From London and St. Thomas to Woodstock and beyond, Southern Ontario has a welcoming trap community. If you are heading to your first round, this is everything worth packing.
The essentials
Eye protection and ear protection are non-negotiable on every range. Bring at least one 25-round box of shells for each round you plan to shoot, plus a spare box, and check your club's rules on shot size and load.
A round of American trap is 25 targets across five stations, five shots at each. You will rotate with your squad, so a pouch on your belt that holds the whole box saves trips back to the bench.
What to wear
A shooting vest gives you a full-length pad so the gun lands in the same place every time, and pockets for shells and empties. In July choose a mesh-backed vest; in October, layer a light fleece underneath. A cap with a brim helps on bright afternoons, and closed-toe shoes are a must.
Carry it properly
Most clubs expect actions open and guns cased or racked away from the line. A range bag keeps your flats of shells, glasses, ear protection, chokes and a towel together, and makes the drive home tidy.
If you reload, a hull bag lets you drop your empties straight into a separate rear compartment, which keeps the station clean and the hulls ready for next week.
Etiquette
Load only on your station and only when it is your turn. Keep quiet while others are shooting, and follow the referee. Ask questions — trap shooters love to help a newcomer, and you will learn more in one afternoon on the line than from any guide.
From the atelier
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