Come out and SHOOT!

[Greg@wfcustom]

Happy Sunday morning everyone,
I would just like to share something that was told to me at our match this weekend, that for whatever reason really struck a cord with me. I got an e-mail from a shooter who inquired as to whether he could come out and shoot his 22-250 varmint rifle at our Chabot Special Group/Score match on Saturday.
I told him sure come on out and give it a try! Why not? When I talked to him Saturday morning getting him squared away he said something that really struck home. I am going to paraphrase but you'll get it.
"I decided I could read about this stuff all I wanted on the internet but unless I actually come out & shoot, I really won't know what it's all about."
Truer words were never spoken, and I realize that most of us have pointed this out, but I think we need to make it a priority.
Some thoughts:

Match Directors:
Try and be as welcoming and accomodating as you possibly can be (under the rules of your match) & maybe think outside the box for a few of your matches during the year that might attract more and various shooters.
Our Chabot Special is an example of what we came up with to attract a wider range of shooters and they have become our best attended matches of the year, as they offer something for everyone.

Current Shooters:
Bring a friend, an extra rifle-ammo, how many times has someone said to you "I'd like to try that, that seems interesting" and we may invite them, even offer to use our equipment, but how much effort do we put into following up and really trying to get them to a match? Some thing to think about, remember "It takes a village to raise a BR shooter".

New/Prospective Shooters:
Don't be intimidated by the fancy equipment, or fancy shooting you read about on the internet. You will have a much better idea of what you want, and where you want to go after attending a few matches. For the most part your fellow shooters are more than willing to help with questions you might have, just be ready for multiple opinions that may conflict with each other.
Bottom line is: COME OUT AND SHOOT!!!

Sunday Sermon over,
opinions, thoughts, replies welcome.
G

 

[jimmymac]

Perfect post.

 

[cwood59]

Happy Sunday morning everyone,
I would just like to share something that was told to me at our match this weekend, that for whatever reason really struck a cord with me. I got an e-mail from a shooter who inquired as to whether he could come out and shoot his 22-250 varmint rifle at our Chabot Special Group/Score match on Saturday.
I told him sure come on out and give it a try! Why not? When I talked to him Saturday morning getting him squared away he said something that really struck home. I am going to paraphrase but you'll get it.
"I decided I could read about this stuff all I wanted on the internet but unless I actually come out & shoot, I really won't know what it's all about."
Truer words were never spoken, and I realize that most of us have pointed this out, but I think we need to make it a priority.
Some thoughts:

Match Directors:
Try and be as welcoming and accomodating as you possibly can be (under the rules of your match) & maybe think outside the box for a few of your matches during the year that might attract more and various shooters.
Our Chabot Special is an example of what we came up with to attract a wider range of shooters and they have become our best attended matches of the year, as they offer something for everyone.

Current Shooters:
Bring a friend, an extra rifle-ammo, how many times has someone said to you "I'd like to try that, that seems interesting" and we may invite them, even offer to use our equipment, but how much effort do we put into following up and really trying to get them to a match? Some thing to think about, remember "It takes a village to raise a BR shooter".

New/Prospective Shooters:
Don't be intimidated by the fancy equipment, or fancy shooting you read about on the internet. You will have a much better idea of what you want, and where you want to go after attending a few matches. For the most part your fellow shooters are more than willing to help with questions you might have, just be ready for multiple opinions that may conflict with each other.
Bottom line is: COME OUT AND SHOOT!!!

