NEW SHOOTER FAQ

This page will be geared toward new shooters in our geographical area, however some general information about the sport can be gained also. A lot of good information can be found at USPSA's page, scoring, divisions, equipment requirements, classifications, etc.

What is USPSA?

USPSA/IPSC is action pistol shooting. Shooters will engage targets either paper or steel with a handgun while negotiating obstacles. Courses of fire or "stages" could be simple or complex. Shooters may be required to shoot through doors or windows, under or over walls, while moving or standing at distances of 3-40 yards. Stages will be between 6-32 rounds each and a sanctioned weekend match will have 4-6 stages.

What, When, Where.....and How much?

The match calendar lists our events. The Friday night matches start about 6:30 pm and we are done around 8:30. Sat/Sun matches start at 9:30 or 10:00 am and are done between 1:00 and 3:00 pm depending on which range and how many shooters show up. The Friday matches are under 50 rounds (I bring 100) and Sat/Sun matches are usually under 150 rounds (I bring 200). Friday night matches are $8 for non-members (first time out is FREE). Sat/Sun matches are $15.

Do I have to join the club before coming to a match?

You do not need to be a member of anything to participate in a match. If you get more involved in the sport you will probably want to join USPSA to get a classification and other benefits and you may want to join one or all of the local clubs as they offer discounts to members, but no membership is required. You are welcome at any match, the Friday night match is shorter, less rounds and maybe a bit more laid back. Plus there is a clubhouse on the range we go afterwards for a coke or beer and talk about how great we are :) Often someone videos the match and shows it in the clubhouse also. But, like I said you are welcome at any match for your first time out, so if Friday doesn't fit your schedule come on out on Sat or Sun.

Ok, I'm coming to the match. What do I do when I get there? 

When you arrive at the range, leave your gun and gear in the car. All ranges are "cold" ranges meaning no loaded guns other than under the direct supervision of the range officer prior to shooting the stage and no handling of guns unless in a dedicated "safe" area. So when you arrive ask around for the match director or just ask one of the other shooters and they will point you in the right direction. We will give you a safety brief and explain the range commands. Don't worry about trying to keep up with some of the shooters you will see. A lot of these guys and gals have been shooting the game a long time. The main goal is first to be safe, second to have a good time, and third try and hit what you're aiming at :)

What do I need to bring?

You will need a centerfire handgun .38/9mm or larger, extra magazines or speedloaders, belt, strongside holster, mag/speedloader carriers, eye and ear protection. Eye and ear protection are required for anyone on the range, so if you bring anybody with you they will need it also, whether they are shooting or not. You'll want 3-5 mags depending on capacity. Most folks carry 40-50 rounds minimum up to 70. So if you're shooting 10 round mags that would be 4 or 5, one in the gun and 3-4 on your belt. On a 30 round stage for example it may be advantageous to do a reload in a certain spot before you've shot all the rounds out of the mag, so you are leaving behind some rounds. That plus missing some steel targets, or dropping a mag by accident and you can see why folks carry more rounds than needed. If you have any other questions on equipment, feel free to email or call me anytime. 

I don't know if I'm ready for this, what do you think?

We know this sport can be intimidating to new shooters. We were all there once. I think you will be amazed at how accommodating the people are. We are looking to grow our sport and bring in new folks. We have people from all walks of life, all ages (juniors welcome with an adult), shooting everything from a $400 glock to thousand dollar "race guns". A myth we are always trying to squash is you have to be a track star with a $3000 gun to be competitive or included. That couldn't be further from the truth. The vast majority of us couldn't run around the block without taking a break and shoot "normal" guns you can pick up at any gunstore. Plus there are different divisions depending on the type of gun you shoot and different classes depending on your ability. So you are only competing against shooters with like equipment and ability. I compare it to golf or car racing, it's a bunch of guys 'n gals with like interests getting together on the weekend and having a good time.