While every shotgunner has 180˚ of swing, it’s worth noting that not all of it is good. On the extreme ends of a shooters swing, back tension has a pronounced effect on how the barrel travels. As muscles in the lower back flex to accommodate movement, they force the barrel downward in a twisting motion.The result is often called a “rainbow swing.” For this reason, it is important to identify the “sweet spot” of your swing and preposition yourself so that you’ll be breaking the clay within that “sweet spot.”

Good shooting form is every bit as important as equipment modifications in managing recoil. Good form includes proper foot and body position relative to the breakpoint; a slight forward lean placing most of your body weight on your forward foot; and keeping your cheek tight to the stock until you see the target break. Hand placement and the amount of grip also play an important role in recoil management.