“Don’t count the seconds.

Make the seconds count!”

Being occupied with our guns, chokes and loads, that‘s all good. Too often though, we overlook one of the, if not THE most important requirements of consistently good shooting. That consideration is time management, as in target flight time and how we are managing the finite time each target gives us.

Before the trap machine fires, we begin with a few basic set-up steps. In my books, I’ve outlined and emphasized the importance of these steps. Book One, Take Your Best Shot, Third Edition, outlines four (4) specific set up steps. Executed correctly, each step is advantageous to building a more consistent X swing.

Of those four steps, the most important is carefully marking our MHP (Muzzle Hold Point) against an object in the background. Why a specific mark? To begin our effective time management, we must create that all-important, PUNCTUAL target intercept when the trap machine fires. If we’re late with our intercept, the remainder of our swing is in repair mode. In these cases, the upcoming miss can be seen mid-swing and is no longer a mystery. Lack of attention to the MHP opens the door to RGM (Random Gun Movement) and time being wasted. When the X matters, setting up on each target correctly promises a better swing – while skipping steps automatically puts our swing in trouble and the trap hasn’t fired yet. No joy in the shooting box.

For our shooting “method” to be effective consistently, it also has to be efficient, making good use of the time each target gives us.  We have no time to waste, especially on either target in a pair. Nada. Here’s how to do that. 

 “If we want more time on the second target…

we must make better use of our time on the first one.”

 More than 4 decades of experience in the clay target sports has copiously reinforced the significance of an early and timely muzzle connection with the target. Establishing this brief harmony with the target not only creates the very best “time management,” it minimizes RGM.

 While fair target presentations do give us enough time, many competition targets don’t give us any extra. Before the machine fires, be smart about establishing a MHP that assures a prompt target intercept. Get that done consistently and your scores will go up.

Every second on the course is a chance to do something great.
If you're ready to stop missing the moments that matter—and start shooting with confidence—we're here to help. At Paragon, we set every lesson up for your success.

Call (828) 693-6600 or visit ParagonSchool.com to book your time with Dan Schindler.
We look forward to helping you shoot your very best.

We appreciate your visiting with us. Here’s hoping our paths cross this summer.

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About Dan Schindler

Dan Schindler is one of only 60 worldwide members of the Guild of Shooting Instructors (UK) and is one of the most highly respected Sporting Clays and Wingshooting Instructors in the US. Dan is an NSCA Level III Instructor (since 1995) and founded the Paragon School of Sporting with one goal in mind. Whether it be for the advanced competitor or providing the basics to the entry-level shooter, Paragon provides the simplest, most practical and most effective Instruction, Coaching and Mental Training for the Sporting Clays & Wingshooting enthusiast. Dan Schindler helps shooters alleviate a lot of their frustration by taking the mystery out of breaking targets, calling their own misses, and make their own corrections. Lessons are fun, enlightening and our clients learn to shoot better in minutes!  

Dan Schindler's Books

"Recommended for shooters of all skill levels, Coaches, Instructors

and parents of youth shooters."

Take Your Best Shot (Book I), 3rd Edition is THE Gold Standard Primer It's all about the fundamentals, a requirement for good shooting. This book is used by high school and college shooting teams, recreational and competitive shooters from around the world. Solid, valuable, concise information that has helped thousands of shooters shoot more consistently with higher scores.

To The Target (Book II) Builds on the steps outlined in Book I. Emphasises Gun Management skills when the trap fires, creating a consistent, reliable, trustworthy swing.

Beyond the Target (Book III) is for shooters of all levels. It is filled with valuable information and clay target truths. It is entertaining and a culmination of three decades of Dan's life's work as a teacher, competitor, published writer, and much more.

Here's what Shooters, Coaches and Clay Shooting USA saying...

 Take Your Best Shot (Book I), 3rd Edition

To The Target (Book II)

Beyond The Target (Book III)    Currently Out of Stock