Clay Target Q&A
With Russell Mark, Olympic gold and silver medallist
Questions: russell@corporateshootingstars.com.au
Q A year ago I bought a very expensive Italian shotgun and had it fitted to me by an experienced firearms dealer. My problem is since I bought this shotgun, no matter what I try I cannot hit any target that goes to the right. I have also had my new firearm ported, back-bored, forcing cones lengthened, variable chokes installed, triggers pulls lightened, lock timing minimised, adjustable stock made to customise my pattern percentages, recoil reducer fitted, pitch altered, drop in the comb altered, cast altered, a new high-glow visibility front-sight added, as well as a super shock-absorbing recoil pad. I only use imported, European premium quality, hard antimony shot, high-velocity target loads in both barrels. I have had advice from dozens of other shooters and have had hours of video footage taken of me. I have built up an extensive library of shooting books, manuals and instructional DVD’s from around the world. I have read several books on mental training and have had several visits to a leading sports psychologist. I have had my vision checked, as well as my eye dominance ascertained. I am very fit and athletic, as I go to the gym three times a week and either ride my bike, run or do yoga and aerobic classes at least three days a week as well. I don’t drink alcohol or smoke. I always try to get eight or nine hours sleep on the nights before I shoot and I drink plenty of salt-replacing fluids before I compete and never indulge in caffeine. During competitions, I try to only eat high-energy foods, particularly those high in carbohydrates, which give me sustained endurance. I believe I am a far better shooter than my scores are indicating. I am a positive person and I also have the belief, as do all my friends and family, that it is my destiny to one day become an international shooting champion. I have spent thousands of dollars and as many hours training. Give me your opinion. Is there a trick to shooting these right-angled targets? What else should I try when it goes right?
Joseph C, NSW
A Try shooing to the right-hand side of it.