Give it a Go

Your Introduction to Target Shooting

Never tried shooting before? Our “Give it a Go” programme is the perfect way to start. For £50 (or £30 for under-18s), you get three 1-hour sessions with qualified NSRA instructors, all equipment provided, and the chance to try a different shooting discipline each session in a safe, supportive environment.

How It Works

Give it a Go is three 1-hour sessions, taken individually rather than as a fixed weekly course. You complete a Safety & Induction first (free, by appointment), then book your three Give it a Go sessions on dates that suit you. Sessions are run by NSRA-qualified instructors who guide you through your chosen discipline — try the same discipline each time to develop, or pick a different one each session to explore.

Each Session

• One hour on the range with a qualified instructor
• Choose your discipline: air pistol, prone rifle, benchrest, or another we offer
• All equipment provided — turn up in comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes
• Live fire with feedback on every shot
• Individual coaching on stance, sight alignment, breath control, and trigger control

Before your first Give it a Go session you must complete the Safety & Induction step. It’s free, takes about an hour, and covers range safety, the facility tour, range commands, and your application paperwork. See the joining steps.

After Give it a Go

After your three sessions you’ll have a real sense of whether shooting is for you and which discipline you enjoyed most. From here you can:

• Apply for probationary membership — the committee will invite you
• Take time to think — there’s no pressure

When It Runs

• Session length: 1 hour
• Number of sessions: 3
• Dates: vary — see upcoming sessions
• Location: Pinhoe Target Shooting Club, Exeter

Places are limited to ensure adequate instructor attention. Please book in advance by contacting us via our website.

Who Can Join?

• Age Requirements: Participants must be 12 years or older. Those under 18 require parental/guardian consent and supervision.
• No Experience Needed: Absolutely no prior shooting experience required. The programme is designed for complete beginners.
• Fitness Level: Most shooting positions are accessible. Please let us know if you have any physical limitations so we can accommodate you.
• All Welcome: We welcome people of all backgrounds. Shooting is an inclusive sport with opportunities for everyone.

What You’ll Learn

By the end of the Give it a Go programme, you’ll have learned:

Safety

Fundamental firearm safety rules, range protocols and commands, safe handling procedures, and emergency procedures.

Skills

Proper stance and position, sight alignment and aiming, breath control, trigger control.

Knowledge

Different shooting disciplines, equipment types and uses, how competitions work, club structure and membership.

Experience

Firing live rounds, different firearms types, achieving tight groups.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I miss a session?

Life happens! If you need to miss a session, contact us and we’ll arrange for you to make it up in the next cycle. We want everyone to complete all three sessions.

Do I need to bring anything?

Just yourself! We provide all equipment. Wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes. Eye protection is provided but you’re welcome to bring your own glasses or contacts.

Is it safe?

Absolutely. Safety is our top priority. You’ll be under direct supervision by qualified instructors at all times, and we have an excellent safety record. All activities follow strict NSRA guidelines.

What happens after the three sessions?

There’s no obligation! You can join as a member, book additional sessions, or simply enjoy the experience. We’re here to support whatever you decide.

Ready to Book?

Spaces are limited to ensure quality instruction. Every Give it a Go starts with a free Induction & Safety session — that’s where you’ll be invited to choose your three Give it a Go dates. Book your induction →