Definition
Drift in clay shooting refers to the sideways movement of either a clay target or a shot pattern caused by wind. It is an external factor that shooters must account for when aiming and leading a target.
Further Explanations
Drift occurs because wind pushes objects in flight off their intended path. In clay shooting, it can affect both the clay and the pellets, making accuracy more challenging.
Types of drift in clay shooting:
-
Clay drift: When a strong crosswind alters the clay’s intended trajectory
-
Pellet drift: When the shot pattern shifts sideways in the air before reaching the target
Shooters learn to “read the wind” and adjust their lead or point of aim to compensate for drift, a skill especially important in outdoor sporting clays.
Nordic Clays’ clay pigeon throwers let shooters train in real outdoor conditions where drift naturally occurs. By pairing the TrapMaster with our biodegradable clay pigeons, you can practice sustainable shooting while mastering how to adjust for wind and maintain accuracy.