The pointer was facing me, and I could see that he was locked up tighter than a tick. His head was high, his tail set was ramrod straight, and there was no question there was a covey of quail under his nose. The birds were between him and me, and since it was my turn to flush, and I whistled my pals on either side to get ready. When the big covey erupted, several on the edge flew straight away from my pal. He missed with both barrels.

Also See: Position is the Key to Upland Bird Hunting

Sure I gave him grief, what are friends for? Missing is part of bird hunting, but after a string of blown opportunities frustrations can run high. Here are six of the top reasons we miss birds that we should have killed.

1. Shooting a shotgun like a rifle

It’s common among hunters who pull double duty on big game and birds, especially when seasons overlap. Confidence comes from looking at the front bead and matching it up with your eye, but it’s a rifle shooting technique. Shotgunners who study the front bead focus their vision on the sight instead of the flying target. Concentration on the bird is most important, so shift your eyes further ahead than the end of your muzzle.

2. Head lift

My buddy who missed the quail is an excellent shot. But a straight going away with no cover made him think the shot was a gimme. He wanted to get a better view of the bird folding up so he could mark where it landed. Yet in doing so, he lifted his head off the stock. The bird was rising, his muzzle was dropping, and his shot string went under the bird. Keep your cheek on the stock and lift it after you’re done shooting.

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