Clay Pigeons

Clay pigeons, also known as clay targets or simply clays, are breakable discs thrown into the air as targets in various shooting sports, including trap, skeet, and sporting clays. These targets are typically made of a brittle mixture of pitch and pulverized limestone or chalk, although other biodegradable materials are increasingly used.

The primary purpose of clay pigeons is to simulate the flight of birds or other game animals for hunting practice or competitive shooting. Their relatively low cost and ease of production and use have made them a popular alternative to live pigeon shooting, which was historically practiced but is now widely considered inhumane.

Clay pigeons come in different sizes and shapes, each designed to behave differently in flight and to present varying levels of difficulty for shooters. Standard clay pigeons are disc-shaped with a raised center. Variations include mini clays, midi clays, battues (which fly flat and then dip), and rabbit clays (designed to roll along the ground). The colors of clay pigeons also vary, with common colors being black, orange, and white, to provide good visibility against different backgrounds.

The targets are launched into the air by machines called traps or launchers. These machines can be manually operated or automated, and they can be set to launch the clays at varying speeds, angles, and trajectories. Different shooting disciplines employ different trap setups and target presentations.

The use of clay pigeons has significantly contributed to the development and popularity of shooting sports worldwide. They offer a safe, consistent, and challenging target for both recreational and competitive shooters.