The UK’s Ultimate Shooting Day Tipples Revealed

After a day in the field, there’s nothing quite like rounding it off with a well-deserved drink. Thanks to the comprehensive findings from the 2024 Game Shooting Census, sponsored by our friends at Lycetts, we now have the definitive answer to the question: what’s in the glass of the modern shooter? From timeless classics to rising stars, the data reveals interesting insights into the nation’s post-shoot drinking habits.

Whisky: The Undisputed Champion

With 45% of shooters naming it their go-to, whisky claims the crown as the UK’s favourite post-shoot drink. Its appeal spans generations, but it’s particularly dominant among those aged 50 and over. Among shooters in their 50s, an impressive 61% choose whisky, while 50% of those in their 60s favour it as well.

For the 40-somethings, whisky remains the top pick at 52%, though this group shows signs of branching out - 21% also opt for gin. The verdict? Whisky’s warming allure and timeless charm make it the reigning king of the post-shoot moment.

Beer: The Rising Star for Younger Shooters

For shooters aged 18-29, beer takes the top spot, with 32% reaching for a pint after a day in the field. Its crisp, casual appeal makes it the drink of choice for younger participants, offering a more social and refreshing option. While it doesn’t challenge whisky’s overall dominance, beer clearly resonates with a youthful crowd looking to keep things light and laid-back.

Gin: A Sophisticated Challenger

Gin is quietly making waves, chosen by 16% of shooters overall and gaining traction particularly among those in their 30s and 40s. Its versatility - whether as a classic gin and tonic or a creative cocktail - lends it a fresh, modern edge that’s increasingly hard to ignore.

Interestingly, shooters in the middling salary brackets are even more likely to select gin, with 17–20% opting for it over whisky or beer. It’s clear that gin is carving out its niche as a refined alternative for those seeking something a little different.

Wine & Cocktails: The Niche Luxuries

For those who like to veer off the beaten path, wine and cocktails remain niche favourites. Wine secures 6% of votes, particularly among shooters in higher income brackets, where its share climbs to 10%. Cocktails, meanwhile, attract 4% of shooters, appealing to those who dare to shake things up with bold and adventurous choices.

While neither wine nor cocktails threaten the dominance of whisky or beer, their presence speaks to a diverse and evolving landscape of post-shoot preferences.

The Takeaway: Whisky Leads, But Variety Threatens

The numbers don’t lie: whisky remains the quintessential post-shoot drink, chosen by nearly half of all shooters. Its enduring appeal transcends generations, offering the perfect balance of warmth and sophistication. But the winds of change are stirring. Gin’s rise among younger and wealthier shooters hints at a growing appetite for variety, while beer holds its own as a refreshing favourite for the younger crowd.

Whatever your preference, there’s no shortage of excellent options to toast a successful day in the field. And with thanks to our friends at Lycetts for supporting the 2024 Game Shooting Census, we’re raising our glasses to them too! The only question left is: what will be in your glass? Do tell us below.