Do I need lessons before I get my shotgun certificate?

When taking up shooting, it's best to first get some professional instruction.

By Graham Downing

Monday, 06 February 2012

I’ve spent some time with a small shoot this season and love it, and I now fancy taking up shooting myself. How do I get started? Can I receive instruction before getting a shotgun certificate?

SHOTGUN CERTIFICATE
Graham Downing
It’s good to hear you have become involved with a local shoot and that you are keen to participate.

Having watched the Guns, you will already have more understanding of what is involved than most beginners.

However, if you want to handle a gun yourself, the best place to start is at a clay shooting ground which offers a professional coaching service.

Book a course of basic shooting lessons.

You will then be able to borrow a gun to use under the instructor’s supervision without the need for a shotgun certificate.

When you are starting to feel confident in your shooting, and your instructor thinks you are ready to progress further, then you can think about applying for a certificate and buying your own gun.