Episode Summary: Trap Talk From The Back Fence - Listener Question Extravaganza - PART 2 (E71)

Release Date: April 26, 2024

In the second installment of the "Listener Question Extravaganza" series on Trap Talk From The Back Fence, hosts Zach Nannini and Richard Marshall Jr. (Ricky) delve deep into a variety of listener-submitted questions, offering expert advice and personal insights into the world of trapshooting. This episode, skipping over sponsorships and intros, focuses purely on delivering valuable content to both novice and seasoned shooters. Below is a comprehensive summary of the key discussions and takeaways.

1. Understanding Point of Impact

Listener: John from Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
Timestamp: [04:21] - [10:02]

Question:
John sought clarity on the concept of "point of impact," particularly confused by the ratios like "30-70" or "70-30" percentages in pellet distribution relative to the bead.

Discussion & Insights:
Zach and Ricky interpret John's question as a misunderstanding of sight picture and point of impact. They suggest that John might be referencing the proportion of pellets breaking above versus below the bead when shooting.

Zach (05:46): "First things first, he's saying 30-70. But I mean, is he meaning 30% of his pellets are below and 70% or above and he's just saying it backwards?"

Ricky emphasizes the importance of understanding one's own gun's behavior and adjusting accordingly. They discuss scenarios where shooters might need to adjust their firearms if the pellet pattern is excessively high or low.

Ricky (07:34): "If that's okay, I would really like to be able to answer this question. Foley, Nadeem, you need to, we need to reach back."

Conclusion:
The hosts recommend that John provide more information about his firearm to offer a precise solution. They underline the significance of consistent sight alignment and the potential need for gun adjustments to achieve optimal pellet distribution.

2. Strategies for Growing State Shoots

Listener: Brad Mayberry from Sparta, Illinois
Timestamp: [10:12] - [18:55]

Question:
Brad, acting on behalf of his state association in Maryland, seeks effective strategies to increase participation in state shoots and attract more event sponsors, especially on the competitive East Coast.

Discussion & Insights:
Zach and Ricky share their experiences in doubling attendance at the Nevada State Shoot by emphasizing consistent promotion and highlighting attractive trophy packages. They advise repetitive marketing to remind potential participants of the event's benefits and enjoyable aspects.

Zach (11:29): "People have to know about your shoot. You have to remind them about the shoot."

Ricky adds that organizing appreciation events, such as dinners or social gatherings, can foster camaraderie and encourage repeat participation. They also discuss the importance of securing sponsorships by showcasing the value sponsors receive through association with well-organized events.

Ricky (17:32): "Your state organization has to raise money if you want to do some of these things. But just look at it as you're in the investment of you're going to do these extra things for the shooters."

Conclusion:
The hosts recommend Brad focus on continuous advertising, leveraging both traditional and digital platforms, and engaging with local shooters to secure small donations or sponsorships. Building a community-centric approach can significantly enhance participation and attract sponsors.

3. Selecting the Right Shotgun Shells

Listener: Nini
Timestamp: [18:55] - [20:12]

Question:
Nini inquires about the types of shotgun shells used by the hosts during training and tournaments, seeking recommendations for effective loads.

Discussion & Insights:
Zach details his preferences for various shell types depending on the shooting context. He mentions using an 11.45-ounce 8-shell for training at the gun club and a slightly harder shot with an SCS show shell for tournaments. For back fence shooting, he opts for Nitro 27 Alcinate 7 1/2 shells.

Zach (19:09): "I shoot an 11, 45 ounce and eighth, eight. And this is when I shoot for Singles and both shots of doubles."

Ricky adds that the choice of shells can affect shot patterns and the ease of hitting targets, emphasizing the importance of selecting shells that match one's shooting style and the specific demands of different shooting environments.

Conclusion:
The hosts recommend shooters experiment with different shell types to determine which performs best with their firearm and shooting style. They highlight the importance of matching shell hardness and shot size to the shooting context to optimize performance.

4. Traveling with Trap Guns

Listener: Roland
Timestamp: [19:43] - [27:59]

Question:
Roland seeks advice on flying with a trap gun, having never done it before. He's curious about the logistics and best practices for safely transporting firearms to major shoots.

Discussion & Insights:
Ricky and Zach share practical tips for traveling with firearms, emphasizing the importance of using airline-approved cases, such as Americase or Tough Pet products, to ensure durability and security.

Ricky (21:32): "I use a Tough Pack, and that's an Octagon case that inside I've got foam at the bottom."

