Stand and deliver

A good stance provides the platform for shotgun marksmanship and is fundamental to consistent success in the field or breaking clays

- Michael Yardley

STANCE is, quite literally, the foundation of sound technique. When you watch a line shooting, it is usually immediately apparent that some are standing well: in balance, stable and erect, with feet suitably spaced. There is a demeanour of calm control. Good weight distribution allows guns to be handled effectively and provided with adequate power. Balance is maintained throughout the swing. Barrels are kept on line without undue effort. They are encouraged to push through/in front of the bird without excess body tension. The muzzles may be pointed and the front arm lifted well. Recoil is absorbed comfortably. There's no tendency to be knocked off balance as the gun accelerates rearwards. Typically, centre of gravity is slightly forward during shooting and follow-through, although there may be deliberate exceptions.

As you may observe some who naturally stand well, you may also notice some standing awkwardly, inefficiently, inelegantly poor form', as it used to be called. The 'awkward squad' may appear to be uncomfortable and out of balance, especially at the moment of firing. They may appear overly tense, putting in too much muscular effort, or over-relaxed - even lazy. Their weight may be too far forward, with excessive frontal lean, or too far back (initially or as the swing progresses). Knees may be over-bent, bottoms may be stuck out, there may be too much bending forward from the waist as noted. Feet may be too wide or otherwise poorly positioned.