Trap Talk From The Back Fence
Episode: David Shaeffer Jr. – East Coast Assassin! Trapshooting with Attitude - Trap Talk E123
Release Date: May 9, 2025
Hosts: Zach Nannini & Richard Marshall Jr.

1. Introduction and Dave Schaefer’s Achievements

The episode opens with Zach and Richard introducing their special guest, Dave Schaefer, a renowned trapshooting champion. They highlight Dave's impressive list of accolades, emphasizing his world record long run of 21:66 in singles and his multiple titles at the Maryland State Shoot.

Notable Quote:
Zach Nannini [01:53]: "The biggest accolade that I want to introduce him on is his world record long run of 21:66 in singles."

2. Personal Journey and Career Beginnings

Dave shares how he was introduced to trapshooting by his father in 1990 after church. Starting as a young enthusiast, Dave quickly demonstrated his prowess by breaking his first hundred with a Remington 870 and winning the Maryland State Juniors title with a score of 198.

Notable Quote:
Dave Schaefer [07:13]: "That was when I won the Maryland State Juniors title. My first."

3. Record-Breaking Long Run

Dave recounts his legendary long run of 21:66, which began at the Pennsylvania State Shoot and spanned multiple states, culminating at the Grand. Throughout this streak, Dave maintained exceptional consistency, rarely missing targets despite challenging weather conditions.

Notable Quote:
Dave Schaefer [11:56]: "That 2166 is something I'm very, very, very proud of."

4. Techniques and Strategies

The conversation delves into Dave’s shooting techniques, focusing on his high gun hold point and his method of staying ahead of the target. Dave explains that he always looks where the target emerges, maintaining focus on the front edge to ensure precise shots.

Notable Quote:
Dave Schaefer [42:21]: "I try to stay on the front edge of it the whole time."

5. Overcoming Cancer

Dave bravely discusses his battle with testicular cancer three years ago. The diagnosis and subsequent rigorous chemotherapy treatments significantly impacted his life and shooting career. Despite the challenges, Dave returned to trapshooting with determination, breaking a hundred handicap just three weeks after his last chemo session.

Notable Quote:
Dave Schaefer [34:22]: "That was absolutely the hardest time of my life."

6. Training and Practice

Emphasizing the importance of hard work and dedication, Dave highlights that his success stems from relentless practice and a deep passion for the sport. He discusses the balance between natural talent and the necessity of consistent training to achieve top performance.

Notable Quote:
Dave Schaefer [28:32]: "I worked hard. I worked hard. I shot a lot of practice."

7. Advice for Aspiring Shooters

Dave offers valuable advice to listeners aspiring to excel in trapshooting. He underscores the importance of having a well-fitted gun, seeking quality coaching, and maintaining unwavering drive and motivation. Dave also stresses the significance of setting both short-term and long-term goals to stay focused and hungry for success.

Notable Quotes:
Dave Schaefer [49:59]: "Make sure your gun fits. That's the biggest thing."
Dave Schaefer [50:37]: "Get a good coach, you know, to find out what you're doing right, what you're doing wrong and just keep shooting."

8. Future Goals and Conclusion

Looking ahead, Dave expresses his ambition to win additional titles in both singles and doubles, indicating that his competitive spirit remains strong. He remains committed to continuously improving and achieving new milestones in his trapshooting career.

Notable Quote:
Dave Schaefer [52:11]: "I got a lot to prove. Absolute self, you know what I mean?"

Key Takeaways

• Dedication and Practice: Dave's success is a testament to his relentless practice and unwavering passion for trapshooting.
• Resilience: Overcoming personal health challenges, Dave demonstrates remarkable resilience and commitment to his sport.
• Technical Mastery: His precise techniques and strategic approaches set him apart as a top competitor.
• Mentorship and Advice: Dave underscores the importance of mentorship, proper equipment, and goal-setting for aspiring shooters.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Zach Nannini [01:53]: "The biggest accolade that I want to introduce him on is his world record long run of 21:66 in singles."
• Dave Schaefer [07:13]: "That was when I won the Maryland State Juniors title. My first."
• Dave Schaefer [11:56]: "That 2166 is something I'm very, very, very proud of."
• Dave Schaefer [42:21]: "I try to stay on the front edge of it the whole time."
• Dave Schaefer [34:22]: "That was absolutely the hardest time of my life."
• Dave Schaefer [28:32]: "I worked hard. I worked hard. I shot a lot of practice."
• Dave Schaefer [49:59]: "Make sure your gun fits. That's the biggest thing."
• Dave Schaefer [50:37]: "Get a good coach, you know, to find out what you're doing right, what you're doing wrong and just keep shooting."
• Dave Schaefer [52:11]: "I got a lot to prove. Absolute self, you know what I mean?"

Dave Schaefer's inspiring journey underscores the essence of dedication, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of excellence in trapshooting. His story serves as a beacon for both seasoned shooters and newcomers striving to make their mark in the sport.