They advise packing the firearm securely within the case, including accessories like rain gear and shooting bags. They stress the necessity of declaring firearms and adhering to airline regulations regarding ammunition.

Zach (22:17): "Go to the airport two hours early because you're gonna need ample time for them to check the gun."

Additionally, they recommend using tracking devices like Apple AirTags to monitor the whereabouts of the firearm during transit, ensuring peace of mind in case of delays or misrouting.

Conclusion:
The hosts recommend meticulous preparation when traveling with firearms, including selecting robust cases, adhering to airline policies, and utilizing tracking technology to safeguard against potential issues during transit.

5. Improving Performance Under Lights

Listener: Quinn
Timestamp: [27:59] - [32:43]

Question:
Quinn experiences a 15-20% drop in trapshooting performance at night compared to daytime. He wonders if factors like depth perception under artificial lighting or cognitive issues are affecting his accuracy and asks for recommendations to improve nighttime shooting.

Discussion & Insights:
Zach identifies that shooting under lights alters visibility, particularly affecting how shooters perceive the bead and the target. He explains that artificial lighting can create glare on the bead, causing shooters to look back at the gun rather than focusing on the target.

Zach (30:48): "There's a lot more visibility on your bead. Because that lights behind you and it's shining on your bead and there's not as much visibility out there on that target."

Ricky adds that muscle memory and consistent eye positioning are crucial. They suggest focusing on the top edge of the target to maintain a clear sight picture without getting distracted by the bead's glare.

Ricky (31:08): "Always look at the top of the target. Never look at the back of the target. On a night target, if you do that, you will see the streak."

Additionally, Ricky recommends getting an eye examination to rule out any vision issues that might be exacerbated in low-light conditions.

Ricky (31:21): "Have you had your eyes checked? If you're struggling at night, that's when it really plays in."

Conclusion:
The hosts advise shooters to adjust their focus to the target's front edge under artificial lighting, minimize eye strain by avoiding excessive focus on the bead, and ensure optimal vision through regular eye check-ups. These adjustments can help mitigate performance drops during nighttime shooting.

6. Eye Positioning Between Singles and Handicap

Listener: Tyler B.
Timestamp: [32:43] - [35:29]

Question:
Tyler inquires about any differences in eye positioning between shooting singles and handicap shots. Specifically, he wonders if there's a variation in where to focus his eyes above or below the bead depending on the type of shot.

Discussion & Insights:
Zach explains that while the fundamental eye position remains consistent—focusing on the front edge of the trap house—there is an adjustment based on the distance.

Zach (33:30): "When I'm on the house at 16 yards, I'm looking through the beads, maybe a little bit above the beads, and then out to where the target is going to be leaving."

He notes that for longer distances, such as 27 yards, the eyes need to adjust slightly downward to compensate for the increased distance, ensuring the target stays within the optimal sight plane.

Zach (34:12): "When I'm moving back to the 27, I'm looking in the same spot, but my eyes are physically straining harder because it's got 11 more yards to look."

Ricky concurs, emphasizing the importance of maintaining consistency in eye positioning to build reliable muscle memory, which is essential for both singles and handicap shooting.

Ricky (35:22): "I don't change a thing. I Was just letting Zach. I thought he was going to throw in some more. I don't change anything. My eyes are the same."

Conclusion:
While the primary eye positioning remains unchanged between singles and handicap shots, minor adjustments are necessary to account for varying shooting distances. Consistent focus on the target's front edge, adapted slightly based on distance, ensures optimal performance across different shot types.

7. Favorite Shooting Clubs and Backgrounds

Listener: Brad Mayberry from Sparta, Illinois
Timestamp: [35:29] - [44:43]

Question:
Brad asks about the hosts' all-time favorite shooting clubs outside of their home clubs, particularly interested in environments that offer enjoyable backgrounds.

Discussion & Insights:
Zach and Ricky share their favorite clubs, highlighting aspects such as camaraderie, excellent facilities, and picturesque backgrounds. Zach mentions Spanish Fort for its elevation and blue sky backdrop, while Ricky reminisces about V Town and Atascadero, praising their organization and the friendly atmosphere.

Zach (37:04): "I mean, my favorite background is Spanish fort."

Ricky (37:33): "Every gun club I go to. I mean, in real reality."

They discuss how different clubs offer unique benefits, from scenic views to well-organized events that foster a sense of community among shooters.

Ricky (38:14): "We cook out every night. Dave Mansell's cooking out. We're having, you know, freaking crawdad boils."

