Youth Pathway to Shooting Sports
If you're looking to get started in shooting sports or want to introduce someone else to the world of clay target shooting, the Scholastic Clay Target Program (SCTP) is a great place to begin.
In this Video, Nathan Boyd, a member of SCTP's Board of Directors, explains the program and its opportunities. From team-building to national competitions, learn why SCTP is one of the fastest-growing clay target programs in the U.S.
Meet the SCTP
Established in 2001, SCTP promotes safety, responsibility, teamwork and leadership while introducing athletes to disciplines such as Trap, Skeet, Sporting Clays and International Skeet.
Get Involved!
The SSSF or Scholastic Shooting Sports Foundation now implements this program.
At a Glance
- Overseeing State, Regional and 3 National Championships Annually in Both American and International Disciplines.
- Over 18,500 Athletes/Coaches Participating in 45 States
- Donates $89,000 a Year in College Scholarships
- Official Youth Program to USA Shooting
What You'll Need
Essential Equipment for Shotgun Sports
For athletes in the Scholastic Clay Target Program (SCTP), having the right equipment is key to both safety and performance. Below is a detailed breakdown of the shotgun, ammunition and other necessary gear for each shooting discipline in SCTP.
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Shotgun
Having the right shotgun enhances both your performance and enjoyment in sporting clays. While there are many options, here’s a breakdown of the most common types and gauges.
Common Shotgun Types
- Over-and-Under: Reliable, versatile, with two barrels for quick follow-up shots.
- Semi-Automatic: Low recoil, great for beginners and pros but needs more upkeep.
Learn More about Shotgun Action Types
Learn more about the different shotgun action types here.
Choosing the Right Gauge
The gauge refers to the size of the shotgun's barrel and the ammunition it fires. The most common gauges for sporting clays are:
- 12-Gauge: Most popular, powerful, and versatile. Ideal for all skill levels.
- 20-Gauge: Lighter, less recoil, good for smaller shooters, but requires more precision.
Learn more about shotgun gauge options here.
Pro Tip: Try out different types and gauges at your local range to see what feels most comfortable. Many ranges offer shotgun rentals, allowing you to test various models before committing to a purchase.
Shotgun Fit
Having the right shotgun that fits your body and shooting style is key to improving your skills and enjoying every round of sporting clays. Here are a few things to consider
- Length of Barrel
The athlete’s comfort level is a determining factor for barrel length. The most common
lengths for skeet are 28- and 30-inch barrels; for sporting clays, 30-, 32- and even 34-inch barrels; and
trap, 32-inch over and under barrels and 34-inch single barrels. The shorter the barrel length, the
whippier the firearm will feel. Longer barrels require the athlete to push more for stability. Typically, younger athletes will require a shorter barrel. - Length of Pull
Length of pull is the distance from the trigger to the back plate of the firearm. The length of pull
should be adjusted to the athlete with the help of a proper firearm fitter. Most firearms come with a factory pull of 13 ½ inches. - Adjustable Options
When a firearm is properly fit, the athlete’s dominant eye should look straight down the
barrel, with the mid-bead and far-bead stacked. Adjustable combs and butt plates are added to firearms
so fit is fine-tuned to the athlete.
Ammo
Choosing the right ammunition is essential for both performance and safety in clay target sports. Understanding the types of loads commonly used will help you hit more targets while ensuring a safe shooting experience.
Safety Reminders
- Use the Correct Ammunition:
- Always match the gauge and shell size to your shotgun. Using incorrect ammo can cause serious malfunctions or injuries.
Common Ammunition for Each Discipline
When purchasing ammunition for clay target shooting, there are standard sizes and weights (shot charge) of shot and drams of powder. The standards vary depending on firearm and discipline, here are the key factors to consider:
Trap
- 12 gauge; 1 ⅛ ounce of shot; 1,145-1,200 feet per second; 7 ½ or 8 size shot.
- 20 gauge; ⅞ ounce of shot; 1,200 feet per second; 7 ½ or 8 size shot.
American Skeet
- 12 gauge; 1 ⅛ ounce of shot; 1,145-1,200 feet per second; 8 or 9 size shot.
- 20 gauge; ⅞ ounce of shot; 1,200 feet per second; 8 or 9 size shot.
Sporting Clays
- 12 gauge; 1 ⅛ ounce of shot; 1,200-1,300 feet per second; 7 ½ or 8 size shot.
Learn more about Shell size, length and gauge here.
