At 40 yards you need to get out in front of them more than a foot. 4 or 5 feet would be better. 40 yards is about the max range you want to be shooting ducks at to begin with. I would suggest letting the birds work closer, giving you a better chance at killing them. You also need to make sure you are following through with your shot. Swing through the bird and don' t stop after you fire...keep swinging. You will be suprised at how much this will help. Good luck!

YLM