In my opinion, shooting at any type of clay birds doesn't even come close to the real thing. All it is, is better handling practice. It is good for a novice, but as proven, the best clay shooters miss the real thing as much as we do.
I must disagree and ask how it is proven.
My opinion may be tainted by the fact that at one time in my life I was able to shoot lots of live birds but now the only time I get to shoot live birds is when hunting and that, barring a good quail year is probably around 200. Not enough to develop any skill.
Besides, we all need the handling practice.
