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Competitive shooting sports have long been a staple of both recreational and professional marksmanship, combining skill, precision, and strategy in a fast-paced and thrilling environment. For those new to the sport, the world of competitive shooting may seem overwhelming at first. However, with the right guidance, beginners can quickly gain an understanding of the sport and take the first steps toward competing. Whether you're drawn to competitive shooting for its personal challenge or for the camaraderie it offers, this beginner's handbook will provide essential information about the sport, the types of competitions, and how to get started with specialty firearms.

The Rise of Competitive Shooting

Over the past decade, competitive shooting has seen a significant increase in popularity. According to The Firearm Industry Trade Association, sport shooting has grown by 24.1% from 2009 to 2022. This growth reflects a broader cultural interest in marksmanship, driven by factors like increased recreational firearm ownership, media exposure, and improvements in firearm technology.

For those unfamiliar with competitive shooting, it may be helpful to first understand the scope of the sport. Competitive shooting encompasses various disciplines, each requiring different skill sets, types of firearms, and levels of precision. From the rapid-fire nature of action shooting to the steady hand required in long-range shooting, the diversity of the sport allows enthusiasts to find an area that suits their interests and abilities.

Types of Competitive Shooting Sports

There is an abundance of different shooting sports you can get into including:

Action Shooting
Action shooting sports like IPSC (International Practical Shooting Confederation) and USPSA (United States Practical Shooting Association) are among the most popular types of competitive shooting. In these disciplines, shooters engage in dynamic courses of fire, often with multiple targets arranged in different scenarios. Shooters must move, aim, and shoot quickly while adhering to safety protocols and course guidelines. Specialty firearms, such as pistols and carbines, are typically used in these competitions due to their speed and versatility.

Precision Rifle and Long-Range Shooting
Precision rifle competitions, like those governed by organizations such as PRS (Precision Rifle Series), focus on long-range accuracy. These events often require shooting from various positions, under differing environmental conditions (wind, rain, etc.). The rifles used in these events are often customized and designed for extreme accuracy. Specialty firearms like bolt-action rifles or precision gas guns are essential for this type of competition.

Trap and Skeet Shooting
These two disciplines fall under the broader umbrella of clay target shooting. In both trap and skeet shooting, participants use shotguns to shoot at flying clay targets. While trap shooting involves targets that are launched from a single position at varying angles, skeet shooting features targets that fly in a crossing pattern. The specialized shotguns used in these sports are highly refined to ensure accuracy and consistency, making them a type of specialty firearm.

Bullseye Shooting
This discipline, also known as precision pistol shooting, is one of the oldest forms of competitive shooting. In bullseye competitions, shooters engage targets at set distances, typically with handguns. Specialty firearms in this category are often precision-crafted pistols with tailored grips and triggers designed for maximum accuracy.

Getting Started in Competitive Shooting

As a beginner, the thought of competing may feel intimidating, but competitive shooting is a welcoming sport for people of all skill levels. Here's how to get started:

1. Choose Your Discipline

The first step is deciding which shooting discipline interests you the most. Some people enjoy the quick-paced nature of action shooting, while others might prefer the precision required in long-range rifle competitions. It's important to research each discipline and understand the types of specialty firearms used and the skills required.

2. Get the Right Gear

Competitive shooting often requires specialty firearms designed for specific types of competitions. While a standard handgun or rifle might suffice for casual shooting, competitive events demand more specialized equipment. You'll likely need a firearm that is tailored for accuracy, speed, or both.

Beyond firearms, there are other essential pieces of gear such as holsters, range bags, ammunition, eye protection, and ear protection. Many competitors also invest in specialized clothing designed to enhance performance. This might include shooting gloves, pants, or jackets designed for comfort and maneuverability.

3. Take Safety Seriously

As with all firearm-related activities, safety is paramount in competitive shooting. Before attending any competition, you should familiarize yourself with the rules and safety protocols of the sport. Many shooting organizations provide safety courses that can help new competitors learn how to handle their specialty firearms safely and effectively.

It's essential to always follow the 'three rules' of firearm safety:

• Treat all firearms as if they're loaded.
• Never point the firearm at anything you're not willing to destroy.
• Keep your finger off the trigger until you're ready to shoot.

4. Join a Club or Team

Competitive shooting can be a solitary activity, but joining a club or team can significantly enhance your experience. Shooting clubs offer resources such as training sessions, practice ranges, and access to more experienced competitors who can mentor you. These organizations also host local events and competitions, providing a perfect opportunity to test your skills.\

Some clubs focus on specific disciplines, such as bullseye shooting or 3-gun competitions, so finding the right club that aligns with your interests is crucial. The network you develop through these clubs will also help you discover the best places to purchase specialty firearms and gear.\

5. Practice, Practice, Practice

Like any sport, consistent practice is key to improving your skills in competitive shooting. You'll want to dedicate time to both dry-fire practice (practicing with your unloaded firearm) and live-fire practice. In particular, dry-fire practice can help you perfect your trigger control and target acquisition without the expense of ammunition. Additionally, practicing under different conditions—such as shooting at varying distances or shooting while moving—will better prepare you for the types of challenges you may face in a competition.

Competitive shooting offers something for everyone, whether you're interested in precision rifle shooting, the fast-paced excitement of 3-gun competitions, or the challenge of clay target shooting. With a significant increase in participation over the past decade, competitive shooting continues to grow in popularity, offering a unique and rewarding experience for all types of shooters. As you refine your skills and take on greater challenges, you'll not only improve your marksmanship but also become part of a vibrant and supportive shooting community. Connect with Guns In Stock today to see what we can offer you!