Podcast Summary: Trap Talk From The Back Fence – Episode 023: Q&A

Overview In Episode 023: Q&A of "Trap Talk From The Back Fence," hosts Zach Nannini and Richard Marshall Jr. engage with their audience by addressing a series of listener-submitted questions. Released on April 14, 2023, this episode offers deep insights into various aspects of trapshooting, including competitive strategies, training routines, equipment preferences, and techniques for teaching the sport to younger shooters. The conversation is enriched with personal anecdotes, expert advice, and practical tips aimed at both novice and seasoned trapshooters.

1. Introduction to the Q&A Format

The episode kicks off with Zach introducing the Q&A segment, explaining that they've compiled questions from their social media platforms and emails over the past six months. This format allows listeners to gain personalized advice directly from experienced shooters.

Notable Quote:

“We've been doing this for I'd say about six months now. And that being said, we've got a bunch of people that responded on our Facebook and our Instagram and emailed us and just came up with some questions.” — Zach Nannini ([01:27])

2. Evolution of Competitive Shooting

Question: How has your game changed over the years as a top shooter?

Richard delves into his journey, starting from his early days in 1988 under the mentorship of Frank Coffee. He highlights the importance of building relationships with other top shooters like Leo Harrison III and the role of consistent practice and determination in reaching and maintaining a high competitive level. Richard shares his achievements, including his 32nd All American team and multiple captaincies, emphasizing the grind required to stay at the top.

Notable Quote:

“It's easy to start, get to the top, but once you get there, it's kind of hard to stay.” — Richard Marshall Jr. ([06:14])

3. Recommended Practice Routines for New Shooters

Question: How much practice should a new shooter focus on weekly?

Richard explains that practice routines should be individualized. While some experienced shooters can handle 300-400 rounds per week, beginners might start with 75-100 rounds. He stresses the importance of mastering the fundamentals—stance, gun mount, and grip—through consistent gun lifts, which build essential muscle memory. Zach adds that using a life-size mirror during practice can help shooters maintain proper alignment and prevent barrel canting.

Notable Quotes:

“Make sure you can physically lift that gun properly. You know, the fundamentals, the stance, the gun mount, all that matters.” — Richard Marshall Jr. ([08:22])

“Gun lifts... help build muscle memory and ensure proper gun handling.” — Zach Danini ([09:57])

4. Teaching Trapshooting to Kids

Question: What’s a good age to get kids started in trapshooting?

Richard shares his personal experience of introducing his children to trapshooting at the age of five using trainer loads. He emphasizes that gun safety is paramount, teaching children to treat every gun as loaded. Richard recounts the challenges his son faced, including initial struggles and eventual rekindled interest at 18, highlighting the importance of patience and encouragement.

Notable Quotes:

“The number one rule, gun safety. You know, a gun is always a loaded gun, no matter what.” — Richard Marshall Jr. ([12:03])

“Always teach them number one rule, gun safety... No matter what.” — Richard Marshall Jr. ([13:59])

5. Bead Choices for Gun Mounts

Question: What bead type do you prefer for gun mounts?

The discussion moves to bead selection, where Zach prefers smaller beads for increased precision, minimizing visual distractions. Richard favors factory bead types like the Craig Off beads but acknowledges the benefits of fluorescent beads for visibility. They discuss the importance of proper bead alignment to ensure accurate shooting and prevent misalignment issues.

Notable Quotes:

“I really think I might try to put smaller beads on because back when I shot my Ludic, I had that same type of small bead on the end of my one touch. It was a very, very, very, very small bead.” — Zach Danini ([16:39])

“You have to try it... practice with what you compete.” — Richard Marshall Jr. ([20:00])

6. Custom vs. Factory Stocks

Question: What is the difference between custom and factory stocks, and when does someone need a custom stock?

Richard explains that custom stocks are tailored to fit individual shooters, addressing specific needs such as hand size, posture, and shooting style. He emphasizes the significance of the pistol grip and stock twist in ensuring comfort and performance. Zach adds that standard factory stocks are designed for average body types, which may not accommodate shooters with unique physical attributes. Custom stocks allow for adjustments as shooters grow or change their technique, enhancing overall shooting accuracy and comfort.

Notable Quotes:

“The pistol grip is one of the biggest things in a custom stock. If you can't hold that gun right, then you can't move it correctly.” — Richard Marshall Jr. ([27:26])

“Standard stocks are typically designed for average body types and may not accommodate shooters with unique physiques.” — Zach Danini ([28:35])

7. High-End vs. Economy Shells

Question: What are the main differences between premium high-end shells and economy shells, and are high-end shells worth the investment?

Richard discusses that high-end shells generally offer better quality control, burning powder more consistently and providing stronger, more reliable patterns essential for competitive shooting. He contrasts this with economy shells, which are produced faster and may have more variability but can still perform adequately for certain shots. They highlight the importance of matching shell types to competition needs, with high-end shells preferred for longer distances and critical shots.

Notable Quotes:

“Higher-end shells provide cleaner breaks at longer distances like 27 yards.” — Zach Danini ([37:01])

“High-end shells typically burn powder slower and offer better quality control, leading to more consistent patterns and stronger shots.” — Richard Marshall Jr. ([33:53])

8. Handling Nerves in Competition

Question: Do you feel nervous during competitions, and how do you manage those nerves?

Richard shares that feeling nerves is natural and a sign of caring about performance. He recounts advice from Brent Robinson, a trapshooting legend, who emphasized the importance of controlling nerves rather than eliminating them. Techniques discussed include reflecting on past successes to build confidence, maintaining focus on the process, and using physical strategies like deep breathing and slowing down shot execution to manage anxiety.

Notable Quotes:

“If you don't feel butterfly eyes, if you don't get sweaty hands, if you don't, you know, feel sick to your stomach, he said, quit.” — Richard Marshall Jr. ([40:21])

“Reflect back on doing something helps you get through what you're currently doing.” — Richard Marshall Jr. ([41:39])

“Breathing, getting the heart rate down... and focusing on the process.” — Zach Danini ([43:14])

9. Update on Richard's College Shooting Team

Towards the end of the episode, Richard provides an update on his college shooting team’s recent achievements. Competing in Division 3 at HQI Nationals, his team secured the National Championship in trap and trap doubles, alongside impressive placements in other categories. He credits assistant coach Bailey Gasling for her significant contributions and expresses optimism for future competitions.

Notable Quote:

“We won the Division 3 National Championship in trap and trap doubles... We finished third overall in Division 3, so we were third place for national championship.” — Richard Marshall Jr. ([45:00])

10. Conclusion and Teasers for Future Episodes

The episode wraps up with acknowledgments to sponsors Remington, Winnick Shot Tracker, and RM Shooting Clinics. Zach teases upcoming episodes featuring guests like Dusty Klein and other notable shooters, encouraging listeners to stay tuned for more expert insights and Q&A sessions.

Notable Quote:

“We're gonna be out of here and we'll catch you again next Friday. It's been a pleasure and we'll talk to you soon.” — Zach Danini ([47:06])

Final Thoughts Episode 023 of "Trap Talk From The Back Fence" serves as a comprehensive resource for trapshooting enthusiasts, offering practical advice and personal experiences from seasoned competitors. Whether you're looking to improve your technique, make informed equipment choices, or teach the sport to the next generation, this Q&A session provides valuable insights to help you elevate your trapshooting game.