Trap Shooting - Arms and Equipment

Arms and Equipment

Trapshooting is typically shot with a 12 gauge shotgun. Smaller gauge firearms can be used, but no allowance is given. Trapshooting events are either single or double target presentations.

Both general purpose shotguns and more specialized target-type shotguns are used in trapshooting. Examples of trap guns are single-barreled shotgun (such as the Browning BT-99, Perazzi MX-series, Krieghoff K-80, T/A) or a double barreled shotgun such as the Beretta DT10, Browning XT Trap, and SKB'S. Shooters who shoot all sub-events will often buy a combination-set of a single and double barrel for shooting both singles and double targets respectively. Self-loading (semi-automatic shotguns) are popular for recreational shooting due to the lower perceived recoil and versatility because they can be used for singles, handicap, and doubles. Shotguns used in trapshooting can differ from field and skeet guns in several ways and normally are designed with a higher "point of impact" as the targets are intended to be shot as they rise.

Trapshooting shotguns can be adjustable. Stocks may have a "Monte Carlo" (fixed, raised "comb") configuration and/or include a comb height adjustment, a butt plate adjustment for length, angle or both. Trap guns typically have longer barrels (750–850 mm, 30-34 inches), possibly with porting and featuring tighter chokes to compensate for the longer distances at which trapshooting targets are broken. The majority of trap shotguns built today feature interchangeable choke tubes as opposed to older guns which used chokes of a "fixed" constriction. Interchangeable choke tubes can come in a variety of constrictions and may use names such as "modified", "improved modified" and "full". Trap guns are built to withstand the demands and stress of constant and lengthy repeated use - hundreds of shots in a single day of events, whereas typical field guns are built to be lighter, carried afield and not shot in such quantity.

Common accessories include wearing a vest or pouch that will hold at least 25-50 cartridges or "shells" for singles and/or doubles events. Most ranges and clubs require eye and ear protection.

Shooting glasses may be something as simple as the eyeglasses or sunglasses one presently wears. Specialized shooting glasses "systems" typically have interchangeable colored lenses, are adjustable and designed for high impact resistance. A spectrum of different colored lenses are offered to compensate for light conditions as well as enhance the color of the target thrown while muting the color of the background. Adjustable glasses allow on-range changes for conditions - light, color, etc.

Hearing protection also comes in a variety of choice. Dense foam and electronics are used to reduce or attenuate sound levels. Typical hearing protection is either an "earmuff" (over-the-the-ear) or an "ear plug" (inner-ear). Some shooters use both simultaneously to gain greater noise reduction (NRR).