By choosing the right ammo and following safety protocols, you’ll improve your shooting performance while keeping yourself and others safe on the course.
Safety Gear
Safety is the top priority in SCTP, and athletes are required to wear proper protection at all times.
In this video, Nathan Boyd, Assistant Director of the National Shooting Complex, discusses the importance of wearing appropriate eye and ear protection at the range.
Eye Protection
Flying debris, like clay fragments, can cause serious injuries. Use quality shooting glasses designed for impact protection and enhanced visibility. Many models have interchangeable lenses to adapt to different light conditions.
Ear Protection
Gunfire can cause permanent hearing damage. Use ear protection that lowers noise to safe levels while allowing you to hear commands.
Foam Earplugs: Inexpensive and disposable. Good for casual shooters but may not fit all ear shapes.
Custom Molded Earplugs: Designed for a perfect fit, providing superior comfort and high-level noise reduction.
Earmuffs: Cover the entire ear for excellent protection. Electronic versions amplify conversation but block gunfire noise.
Combination: Some shooters use both plugs and earmuffs for maximum protection.
Key Features to Consider:
Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) of 25+ dB for proper protection.
Comfortable Fit – Shouldn’t interfere with gun mount or cheek weld.
Electronic Options – Help maintain situational awareness during shooting.
Pro Tip: Most ranges offer rentals if you're unsure what to get. Invest in good gear to stay safe and comfortable.
Vest or Bag
Having a convenient way to carry your gear can make your experience much smoother. Shooting vests and ammo bags are essential tools for keeping your shells, spent cartridges and other accessories organized while allowing for quick access during a round.
Gear Options
Shooting Vest: Large pockets for shells, padded shoulders for comfort.
Shell Pouch: Lightweight, waist-worn, organized compartments for shells.
Key Tips
Keep Gear Handy: Ensure your shells are easy to reach without disrupting your stance.
Avoid Overloading: Carry only what you need.
Ensure Proper Fit: Gear should be snug but allow full movement.
Pro Tip: Test different vests and bags to find what’s comfortable for you.
What to Play
What Shooting Sports are Offered?
SCTP offers a variety of clay target shooting disciplines, providing athletes with diverse opportunities to develop their skills and compete in different formats.
How to Participate
How to Get Involved with the SCTP
Whether you’re a parent, coach, student, or educator, there’s a place for you in SCTP. Start your journey today and discover how clay target shooting inspires growth, confidence and success.
Visit SCTP Website
Visit MySCTP.com for info on the program, events and resources available to athletes and coaches.
Join a Team
Locate a nearby SCTP club to connect with coaches and join a team
Participate in an Event
Sign up for a local, regional or national SCTP competitions.
Join the SCTP
Membership offers access to coaching, scholarship opportunities, regional and national competitions and more.
Pull The Trigger Newsletter
Every month, NSSF shares video and article tips from experts in target shooting, hunting, firearm maintenance, game cooking and other firearm-related topics.
Latest News From SCTP
- SCTP Partnership with Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries February 10, 2026The Scholastic Clay Target Program (SCTP) is happy to announce a new partnership to further its efforts of growing youth shooting sports in the state of Louisiana. The SCTP’s new Southwest Director Jason Anderson had the vision for growth in the Pelican State by partnering with the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries. After a successful and productive […]SSSF Staff
- SCTP International Team Winter Training Camp January 8, 2026Keen to kick off the 2026 season with solid training under their belt, the SCTP International Team went to Palm Beach County Shooting Sports Park, January 3rd and 4th. With a training regimen focused on sports science, mental grit, and match-level performance, Head Coach Terri Wentzel and guest coach Dustan Taylor set athletes up for […]SSSF Staff
- SCTP Holds First International Regional Championship December 9, 2025Responding to a surge of interest in the International clay target disciplines, the Scholastic Clay Target Program hosted its first ever International Regional event. Held at Florida’s Palm Beach County Shooting Sports Park, the event drew in competitors new to the sport, as well as two full squads of SCTP athletes, including a couple of […]SSSF Staff
- SCTP International Team at Fall Selection Match November 24, 2025Congratulations to our International Team who put on a great performance at the USA Shooting Fall Selection Match in Tucson, AZ: Skeet Kaela Hinze – 1st place, U18 category Trap Ethan Hemsath – earned a spot on the Junior National Team; traveling to Cairo, Egypt and Suhl, Germany next year Ethan Hemsath – 1st place, […]SSSF Staff
