Master Sporting Clays: Mastering Transitions in Report Pairs in the UK
Report pairs are one of the most frequently encountered target presentations in sporting clays, but they also come with their own set of technical challenges. In this episode of Master Sporting Clays, Jonny Carter of TGS Outdoors joins expert coach Josh Brown to break down how to manage transitions, plan footwork, and stay in control between shots. Watch the full episode below and enable captions in your language using the ‘CC’ button.
What Are Report Pairs?
Report pairs dominate most sporting layouts, making up an estimated 80% of typical 100-target courses. Unlike true pairs, where both targets are launched simultaneously, report pairs are staggered. The second target is released on the sound (or “report”) of the gun. While that gives you a moment to reset, it also creates a mental trap.
Pro Tip: Treat each target as a fresh challenge. It’s two separate shots, and both require equal planning and precision.
Importance of Transitions
The challenge isn’t just hitting two targets; it’s moving from one to the next. According to Josh, too many shooters focus entirely on the first clay, only to be caught flat-footed or rushed on the second. To resolve this, make a detailed pre-shot plan that includes where your eyes and barrel should be after the first break.
Pro Tip: As soon as the first target breaks, get your eyes back to the pickup point for the second. Don’t chase the clay. Let it come to you.
Plan Your Footwork
Foot positioning makes or breaks a smooth transition. If your targets move from extreme left to extreme right (or vice versa), failing to adjust your feet will twist your body out of alignment. Josh demonstrates how opening your stance toward the second kill point prevents getting “tangled up.”
Pro Tip: Set your lead foot for the second shot before calling for the pair. Transitions are easier when your feet are already working for you.
Tempo and Timing
Target setters love to challenge shooters by varying the speed and angle of report pairs. You might face a fast, wide crosser followed by a slower incomer, or the reverse. That sudden shift in tempo can lead to rushed shots or hesitation. The key is reading the pair before you ever mount the gun.
Pro Tip: Expect a change in rhythm. Prepare to slow down or speed up depending on the second bird’s line.
The Power of Visualization
Jonny and Josh emphasize that a successful transition depends on seeing both targets clearly. Visual connection with the second clay is just as vital as the first. This is where ShotKam shines. The ShotKam footage will allow you to review your timing, barrel placement, and where your eyes went after the break.
Pro Tip: Use ShotKam to review your transitions. You might think you moved cleanly between targets, but the footage may reveal rushed footwork or late pickups.
Flip the Order
To really test their skills, Jonny and Josh flip the order: shooting the incomer first, followed by the left-to-right crosser. The result is a much faster transition that forces a quicker barrel move and tighter visual discipline.
Pro Tip: When the second target is faster or further away, avoid “jumping” the gun. Let the clay beat the barrel, then swing through.
Stay Confident
Confidence in transitions comes from consistency. As Jonny notes, complacency often strikes by the fourth or fifth pair on a stand. Don’t let familiarity breed sloppiness. Every target, whether it’s the opener or the closer, deserves your full attention.
Pro Tip: Maintain mental focus through the entire station. Don’t let an “easier” second bird rob you of a full score.
Conclusion
Report pairs demand more than marksmanship. They require strategy, rhythm, and smart transitions. As Jonny and Josh show, it’s not just about hitting clays, it’s about hitting them well. From footwork to eye movement, every detail counts. And with the help of ShotKam’s Gen 4 Mini, you can analyze each pair with frame-by-frame clarity to refine your approach and build the confidence to perform under pressure.
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