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 Castle Istock 1171395149
Deering Castle Istock 1171395149

What’s Your Castle?

If you’re in a castle doctrine state, what actually counts as your castle?

When the Golden Rule Should Switch to Safety First

When you're out and about, your job is not to consider what’s nice or polite—only what is safe.

Visualizing Your Way to Superior Personal Defense Skills

Here's how to augment your current training regimen and sharpen skills—without going to the range.

My First Hog Hunt: A Texas Adventure After Dark

The author, an experienced hunter, finally took her first shot on one of the most prolific, invasive and destructive species.

Lightening the Load: Ultralight Hiking Gear

Check out these options that will keep the weight off before you step one foot into your hike.

Lovin' These Lever-Actions

We've rounded up a handful of models in various calibers and configurations worth a closer look.

Women's Interests



Get the best of NRA Women delivered to your inbox.