For clay target shooters, selecting the right shotgun is paramount. The high rib trap gun stands out as a popular choice, offering distinct advantages for this demanding discipline. This comprehensive guide delves into the intricacies of high rib trap guns, exploring their design, benefits, and how to choose the perfect one for your needs.
Understanding the High Rib Design
The defining feature of a high rib trap gun is, as the name suggests, its elevated rib. This rib, running the length of the barrel, sits significantly higher than on standard field guns. This higher profile offers several key benefits specifically tailored to trap shooting.
Enhanced Sight Picture & Target Acquisition
The elevated rib provides a clearer sight picture, allowing shooters to maintain a more consistent and natural head position. This is crucial in trap shooting, where swift target acquisition is essential. The high rib helps align the shooter's eye, bead (or other sight), and the target more effectively, promoting accuracy and reducing the likelihood of errors.
Improved Balance and Swing
The design often incorporates a higher point of balance, contributing to a smoother, more controlled swing. This improved balance facilitates a natural, fluid movement across the target, enabling quicker target acquisition and follow-through. The weight distribution is often carefully engineered to complement the high rib, optimizing the gun's handling characteristics.
Reduced Barrel Drop
High rib shotguns often feature a slightly reduced barrel drop, further enhancing the sight picture and facilitating consistent shooting. This subtle design feature complements the higher rib, creating a more comfortable and efficient shooting experience.
Choosing the Right High Rib Trap Gun: Key Considerations
Selecting the right high rib trap gun involves careful consideration of several factors. The right gun should become an extension of your body, enhancing your natural shooting abilities.
1. Gauge: Finding the Right Fit
Gauge refers to the diameter of the shotgun barrel, influencing the weight, recoil, and shot capacity. 12-gauge is the most common choice for trap shooting, offering a good balance of power and versatility. However, 20-gauge and 28-gauge options are available for those preferring a lighter recoil experience.
2. Stock Dimensions: A Personalized Approach
The stock's dimensions are critical for a comfortable and effective shooting posture. Proper length of pull, drop at comb, and cast are crucial to align the gun with your body's natural point of aim. Improper stock dimensions can lead to discomfort and inconsistent shooting.
3. Barrel Length & Choke Tubes: Optimizing Performance
Barrel length typically ranges from 30 to 34 inches in high rib trap guns. Longer barrels generally offer increased accuracy, but also add to the overall weight. Interchangeable choke tubes allow customization of the shot pattern, enabling fine-tuning for varying conditions and distances. Fixed choke options are also available.
4. Weight and Balance: Finding Your Equilibrium
The weight and balance of a high rib trap gun directly affect its swing and handling. Finding the right equilibrium is crucial. Too light, and the gun might feel jumpy; too heavy, and it could tire the shooter.
5. Budget: Setting Realistic Expectations
High-quality high rib trap guns can range significantly in price. It’s essential to set a realistic budget beforehand, weighing the cost against the features and quality you require.
Conclusion: Mastering the Art of Trap Shooting
The high rib trap gun is an indispensable tool for serious clay target shooters. Its unique design enhancements—from the enhanced sight picture to the improved balance—contribute significantly to improved accuracy and overall shooting performance. By carefully considering the key factors outlined above, you can select the ideal high rib trap gun to elevate your game and achieve greater success in this challenging and rewarding sport. Remember to visit a reputable firearms dealer to test different models and find the perfect fit for your unique shooting style.
