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

Savage Arms Model 110 Accufit V2 Ultralite Pro
Savage Arms Model 110 Accufit V2 Ultralite Pro

New Guns 2026: Savage Arms Model 110 AccuFit V2 Rifle

The new chapter of this iconic platform features 16 purpose-built models and spans hundreds of new SKUs, including new cartridge offerings and left-hand models.

The Armed Citizen® January 16, 2026

Smile, Mr. Robber! You're on camera—and you're about to be confronted by an armed woman.

New Guns 2026: Beretta 694 Black DLC Shotgun

The new shotgun is an upgraded, modernized version of one of the most trusted shotguns in the clay-shooting world.

New Guns 2026: Smith & Wesson M&P Metal HD Series

The two new pistols are the M&P9 M2.0 Metal HD and Competitor HD, with purpose-based designs right out of the box.

4 Internal Factors that Affect a Firearm’s Performance

Want maximum output from your firearm? Follow these tips to ensure your gun is a keeper.

ScentLok's Ridge Series for Women

ScentLok says it has combined all the favorite features from the men's line with a fit that is proven to help women feel comfortable and agile in the field.

Women's Interests



Get the best of NRA Women delivered to your inbox.