Sunday Sermon over,
opinions, thoughts, replies welcome.
G

I am sort of one of those people. I shot back around 16-17 years ago. Then I became very heavily involved in my career. Now I am 64 with retirement just on the horizon and I intend to get back at it. I'm in the Houston area, but look forward to travelling around some.

curtis

 

[Todd Earhart]

Very good post.
Todd

 

[Greg@wfcustom]

Morning all,
I appreciate the positive responses to my “Sunday Sermon” one more thought to throw out there.
Quit telling new/ prospective shooters they “won’t be competitive” I have been guilty of this myself on more then one occasion, the conversation usually goes like this:
Question:
“I have a (fill in the blank), can I come out and shoot it?”
Answer: Sure come on out “but you won’t be competitive against our (fill in the blanks).”
I realize we have good intentions and are trying to give them realistic expectations, but how about we let them find out for themselves and have some fun doing it??
Who knows they may go home with that used BR rifle you had for sale
Love to hear other ideas,
G

 

[bryn]

Greg
First of all, I liked the Chabot target format as it's inviting to score and group shooters. I think it's easier to get a new shooter to come out and participate. The new shooter I invited to shoot my extra gun had a great time and I believe he will be back again as he is already talking about equipment. With a little coaching and practicing on Friday his confidence level was higher and I was surprised how fast he picked it up. Needless to say, if they shoot good or better than expected, they will probably be back. I also think having a 1 day match is more attractive for those who have to share some time with their significant other and or keeping the expenses down as nothing is cheap anymore.
With that being said I would hope you will still shoot a few group matches a season. I took about 10 year hiatus from BR shooting and I enjoyed my first match back.

 

[Greg@wfcustom]

Greg
First of all, I liked the Chabot target format as it's inviting to score and group shooters. I think it's easier to get a new shooter to come out and participate. The new shooter I invited to shoot my extra gun had a great time and I believe he will be back again as he is already talking about equipment. With a little coaching and practicing on Friday his confidence level was higher and I was surprised how fast he picked it up. Needless to say, if they shoot good or better than expected, they will probably be back. I also think having a 1 day match is more attractive for those who have to share some time with their significant other and or keeping the expenses down as nothing is cheap anymore.
With that being said I would hope you will still shoot a few group matches a season. I took about 10 year hiatus from BR shooting and I enjoyed my first match back.

Bryn,
It was great to have you back after such a long hiatus! You are an example of what BR shooters should be, you come early, stay late and are always willing to help/mentor in any way you can.
Tentative plan for next season is probably 4-5 2 day group matches, and the rest 1 day score matches of various kinds. (Mostly Chabot’s if the trend holds). Thanks again,
G

 

[DShortt]

Happy Sunday morning everyone,
I would just like to share something that was told to me at our match this weekend, that for whatever reason really struck a cord with me. I got an e-mail from a shooter who inquired as to whether he could come out and shoot his 22-250 varmint rifle at our Chabot Special Group/Score match on Saturday.
I told him sure come on out and give it a try! Why not? When I talked to him Saturday morning getting him squared away he said something that really struck home. I am going to paraphrase but you'll get it.
"I decided I could read about this stuff all I wanted on the internet but unless I actually come out & shoot, I really won't know what it's all about."
Truer words were never spoken, and I realize that most of us have pointed this out, but I think we need to make it a priority.
Some thoughts:

Match Directors:
Try and be as welcoming and accomodating as you possibly can be (under the rules of your match) & maybe think outside the box for a few of your matches during the year that might attract more and various shooters.
Our Chabot Special is an example of what we came up with to attract a wider range of shooters and they have become our best attended matches of the year, as they offer something for everyone.

Current Shooters:
Bring a friend, an extra rifle-ammo, how many times has someone said to you "I'd like to try that, that seems interesting" and we may invite them, even offer to use our equipment, but how much effort do we put into following up and really trying to get them to a match? Some thing to think about, remember "It takes a village to raise a BR shooter".

New/Prospective Shooters:
Don't be intimidated by the fancy equipment, or fancy shooting you read about on the internet. You will have a much better idea of what you want, and where you want to go after attending a few matches. For the most part your fellow shooters are more than willing to help with questions you might have, just be ready for multiple opinions that may conflict with each other.
Bottom line is: COME OUT AND SHOOT!!!

Sunday Sermon over,
opinions, thoughts, replies welcome.
G

That last paragraph really describes me. I can't afford to spend much on equipment. I can't afford to travel to matches and accommodations. I appreciate the information I glean from this forum but when I see posts where folks are complaining about spending half my gross annual income on property taxes I realize I'm looking through a window into a house I don't belong in.

