Definition

Pull away is a clay shooting technique where the shooter starts by pointing the shotgun directly at the moving target, then smoothly accelerates the barrel ahead of it before pulling the trigger.

Further Explanations

Pull away is one of the three most common clay shooting methods, alongside swing through and maintained lead. It is especially useful for crossing targets and situations where timing is critical.

Key elements of pull away:

• Start with the gun muzzle on the target

• Swing smoothly past the target’s line of flight

• Pull the trigger once the correct lead is achieved

• Maintain follow-through after the shot

Advantages of pull away:

• Simple to learn and apply consistently

• Helps reduce hesitation for newer shooters

• Effective for targets with predictable flight paths

By practicing pull away, shooters develop rhythm, confidence, and smoother gun movement.

Practicing pull away requires consistent and reliable target flights. Nordic Clays’ clay pigeon throwers and biodegradable clay pigeons create the perfect training setup for refining this method, letting shooters focus on smooth swings and correct timing.