It’s never easy starting something new, especially when it involves a timer and a gun. Now, most people who have an interest in competitive shooting never get to fulfill their dream simply because they believe that it is difficult.
However, if you have come here, then you are willing to do whatever it takes to get into this exciting sport. Today, I will be taking you through an in-depth look at how to get in competitive shooting.
1. Understand the sport
I am sure that you have come across those cool blogs, videos, and pictures that showcase competitive shooting as both exhilarating and fun. However, note that the sport is rather addictive and quite challenging.
Within a short period, you will get hooked to the sport. Soon enough, you will realize that you want to spend most of your time at these competitions. The good news is that you get to learn how to operate a firearm and improve your shooting skills.
Now, competitive gun games are quite many, as you will come to realize. You need to carry out extensive research on competitive shooting before you think about signing up. Learning the different games will help you decide which type interests you more.
You will have to pick between the pistol, rifle, and shotgun competitions. You have to choose a category that best suits your individual preference. When you picture yourself in a shooting competition, which type of gun are you holding?
2. Finding where to shoot
Figuring out where competitive shooting matches are taking place is rather simple. All you need is internet access on your smartphone or computer. Search for indoor or outdoor ranges close to you that offer the sport.
A simple Google search will help you find where to shoot quickly, thereby saving you a lot of time. You may also consider looking up accredited shooting organizations and match-centric sites. The social media sites should also help you identify where matches are taking place.
Once you find a location, the next step is building relationships. The shooting community is filled with people who are willing to help you on your journey. Understand that we all started as rookies at one point. Don’t be afraid to ask advice from strangers you meet at these shooting ranges.
3. Watch the sports in action
Figuring out a location does not mean that you need to sign up for a competition the next day. No, what you need to do is observe a live match first. You will get to learn a few new things by watching professionals compete in different events.
You need to learn the layout of the range and how the different matches operate. Most ranges will have specific rules that you must learn before you can get involved in the sport. Also, look through the registration requirement of that particular range.
4. Gear up and learn the rules
Since you are new at competitive shooting, you probably don’t have all the required gear. Below is a detailed list of everything that you will need:
- Firearm and case
- Range bag
- Ammo
- Magazines
- Ear and eye protection
- Belt and holster
- Sling or shotgun shell carrier
If you don’t have all the above items, then I suggest that you acquire them before signing up for any competition. Since you carried out extensive research in the previous step, you know all the requirements for signing up.
Once you have all the equipment, you need to look at the rules and procedures of competitive shooting. Understand that all sports have rules and regulations that need to be followed. Most ranges will offer an instructional course for beginners to help them understand the rules.
Conclusion
Once you are done with steps one to four, you can sign up for your first match. Understand that it will not be easy at first, but you will get better with time. The first few matches are about learning and not winning when you are a beginner.
