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

Deering Team Tactics 1
Deering Team Tactics 1

How a Team Tactics Course Boosts Your Home Defense Plan

Here's why you should consider a specific course for you and whoever you live with—what you’ll learn, the advantages of working as a team in a home-defense situation, and more.

Updated for 2026: Traveler's Guide to the Firearms Laws of the Fifty States

Are you following the law when you travel with your firearms? Here's one way to be sure.

4 Reasons Why Now is the Time to Own a Suppressor

No more expensive tax stamp and significantly shorter wait times are just a couple of justifications for finally adding a suppressor to your standard gear collection. Read on for more.

It’s a Wrap: Ladies Pistol Project 6—the Nightstand Edition

Do we yet know the answer to which pistols ladies prefer? Yes—and no!

World Champion Jessie Harrison Claims Triple Titles with Taurus TX9 Debut

Taurus' first-ever duty-ready platform proved its out-of-the-box performance at the highest level of competition.

The Armed Citizen® Reload March 27, 2026

Armed homeowners? These intruders took a chance and learned the hard way.

Women's Interests



Get the best of NRA Women delivered to your inbox.