Zach emphasizes the importance of the shooting environment's aesthetic and how it can enhance the overall experience.

Zach (40:54): "I think it's hard to disagree with Spanish Fort because you're up at the elevation and you've got a blue sky background."

Conclusion:
The hosts appreciate shooting clubs that not only provide excellent shooting facilities but also foster a welcoming and enjoyable atmosphere. Scenic backgrounds and well-organized events contribute significantly to their favorite clubs, enhancing both performance and the overall shooting experience.

8. Ricky’s Shooting Style: One-Eyed vs. Two-Eyed Shooter

Listener: Jesse
Timestamp: [48:28] - [51:24]

Question:
Jesse playfully questions whether Ricky is a one-eyed shooter, noting Ricky's technique of dipping the gun before taking a second shot in doubles.

Discussion & Insights:
Ricky clarifies that he is a two-eyed shooter, having transitioned from one-eyed shooting after attending a class led by Frank Hoppy. He explains the technical aspects of his shooting style, emphasizing that dipping the gun is not exclusive to one-eyed shooters and is part of his technique to maintain a clear sight picture.

Ricky (49:20): "So I am definitely a two-eyed shooter. Now I started as a one-eyed shooter and for about three or four months and then I took a Frank Hoppy class…"

He elaborates on maintaining eye dominance and proper eye positioning to ensure effectiveness in both single and double shooters. Zach humorously supports Ricky’s two-eyed shooting stance, further debunking the misconception.

Zach (49:58): "I looked over at that, that guy many a times and he's got two big old eyeballs…"

Conclusion:
Ricky confirms his two-eyed shooting style, highlighting that proper eye positioning and technique are crucial regardless of being one-eyed or two-eyed. The playful banter underscores the importance of clear communication and technique in achieving shooting excellence.

9. Barrel Length Preferences for Doubles

Listener: Brian Weeks
Timestamp: [51:24] - [55:15]

Question:
Brian questions why both hosts, as All Americans, prefer shooting 30-inch barrels for doubles instead of the commonly accepted 34-32 barrel combos in trap shooting.

Discussion & Insights:
Ricky explains his preference for 30-inch barrels, attributing it to personal comfort and the improved movement and responsiveness during doubles shooting. He shares his positive experiences with shorter barrels, noting that they facilitate quicker handling without compromising performance.

Ricky (52:13): "I like the shorter barrel and doubles. You move a little bit quicker and ease smoother for me to that second shot."

Zach adds that shorter barrels offer greater responsiveness, allowing shooters to adapt more swiftly to moving or erratic targets. He acknowledges that while longer barrels are traditionally favored, personal preference and comfort play significant roles in barrel selection.

Zach (54:39): "It's a sweet spot, I think. I think for me, for Rick, there's a lot of guys shooting the 30s now."

They also discuss the influence of barrel material, highlighting Ricky’s use of titanium hangers to reduce weight and enhance movement.

Ricky (54:59): "I use a titanium hanger too. It lightens up the end a little bit more too."

Conclusion:
Both hosts advocate for the benefits of 30-inch barrels in doubles shooting, citing enhanced movement, responsiveness, and personal comfort. They emphasize that while traditional preferences exist, individual adaptation and experimentation with barrel lengths can lead to optimal performance.

Final Thoughts

Throughout this episode, Zach and Ricky provide comprehensive answers to a wide array of listener questions, demonstrating their expertise and passion for trapshooting. From technical advice on shotgun shells and barrel lengths to strategic insights on growing shooting events and improving nighttime performance, the hosts cover essential aspects that cater to shooters of all levels. Their engaging conversational style, coupled with practical tips and personal anecdotes, offers listeners valuable knowledge to elevate their trapshooting skills and overall experience.

Notable Quotes:

• Zach (05:46): "First things first, he's saying 30-70. But I mean, is he meaning 30% of his pellets are below and 70% or above and he's just saying it backwards?"

• Ricky (07:34): "If that's okay, I would really like to be able to answer this question. Foley, Nadeem, you need to, we need to reach back."

• Zach (11:29): "People have to know about your shoot. You have to remind them about the shoot."

• Ricky (21:32): "I use a Tough Pack, and that's an Octagon case that inside I've got foam at the bottom."

• Ricky (35:22): "I don't change a thing. I Was just letting Zach. I thought he was going to throw in some more. I don't change anything. My eyes are the same."

This episode stands as a testament to the collaborative spirit and informative nature of "Trap Talk From The Back Fence," making it an invaluable resource for anyone passionate about trapshooting.