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What is Olympic Trench?

This international discipline requires a complex range where 15 traps are set-up in a trench. The 15 traps are made up of 5 trios each trio shoots a target through the centre, to the left, and to the right. However, the difference in horizontal and vertical angles differ immensely. Combining this with the random speed makes the most difficult discipline to shoot and one that gives immense satisfaction if many targets are broken. Each trio is situated in front of a firing position and each shooter gets one clay at a time in an uncertain order. A computer system controls the direction on the targets so each shooter receives the same amount of left, right and centre targets as their competitors.

How is Olympic Trench Shot?

Each trio will fire 5 targets that competitors will shoot from each position, the shooters will move to the next firing position to the right after each of these 5 targets. Targets should be called from the mounted position and the shooter has both barrels to break the target, unlike other disciplines.

How is Olympic Trench Scored?

As other disciplines a tally of broken targets is recorded. Some competitions have 4 round consisting of a total of 100 targets. However the winner isn't determined at the end of this. The shooters with the top five scores take place in a 25 target shoot off which decides the winner.

What is the best gun to use for Olympic Trench?

The only suitable gun for this discipline is a trap with tight choking set-up. The choking should be set less than 3/4 to allow for the use of a necessary 24gr. cartridge.

What is the best cartridge to use?

Basically there is only one cartridge to use, a trap 24 gr. high performance cartridge used with a plastic wad. Size must either be a 7 or 7 1/2.

A shooting tip for Olympic Trench

Even though the average target speed is much higher than other disciplines, there is no need to panic. Keeping a cool mind will still give you enough time to get two clear shots in. Rushing your shots will only make matters worse.

A safety tip for Olympic Trench

Use the best ear defenders you have while either competing or spectating on this event. The roof acts as an amplifier and the noise is much louder than in the comforts of open space.

A beginners average rating

If you can obtain a score of over 50% you have done extremely well on this toughest of all disciplines.

An experts average rating

95% and above could see you as a potential World Champion.

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