How to get into Competitive Shooting

Zion Patriot,

So if you’re like me, you’ve been watching YouTube gun content and started stumbling across competitive shooting videos, you’re probably intrigued and want to know more. Competitive shooting is one of the best ways to hone your skills as a marksman. Rather than focusing on static targets at the range, these competitions blend skill, movement, and stress to challenge you mentally and physically—making you a better shooter all around.

There are several types of competitions, each with its own style, gear requirements, and communities. Some are casual and local, while others are nationally organized with championship-level events. Check out a few of the most popular formats and see if any of these tickle your fancy:

USPSA – United States Practical Shooting Association

  • What it is: A high-speed shooting sport emphasizing accuracy, power, and speed.
  • Weapons used: Primarily handguns, though there are divisions for pistol caliber carbines (PCC).
  • Unique trait: Dynamic stages with movement, reloads, and lots of strategy.
  • Link: USPSA Official Site
  • Video: What is USPSA – An overview of USPSA competitions.

IDPA – International Defensive Pistol Association

  • What it is: Defensive-style shooting focused on realism and concealment.
  • Weapons used: Handguns, typically carried in concealed holsters.
  • Unique trait: Shooters must use cover and follow tactical priority rules.
  • Link: IDPA Official Site
  • Video: IDPA Match at Lower Providence Rod & Gun Club – A look into an actual IDPA match.

PRS – Precision Rifle Series

3-Gun / Multigun

  • What it is: High-speed shooting using a rifle, pistol, and shotgun—sometimes all in the same stage.
  • Weapons used: AR-style rifles, semi-auto shotguns, and handguns.
  • Unique trait: Fast transitions between firearms and lots of gear management.
  • Link: Multigun Matches on PractiScore
  • Video: Magpul Texas 3-Gun Championship – Highlights from a prominent 3-Gun competition.

The Tactical Games

  • What it is: A hybrid of fitness competition and shooting under physical stress. Think crossfit meets shooting.
  • Weapons used: Typically rifle and pistol, often while wearing gear and carrying weight.
  • Unique trait: Includes running, lifting, dragging, or carrying tasks before and between shooting stages.
  • Link: The Tactical Games
  • Video: What is The Tactical Games? – An introduction to the Tactical Games format.

How to Get Started

  • Attend a local match – Most clubs welcome spectators and first-time shooters.
  • Rent or borrow gear – Many shooters are happy to help new competitors.
  • Start small – You don’t need a race gun or a $5K rifle to get started.
  • Use PractiScore to find local matches: https://practiscore.com

Final Thoughts

After researching and watching several videos about the various types of competitions, I think I am interested in 3-Gun, PRS and USPSA and maybe IDPA. Not sure I am up for the torture of the Tactical Games (or in good enough shape – LOL) I’m hoping to get out there and try some this year. As the great Waren Miller used to say, “If you don’t do this year, you’ll be a year older when you do.”

Miscellaneous