Trapshooting for Beginners: From Zero to Hero! 🏆 (Trap Talk E112)

Hosts: Zach Denini & Richard Marshall Jr.
Release Date: February 21, 2025

In Episode E112 of "Trap Talk From The Back Fence," hosts Zach Denini and Richard Marshall Jr. delve into the journey of transitioning from a novice trap shooter to a skilled competitor. Titled "Trapshooting for Beginners: From Zero to Hero!", this episode serves as a comprehensive guide for newcomers aiming to excel in the sport. Below is a detailed summary capturing the key discussions, insights, and experiences shared by Zach and Rick.

1. Getting Started: Joining a Gun Club

Zach and Rick emphasize the importance of finding a local gun club as the foundational step for beginners. They discuss how joining a club not only provides access to facilities but also integrates shooters into a community of like-minded individuals.

Zach (03:27): "If you're a kid and you got a sponsor as a parent... there are people picking up the gun for the first time."

Rick (06:15): "Find a local gun club... just go out and trust me, you go to any gun club and you're gonna be welcomed."

They highlight that safety is paramount and that reputable clubs foster an environment of learning and support.

2. Equipment Essentials: Choosing the Right Gear

Both hosts share their personal experiences with initial equipment choices, mentioning starting with reliable and accessible guns like the Remington 1100. They underscore that while high-end guns like Craig Off are exceptional, beginners can start with more modest gear and upgrade as they progress.

Rick (04:25): "I broke my first 25 straight with my dad's field grade 1100."

Zach (11:02): "You could look good doing it... get a Craig Off."

They also touch upon the significance of consistency in equipment to aid in developing muscle memory and shooting accuracy.

3. Accelerating Progress: Training Techniques

Zach and Rick discuss effective training strategies that can shorten the learning curve for beginners. They contrast traditional extensive shooting routines with modern, targeted practice methods enabled by today's technology.

Rick (09:34): "When I was growing up...Now with today's technology...you can go out, set a target, shoot 25 to 50, and you're getting so much more out of that."

Zach adds that consistent practice, even in smaller quantities, can lead to significant improvements over time.

Zach (15:13): "Pushing that envelope to get to that next level...those explosive areas of learning where something just naturally clicked."

4. Setting Goals and Tracking Progress

Establishing clear, incremental goals is a recurring theme. The hosts advocate for setting achievable targets, such as increasing one's average score or mastering specific shooting techniques, and diligently tracking progress to stay motivated.

Rick (15:14): "Set your goals... set your goals and you accomplish a goal. Check it off. Set a new goal."

Zach (43:32): "Set your budget, set your goals... tracking and getting better is important, regardless of the average."

They encourage listeners to maintain an average card to monitor improvement and maintain consistency.

5. Competing Locally and Nationally: Gaining Experience

Participation in local leagues and larger competitions is essential for growth. The hosts share personal anecdotes about competing in various shoots, emphasizing that competing against top-tier shooters provides invaluable experience.

Rick (17:18): "Shoot all the shoots you can... if you got the chance to go to a big shoot, then go and experience it."

Zach (20:23): "Today we're talking about competing, not having fun. We're talking about getting to the top, right?"

They discuss the balance between striving to win and maintaining enjoyment in the sport, noting that resilience and learning from failures are crucial for advancement.

6. Learning from Failure: Embracing Setbacks

Acknowledging and learning from failures is vital for improvement. Zach and Rick share their own setbacks in competitions, illustrating how these moments served as turning points for their development.

Rick (26:28): "You don't learn by your wins, you learn by your failures."

Zach (29:08): "I was in winning mode...But I broke a 98. I ended up in a 12-way tie."

These experiences underscore the importance of mental resilience and the willingness to adapt and refine techniques after setbacks.

7. Budgeting and Managing Expenses

Trapshooting can be an expensive sport, and the hosts provide practical advice on managing costs. They suggest setting a clear budget for equipment, travel, accommodation, and other expenses related to competing.

Rick (47:37): "Set your budget...know your costs."

Zach (47:54): "Split a hotel with a buddy... it makes it easier and helps everybody get to another shoot."

They also mention insurance options to protect valuable equipment, ensuring that shooters can compete without undue financial strain.

8. Leveraging Technology: Apps and Resources

Modern technology plays a significant role in enhancing training and competition. Rick highlights the benefits of using apps like SOS Clay's Shoot Management for real-time tracking of scores, managing schedules, and accessing shoot information.

Rick (53:19): "SOS app... you can track your average very easily."

Zach (55:28): "It's a great way to keep track of your progress and stay organized."

This integration of technology allows shooters to make informed decisions and optimize their training routines efficiently.

9. Supporting Local Clubs and the Community

A strong local club network is the backbone of the trapshooting community. Zach and Rick stress the importance of supporting local clubs, as they provide the necessary infrastructure and camaraderie essential for nurturing talent.

Zach (14:22): "Smaller clubs are where we build the competitive shooters, period."

Rick (11:24): "Be in the know with your club... general managers will be more than happy to set a trap up for most people."

By fostering vibrant local clubs, the sport ensures a steady influx of skilled shooters and maintains its competitive edge.

10. Personal Stories and Memories: Inspiration from Experience

Throughout the episode, Zach and Rick share personal stories that highlight pivotal moments in their shooting careers. These narratives not only provide inspiration but also practical lessons on handling competition pressure and achieving breakthroughs.

Zach (32:16): "He beat me... But when you fail, that's when this kicks in..."

Rick (36:30): "I missed my last target... I settled down and broke those five."

These experiences serve as powerful reminders that persistence, focus, and the ability to learn from mistakes are essential qualities for success in trapshooting.

Conclusion

Episode E112 of "Trap Talk From The Back Fence" offers a wealth of knowledge for aspiring trap shooters. From the foundational steps of joining a gun club and selecting the right equipment to advanced strategies like goal setting, budgeting, and embracing failures, Zach Denini and Richard Marshall Jr. provide a roadmap for beginners aiming to ascend the ranks of trapshooting. Their blend of personal anecdotes, practical advice, and emphasis on community support makes this episode an invaluable resource for anyone looking to transform from a novice to a hero in the world of trapshooting.

Notable Quotes:

• Rick Marshall Jr. (06:15): "Find a local gun club... just go out and trust me, you go to any gun club and you're gonna be welcomed."

• Zach Denini (15:13): "Pushing that envelope to get to that next level...those explosive areas of learning where something just naturally clicked."

• Rick Marshall Jr. (26:28): "You don't learn by your wins, you learn by your failures."

• Zach Denini (43:32): "Set your budget, set your goals... tracking and getting better is important, regardless of the average."

Whether you're just picking up a shotgun or seeking to refine your competitive edge, this episode provides actionable insights and motivational stories to guide your trapshooting journey.