I try to keep the gray squirrels away from my apple tree, using my air rifle. But I try to get within 6 yards :wink:
I also go to the desert and practice off-hand with my rifles, shooting paper plates at various distances, as well as rocks, etc.
The gophers are about gone for the summer, but they are good practice in the spring, with a .22.
But, I need to spend a bit more time doing that all important "pre-season scouting"......