Three-millimetre shot can down a small drone and save lives – Finnish reservists train in Sastamala

Finnish reservists are training to counter small drones using shotguns in Sastamala, southwest Finland, after recent drone incursions sparked national discussion, reports Yle.

The exercise, organised by the Vammala Reservists, simulates drone threats with fast-moving clay discs fired into the sky. About 20 local reservists participated, testing their ability to hit airborne targets with shotguns—a method the Finnish Defence Forces consider a last-resort option against small drones.

Early results show the task is far from simple. “We got a few hits, but many missed,” said Mika Salovaara, vice chair of the Vammala Reservists. “Most of the group haven’t shot moving clay targets with shotguns before, so it’s quite difficult at first.”

The idea for the training emerged before the recent drone incidents in Finland, when experienced shooters at a hunting association competition questioned whether shotguns could be used to down drones. Similar exercises have since been held across the country.

Expertise in demand, but warnings issued

Teemu Lyytikäinen, the lead instructor, hopes the drills will attract new reservists, particularly hunters skilled in bird shooting or competitive clay target sports. “They have excellent skills. We hope this group also finds an interest in national defence and sees how they could contribute in specialised tasks like this.”

However, both Lyytikäinen and Salovaara stress that civilians must not attempt to shoot down drones on their own, even if they own a shotgun. The training is strictly for wartime scenarios, and improper handling—especially with explosive-laden drones—poses serious risks. “A private individual should never shoot at a drone, even if it comes very close,” Lyytikäinen warned. Stray shots or potential explosions could endanger bystanders, Salovaara added.

The Ukrainian drones that recently entered Finnish airspace are too large for shotgun countermeasures, Lyytikäinen noted. Such cases remain the responsibility of the air force and authorities.

Shotguns prove effective against small drones

While traditionally seen as a hunting weapon, the shotgun has become a practical tool for countering low-altitude drone threats. A single shot releases 40–50 grams of pellets, spreading roughly a metre wide upon impact. “Drones are full of sensitive small parts and electronics,” Lyytikäinen explained. “A three-millimetre pellet hit can disable control systems or even cause the drone to explode.”

Salovaara reported growing interest among younger reservists eager to apply their skills post-military service. The training, though experimental, underscores the evolving tactics in modern airborne threat response.