Shotgun 101
Platform Experiences & Fundamentals
Upcoming dates and times:
Saturday, September 26, 2026 • 10:00 AM–12:00 PM
Saturday, October 24,2026 • 1:00 PM–3:00 PM
WHO THIS IS FOR:
This course is designed for students who want to experience different types of shotguns before deciding what platform, shooting sport, or training path is right for them.
You’re a good fit if you:
-
Are new to shotguns and want a structured introduction
-
Want to experience pump-action, semi-automatic, and over-under shotguns
-
Are interested in recreational or clay shooting
-
Want to better understand defensive shotgun applications
-
Are considering a shotgun for hunting, sport, or home-defense use
-
Want hands-on experience before purchasing your first shotgun
No previous shotgun experience is required. Students must be able to safely follow instructor directions and range safety rules.
WHY THIS MATTERS:
Not all shotguns handle, operate, or feel the same.
A pump-action shotgun may be simple and versatile, while a semi-automatic shotgun can provide faster follow-up shots and reduced felt recoil. An over-under shotgun offers an entirely different shooting experience and is commonly seen in clay shooting and hunting.
For a new shooter, it can be difficult to know which platform makes sense without actually using them.
Shotgun 101 gives you the opportunity to experience multiple shotgun systems in one structured class while learning the fundamentals behind each platform.
The goal is not simply to fire different guns—it is to help you understand how each shotgun works, what it is commonly used for, and which direction you may want to explore next.
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN:
This course introduces the fundamentals of shotgun shooting while allowing students to experience several common shotgun platforms.
During training, you’ll learn about:
-
Pump-action shotguns
-
Semi-automatic shotguns
-
Over-under shotguns
-
Basic shotgun safety and handling
-
Proper mounting and shooting position
-
Recoil management fundamentals
-
Basic loading and unloading procedures
-
Shotgun patterning and ammunition concepts
-
Recreational and clay-shooting fundamentals
-
Defensive shotgun concepts
-
Hunting-style shooting applications
By the end of class, you’ll understand the differences between shotgun platforms and have the skills to safely rent and practice with a shotgun on your own at ranges that offer rentals.
HOW THE TRAINING WORKS:
This is a structured 2-hour hands-on shotgun experience designed to introduce students to multiple platforms without overwhelming them with advanced techniques.
Training begins with safety, operation, and basic shotgun handling.
Students will then rotate through different shotgun platforms while receiving instructor guidance on:
-
Proper stance and mounting
-
Safe loading and unloading
-
Recoil management
-
Sight picture and target focus
-
Basic target engagement
-
Differences between shotgun operating systems
Depending on the training location and class setup, students may also experience basic clay-target shooting or other introductory shotgun drills.
The focus is on safe exposure, practical understanding, and helping you discover what type of shotgun shooting interests you most.
WHAT MAKES THIS COURSE DIFFERENT:
Many new shooters purchase a shotgun before they really understand the differences between platforms.
Shotgun 101 lets you experience several major shotgun systems before deciding what direction you want to pursue.
Instead of learning about them only through videos, reviews, or specifications, you will be able to handle and shoot different platforms under instructor supervision.
This makes it easier to understand:
-
Which shotgun feels most comfortable
-
Which operating system you prefer
-
How recoil differs between platforms
-
What type of shotgun fits your intended purpose
-
Whether you are more interested in clay shooting, hunting, recreational shooting, or defensive training
Think of this course as an introduction to the shotgun world—and a starting point for deciding what you want to learn next.
COURSE DETAILS:
Duration: 2 hours
Format: Small-group, hands-on shotgun training
Experience Level: Beginner-friendly
Previous Shotgun Experience: Not required
Training Location varies by class date:
-
Coyote Valley Sporting Clays – Morgan Hill
-
Other approved training locations may be used depending on the class
Range fees: $15-30
Please check your confirmation email after booking for your exact training location, equipment requirements, and class details.
EQUIPMENT & PRICING:
Shotgun Experience Package — $240
Course equipment may include:
-
Pump-action shotgun
-
Semi-automatic shotgun
-
Over-under shotgun
-
Required ammunition
-
Eye protection
-
Hearing protection
-
Targets / clay targets
-
Instructor supervision
Students who already own a shotgun may contact us before registering if they would like to bring their own equipment.
Additional ammunition may be available for purchase depending on the training location.
READY TO EXPERIENCE SHOTGUN SHOOTING?
Experience different shotgun platforms, learn how they work, and discover whether sporting clays, hunting, recreational, or defensive shotgun training is right for you.
Start with experience. Train with confidence.