Hunting Round
Nordic skeet discipline for hunting preparation
What is Hunting Round?
Hunting Round is a skeet shooting discipline popular in Nordic countries (Norway, Sweden, Finland, Denmark) specifically designed to prepare shooters for real-world hunting scenarios. Unlike competitive skeet which follows strict rules, Hunting Round uses the skeet field layout but incorporates variations that better prepare shooters for actual field shooting situations.
The discipline uses the same field layout as standard skeet with two trap houses and eight shooting stations, but incorporates variations in target presentations, speeds, and angles that mimic actual game bird flight patterns. This makes Hunting Round an excellent training tool for hunters looking to improve their field shooting skills while using familiar skeet field infrastructure.
A complete round typically consists of 25 targets, similar to standard skeet, but with variations that emphasize practical hunting skills such as shooting from different positions, handling various target angles and speeds, and adapting to unpredictable presentations. The format is popular in Nordic countries where hunting is a significant part of the culture.
History
Hunting Round emerged in Nordic countries as a practical training format for hunters who wanted to practice their field shooting skills using the skeet field infrastructure. Nordic shooting clubs recognized that competitive skeet, while challenging, didn't always reflect the realistic scenarios hunters face in the field.
The format was developed to bridge the gap between competitive skeet shooting and actual hunting. Using the familiar skeet field layout, course designers began incorporating variations that specifically mimicked common game bird situations - different target speeds, angles, and presentations that better simulate real hunting scenarios.
Today, Hunting Round is popular throughout Nordic countries (Norway, Sweden, Finland, Denmark) where hunting is a significant part of the culture. The format has become a favorite among Nordic hunters preparing for upcoming seasons, providing practical practice that directly translates to improved field performance while using the accessible skeet field infrastructure available at most clubs.
Key Characteristics
Realistic Scenarios
Targets simulate actual game bird flight patterns and speeds
Natural Terrain
Courses use natural features to create realistic hunting environments
Practical Focus
Emphasizes skills directly applicable to field hunting
Flexible Format
50-100 targets per round, adaptable to different course layouts
Course Design
Course Layout
Hunting Round courses are designed to simulate real hunting environments. Stands are positioned in natural terrain to create realistic game bird scenarios - flushing quail from cover, rising pheasants over fields, crossing doves, or running rabbits. Course designers focus on practical, achievable shots that mirror actual hunting situations.
Typical Course Structure
Course Specifications
- • Stands: 8-12 per course
- • Targets per stand: Usually 8-10
- • Total targets: Typically 50-100 (flexible format)
- • Course length: Varies with terrain
- • Walking distance: 1-3 km depending on layout
Stand Features
- • Each stand has shooting platform
- • Multiple trap machines per stand
- • Natural cover and terrain used
- • Targets visible before shooting
- • Unlimited presentation variety
Target Presentations
- • Simultaneous Pairs: Both targets released together
- • Report Pairs: Second target on first shot
- • Following Pairs: Delayed second target
- • Singles: Individual target presentations
- • Realistic Focus: Presentations mimic actual game bird scenarios
Common Target Types
- • Flushing Quail: Quick rising from cover
- • Rising Pheasants: Over fields and hedges
- • Crossing Doves: Various angles and speeds
- • Running Rabbits: Rolling along ground
- • Flushing Grouse: Quick, low shots
- • Duck Scenarios: Overhead and crossing
Shooting Sequence
Shooters move through stands in order, shooting the prescribed number of targets at each stand. The sequence and target types are visible before shooting, allowing shooters to plan their approach.
- • Squad of 4-6 shooters moves together
- • Each shooter completes all targets at a stand before moving
- • Targets are visible before shooting (no hidden presentations)
- • Shooters can observe others in squad before shooting
- • Course typically takes 3-4 hours to complete
Scoring
Each target hit and broken scores 1 point. A perfect round depends on the number of targets (typically 50-100). Scoring is straightforward: 1 point per target broken.
One Shot Per Target
Only one shot allowed per target. If missed, target is lost
Target Must Break
Target must visibly break to score. "Dust" without visible pieces is a lost target
No Bird
If target is irregular or broken, shooter calls "No Bird" and receives a replacement target
Pair Scoring
Each target in a pair scored independently
Gun Rules
Gauge
12 gauge is standard. Also: 20, 28, .410 bore (different classes)
Ammunition
Max 28g (1 oz) shot for 12 gauge. #7.5, #8, or #9 shot size typical
Gun Position
Gun may be pre-mounted to shoulder before calling for target
Safety
Open and empty when moving between stands. Muzzle control at all times
Target Specifications
Size
Standard 110mm diameter clay targets
Speed
Varies by presentation - typically 30-50 mph (48-80 km/h)
Distance
Targets can be presented at any distance
Variety
No restrictions on target types or presentations
Common Violations
Shooting before target is visible
Gun loaded with more than 2 shells
Shooting out of turn
Failure to maintain muzzle control
Stepping outside shooting platform
Shotgun Selection
Hunting Round requires versatility to handle varied target presentations that simulate real hunting scenarios. Over/under or semi-automatic shotguns with interchangeable chokes are preferred, similar to what hunters use in the field.
