Shooting a shotgun is very different from shooting a rifle or any other type of firearm. If you are using it as a rifle, then you are probably shouldering your shotgun wrong! So what is the correct way to should a shotgun to ensure that you are getting the most out of your gun? Let’s talk about it!
Shotguns are the best at shooting moving targets or targets at close range. From sporting clays, birds, or running deer, shotguns are excellent weapons to use. They will only be able to hit these targets, however, if you are using the proper form when shooting. Luckily practice makes perfect, and once you learn the proper steps you can shoulder your shotgun the right way every time.
Proper Cheek Position
A proper cheek weld is probably the most important aspect in good shooting form with shotguns. Regardless of where you place the shotgun on your shoulder, if you do not have a proper cheek position, you will not be as accurate or effective as possible. It can also cost you valuable time and accuracy should you need to hit targets that are on the move.
To get a good cheek position and align your head properly, you must bring the gun to your face and not your face to the gun. Keep your eyes on your target at all times, and bring the gun up to your shoulder and face. Place the comb (top portion of the stock) firmly under your cheekbone as this will put your dominant eye to the top of the shotgun and allow you to properly stare straight down the barrel to your target.
Place the Buttstock in the Pocket
After bringing the gun to your face, the shotgun should naturally fit into your shoulder pocket. Once the buttstock hits that pocket, you can pull the gun in tight. You want to ensure that you have the stock pressed in tight to that pocket, as some shotgun loads can put off a high recoil and you want to be able to properly absorb it.
If you place the gun anywhere besides the pocket in your shoulder (which consists of the meaty portion right where your arm meets your shoulder) you could bruise yourself with the recoil. A common problem is placing it too close or on the collarbone, which could hurt or even leave bruises depending on how bad the shotgun recoils.
Final Thoughts
Plenty of practice will ensure that you quickly and properly shoulder your shotgun every time. From bringing the gun to your face and getting a quick target acquisition to putting the buttstock in the right shoulder pocket to comfortably shoot, plenty of practice will make perfect. With the proper shouldering and handling of the shotgun, you can rest assured that you will be as quick and accurate as you can possibly be!
