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Essential gear for springtime pigeons

As the spring drilling season begins, ensure your kit bag is ready with our selection of essential tools for effective and responsible pigeon control

Shooting Times
Shooting Times 16 March 2026
Essential gear for springtime pigeons

March and April are ideal months to take up pigeon shooting in the UK. As winter eases and spring drilling begins, woodpigeons switch their attention to vulnerable crops such as emerging cereals and oilseed rape, making control essential for farmers. Responsible shooting helps prevent serious agricultural damage while supporting conservation and rural livelihoods. It also provides a welcome opportunity for shooters to stay active during the game shooting close season, maintaining fieldcraft and marksmanship.

With longer days, milder weather and consistent pigeon movement, early spring offers both a practical purpose and rewarding sport. For those of you looking to get involved, here are some of the most important pieces of kit to consider.

Rizzini BR110

The Rizzini BR110 is one of the most appealing over-and-under game guns currently available to UK pigeon shooters, combining Italian craftsmanship with excellent value. Built on a durable steel action with a matt black or Cerakote-style finish, it features a single selective trigger, automatic ejectors and interchangeable multichokes for versatility in the field. The ventilated rib aids fast target acquisition, while the carefully balanced design ensures smooth handling and natural pointing characteristics. The stock is crafted from selected Turkish walnut with a traditional oil finish and fine chequering for improved grip in wet conditions. Available in barrel lengths typically ranging from 28in to 32in, it can be tailored to suit different shooting styles, from fast-paced decoying to longer-range pigeon shooting. Built using high-grade steel barrels and robust locking mechanisms, the BR110 is designed for durability and reliability, making it an excellent long-term investment for the serious pigeon shooter.

 

A1 Decoy Turbo Flapper

A realistic decoy pattern is essential for successful pigeon shooting, and the A1 Decoy Turbo flapper is one of the most effective motion devices available. Designed and manufactured in the UK, it produces a highly lifelike wing-flapping motion that closely mimics a pigeon landing or feeding, helping to draw attention from passing birds. The unit features a sturdy rod and adjustable ground spike, allowing it to be securely positioned in a variety of terrains, including stubble, pasture and freshly drilled crops. Its discreet powder-coated finish helps conceal the mechanism beneath the decoy, preventing unnatural reflections that might alarm incoming birds. Durable construction ensures reliable performance throughout the season, even in demanding weather. The Turbo Flapper can be used alongside rotary magnets or static decoys to create a convincing, dynamic decoy pattern that encourages pigeons to commit fully. It’s a proven tool trusted by experienced UK shooters.

 

Howard Leight Impact Sport Ear Defenders

Protecting your hearing is essential when shooting, and the Howard Leight Impact Sport electronic ear defenders offer excellent protection without compromising awareness. These slim-profile electronic defenders use built-in microphones to amplify ambient sounds such as approaching pigeons, while automatically cutting off amplification when gunshots exceed safe levels. With a noise reduction rating of around 22dB, they provide effective protection against the damaging sound levels common in shotgun shooting. Powered by two AAA batteries, they offer long operating life and are lightweight enough for all-day wear in the hide. Their low-profile earcups are specifically designed to avoid interfering with gun mount, an important feature when shooting quickly at incoming birds. Durable construction and comfortable ear cushions make them suitable for extended use throughout the season, whether pigeon shooting, clay shooting or rough shooting. For safety, comfort and practicality, they are an essential addition to any pigeon shooter’s kit.

 

Teague Precision Chokes

Though most pigeon shooters advise against constantly changing chokes, it is important that your gun is properly choked for the type of shooting you are planning. Ideally each barrel will have the same choke – such as ½ and ½ – for the most reliable patterns. Teague Precision Chokes are widely regarded as some of the finest shotgun chokes available and their reputation is well deserved. Manufactured in the UK using advanced CNC machining, they are designed to deliver consistent, high-quality shot patterns. Available in a full range of constrictions, they allow shooters to tailor their gun precisely to different pigeon-shooting situations, whether decoying at close range or tackling higher birds. Constructed from high-grade steel, they are extremely durable and built to last. Their precise engineering also ensures excellent compatibility with a wide range of shotgun models.

 

Camo Systems Realtree Netting

Effective concealment is vital when pigeon shooting, and Camo Systems Realtree Netting provides an excellent solution for building a discreet and functional hide. Measuring approximately 3m by 2.2m, it offers enough coverage to create a comfortable hide while still packing down compactly for easy transport. Made from durable ripstop material, it resists tearing and remains supple even in cold weather, ensuring reliable performance throughout the shooting season. The lightweight design allows it to dry quickly after rain, making it practical for frequent use. Its realistic Realtree camouflage pattern blends naturally into hedgerows, woodland edges and crop margins, helping shooters remain undetected. The matt finish prevents glare, which can otherwise alert wary pigeons. It can also be easily cut to create shooting ports or customised hide layouts. Practical, durable and effective, it’s a must-have item for any pigeon shooter looking to improve concealment.

Idleback Chair

Comfort is often overlooked in pigeon shooting, but spending long hours in the hide makes a reliable seat essential. Idleback shooting chairs are widely regarded as some of the best available, offering excellent stability, comfort and practical design. Their height is carefully set to allow shooters to stand smoothly and quietly when taking a shot, without excessive movement that could spook incoming birds. The strong steel frame provides durability, while the seat material offers comfort even during extended sessions. Lightweight construction makes them easy to carry to remote shooting locations, and many models fold flat for convenient transport. Maintaining correct posture, ideally with your knees below your hips while seated, also improves reaction speed and shooting efficiency.

  • Find the best prices and second-hand availability online

 

RC HPF3 Blue 12-bore

The RC HPF3 Blue is a modern non-toxic cartridge designed to deliver excellent performance while complying with current environmental requirements. Using a specialised alloy shot made from a blend of metals including bismuth and other soft metals, it offers improved pattern consistency compared with traditional steel loads. This makes it particularly effective for pigeon shooting, where clean kills at various ranges are essential. Available in loads such as 28g and 32g, these cartridges offer a good balance of recoil control and effective striking energy. Fibre wad and biodegradable wad options make them suitable for environmentally sensitive areas and shoots where the use of plastic is restricted. Consistent ignition and reliable performance ensure dependable results in the field. For pigeon shooters transitioning away from lead, the HPF3 Blue offers excellent patterning, effective killing power and reliable performance.

Simon Garnham also puts these cartridges through their paces on the foreshore on page 22.

Woodpigeon shooting kit reviewed
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