FITASC Sporting
The international standard for sporting clays
What is FITASC Sporting?
FITASC Sporting is the international standard for sporting clays, governed by the Fédération Internationale de Tir aux Armes Sportives de Chasse (FITASC). Unlike English Sporting's unlimited variety, FITASC Sporting follows strict international rules with standardized target presentations across four parcours (layouts) of 25 targets each.
Each parcours consists of 5-7 stands, with specific target types and presentations defined by FITASC rules. The discipline emphasizes consistency and standardization, making it ideal for international competition where shooters from different countries compete under identical conditions.
FITASC Sporting is shot worldwide and is particularly popular in Europe, where it serves as the premier international sporting clays format. The World FITASC Sporting Championships attract top shooters from around the globe, competing on identical parcours designed to exacting international standards.
History
FITASC (Fédération Internationale de Tir aux Armes Sportives de Chasse) was founded in 1929 to standardize international clay shooting competitions. The organization developed FITASC Sporting as a standardized format that could be replicated consistently across different countries and venues.
The discipline gained international recognition in the 1980s and 1990s as the preferred format for world championships. FITASC Sporting's standardized parcours system ensures that competitions are fair and consistent, regardless of where they are held.
Today, FITASC Sporting is the premier international sporting clays discipline, with World Championships held biennially and attracting hundreds of competitors from dozens of countries. The format's standardization makes it ideal for ranking shooters internationally and comparing performances across different venues and competitions.
Key Characteristics
Standardized Format
4 parcours of 25 targets each - consistent worldwide
International Standard
Same rules and format used globally for fair competition
Specific Target Types
Defined presentations following FITASC specifications
Parcours System
Each parcours shot separately with specific stand sequences
Parcours Layout
Competition Structure
FITASC Sporting competitions consist of 100 targets divided into four parcours (layouts) of 25 targets each. Each parcours is shot separately, typically on different days or in different sessions.
Parcours Specifications
Course Structure
- • Total Targets: 100 (4 parcours × 25)
- • Stands per Parcours: 5-7 stands
- • Targets per Stand: 3-6 targets typically
- • Parcours Sequence: Shot in order (Parcours 1-4)
- • Time per Parcours: 1-2 hours typically
Stand Features
- • Each stand has shooting platform
- • Multiple trap machines per stand
- • Targets visible before shooting
- • Specific target types per FITASC rules
- • Standardized presentations
Target Presentations
- • Simultaneous Pairs: Both targets released together
- • Report Pairs: Second target on first shot
- • Following Pairs: Delayed second target
- • Singles: Individual target presentations
- • FITASC Standard: Specific presentations per rules
Common Target Types
- • High Pheasants: Dropping over obstacles
- • Crossing Targets: Various angles and speeds
- • Rabbits: Rolling along ground
- • Teal: Rising targets
- • Driven Birds: Fast crossing presentations
- • Chandelles: Curved flight paths
Shooting Sequence
Shooters move through stands in order within each parcours, shooting the prescribed number of targets at each stand. All four parcours must be completed, with scores combined for final ranking.
- • 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)
- • Parcours shot in sequence (1, 2, 3, 4)
- • Total competition typically takes 2-3 days
Scoring
Each target hit and broken scores 1 point. A perfect round is 100 points (100x100 or "straight").
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 various distances per FITASC rules
Standardization
Target types and presentations follow FITASC specifications
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
FITASC Sporting requires versatility to handle varied target presentations. Over/under or semi-automatic shotguns with interchangeable chokes are preferred.
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
Perazzi MX8
Over/under - Premium choice for international competition
Miroku MK38
Over/under - Popular in Europe, excellent value
Organizations
FITASC (Fédération Internationale de Tir aux Armes Sportives de Chasse)
The international governing body for FITASC Sporting. Founded in 1929, FITASC sets the rules and standards for international sporting clays competitions worldwide.
Visit FITASC Website →National Federations
Each country has its own national federation (e.g., CPSA in UK, FFTir in France) that organizes FITASC Sporting competitions and selects teams for international events.
Major Tournaments
FITASC World Championships
Biennial - Premier international FITASC Sporting competition
European Championships
Annual - Major European FITASC Sporting competition
FITASC Grand Prix
Series of international competitions throughout the year
National Championships
Annual - National level competitions in each country
Regional Competitions
Year-round - Regional and club-level FITASC Sporting shoots
Getting Started in Competition
Join National Federation
Membership required for registered FITASC tournaments
Practice FITASC Format
Experience standardized parcours and target presentations
Enter Local Competitions
Start with club-level FITASC Sporting shoots
Build International Ranking
Compete in FITASC-sanctioned events to build ranking points
Competition Format
FITASC Sporting competitions follow a standardized format:
100-Target Competition
4 parcours of 25 targets each - standard format
Parcours Sequence
All four parcours shot in order, typically over 2-3 days
Scoring
Total score from all four parcours determines final ranking
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 FITASC Parcours
Practice on standardized parcours to understand format
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
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