How to Use Sights on a Shotgun

Use the bead sight on your shotgun to help point the gun toward the target.

A shotgun is used for hunting, target shooting and protection. Auto loading and pump shotguns feature a bead front sight attached to the top of the barrel near the muzzle. The bead on the shotgun barrel is used as an aid to help aim the shotgun so that the fired shot strikes the target down-range. Shotguns produce a 10- to 14-inch-wide pattern of shot when fired.

Things You'll Need

• Shotgun
• Target (moving and stationary)

Instructions

1. Raise the shotgun to your shoulder. Pull the butt of the stock securely against your shoulder.

2. Point the end, or muzzle, of the shotgun barrel toward the target.

3. Close one eye and look beyond the barrel and locate the target. Focus on the target and use the bead to help keep the muzzle directed toward the target.

4. Move the shotgun muzzle slightly ahead of a moving target to allow the shot from the shell to travel and intercept a moving target.

5. Continue to track the target using the bead as a visual reference rather than a sight to help point the barrel. Use the bead as a reference to help point the shotgun as opposed to iron sights that are sighted through.

References

• America Outdoors Shooting and Hunting; Ten Tips To Better Wing & Clay Shooting; Bob Knopf