As the popularity of clay shooting surges, how does it stack up to the real thing?
Why simulated game days are growing
Over the past few decades, simulated game days have grown in popularity, something that was unheard of not so long ago. They can now be enjoyed throughout the length and breadth of the country. With the shortage of game birds leaving the shooter’s diary with gaps to fill, a day under the clays is looking increasingly appealing.
Companies supplying traps and flush trailers are experiencing a record number of enquiries, even stretching into the winter months, rather than the traditional mid-March to September season. Because of avian flu, getting hold of partridges this year is looking to be limited, possibly reducing shoot days by half for some. Sim days have also softened the financial blow of rising feed, fertiliser and fuel costs.
“I’ve always seen them as a way to make use of the shoot room and other facilities that otherwise sit empty. It’s another string to our bow and a good way to advertise the pheasant shoot.”
— David Dale, Bagots Park, Staffordshire
How a clay day is run
Simulation days are set up to replicate the real thing, with guests pairing up and taking turns to shoot, anywhere between 3,000 and over 5,000 clays across three to five drives. Each drive is designed to mimic a familiar quarry presentation, with targets coming from cover, over a bank, across a ride, or pushed on the wind to test timing and judgement. A good host will keep the day moving, call out the order clearly, and make sure safe gun handling stays front and centre.
A relaxed dress code is set, but some still opt for tweed and breeks. The best approach is simple: dress for standing outdoors, plan for wet ground, and bring a warm layer even when the forecast looks kind.
What clays can (and can’t) teach
They can serve as a strong stepping stone for shooters with limited live quarry experience, helping build confidence with a gun under closer supervision. They are also a good way for more experienced shots to blow away the cobwebs between January and September, sharpen pick-up points, and get an eye in again before the season returns.
That said, clays can’t teach respect for quarry or wider fieldcraft. There is also no end product. Some of the best free-range meat comes from live-shoot days, which cannot be replicated by a day of clays.
What to bring on the day
A few sensible items make the day safer and smoother: reliable ear protection, clear or tinted shooting glasses, a cap to cut glare, and something practical for carrying cartridges and empties. If you are topping up your kit, our range of clay shooting accessories covers the essentials that are often forgotten until you are on the peg.
Cost and practicalities
One of the most significant advantages of simulated game shooting is its relative affordability, hovering around £300 a day. Also, unlike the real thing, there are no worries over foxes raiding release pens or disease. Days can also be easier to arrange at short notice, which helps fill gaps when the calendar refuses to play ball.
The verdict
On the other hand, there are a few boxes that SIM days leave unticked. They don’t provide the same incentive for landowners to manage habitats that benefit wildlife, nor do they bring as many people together: beaters, loaders, cart drivers and the rest of the cast. Although both are to be treated as very separate activities, clay shoot days are worth acknowledging not only as a practice medium but also as a way to keep your shooting passion alive during the off months.
