Captain Peter Meager (REME) told Soldier an increasing number of troops were taking up shotguns and finding the weapon both fun and rewarding.

Now the boss of the Army Clay Target Shooting Team is urging others to follow suit, adding that a number of units have already been expressing an interest in promoting the discipline for leisure and to hone their dronedowning skills.

“Taking up clay target shooting will add to a soldier’s skill set and I would always encourage anybody to come and try the sport,” the officer said. “Often people find it is not what they are expecting and, with coaching, discover they are far better than they thought.”

Captain Meager was speaking as 1st Battalion, The Royal Anglian Regiment became the latest outfit to set up a range at its base in Kendrew Barracks, Rutland (page 34). Commanders report that around 15 personnel are regularly turning out for shooting sessions on Wednesday sports afternoons, with some real talent emerging.

Captain Meager stressed that the shotgun should be treated as “a weapon of last resort” against UAS on ops. But with the army looking at a suite of defensive capabilities, he said any opportunity to develop the skill could only bring benefits. “I’d advise anyone to give it a try – you can get in touch with me via peter.meager849@ mod.gov.uk,” he added.