Q: This looks like a lot of fun! Can anyone join?
Yes! Anyone can shoot the matches. Every weekend we have people from all walks of life at the events.
Q: Must I know how to shoot to participate?
Yes, experience in safe gun handling and operation is very important.
We highly recommend attending an NRA Basic Pistol course to all novice
shooters prior to participating. More info can be found at the NRA Basic Firearm Training page.
Q: Do I need competition shooting experience to participate?
No, competition shooting experience is not required. Every weekend, many first-time USPSA shooters participate with us. You’ll be given a short range safety and rules introduction before the match starts and are guided through the match by more experienced shooters.
Q: Is this a self-defense course?
No, USPSA is a sport. Our matches are not a self-defense activity. Everything is done in a sporting fashion. What the matches will teach you are advanced gun-handling techniques that may be useful in defense scenarios should they arise.
Q: I have an out-of-the-box stock gun. Do I need a “racegun” to participate?
No, you do not need a “racegun” to get in on the fun. About half of our competitors use stock guns. As a matter of fact, the USPSA
has a “Production” division made just for stock guns! The only
requirement is regarding caliber – 9mm is the minimum. Semi-autos are
preferred by most, but you can use a revolver.
Q: What other equipment do I need?
A safe hip holster that covers the trigger guard is required to prevent
you from accidentally discharging your gun while in your holster. 4 or more magazines or speedloader (for revolvers) holders are recommended as well since almost all stages require reloads. Lastly, eye and ear
protection is required on the range.
Q: How much ammo should I bring?
We recommend you bring at least 250 rounds. We shoot six courses of
fire with round counts anywhere between 12 and 40 rounds. 200 will
often get you through the match but you definitely don’t want to run out
as no ammo is available at the range.
Q: Will I be competing against those fancy raceguns and good shooters?
No. We have many classifications of shooters and the guns are divided into divisions. Please view the USPSA Rulebook for all the details.
Q: How much does it cost and what time do you start?
Sign-up starts at 7:15am. First-time shooter’s briefing starts at 8:10am. First shots at 8:30am. The match fee is $43 when there’s a classifier – $40 when there isn’t.
