Training/competition

A

ArtN

New member
Hi another newbie question. I would like to start slow, getting into some sort of training or competition that will improve my shooting skills, but being new to the firearms world, I really not sure what type of competition I can get into being a novice. Do most firing ranges offer what I am looking for?

Are there training Videos that would give me some insight as to what I will expect and what I need to have for the proper equipment to get starting, besides of just owning a handgun/holster/ammo etc.?

Is there anything thing like what I am looking for in the Seattle area?
 
You mention you are new to guns so I would think while you are in search of training, go to your local range and find an instructor and get as much instruction and practice as you can. Concentrate on gun safety, target acquisition and trigger management. Once you master the basics, go on from there. One must walk before they can run.

Welcome to the sport and enjoy.
 
Here are a few links that give overviews on the different venues available:

http://thefiringline.com/forums/showthread.php?t=396063&highlight=competition
http://www.thehighroad.org/showthread.php?t=236788

And here's a pretty good vid on the basics of action shooting (IDPA, USPSA, etc). Keep in mind, you're not limited to a semi-auto, and can use a revolver, too.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pqIHZ7oLTh8

If it's gotta be a centerfire handgun, the most affordable and equipment-friendly approach would probably be IDPA.

I admit to a revolver bias, but right now J&G is selling LEO trade-in S&W Model 15 revolvers for under $275. Get a couple speedloaders, speedloader holders, a holster, ammo, and you're good to go. Probably the most affordable intro into competitive shooting there is.

Local IDPA matches tend to be pretty common, it seems. Call a few local ranges and ask if they know when/where they're held.

That said, if you're a noobie to shooting altogether and don't own a gun yet, 45Gunner gave excellent advice. In this case, it's often recommended to start with a .22 pistol or revolver and work on the basics first. The ammo is much cheaper, so you'll get the trigger time you need without going broke.

And don't worry about not being able to compete with a .22 - look around for some rimfire steel matches bullseye matches. These will likely satisfy your competitive itch for a while, while making you a better shooter in the process.



Finally, also check out the brianenos forum. Lots of good info on competitive shooting there. Very helpful folks, too.
http://www.brianenos.com/forums/index.php?act=idx
 
For training in the WA state area, there are two excellent outfits. I know both of them:

http://www.firearmsacademy.com/
Marty Hayes' outfit.

http://www.insightstraining.com/
Greg Hamilton, John Holschen

You can't go wrong with them.

Also, as far as matches - the main games are IDPA, IPSC, steel challenge as far as semirelevant to self-defense.

I personally like IDPA as it is closer to realism that IPSC (but it is still really not a substitute for training). Both work for trigger time and technique.

Debated in the field is whether IPSC gives negative transfer - a never ending debate, IMHO. Steel is good for precision and speed trigger time.

Try them all. I'm sure someone here has links for the WA clubs or google it.

Have fun.
 
Get involved in bullseye shooting. It is the foundation of all handgun disciplines. If you can find a bullseye club within reasonable distance of where you live, join and make a commitment of time, money and energy to practice at least once a week and shoot a match at least once a month for 12 months. Get instruction from the high ranked shooters and train with them. I year of this will put you light years ahead of people who start out in the practical shooting sports and shoot for 10 years. Marksmanship, is INTENTIONALLY hitting objects with bullets on demand. That is the essence of handgun shooting. Bullseye teaches this. USPSA and IDPA do not. I shoot all three disciplines and love them all so I am not bashing anyone or any game.
 
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