GET A GOOD GRIP ON THE BEST SHOTGUN STYLE TO SUIT YOUR NEEDS

IF YOU want to shoot well with a shotgun, get a grip on yourself. Shotguns come with two distinct grip configurations. The Straight stock, generally associated with fine Side-byside double guns and the pistol grip used on SxS and the ubiquitous under and over. The most beautiful variation of the pistol grip is the Prince of Wales grip or as it is sometime referred to as the semi pistol grip.

The straight stock is most often incorporated into SxS guns with double triggers. This grip allows the shooter to easily slip the hand back slightly to pull the second trigger. I coveted one of these guns for years and finally got the opportunity to shoot one. I must say I am somewhat disappointed in the handling because of the double trigger arrangement, coupled with the straight stock. I started my shotgun career as a young boy with double trigger SxS and had no trouble with muzzle flip with the Skimmin and Wood SXS and Prince of Wales grip. But the straight stock model I have used recently continually wants to jump out of my hands when I pull the second barrel.

All the other shotguns I have shot have come with a pistol grip. I find the full pistol grip adversely changes the angle of my trigger hand wrist. This in turn affects my ability to move the gun smoothly through the move, mount, shoot process. The best guns I have shot have come with the smooth lines of a Prince of Wales grip. The Prince of Wales grip is not at such an abrupt angle to the stock and allows my hand to lay along the wrist of the gun, but in turn offers a support position for the recoil. My trigger hand is therefore ready for the second shot and everything works smoothly like goose sh*t through a tin whistle.

I encourage all shotgunners to try different style grips and use what suits them best.

A 50-target handicap Simulated Field clay target competition commences at the range this morning from 8am. All members welcome. Everyone can come out and try clay target shooting every Friday arvo at the NT Field and Game range, Brandt Rd, Mickett Creek Shooting Complex, Knuckey Lagoon from 5pm till 9pm.

Join Field and Game, www.fga.net.au Join SSAA, www.ssaa.org.au Join Australian Deer Association www.austdeer.asn.au Like Field and Game NT on Facebook. Email: fnflodge1@bigpond.com - BART IRWIN