NaSHA's Shooting Horse Schools
In-Person, Structured Learning for Riders and Shooting Horses
All clinics conducted in accordance with NaSHA Safety, Welfare, and Instructional Standards issued by the National Shooting Horse Association.
National Shooting Horse Association®
Shooting Horse School Reviews
We've met some truly amazing horses and people in this sport, here's a few snippets of what they had to say.
Monica H.
“As a beginner and not confident with shooting, they made me feel welcomed with open arms. Everything was informative, friendly, and truthful. I learned so much and it’s helped me with my horses a lot. Highly recommend attending a clinic — even just to watch.”
Sarah S.
“This is where my family got hooked. I learned everything from horsemanship to gun-breaking a horse and how to navigate a pattern. Gun safety was a big part of the class, which I really appreciated. Highly recommend.”
Sara H.
“One of the best clinics I’ve ever been to. Laura, Travis, and Katie are knowledgeable, kind, and so helpful in getting your horse comfortable and confident with shooting. I’d absolutely do another and recommend them to anyone.”
National Shooting Horse Association
Shooting Horse Training Manual
The first and only horse-first training manual written specifically for the shooting horse discipline.
This step-by-step framework is designed to help riders build confident, competitive shooting horses — and avoid the common mistakes that derail good horses before they ever reach the arena.
Public Preview (Free): Download a short excerpt to see the tone, framework, and weekly practice template.
Full Manual: Digital book included with NaSHA membership or Shooting Horse School registration (option to purchase hard copy)
NaSHA's Arena Side Training Guide
A practical, arena-ready reference developed by NaSHA to support competitive shooting horse training. This guide reflects NaSHA’s Rider Progression framework and competitive training philosophy. It was developed as a working arena reference for riders and instructors and is shared freely to support clarity, consistency, and long-term success in the sport.
No sign-up required. No strings attached. Use it, share it, and put it to work.
National Shooting Horse Association
Shooting Horse Schools FAQs
Interested in the shooting horse discipline? That's what we're here for!
What makes NaSHA schools different?
We’re not here to impress you — we’re here to empower you.
Every clinic follows NaSHA’s Shooting Horse Standard, built on the Four C’s: Cadence, Confidence, Collection, and Control. That means clear communication, measurable progress, and a horse that leaves the arena better than it entered.
You’ll leave with more than skill — you’ll leave with a plan.
What do I need to bring to each shooting horse school?
Each school level builds on the last, and so do the requirements:
1 Gun: Just bring your horse and a willingness to learn. We focus on foundation work, communication, and introducing your horse to the sport safely — no firearms or gear needed.
2 Gun: You’ll need your guns and holsters, but if you’re still getting set up, we’ll have limited equipment available for use.
3 Gun: You’ll need your guns and holsters — this level assumes both you and your horse are comfortable and ready for full shooting horse practice, including rifle and shotgun work when offered.
How do your Shooting Horse Schools fit in with the Rider Progression?
Shooting Horse Schools reinforce NaSHA’s Rider Progression framework by developing the Four Core Elements—Cadence, Confidence, Collection, and Control—in a competitive context. Riders leave with a clearer understanding of what is working, what needs refinement, and how to train more effectively between events. The emphasis is on readiness rather than rushing, so that increased speed and precision are sustainable.
How long is a NaSHA Shooting Horse School?
Most NaSHA clinics are designed as one or two-day programs, depending on location and level. Each day combines hands-on instruction, and mounted sessions focused on the four C's.
Can my horse attend if they've never been around gunfire?
Absolutely, those are the majority of our 1 gun participants. In fact, that’s where we specialize. NaSHA’s step-by-step approach has a 100% success rate helping riders safely introduce their horses to the shooting environment — no rushing, no stress, just progress.
Is a Shooting Horse School right for me?
Shooting Horse Schools are appropriate for riders and horses preparing for shooting horse competitions who want to improve speed and accuracy responsibly. They are well suited for those who benefit from clear instruction, structured progression, and a performance-focused learning environment. Riders unsure of which school is appropriate are encouraged to consult with instructors or hosts to ensure the best fit.
I'm nervous about how my horse will react, but I really want to do this, HELP!
That’s exactly who we’re here for.
NaSHA clinics are known for helping horses build calm, honest confidence through structure and patience — never force. Many of our participants start the weekend unsure and end it shooting safely, comfortably, and even smiling through the smoke.
How do I sign up, & what if there's no clinic in my area?
Find an upcoming Shooting Horse School near you at https://shootinghorse.com/store/ Spots fill quickly — we keep groups small to focus on quality, not quantity.
Can't find a clinic in your area? Email us directly at info@shootinghorse.com to let us know if you're interested, and we'll see what we can put together, we're always taking requests!