Compak Sporting: A Complete Guide to Rules, Techniques, and Preparation

Compak Sporting: A Complete Guide to Rules, Techniques, and Preparation

Compak Sporting is one of the fastest-growing disciplines in clay target shooting. It combines the variety and unpredictability of Sporting Clays with the accessibility of a compact shooting field. Designed to mimic real hunting scenarios in a controlled environment, it is equally suitable for beginners and experienced shooters.

1. What Makes Compak Sporting Unique?

• Concept: Shooting at clay targets that fly in diverse trajectories and speeds, including singles and doubles.
• Compact layout: All the action happens on a small range equipped with five shooting stands and multiple traps.
• Variety: Despite the limited area, traps can simulate outgoing, incoming, crossing, rabbit, chandelle, and other challenging trajectories.

Comparison with Other Clay Disciplines

FeatureCompak SportingSporting ClaysTrap / SkeetField sizeSmall, 5 standsLarge, spread-outStandardized layoutsVariety of targetsVery highVery highFixed trajectoriesTempoFast, singles & doublesVariableRhythmic, repetitiveAccessibilityHighModerateHigh

2. Field Setup and Equipment

• Shooting stands: 5 boxes arranged in a line or semicircle.
• Traps: Up to 6 launchers labeled A–F, each sending clays at specific angles.
• Safety zones: Strictly defined shooting arcs and no-go areas for spectators.
• Call for target: Shooter gives the signal (“Pull!”) or uses a release system.

3. Official Rules (Simplified)

Rules may vary slightly by country, but most follow FITASC standards.

3.1 Round Format

• Number of targets: Typically 25 per round (5 per stand). At major competitions: 50–100.
• Singles & Doubles:
• Singles — one clay per shot.
• Doubles:
• Simultaneous — both clays fly at once.
• Report — second clay is launched after the first shot.

3.2 Procedure on the Stand

1. Shooter steps into the stand, ensuring the gun is open and safe.
2. Prepares a low gun hold (buttstock off the shoulder until the target appears).
3. Calls for the target.
4. Fires according to the sequence.
5. Unloads and shows clear before moving to the next stand.

3.3 Scoring

• Hit = 1 point, Miss = 0.
• A visible break of the clay is required.
• Maximum score for a 25-target round = 25 points.
• Ties are resolved by a shoot-off.

3.4 Equipment Rules

• Shotguns: Mostly 12-gauge, though 20/28 allowed.
• Cartridges: Max 28 g of shot.
• Safety gear: Eye and ear protection is mandatory.

4. Targets and Trajectories

• Types of clays: Standard, mini, midi, battue, rabbit (rolling along the ground).
• Common trajectories: Outgoing, incoming, crossing, quartering, chandelle (high looping), and rabbit.
• Challenge factors: Changing background, wind, sun, or speed variations.

5. Shooter’s Gear Checklist

• Shotgun with interchangeable chokes.
• Clay loads (≤28 g) — shot size #7½–9.
• Shooting glasses and ear protection.
• Shooting vest or belt, cap, gloves (optional).
• Safety flag for open barrels while moving.

6. Safety and Range Etiquette

• Always keep the muzzle in a safe direction.
• Load only when in the stand and on command.
• Move between stands with an open, unloaded gun.
• In case of a misfire — stay in position, keep the gun pointed downrange, and call a referee.
• Respect other shooters: no talking or distractions while on the stand.

7. Shooting Technique Basics

Stance and Mount

• Feet shoulder-width apart, front foot slightly forward.
• Balanced, relaxed posture.
• Low gun mount — stock comes to the shoulder after the target appears.

Methods of Lead

• Maintained Lead: Hold the gun in front of the target and maintain distance.
• Swing-Through: Start behind the target, swing past it, and fire.
• Pull-Away: Start on the target, then accelerate forward before shooting.

Doubles Strategy

• Decide the priority target (often the harder one).
• Visualize break points before calling for the pair.
• Transition smoothly between clays without rushing.

8. Common Mistakes

• Premature mount: Bringing the gun to the shoulder before the target — often penalized.
• Jerky swings: Leads to over- or under-shooting. Train for smooth movement.
• Wrong choke/ammo choice: Overly tight chokes or heavy loads cause fatigue.
• No plan: Entering the stand without a clear break-point strategy.

9. Competition Strategy

• Study the field: Watch other shooters and note trap angles.
• Plan ahead: Define starting hold points and break points.
• Keep rhythm: Focus on consistency, not speed.
• Mental reset: A miss is just information. Regroup before the next shot.

10. Training for Beginners

1. Intro session: Safety briefing and single clays with an instructor.
2. Singles practice: Multiple angles before moving to pairs.
3. Report pairs: Train timing and fast recovery.
4. Simultaneous pairs: Practice quick target acquisition.
5. Club shoot: Try a 25-target competition.
6. Review: Keep notes on chokes, ammo, break points, and errors.

11. Why Compak Sporting is Growing

• Accessibility: Requires smaller fields than Sporting Clays.
• Variety: Replicates hunting-like scenarios in a sporting setting.
• Community: Popular at both club and international level (under FITASC).
• Challenge: Demands quick reflexes, precision, and mental focus.

Final Thoughts

Compak Sporting is dynamic, challenging, and rewarding. It sharpens hand-eye coordination, teaches discipline, and delivers the thrill of the hunt in a controlled environment. Whether you are a hunter looking to refine your shooting, or a newcomer seeking a fast-paced sport, Compak Sporting offers one of the best introductions to clay target disciplines.

Компакт-спортинг: повний гід з правил, оснащення та підготовки

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