natural terrain to throw varying types of targets and each club and competition can be vastly different. The targets are discs made of a clay pitch and are normally 10 cm in diameter and 2 cm high. However there are smaller sizes and shapes to add to the variety and challenge. Utilising the natural terrain of the shooting ground, targets are thrown either as singles where two shots may be fired or in combination of pairs where only one shot per target can be fired.

Targets can be thrown from slow to fast speeds of up to 80 kilometres per hour in varying heights and directions. Targets can be launched as going away targets, incomers, quartering, crossers, from towers, in amongst trees or in open fields. Other exotic targets include “springing teal” that climb vertically, “battues” that turn at the end of their trajectory or “rabbits” that run along the ground. Targets may be close or far away up to 50 metres, however always within the range of the shotgun. Every shooter gets the opportunity to see the targets first before shooting, and all shooters have to shoot the same targets and combinations.

The great thing about this sport is that anyone can participate no matter what age or level of fitness. Target shooting is also very family orientated. The competitions are usually very social and lasting friendships often developed, with some healthy rivalry. The shooters are graded into classes so you only compete against those of similar abilities, the grades are AA, A, B, C, Ladies, Juniors (under 18), Sub Juniors (under 15) and Veterans.

For those who are keen to compete at the highest level there are regular large shoots including the annual Field and Game Australia National Carnival which is held at a different location each year.

Simulated Field can be likened to golf with a shotgun and is a great sport for developing skills, hand/eye co-ordination and sportsmanship.