At Etowah Valley Sporting Clays (EVSC) in Dawsonville, Georgia, we’re passionate about helping guests of all skill levels enjoy a fun, rewarding day on the course. If you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned pro working toward your next competition, one thing always comes first: safety.
Before the first clay target is launched, it’s important to talk about protecting two things that are essential for every visit: your hearing and your eyesight. Let’s break down why safety gear is a must at EVSC, and how the right equipment helps ensure an enjoyable, worry-free day.
Why Ear and Eye Protection Matter on the Clay Course
Protecting Your Hearing
It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of breaking clays. But the sound of each round fired is no small thing. Shotguns used in sporting clays, skeet, trap, and 5-stand can generate noise levels over 140 decibels, louder than a jet engine at takeoff.
Without proper hearing protection, just a single unprotected round could result in permanent hearing loss or tinnitus (that persistent ringing in the ears). When you’re out on the course, ear protection isn’t optional, it’s essential.
Protecting Your Vision
Sporting clays is a fast-paced sport. As clays shatter mid-air, tiny fragments can fly back toward the shooter or nearby guests. A stray piece could cause serious eye injury if you’re not wearing protective glasses.
At EVSC, we require eye protection at all times on the course. Safety glasses shield your eyes from debris, dust, and glare, helping you stay focused on your target while protecting your vision.
Choosing the Right Safety Gear: Earmuffs or Earplugs?
When it comes to hearing protection, both earplugs and earmuffs are solid options.
✅ Earmuffs: Many of our beginners prefer earmuffs because they’re easy to put on and provide consistent protection across a wide range of noise levels.
✅ Earplugs: Compact and convenient, earplugs fit snugly in the ear canal. They’re a great choice if you’re wearing a hat or other headgear.
No matter which you choose, the key is comfort and a proper fit. You want gear you’ll wear consistently throughout your time on the course.
Glasses for All Conditions | The right eyewear does more than protect, it helps you see better.
👉 Clear lenses are great for overcast days.
👉 Yellow lenses enhance contrast and help spot clays against green backdrops.
👉 Tinted lenses reduce glare on bright, sunny days.
We encourage all guests to select lenses that work best for the day’s conditions to ensure maximum visibility while staying protected.
Safety Doesn’t Stop at Ear and Eye Protection
Knowing your shotgun shells is important! For sporting clays, the right ammunition is just as important as the right safety gear.
- 🎯 Target loads only. At EVSC, we require target loads with shot sizes 7.5, 8, or 9 for all clay sports. These shot sizes provide the ideal spread and pellet count for breaking clays safely.
- 🚫 No game loads, Lower-numbered shot sizes (6, 5, 4, 3, 2) are designed for hunting larger game and are not allowed on our clay courses.
This policy helps protect the course, equipment, and most importantly, our guests.
Firearm Policy at EVSC
While we proudly support responsible gun ownership and use, please remember:
- 👉 Rifles and pistols are not permitted at Etowah Valley Sporting Clays.
- 👉 We focus exclusively on shotgun sports, offering a safe and welcoming environment for all.
If you’re in the market for a shotgun, our team is happy to assist. We offer gun sales and consignment guns, with staff available to help you select a firearm that fits your needs and experience level. We can also provide guidance on gear like shell pouches, shooting vests, and more. Please note that consignment guns are for final sale.
Respect the Course, Respect the Community
When you visit EVSC, you’re part of a community that values safety, sportsmanship, and fun. Here are a few friendly reminders to help keep our course the best in North Georgia:
✔️ Always wear eye and ear protection on the course.
✔️ Be respectful of the lodge, course, and fellow guests, leave the space as beautiful as you found it.
✔️ Have questions? Our helpful team members are here to assist with safety, gear selection, rentals, and more.
Ready to Gear Up and Break Some Clays?
We invite you to experience everything EVSC has to offer, from beginner-friendly lessons and group outings to tournaments and corporate events. Safety gear is your first step toward confidence on the course, and our team is ready to help you choose the equipment that fits your needs.
- 👉 Visit our Rules and Regulations page for more details on gear requirements, course policies, and friendly tips for your visit.
- 👉 Have questions or want to book a lesson? Call us at (706) 265-1611 or stop by to chat with our staff.
Let’s make your next visit safe, fun, and unforgettable. See you on the course!
