Shotgun at the Massachusetts Rifle Association (MRA)

Note: At the MRA, we only shot steel shot. Led shotgun ammunition is strictly prohibited.

The Shotgun Committee at the MRA is a dedicated group of experienced shotgun enthusiasts, all of whom are volunteers, and who have come together to provide valuable training and support to individuals interested in shotgun shooting sports. The Shotgun Committee is led by Carl Kriger, MRA Board of Director, Range Safety Officer (RSO) and Shotgun Committee Chair and includes four Range Safety Officers. The entire Shotgun Community is a vibrant and integral part of the MRA and is open to both MRA members and non-members. All shooters of all skill levels are welcome and encouraged to join in the fun.

Our mission is to grow the sport of shotgun shooting by providing a safe and controlled environment for individuals to practice and enjoy the sport. The MRA shotgun community prioritizes safety, education, and sportsmanship while promoting responsible firearm use.

The MRA shotgun fields consist of two ranges – the Iannuzzi Trap Range and the Iannuzzi Clays Range. The trap range includes two trap houses and two clay throwing machines that hold over five hundred clays each. We use White Flyer clays of various sizes, colors and format as needed to work with four different types of throwers. All told, we have ten (10) distinct clay throwing machines – the two trap machines and eight throwers for five-stand. The Iannuzzi Clays Range includes five shooting stands suitable for Sporting Clay Five-Stand as well a convenient observation deck to get to know your fellow shooters and share tips and techniques while waiting to shoot another round.

We typically shoot Five-Stand Sporting Clays on Sundays and shoot American Trap Single-House on Wednesdays. Sunday's and Wednesday tend to have eight to fifteen shooters, and often have well over twenty shooters. We mix things up on Fridays based on the number of shooters and the weather. Don’t worry about losing daylight on Wednesdays and Fridays because we have some powerful lights we turn on as needed. Shooting under the lights is quite a lot of fun and in many cases, the clays are easier to see than with day light.

Special Events

• We also hold several special and very fun shotgun events throughout the year. These events include delicious and free breakfast and lunch, as well as friendly competitive shotgun shooting matches with many prizes such as Free games, t-shirts and gift certificates handed out to the winners. Once again, all these shotgun events are also open to both MRA members and non-members.

Primary Objectives of the MRA Shotgun Community

1. Introduction to Shotgun Sports: Regardless of skill or experience level, anyone can receive hands-on instruction from MRA RSO’s covering the basics of shotgun shooting, safety protocols, and firearm handling.
2. Education and Training: We provide ample opportunity to train your shooting skills while also provide access to other shotgun shooters to openly discuss and learn from each other on all things Shotgun.
3. Community Building: Foster a supportive and inclusive community of shotgun enthusiasts who can share their knowledge and passion for the sport.
4. Safety Advocacy: Emphasize and enforce strict safety measures and practices to ensure a safe shooting environment for all participants.
5. Coaching and Mentoring: Experienced shooters within the committee often provide one-on-one coaching and mentoring to help members refine their skills.

Primary Benefits of Joining the MRA Shotgun Community

1. Skills Development: Members of the MRA Shotgun Community have access to learning and coaching from other experienced shooters and the MRA Shotgun RSO's, enabling yourself to improve your shotgun shooting skills, regardless of skill or experience level.
2. Networking Opportunities: By joining the committee, participants can connect with like-minded individuals who share their passion for shotgun sports. This network can be a valuable resource for learning, sharing tips, and forming lasting friendships.
3. Access to Great Facilities: Shotgun shooters enjoy access to convenient and proper shotgun range facilities, which include two trap fields and a challenging sporting clays course.
4. Discounts and Special Events: The price Committee members often benefit from discounts on range fees, ammunition, and equipment purchases. They also have exclusive access to special events and competitions hosted by the committee.

Value of Attending MRA Shotgun Committee Activities

1. Safety First: As all safety policies and best practices are strictly enforced, attendees will gain a deep understanding of safety practices, ensuring that they can enjoy shotgun sports responsibly and without risks.
2. Skill Progression: Whether you're a novice or an experienced shooter, you'll have access to training, learning, and mentoring that can help you improve and reach your shooting goals.
3. Community Engagement: Being part of the committee provides a sense of belonging to a supportive community of individuals who are passionate about shotgun sports.
4. Cost Savings: The MRA is one of the best deals that exists!With the number of MRA ranges and events compared to the membership fee, the value ratio is off the charts. And, even if you’re not an MRA member, you’ll be able to join shotgun making the sport more accessible and affordable.

To sum this all up, the MRA Shotgun Committee is a welcoming, educational, and fun resource for shotgun enthusiasts of all levels that offers tremendous value and provides a sense of comradery for those interested in shotgun sports. We encourage everyone to come join us and experience the joys of shotgun shooting while honing your skills in a safe and supportive environment.