SHOOTING LESSONS ON A BUDGET

Now, let’s clear something up from the get go; there’s a difference between being cheap or “tight” as opposed to being thrifty and value for money orientated. I fall into the latter category and this site is all about maximising your shooting with your budget at hand.

Does that mean chasing deals? Of course. Getting the best value for money? Definitely. Avoid paying over the odds? Is the Pope a Catholic? 

In some areas, the cheapest item is fine (e.g. a cap, pair of wellies etc.). In others, skimping on quality will cost you in the long run. But that still doesn’t mean you have to pay over the odds. 

Shooting lessons are an item you really don’t want to skimp on with regards to quality of tuition. However, good quality tutors can also be expensive. Let’s have a look at some ways to bring that cost down.

DOUBLE DOWN WITH A FRIEND

On the assumption that you’re starting out with a mate or group of friends, this is the best way to economise on your tuition costs. Most shooting schools/clubs allow small groups within the lesson price, which means you’ll pay at least 50% less for the cost of tuition.

The only drawback with this will be that obviously your lesson duration will also be effectively half (or less). However, when you’re starting out, this may be enough to get the basics that you need to practice, before advancing onto further lessons. Additionally, if you’re on a tighter budget, getting some tuition at £45 instead of paying £90 might be a great compromise.

GUN HIRE AND OTHER COSTS

Some schools will also include gun hire, clays and cartridges within their tuition price. This is definitely worth pursuing as if not included, could easily add another £50+ to the cost of your lesson. If you’re unsure, ask; you never know, they may be happy to include it.

BUYING A COURSE OF LESSONS

Does the shooting school offer packages? This is another area where good value can be obtained. Generally these packages give you an overall discount on the cost of tuition as you’re committing to a series of lessons. Buying lessons ad hoc (one by one as and when you feel like it) will mean you’ll pay the full price

This is also a good idea as you can take lessons strategically over a set period of time to develop your shooting skills. Rather than ad hoc lessons where you will need to wait on availability.

LOOK FOR DEALS

Speaking of tuition packages, keep your eye on your local shooting clubs and shooting schools and if you see any specials or discounts, snap them up. See if you can snap up a package of lessons at a sale discount.

HOW SERIOUS ARE YOU ABOUT SHOOTING?

Is this a fortnightly hobby where you just want to shoot some clays then hit the boozer with your chums? Or is it something you’re quite serious about (or think you’ll be serious about) and you want to be a competitive shot?

If it’s just a hobby, find a good basic tuition or course at your local club or school and then think about further lessons as and when you want or need to progress.

Assuming you’re in it to become a better shot and participate in the local competitions (or further afield), definitely do a starter course but then look for a decent advanced package to help you progress and develop your techniques.

CONCLUSION

I find shooting very much like golf. You can learn by yourself, pick up bad habits and over time you’ll adapt and learn to make these work for you, but it will be a long process and it will very likely only allow you to reach a certain level or ceiling. 

Taking on lessons and tuition will help you develop the correct techniques, drills and skills early on and smooth your way to better shooting. 

Want to shoot clays on a budget too?

Like I’ve said previously, I’m all about value for money and I see value in good tuition. It’s an investment that’ll pay dividends in the form of shattered clays… and grins.

Shoot safe.

Gazza