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

Julie Golob Bianchi Cup 2026 Lede
Julie Golob Bianchi Cup 2026 Lede

Springfield Armory Announces Julie Golob's 2026 Bianchi Cup Record-Setting Achievements

Golob used the Echelon 4.0FC 9 mm over the Memorial Day weekend competition, earning top women's honors in multiple divisions and historic placements.

The Armed Citizen® Reload May 29, 2026

An uninvited hotel guest who threatened employees with a knife learned the opposite of hospitality the hard way.

3 Pieces of “Expert” Advice New Gun Owners Can Ignore

With more than 20 years as an NRA Training Counselor, the author is an actual expert firearms instructor. Here's what to watch out for if you are just beginning your journey.

New Guns 2026: CZ 75 Legend Now Shipping

Introduced in early 2026, the pistol is built to honor one of the most influential handgun designs of the modern era.

New Gear 2026: Ruger ReadyDot Micro Reflex Sight System for LCP MAX Pistol

This new reflex sight requires no batteries, allowing the shooter to focus on acquiring and staying on target without worry.

5 Items You Need to Butcher Your Own Venison

Butchering your own deer isn’t really all that complicated, but there are a handful of gear items you absolutely have to have to get it done.

Women's Interests



Get the best of NRA Women delivered to your inbox.