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Hi,
I have just had my second go at clay shooting (I had an hour lesson at the Oxford Gun Company, previous was just at an activity day), and I found that my left should is aching. I am right handed and right eye dominant, so the left is the forward arm.

Is this just because I am using muscles I am not used to, or would I have been doing something wrong - I am guessing it is the former as my right shoulder muscles are feeling it a bit but not feeling bruised.

Many Thanks.

Most likely your using muscles you don't normaly use. At the end of the day if your right handed most of the weight of the Gun is in your left hand.

I see it alot on the ground I work at. It makes me laugh when we have corperate events with these big burley men who then complain the gun is too heavy. And then I'm a tiny little guy who can hold it up most of the day. I'm just use to it.

You'll get use to it. Just keep shooting :)

Just my thoughts.

Enjoy
Happy shooting.

I am going to keep shooting don't worry.

So any suggestions for exercises to help build up the appropriate muscles?
I don't have an SGC or shotgun otherwise I would just work with that.

Bag of sugar in left arm and extend arm and go from waist to forehead with arm still extended ,holding at the top for 5 seconds .

Ye bag of sugar is a good idea.
Or if you don't want to risk getting sugar everywhere buy a small exercise ball and hold it out in front of you for a period of time.
Or even better go shooting more :)

You'll get use to it. It may be uncomfortable now but in a few weeks you won't notice.

Happy shooting.

You can also buy weighted wristbands that you wear as you potter about - if you don't fancy all that boring exercise routine - that soon gets old.

Thanks for all the help and suggestions. I am guessing I will end up doing a bit of the sugar/weight work and possibly invest in the wrist weights as I am not going to get the chance to shoot clays again for a month or more.

Anyone suggested a lighter gun??????? Just saying.......................

lighter gun more kick unless its an auto