American Trap Doubles
The ultimate test of trap shooting speed and precision
What is American Trap Doubles?
American Trap Doubles is an exciting variation where two clay targets are released simultaneously from the trap house, requiring the shooter to break both targets in rapid succession. It's shot from the same five positions as singles trap, but the challenge escalates dramatically.
Each shooter faces five pairs (10 targets) from each of the five positions, for a total of 50 targets per round. The targets emerge at random angles just like singles, but now you must engage the first target, transition smoothly to the second, and break both before they hit the ground.
Doubles trap demands exceptional gun handling, smooth swing transitions, and the ability to maintain focus under pressure. It's considered the most challenging form of American trap shooting and is a favorite among advanced shooters looking to push their skills to the limit.
History
Doubles trap emerged as a natural progression from singles trap, designed to test shooters' speed and reflexes. While singles trap simulated single flushing birds, doubles represented the more challenging scenario of multiple birds flushing simultaneously.
The ATA formally recognized doubles competition in the early 20th century, establishing standardized rules and classifications. The discipline quickly became a highlight at major championships, including the prestigious Grand American, where the Doubles Championship attracts the sport's best shooters.
Modern doubles trap has evolved with improved trap machines capable of consistent simultaneous releases and advanced ammunition designed for faster shooting. Today, it remains a cornerstone event at every major trap competition, with shooters regularly achieving scores of 98-100 out of 100 targets.
Key Characteristics
Simultaneous Release
Two targets launched at the same time from the trap house
Fast Transitions
Must break first target, then immediately transition to second
Two Shots Allowed
Two shots per pair - one for each target
Gun Position
Gun must be mounted after calling "Pull" - no pre-mounting
Station Layout
Field Configuration
American Trap Doubles uses the same field layout as singles trap - five shooting positions arranged in a straight line, 16 yards behind the trap house. The trap house contains a single trap that launches two targets simultaneously.
Position Layout
Leftmost position
Left center
Center position
Right center
Rightmost position
Shooting Sequence
- • Squad of up to 5 shooters starts at Position 1
- • Each shooter fires 5 pairs (10 targets) from Position 1
- • Squad moves to Position 2, each fires 5 pairs
- • Continues through all 5 positions
- • Total: 50 targets (25 pairs) per round
Target Release
- • Two targets launched simultaneously
- • Both targets at random angles
- • Up to 17.14° left or right of center each
- • Speed: 41-43 mph at trap exit
- • Must break both before they land
Scoring
Each target hit and broken scores 1 point. A perfect round is 50 points (50x50 or "straight").
Two Shots Per Pair
Two shots allowed - one for each target. Each target scored independently
Target Must Break
Target must visibly break to score. "Dust" without visible pieces is a lost target
No Bird
If either target is irregular or broken, shooter calls "No Bird" and receives a replacement pair
Gun Rules
Gauge
12 gauge is standard. Also: 20, 28, .410 bore (different classes)
Ammunition
Max 1-1/8 oz shot for 12 gauge. #7.5, #8, or #9 shot size typical
Gun Position
Gun must be mounted AFTER calling "Pull" - no pre-mounting allowed
Safety
Open and empty when moving between stations. Muzzle control at all times
Target Specifications
Size
Standard 4-5/16" diameter clay targets
Speed
41-43 mph at trap exit, approximately 44 yards when broken
Release
Two targets launched simultaneously from same trap
Angle
Random left/right up to 17.14° from center for each target
Common Violations
Pre-mounting gun before calling "Pull"
Shooting before targets are visible
Gun loaded with more than 2 shells
Failure to maintain muzzle control
Shooting out of turn
Shotgun Selection
Doubles trap requires fast gun handling and smooth transitions. Over/under shotguns are preferred for their ability to fire two shots quickly.
