Buddy, French friend, shot (5)
I believe the answer is:
amigo
'buddy' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)
'french friend shot' is the wordplay.
'french friend' becomes 'ami' (I've seen this in another clue).
'shot' becomes 'go' (both can mean an attempt).
'ami'+'go'='AMIGO'
(Other definitions for amigo that I've seen before include "Spanish word meaning friend" , "Friend in Spanish-speaking areas" , "A Spanish pal" , "friend abroad" , "China (in Spain's view)" .)