What is the difference between skeet and trap shooting? A complete guide

Clay target shooting sports are popular worldwide, offering exciting and challenging ways to test shooting skills. Two of the most recognized disciplines within this category are skeet shooting and trap shooting. While both sports involve shooting at clay targets, they differ in terms of rules, target trajectories, and shooting techniques.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the core differences between skeet and trap shooting, giving you a clear understanding of how each sport works, what equipment is used, and how you can get started with either.

What is skeet shooting?

The basics of skeet shooting

Skeet shooting is a clay target sport where participants use shotguns to shoot clay pigeons launched from two different points: the high house and the low house. The two houses are positioned at opposite ends of a semi-circular field with eight shooting stations positioned around the perimeter. The goal is to hit the clay targets as they cross the field, often coming from opposite directions, challenging the shooter’s reaction time and accuracy.

Key features of skeet shooting:

• Two trap houses: High house (on the left) and low house (on the right).
• Eight shooting stations arranged in a semi-circle between the two houses.
• Targets are shot in pairs or singles, often crossing the shooter’s line of sight.
• Faster pace compared to trap shooting due to the crossing target paths.
• Scoring: Shooters take 25 shots per round, and points are awarded for each successful hit.

What is trap shooting?

The basics of trap shooting

Trap shooting is another form of clay target shooting, but unlike skeet, it involves shooting at targets launched from a single trap house. In this sport, the targets are thrown away from the shooter, moving at variable angles and speeds. The challenge lies in the unpredictability of the target’s path, which tests a shooter’s ability to adjust quickly.

Key features of trap shooting:

• One trap house located 16 yards in front of the shooting line.
• Five shooting stations, with shooters taking turns at each station.
• Targets are thrown at different angles but always moving away from the shooter.
• Slower pace than skeet shooting, with shooters having to wait for their turn.
• Scoring: Shooters take 25 shots per round, and the goal is to break as many targets as possible.

Differences between skeet and trap shooting

While both skeet and trap shooting fall under the umbrella of clay target sports, they differ in several important ways:

1. Target trajectories

• Skeet: Targets are launched from two points (high and low houses) and cross the field in front of the shooter. This creates a challenging situation where targets move at different angles and speeds.
• Trap: Standard Trap is the most basic of all trap disciplines. Players shoot at targets moving away from you at predictable angles. The horizontal direction is randomized with a maximum angle of 22 degrees measured from a line from the trap to the middle station. The height at which the targets are thrown is constant. 

2. Shooting stations

• Skeet: There are eight shooting stations arranged in a half-circle. Shooters rotate between stations, allowing them to shoot from different angles as targets cross in front of them.
• Trap: There are five stations set in a straight line. Shooters take turns at each station and fire at targets moving away from the trap house.

3. Speed and difficulty

• Skeet: Due to the crossing targets and closer distances, skeet shooting requires faster reaction times. Shooters need to be quick on the trigger as targets cross their line of sight.
• Trap: Trap shooting offers a slower pace but introduces difficulty through the unpredictability of target angles. Shooters must quickly adjust their aim to hit the target as it moves away.

4. Scoring and rules

• Skeet: Shooters aim to hit 25 targets in a round, with single and double shots being part of the game. The scoring is straightforward, with one point awarded per hit.
• Trap: Similar to skeet, trap shooters also aim for 25 targets in a round. However, the key challenge in trap is the varying angles at which the targets are launched, which can affect a shooter’s accuracy and timing.

Different types of trap shooting

In trap shooting, there are various types of disciplines that offer different challenges and rules. Standard Trap is the most common form, where targets are launched from a single trap house away from the shooter at varying angles. Nordic Trap, also known as Nordic Trench, is a popular variation in Scandinavia, featuring five shooting stations and a faster target speed compared to standard trap. Other types include Double Trap, where two targets are thrown simultaneously, and Universal Trench, which adds complexity with multiple traps and variable trajectories. Each type tests the shooter’s skill and adaptability differently.

A Guide to Target Distance and Target Speed

Discipline Discipline Target Distance Approximate Target Speed:

Olympic Trap         76m +/- 1m       (83yd +/- 1yd)            80 km/h (50 mph),

Double Trap           55m +/- 1m       (60yd +/- 1yd)

ABT Trap               75m +/- 1m       (82yd +/-1yd)              (56mph +/-1pmh)

DTL                        45.72m to 50.3m  (50yd to 55yd)            (42mph +/-1mph)

Olympic Skeet        65m to 67m      (71yd to 73yd)            (High 53mph Low 54mph +/- 1mph)

National Skeet        50m to 52m      (54.7yd to 56.9yd)      (High 43mph Low 44mph +/- 1mph)

Equipment used in skeet and trap shooting

Although skeet and trap shooting share some common equipment, the subtle differences in each sport’s dynamics lead to variations in gear.

1. Shotguns

• Skeet: Shooters often use 12-gauge or 20-gauge shotguns with open chokes like Skeet or Improved Cylinder to provide a wider shot spread. The quick-moving targets in skeet require a wider spread to improve accuracy.
• Trap: Shooters may use tighter chokes, such as Modified or Full Choke, to create a denser shot pattern. Since the targets in trap shooting are moving away and are generally farther away when shot, a tighter shot spread is advantageous.

2. Ammunition

• Both skeet and trap shooters typically use light target loads. However, the distance at which you shoot may influence the choice of shot size and load weight.

3. Safety gear

• Eye and ear protection are essential for both skeet and trap shooting. Shooting vests are also commonly worn to carry ammunition and help with recoil management.

Which shooting discipline is right for you?

Choosing between skeet and trap shooting depends on your personal preferences and shooting style.

Skeet Shooting is ideal for:

• Those who enjoy fast-paced shooting.
• People who like challenges involving crossing targets at different angles.
• Shooters who want to improve their timing and reaction speed.

Trap shooting is ideal for:

• Shooters who prefer a more measured, strategic approach.
• People who enjoy the challenge of targets flying away at various angles.
• Those looking to hone their accuracy and adaptability to unpredictable targets.

Benefits of both sports

Both skeet and trap shooting offer unique benefits, whether you pursue them recreationally or competitively:

• Improved hand-eye coordination: Both sports require quick reflexes and sharp focus, improving your coordination over time.
• Stress relief: Shooting sports offer a fantastic way to unwind and focus, providing a therapeutic outdoor activity.
• Social activity: Many shooters enjoy the community aspect of skeet and trap shooting. Both sports are often done in groups, providing opportunities to connect with other enthusiasts.

Getting started with skeet or trap shooting

If you’re new to shooting sports and curious about skeet or trap shooting, here are a few tips to get started:

1. Visit a local shooting range: Many ranges offer both skeet and trap shooting facilities, making it easy to try out both.
2. Take a lesson: Whether you’re a beginner or looking to improve your skills, taking a lesson from an experienced shooter or instructor can significantly help.
3. Rent equipment: If you’re just starting, most ranges provide rental shotguns and ammunition so you can test out the sport without purchasing equipment.
4. Join a shooting club: Many clubs offer memberships that provide access to shooting ranges, events, and a supportive community of shooters.

Conclusion

Skeet and trap shooting are two exciting and challenging clay target sports that offer unique experiences for shooters. While skeet shooting tests your ability to hit crossing targets quickly, trap shooting focuses on hitting targets moving away from you at unpredictable angles. Both sports require different techniques, but they share the thrill of precision shooting and the satisfaction of hitting moving targets.

Whether you’re interested in the fast pace of skeet or the strategic challenge of trap, either sport is a fantastic way to improve your shooting skills, connect with others, and enjoy time outdoors.