Top Tips For Simulated Game Days

The Game Shooting Census, by GunsOnPegs and Strutt & Parker, showned that from 2014 to '16, the average number of simulated days that an individual shot increased by 50%. It's easy to understand why when in one day you can challenge yourself on clays presented like pheasants, partridge, grouse, pigeons and even rabbits and a fraction of the cost of a driven day.

The GunsOnPegs Team thought we would put together some top tips should you be participating in a simulated game day.

How many cartridges do you need for a sim day?

With thousands of clays being sent over the line over the course of the day, it is easy to fire a couple of slabs of cartridges or even more. If in doubt, take a few extra. Some simulated shoots include the cost of shells in the price of the day, others require you to bring your own. Find out how many cartridges you will need before you set off, but also if the shoot will be able to supply you with extras should you run out.

What cartridge load should I use for a simulated game shoot?

When you're firing so many cartridges, it is advisable to use a lighter cartridge load than you would use for a typical day of driven game shooting. Although the clays may be a long way up, they don't require such a lot of punch to stop. 21g or 24g of 7, 7.5 or 8 shot will be the best bet.

Hot barrels

Another side effect of all those clays screaming overhead and putting all those cartridges through your gun will be warm barrels. While wearing a glove in the hight of summer may not seem all that appealing, being unable to enjoy the day because you can't hold your gun comfortably. If you're shooting with a side by side, a barrel sleeve can be a worthwhile investment.

What gun should I use for a simulated clay shoot?

While you can concievably use your usual game shooting gun, it’s advisable not to use a particularly old gun. After all these years and this many cartridges, it may not stand up to the rigours of having so many cartridges put through it, and there would be nothing worse than having your day curtailed because your gun broke. As much as you love your grandfather's old gun, it might be best to leave it at home for the day. Lots of simulated shoots will be able to loan you a more robust gun for the day.

Eye protection is strongly recommended for simulated game days

Many shoots will insist that guns wear proper shooting glasses and be able to loan you a pair for the day. Not only are they a good idea from a safety perspective, but given that much sim shooting takes place in the spring and summer, protection against glare can help a great deal!

Take the chance to get some practice in

Amid the excitement of the shooting, it would be easy to blaze away thoughtlessly, and if that's what you want from your day, that's fine! But sim days are also a great opportunity to focus on a shot (or shots) that you struggled with during the season and concentrate on working out where you are going wrong. If you've got a few days lined up for the season ahead that are a bit different to your usual shooting - a high bird day or your first day on driven grouse, say - take this chance to familiarise youself with the different challenges that they'll present so you can make the most of those days when the season comes around.

What to wear on a simulated game day

There's no hard and fast rule here - some simulated shoots like guns to wear traditional breeks and a tie, others are more relaxed about dress codes, but remember that you'll need to be able to swing the gun comfortably, load easily from a pocket (unless you have a loader), and keep the sun out of your eyes. Oh, and don't forget that even if you are shooting in the middle of the summer, the good old British climate can throw up surprises, take a light rain coat just in case.

And most importantly

Remember to have fun! Simulated game days are typically a little more relaxed than live quarry shooting, so some of the usual etiquette doesn't apply: if you are shooting next to a friend why not try and poach a few of their clays!

Find simulated days here