The Whole Shootin' Match: Competition 101

All matches are different, but here are the basics you need to know to get started in competitive shooting.

posted on September 28, 2022
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **

Does the term "competitive shooting" sound intimidating? That's probably because of the word "competitive," which we use because "safe and fun way to improve your skills while making new friends and learning how to shoot better" is too much of a tongue-twister. In this video from Smith & Wesson's GUNSMARTS series, you'll discover that the rules of competitive shooting are designed to level the playing field and keep you safe ... and that those rules are pretty intuitive and easy to understand. Who best to prove that than two of the world's most famous competitive shooters, Julie Golob and Jerry Miculek? 

As you'll see, competitive shooting starts and ends with safety. From the "safe area" to the likely range commands you'll hear, everything is designed to allow you to focus 100 percent on your shooting. You'll also learn what is meant by the dreaded "DQ," or disqualification ... that is to say, the shooter mistakes that can knock you out of the competition.

What the video won't reveal (but we will, because we love this fact) is that it's traditional in many matches for disqualified shooters to go get their pictures taken under the sign of a very popular fast-food chain that has the initials "DQ." Furthermore, many many famous competitors have such a photo in their archives somewhere. 

From starting positions, to target-to-target transitions, to moving and shooting skills, Jerry and Julie have you covered. Don't be intimidated, and one day you might just win the whole shootin' match.

Latest

Skguns 911 Remembrance Gun
Skguns 911 Remembrance Gun

SK Guns Honors 9/11 Anniversary with Custom 1911 Commander 9 mm

This limited-edition pistol pays tribute to the victims, their families, heroes and the enduring spirit of the American people.

NRA-ILA Launches National "Gun Bus Battleground Tour"

A first for NRA-ILA, the cross-country tour is expected to mobilize gun owners for the 2026 midterms.

In Defense of Social Media Hunting Influencers

Everyone drags influencers, but there are really two categories: Those who do it right and those who…well, deserve to get dragged. The good ones are actually really good for hunting in general.

Fiocchi's Dianna Muller and Lanny Barnes to Represent Team USA at 2026 IPSC Shotgun World Shoot

The championship, to be held in Corinth, Greece, represents IPSC's highest level of shotgun competition and will feature competitors representing nations from around the world.

Shoot Like A Girl Experience Comes to PBR Thunder Days in Ridgedale, MO

Shoot Like A Girl will offer women, men and families an opportunity to experience firearms, archery and a variety of outdoor products in a welcoming, hands-on environment.

9 mm Ultra: The Forgotten 9

Of the five different 9 mm cartridges that can be encountered in brick-and-mortar stores, online and at gun shows, one seems to lead the list of “forgotten cartridges.” Read about it here.

Women's Interests



Get the best of NRA Women delivered to your inbox.