Recommended Specifications:
- • Type: Over/under preferred for quick second shot
- • Gauge: 12 gauge most popular, 20/28/.410 for smaller classes
- • Barrel Length: 30-32 inches (longer barrels help with swing)
- • Choke: Full or Improved Modified for 16-yard shooting
- • Weight: 8-9 lbs for 12 gauge (heavier guns reduce recoil)
- • Stock: Adjustable comb and butt plate for proper fit
Ammunition
12 Gauge (Most Common)
- • Load: 1-1/8 oz or 1 oz
- • Shot Size: #7.5, #8, or #9
- • Velocity: 1200-1250 fps typical
- • Dram Equivalent: 3 or 3-1/4 dram
Other Gauges
- • 20 Gauge: 7/8 oz, #7.5 or #8
- • 28 Gauge: 3/4 oz, #8 or #8.5
- • .410 Bore: 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 - doubles requires quick reloading
Proper Footwear
Closed-toe shoes with good traction
Popular Shotgun Models
Beretta 686/687
Over/under - Classic choice, reliable, fast action
Browning Citori
Over/under - Well-balanced, smooth action, popular for doubles
Perazzi MX8
Over/under - Premium choice, highly customizable, tournament favorite
Krieghoff K-80
Over/under - Premium choice, highly customizable
Organizations
Amateur Trapshooting Association (ATA)
The governing body for American Trap Doubles in the United States. Founded in 1900, ATA sanctions tournaments nationwide and maintains shooter classifications.
Visit ATA Website →Classification System
Shooters are classified by average: AA (98%+), A (96-97.99%), B (93-95.99%), C (90-92.99%), D (87-89.99%), E (84-86.99%), F (below 84%)
Major Tournaments
Grand American Doubles Championship
Annual - Sparta, IL - August (prestigious doubles event)
ATA State Championships
Annual - Each state hosts doubles events
Zone Championships
Annual - Regional competitions
Registered Shoots
Year-round - Local and regional competitions
Getting Started in Competition
Master Singles First
Build solid fundamentals in singles trap before attempting doubles
Join ATA
Membership required for registered tournaments
Practice Doubles
Focus on smooth transitions and quick second shot
Enter Local Tournaments
Start with club-level registered shoots
Competition Format
Registered tournaments typically include doubles events:
Doubles Event
100 targets (50 pairs) from 16 yards
Preliminary Doubles
50 targets (25 pairs) - shorter format
All-Around
Combined score from Singles, Handicap, and Doubles
Fundamentals
Target Selection
Identify which target to shoot first immediately. Most shooters prefer the left target first, then transition right. Choose a consistent strategy and stick with it.
Smooth Transition
After breaking first target, smoothly swing to second without stopping. The transition should be one continuous motion. Don't pause between shots.
Gun Mount
Mount gun quickly and consistently after calling "Pull". Fast, smooth mount is critical for doubles success. Practice mounting speed.
Follow-Through
Continue swinging through both targets. Don't stop after first shot - maintain momentum for the second target.
Position-Specific Tips
Positions 1 & 2
Left positions - expect more right-angle targets. Shoot left target first, transition right
Position 3
Center position - most balanced. Targets can go either direction. Choose consistent strategy
Positions 4 & 5
Right positions - expect more left-angle targets. Maintain smooth transition between targets
Common Mistakes
Hesitation Between Shots
Pausing after first shot loses valuable time for second target
Stopping Swing
Gun must continue moving smoothly from first to second target
Rushing First Shot
Take time to break first target cleanly, then transition
Inconsistent Target Selection
Always shoot same target first (left or right) for consistency
Pre-Mounting
Gun must be mounted after calling "Pull" - no pre-mounting allowed
Practice Tips
Dry Fire Practice
Practice mount, first shot, transition, second shot at home (use snap caps)
Focus on Transitions
Smooth transition between targets is key - practice this specifically
Get Coaching
Doubles technique benefits greatly from professional instruction
Mental Game
Stay focused, one pair at a time. Don't think about the previous pair
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