No you don’t have to join a club. If you are fortunate to have access to large enough area of private land to which there is no public access, there is nothing preventing you from buying some equipment and practicing by yourself, however there are a few disadvantages to this.

You will learn at these sessions how important the safety aspect is. Club shooting is carried out in strictly controlled areas, with other members keeping look out for potential problems. As a result, the club is covered by a civil liability insurance policy that comes with affiliation to the G.N.A.S. By adopting their codes of practice, the sport has a safe reputation and considers liability claims in the event of an accident. If you were to be involved in an incident without insurance, you would be personally liable for all damages brought against you, even on private land.

Apart from the legal stuff, shooting by yourself tends to lose the element of challenge (unless you are very self disciplined) and you also find that if problems develop with your technique, it is difficult to sort yourself out. The club environment allows you to join in with like minded people and to use the coach’s experience to develop your skill. The G.N.A.S networks clubs at county and national level, with lots of competitions to enter, both large and small. They are all organised by clubs, like us and conducted in the spirit of the game, with no shortage of ambitious contenders.

On the other hand, there is no pressure within the club to compete, so you can enjoy the sport at you own pace, knowing that support is nearby, should you need it.

All clubs are run by ordinary folk, keen on the sport. By supporting each other, every member keeps the organisation running for each others benefit, which means access to safe shooting areas and equipment; something difficult for an individual to do on their own.