1) I am interested in trying clay pigeon shooting. Where do I start?
The best place to start is by having a lesson at a local shooting ground from an experienced coach. There is no point going any further until you have tried the sport and decided that you like it.
Keep an eye on this website for details of our, " have a go" days, where we encourage the general public to come and try the sport in a safe environment under the guidance of a qualified shooting coach.
We normally run at least two each year. You will be most welcome.

2) Where can I find a coach and a shooting ground?
We will soon have details on this website for the all the shooting grounds and coaches in the Surrey area.
There is also a larger list covering shooting grounds in other counties on the main
CPSA website  

3) Is it expensive?
The cost of an hour lesson can vary from £40 to £70. Most introduction lessons are at the £40 per hour rate and included all the necessary equipment but do not always include the clays and cartridges.
 

4) When you shoot a gun does it hurt?
If you go for a lesson to a coach they will make sure that the gun is fitted properly to your size and that you are holding it properly, in which case it does not hurt. You simply feel the equivalent of a small push to your shoulder. There are various low recoil cartridges available for beginners and also a range of guns from 410, 20 bore and 12 bore at most shooting grounds who offer lessons.

5) When I have done all this and find that I like the sport, what is the next step?
You can then apply for a shotgun licence to the local firearms department. If you have been having lessons your coach will be able to help explain this procedure to you. It involves filing out a form.

6) Do I need any form of insurance?
It would be foolish to consider this sport without any form of accident insurance cover. You would not consider driving a car without insurance. By becoming a member of the CPSA (Clay Pigeon Shooting Association) through this site you will have civil liability and personal accident cover for both game shooting and clay pigeon shooting. www.cpsa.co.uk
Your shotgun can be added to your house insurance or a specific policy can be bought for accidental damage insurance.

7) How do I buy my first gun?
Again the coach can help you chose or advise you on your first gun.He or she will have been working with you and will know what type of gun will suit your needs.You will also need a gun cabinet to store the shotgun and a cleaning kit to keep the gun in good working order. Take a look on our website for the local gun shop links or you could also ask your coach and shooting school for any recommendations.
A shotgun suitable for a beginner can range from £300 to £1200, but don't get attached to it because as you get more competent you may want to move up to a competition shotgun.

8) Is there any help for juniors?
CPSA membership is at a reduced rate for Juniors and Colts. Some shooting grounds offer cheaper practice and competition entry rates.

9) I am a student in Surrey. Would I be able to compete in the Surrey Championships as a temporary resident?
If you are a member of the CPSA and your college or university address is put as your temporary residence. whilst living in the county, then yes you can compete in the various Surrey County Championships.
 

10) How do I get selected to shoot for Surrey County Teams?
First of all you need to enter the Surrey Championship for the discipline that you want to shoot. Secondly you have to register your interest in being selected for the teams. It is simple really, so don't feel you are not good enough, come along and try, you may be surprised when you win! The next stop could then be selection for your Country.

11) Is Clay Pigeon Shooting in the Olympics?
Yes, there are three clay pigeon disciplines shot at the Olympics.........Olympic Trap (OT), Double Trap (DTR) and Olympic Skeet (OSK).

12) Do I need special clothes?
If you are keen it would be advisable to get a skeet vest because they have big pockets for the cartridges and a padded section at the shoulder where you put the gun. Other than that you just need warm clothes(as you will be outside a lot) and sensible boots,shoes or trainers (as you could be walking on uneven ground),also don't forget the waterproofs as we are after all living in England which is sure to rain at some point.