Shooting
 

I was just wondering how people shoot, if the lead the bird and or swing with the bird. I think it helps to swing with the bird. Any comments?

RE: Shooting
 

Depends on the type of bird and the situation. While pheasant hunting I'll usally swing with the bird before shooting. If they go up near some cover like bushes or trees I may need to take a snap shot. On birds like quail that may go up in a large group. I may take several snap shots.

RE: Shooting
 

The birds I kill I see fall before I shoot. ZEN shooting. Some of the best shots from years ago gained their skill on live birds. Alot of ducks taught some boys how to shoot real well back in the early 20th century. The best shots would never admit their secret but much speculation focused the primary reason for their prowess was the sustained lead.[SWING AHEAD OF] Now apply this logic to what you are after. Flushed pheasants can be lead if they give you a nice crossing shot, FOLLOW THROUGH. Pointed birds are often flying away from you if you approach at the rear of the dog. Maybe that's a snapshot but I don't like the word snap. How about thinking about these as a foul shot, square up concentrate on the shot. Pick one bird if many jump. I aim for the front of the ring if they quarter away on their departure.

RE: Shooting
 

On quick close shots I am a swing through shooter .
On long shots I use the maintained lead method.
It dosn't hurt that I shoot thousands of rnd every year at trap , skeet and sporting clays.
The several hunderd black birds I shoot every year help also