Premier Clay Shooting

Situated in North Bedfordshire between Bedford and Rushden set on over 40 acres of countryside, Sporting Targets is one of the largest and finest clay shooting clubs in the country. Offering a full range of shooting tuition, private events, corporate hospitality days, stag and hen parties, customized activity days, and junior taster sessions, on-site facilities include a comprehensive gun shop and a clubhouse with their fully licensed All Seasons restaurant.

Their team of highly qualified instructors cater to all levels, from complete beginners to regular competitors and experienced game shooters. The Sporting Targets complex hosts regular 100 Registered English Sporting and 100 Registered FITASC competitions throughout the year, as well as the CPSA Premier League, the Jack Pyke Open, and the Summer High Tower Challenge.

Six Lessons Series

At Sporting Targets, shooting practice is available seven days a week. A clay counter system is used whereby, upon arrival at the ground, you need to check in at reception to receive your card. After finishing your practice round, return your card and pay for the clays you've used. Safety glasses and hearing protection are mandatory on the grounds, and hats are recommended. Individuals without a current certificate must be accompanied by a certificate holder or a member of staff. Typically, 50 stands are in operation, 170 traps and 3 towers at 60’, 110’ and 120’.

If you’re just starting your shooting journey you might consistently hit certain targets, but linking them with another is a different challenge. Or perhaps there’s a single elusive target giving you trouble. As your skills improve, you might find yourself hitting more targets before reaching a plateau. A series of six lessons offered at Sporting Targets might be the solution. Simply purchase six lessons at a discounted rate to keep in the "bank" and use them whenever you need to overcome an issue and advance your skills. You’ll work with an experienced instructor to conquer those challenging targets.

Junior taster session events are also available, for under 18s to spend 2 hours on site and experience three target disciplines, namely clay shooting, archery and air rifles. The minimum age requirement is 10 years old with a height requirement of 4ft and above.

Don’t Forget the DOE Scheme

For those pursuing their Duke of Edinburgh Award, Sporting Targets offer clay target shooting as a skill activity suitable for bronze, silver, and gold levels. All their instructors are CPSA qualified and academy coaches. They follow a syllabus designed to meet the requirements of each award level.

Sporting Targets also offer a one-day CPSA Certified Shotgun Skills Course which is ideal for anyone interested in clay or game shooting, acquiring a gun, or novices who have recently acquired a shotgun. It covers personal and range safety, shotgun types and uses, cartridges, and chokes. There’s also a practical session on the CPSA shooting method. The course includes loan guns (if needed), ear and eye protection, and all clays and cartridges.

First-Rate Facilities

Sporting Targets offers top-notch facilities ideal for corporate and group hospitality. With amenities comparable to those of a premier golf or country club, they provide everything you need to entertain clients or colleagues with a number of comprehensive packages.

They offer a variety of activities, including clay shooting, archery, crossbows, air pistols and rifles, and quad biking, to create a memorable hospitality event tailored to suit everyone.

Be Prepared

Whether you’re a beginner or experienced shot, it’s important to wear comfortable, casual clothing that allows for unrestricted movement. Avoid overly baggy clothes to ensure your gun stays securely in place. Alan Paine clothing offers suitable options for any weather. Layers are key as, even during summer months, the weather can be unpredictable. On cooler days, consider wearing a fleece gilet or wind stopper jacket for added warmth.