Recommended Specifications:
- • Gauge: 12 gauge most popular, 20/28/.410 for smaller classes
- • Barrel Length: 28-30 inches (71-76cm)
- • Choke: Interchangeable - typically Improved Cylinder to Modified
- • Weight: 3.2-3.9 kg (7-8.5 lbs) for 12 gauge
- • Stock: Adjustable comb preferred for proper fit
Ammunition
12 Gauge (Most Common)
- • Load: 28g (1 oz) or 24g (7/8 oz)
- • Shot Size: #7.5, #8, or #9
- • Velocity: 1200-1250 fps typical
- • Case Length: 70mm typical
Other Gauges
- • 20 Gauge: 24g (7/8 oz), #7.5 or #8
- • 28 Gauge: 21g (3/4 oz), #8 or #8.5
- • .410 Bore: 14g (1/2 oz), #9
Essential Gear
Eye Protection
Shooting glasses (yellow/vermillion tint popular for target visibility)
Hearing Protection
Electronic earmuffs allow conversation while protecting hearing
Shell Pouch/Vest
Holds shells and empties conveniently - need capacity for 100+ shells
Proper Footwear
Walking boots or sturdy shoes - courses involve walking between stands
Weather Gear
Waterproof jacket - courses are shot in all weather conditions
Popular Shotgun Models
Beretta 686/687
Over/under - Classic choice, reliable, interchangeable chokes
Browning Citori
Over/under - Well-balanced, smooth action
Miroku MK38
Over/under - Popular in UK, excellent value
Remington 1100
Semi-auto - Soft recoil, affordable, good for long courses
Organizations
Hunting Clubs and Ranges
Hunting Round is typically offered at shooting clubs and ranges that cater to hunters. Many clubs offer Hunting Round courses year-round as a training format for hunters preparing for upcoming seasons.
Informal Format
Hunting Round is often shot as a practice format rather than a competitive discipline. Some clubs may organize informal competitions, but the primary focus is on practical hunting preparation.
Major Tournaments
Hunting Club Competitions
Year-round - Informal competitions at hunting clubs
Pre-Season Practice Shoots
Seasonal - Organized before hunting seasons begin
Regional Hunting Shoots
Year-round - Regional hunting-focused events
Club Practice Rounds
Year-round - Regular practice sessions at local clubs
Getting Started in Competition
Find a Local Club
Locate shooting clubs that offer Hunting Round courses
Practice on Various Courses
Experience different course designs and target presentations
Enter Local Shoots
Start with club-level registered shoots
Build Your Average
Classification based on your scoring average
Competition Format
Hunting Round courses typically consist of:
50-100 Target Round
Most common format - 8-12 stands, flexible target count per stand
Practice Format
Flexible format focused on practical hunting preparation
Informal Competitions
Some clubs organize informal competitions, but focus is on practice
Fundamentals
Read the Stand
Before shooting, observe the targets. Watch other shooters in your squad. Understand the flight paths, angles, and timing. Plan your approach for each target.
Gun Mount
Mount gun smoothly and consistently. Gun should fit your body perfectly - cheek weld on comb, butt in shoulder pocket. Practice mounting to the same position every time.
Stance
Weight slightly forward, feet shoulder-width apart. Point lead foot toward expected target break point. Upper body should rotate freely to follow targets.
Eye Focus
Focus on the target, not the barrel. Your brain will automatically align gun to target if mount is consistent. Watch the target from trap exit to break point.
Swing & Follow-Through
Smooth, accelerating swing. Don't stop gun movement when you pull trigger - follow through the target. Continue swinging after the shot.
Target-Specific Tips
High Pheasants
Shoot underneath - let target drop into pattern. Don't shoot at the bird, shoot where it will be
Crossing Targets
Lead the target - swing through and maintain lead. Faster targets need more lead
Rabbits
Shoot in front - lead horizontally. Watch for bounces and changes in direction
Teal (Rising)
Shoot underneath - let target rise into pattern. Maintain smooth upward swing
Pairs Strategy
Decide which target to shoot first. Usually easier target first, then transition to harder one
Common Mistakes
Not Reading Stands
Failing to observe targets before shooting - always watch first
Lifting Head
Keep cheek on stock throughout shot and follow-through
Stopping Swing
Gun must be moving when trigger is pulled and continue after
Wrong Choke Selection
Using too tight choke for close targets, too open for long targets
Rushing Pairs
Take time to break first target cleanly, then transition smoothly
Practice Tips
Shoot Different Courses
Experience variety - each course teaches different skills
Focus on Consistency
Same mount, same stance, same routine for every target
Get Coaching
Even one lesson can correct fundamental issues
Mental Game
Stay present, one target at a time. Forget misses immediately. Read each stand carefully
Choke Management
Learn when to change chokes - different stands may require different patterns
Ready to Try Hunting Round?
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