A List Of Shotgun Shooting Essentials

Whether you’re heading down to the range, going on a hunt, or shooting clay pigeons, it’s great to get out and do some shooting with your shotgun. With so many shotgun parts, accessories, and add-ons available, it’s easy to lose track. But, you want to have your gun in the best condition with the most useful gear. To help you do that, we’ve created a list of the absolute must-haves of shotgun shooting from cases to cleaners, to make sure you are fully loaded for your day’s shoot. Whatever you may need for a day out with your shotgun, you’ll find it here in our list of shotgun shooting essentials.

Gun Case

Depending on where you are in the world, there are different rules and regulations regarding how you should transport your gun. In some places, it must be dismantled and transported without ammunition, while in others it can be simply slung on the back seats! For overall safety, we recommend purchasing a professional case for your shotgun. This way your gun is locked in a hard case away from any potential mishaps, dangers, or accidents. It also means that the gun is protected in itself. Having a hard case means nothing can fall on, chip, or otherwise damage your firearm. 

Optic Sights

A shotgun, like any firearm, can greatly benefit from optics. People often talk about firearm optic tips for rifles and other guns, but rarely mention optics for shotguns. We think that an optic sight can massively help when it comes to hunting with a shotgun. Optics simply make spotting a target far easier, even at night. They also improve accuracy and precision when shooting. Red dot optics are especially small and light, so are highly recommended for use with tactical shotguns. Give it a go, we’re sure you’ll see an improvement in your hunting game.

Slip and Strap

Obviously, a day on the hunt isn’t all aiming and firing, there’s a lot of walking, stalking, crouching, and general movement to be done, too! Whilst doing this, you don’t want to be carrying around your Hardcase. Here is where gun slips come in very handy. Gun slips make carrying a rifle or shotgun safe, easy, and stylish. They often come with a strap for easy carry over the shoulder, as well as giving quick and easy access to your gun when needed. A simple slip is all you need to keep your hands free whilst on the move.

Ammo and Bag

Of course, no hunting can be done without some ammo. As you’ll know, shotguns require reloading regularly with individual cartridges. This means you end up having to carry box upon box of ammo with you. To save on space and weight, consider an ammo bag. Investing in a quality cartridge bag means you can carry all your ammunition in one place whilst keeping it safe and protected from the elements. It also means less fiddling with cardboard boxes when you’re in a hurry to reload!

Cleaning and Protection 

It’s very important to look after your weapons properly. Shotguns are no different. Even if you are only out for the afternoon, you should still carry your cleaning essentials with you. Most shotgun cleaning kits come in small carry cases, easy to keep with you at all times. Cleaning the gun right after use means that it is far easier to clean and keep in good working order. 

As well as looking after your gun correctly, it is also essential to have the appropriate protection for yourself. One of the key aspects of shooting is noise. You should always wear ear protection to make sure you aren’t damaging your hearing in the long-term. It is also recommended that you wear protective glasses when shooting a shotgun. These things will help keep both you and your gun safe on your day out.

Clothing

Finally, you should always wear the right clothing for whatever is ahead in your day. Going hunting? Wear the right boots, cargo pants, and hunting jacket. If you are out on a day’s clay pigeon shoot you can dress accordingly, too. Make sure that you are comfortable. After all, you are going to be handling a firearm all day, the last thing you need is to feel awkward or uncomfortable.

Make sure you carry these essentials with you when heading out with your shotgun. All of them together ensure you have everything you could possibly need on your day hunting or shooting. Improve your shooting with optics, protect yourself and your gun, and look and feel the part.