Wobble Trap
Unpredictable trap angles for advanced shooters
What is Wobble Trap?
Wobble Trap is an advanced variation of American Trap that adds an extra dimension of unpredictability. Unlike standard trap where the machine only oscillates horizontally, Wobble Trap machines tilt and wobble both horizontally and vertically, creating targets that can emerge at dramatically different angles and heights.
Shooters stand at one of five positions arranged in a straight line, 16 yards behind the trap house. Each shooter fires at five targets from each position, moving one station to the right after each round, for a total of 25 targets. The combination of horizontal oscillation and vertical wobble makes target angles far more unpredictable than standard trap.
This discipline is perfect for shooters who have mastered standard trap and want a greater challenge. The unpredictable angles test reflexes, adaptability, and the ability to quickly read and react to varying target presentations.
History
Wobble Trap was developed as a training and recreational variation of American Trap to provide more challenging target presentations. The wobble mechanism adds vertical movement to the standard horizontal oscillation, creating targets that can appear at steeper angles and varying heights.
While not as widely sanctioned for major tournaments as standard trap disciplines, Wobble Trap has gained popularity at clubs across the United States as a fun and challenging alternative. Many shooters use it to improve their skills for other disciplines, as the unpredictable angles force shooters to develop better reflexes and adaptability.
The Amateur Trapshooting Association (ATA) recognizes Wobble Trap and provides guidelines for its setup and competition, though it remains primarily a club-level discipline rather than a major tournament event.
Key Characteristics
Dual-Axis Movement
Trap oscillates horizontally AND wobbles vertically, creating unpredictable angles
Unpredictable Angles
Targets can emerge at steeper angles and varying heights compared to standard trap
Gun Position
Gun must be mounted after calling "Pull" - no pre-mounting allowed
Advanced Challenge
More difficult than standard trap, requiring faster reflexes and better adaptability
Station Layout
Field Configuration
Wobble Trap is shot from five shooting positions arranged in a straight line, 16 yards behind the trap house. The trap house contains a single wobble trap that both oscillates horizontally and tilts vertically, creating targets at unpredictable angles and heights.
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 targets from Position 1
- • Squad moves to Position 2, each fires 5 targets
- • Continues through all 5 positions
- • Total: 25 targets per round
Wobble Trap Characteristics
- • Trap oscillates horizontally (left/right)
- • Trap wobbles vertically (tilts up/down)
- • Combined movement creates unpredictable angles
- • Targets can emerge at steeper angles
- • Height variations add to difficulty
- • Speed: 41-43 mph at trap exit
Scoring
Each target hit and broken scores 1 point. A perfect round is 25 points (25x25 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
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
Angles
Horizontal oscillation up to 17.14° left/right, plus vertical wobble creating steeper angles
Height Variation
Vertical wobble creates varying target heights, adding to unpredictability
Common Violations
Pre-mounting gun before calling "Pull"
Shooting before target is visible
Gun loaded with more than 1 shell
Failure to maintain muzzle control
Shooting out of turn
Shotgun Selection
Wobble Trap shooters typically use over/under or semi-automatic shotguns. Due to the unpredictable angles, slightly more open chokes may be preferred to provide a larger pattern for catching targets at unexpected angles.
Recommended Specifications:
- • Gauge: 12 gauge most popular, 20/28/.410 for smaller classes
- • Barrel Length: 30-32 inches (longer barrels help with swing)
- • Choke: Modified or Improved Modified (slightly more open than standard trap)
- • 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
Proper Footwear
Closed-toe shoes with good traction
Popular Shotgun Models
Beretta 686/687
Over/under - Classic choice, reliable
Browning Citori
Over/under - Well-balanced, smooth action
Remington 1100
Semi-auto - Soft recoil, affordable
Perazzi MX8
Over/under - Premium choice, highly customizable
Organizations
Amateur Trapshooting Association (ATA)
The governing body for American Trap in the United States. ATA recognizes Wobble Trap and provides guidelines for its setup and competition, though it remains primarily a club-level discipline.
Visit ATA Website →Club-Level Competition
Wobble Trap is primarily offered at local clubs as a fun and challenging alternative to standard trap. Many clubs host informal competitions and leagues.
Competition Format
Club Leagues
Many clubs offer weekly Wobble Trap leagues with various formats
Fun Shoots
Informal competitions for recreational shooters
Practice Rounds
Often used as training for other trap disciplines
Getting Started
Master Standard Trap First
Develop fundamentals with American Trap Singles before attempting Wobble Trap
Find a Club
Locate clubs that offer Wobble Trap facilities
Start with Practice
Begin with practice rounds to adapt to unpredictable angles
Join Club Events
Participate in local leagues and fun shoots
Fundamentals
Quick Reaction
With unpredictable angles, you must react quickly to the target. Mount gun smoothly and immediately start tracking the target as soon as it appears.
Adaptability
Don't expect patterns. Each target can be different. Stay flexible and ready to adjust your swing for steep angles or unusual heights.
Eye Focus
Keep your eyes on the target from the moment it appears. The unpredictable angles require constant visual tracking.
Smooth Swing
Maintain a smooth, accelerating swing even when targets appear at unexpected angles. Don't jerk or stop your swing.
Wobble-Specific Tips
Expect the Unexpected
Don't anticipate angles - react to what you see. Targets can emerge at steeper angles than standard trap
Height Variations
Be ready for targets at different heights. The vertical wobble creates varying target trajectories
Steeper Angles
Targets can appear at much steeper angles than standard trap. Be prepared for extreme crossing shots
Common Mistakes
Anticipating Angles
Don't try to predict where the target will go - react to what you see
Stopping Swing
Gun must be moving when trigger is pulled and continue after
Inconsistent Mount
Gun mount must be consistent for every shot, even with unpredictable targets
Looking at Barrel
Eyes should be focused on target, not gun barrel or bead
Pre-Mounting
Gun must be mounted after calling "Pull" - no pre-mounting allowed
Practice Tips
Master Standard Trap First
Build fundamentals with American Trap Singles before attempting Wobble Trap
Focus on Reaction Time
Practice quick gun mounting and immediate target acquisition
Stay Flexible
Don't develop habits expecting certain angles - stay adaptable
Mental Game
Stay present, one target at a time. Accept that misses are more common with unpredictable angles