The shooting sports in the US are heading the same direction they have in Europe. They're becoming too expensive for the average citizens to participate in.

So it goes.

 

[Greg@wfcustom]

That last paragraph really describes me. I can't afford to spend much on equipment. I can't afford to travel to matches and accommodations. I appreciate the information I glean from this forum but when I see posts where folks are complaining about spending half my gross annual income on property taxes I realize I'm looking through a window into a house I don't belong in.

So it goes.

You would always be welcome at our “house”
Kind of a long drive though!

 

[searcher]

Happy Sunday morning everyone,
I would just like to share something that was told to me at our match this weekend, that for whatever reason really struck a cord with me. I got an e-mail from a shooter who inquired as to whether he could come out and shoot his 22-250 varmint rifle at our Chabot Special Group/Score match on Saturday.
I told him sure come on out and give it a try! Why not? When I talked to him Saturday morning getting him squared away he said something that really struck home. I am going to paraphrase but you'll get it.
"I decided I could read about this stuff all I wanted on the internet but unless I actually come out & shoot, I really won't know what it's all about."
Truer words were never spoken, and I realize that most of us have pointed this out, but I think we need to make it a priority.
Some thoughts:

Match Directors:
Try and be as welcoming and accomodating as you possibly can be (under the rules of your match) & maybe think outside the box for a few of your matches during the year that might attract more and various shooters.
Our Chabot Special is an example of what we came up with to attract a wider range of shooters and they have become our best attended matches of the year, as they offer something for everyone.

Current Shooters:
Bring a friend, an extra rifle-ammo, how many times has someone said to you "I'd like to try that, that seems interesting" and we may invite them, even offer to use our equipment, but how much effort do we put into following up and really trying to get them to a match? Some thing to think about, remember "It takes a village to raise a BR shooter".

New/Prospective Shooters:
Don't be intimidated by the fancy equipment, or fancy shooting you read about on the internet. You will have a much better idea of what you want, and where you want to go after attending a few matches. For the most part your fellow shooters are more than willing to help with questions you might have, just be ready for multiple opinions that may conflict with each other.
Bottom line is: COME OUT AND SHOOT!!!

Sunday Sermon over,
opinions, thoughts, replies welcome.
G

I entered my first 100-yard bench rest match in 1985. One of my clients had targets hanging in his office that were incredibly small. I was intrigued, having been an avid shooter and due to my prior USMC service as a Scout/Sniper. We discussed things and he said "come on out - and bring whatever you have. The guys are friendly, and you might have a lot of fun". I brought out my trusty factory .243 varmint rifle, shooting 85 grain Speer hunting bullets.. A lot of the guys just smiled but were intent on making me feel welcome and a part of the match. I learned quickly that my 1/2 MOA rifle can still get you 20th place (last). I was hooked. I was officially on the board. At that time, I didn't realize that was the start of a decades-long journey. The best ever. Camaraderie I haven't had since the military. I'd encourage ANYONE wanting to shoot in a match to give it a go and not be overly concerned with equipment or skills. That will eventually come if you enjoy it and the guys on the range (for the most part) will help you with anything.

 

[Rank Amateur]

That last paragraph really describes me. I can't afford to spend much on equipment. I can't afford to travel to matches and accommodations. I appreciate the information I glean from this forum but when I see posts where folks are complaining about spending half my gross annual income on property taxes I realize I'm looking through a window into a house I don't belong in.

The shooting sports in the US are heading the same direction they have in Europe. They're becoming too expensive for the average citizens to participate in.

So it goes.

Your post saddens me with its truth AND its imprecision. These posts have focused on benchrest, but the same applies to my sport (F-Class). It is not unusual to see $10K rigs on the firing line at our club, there is certainly somewhat of an arms race among the "top" shooters to ensure they have the latest/best stock/barrel/cartridge/bullet/powder/scope/etc. The unfortunate aside, however, is that there are one or two individuals who are always scoring in the top 10 of our matches using relatively inexpensive, home-built rigs. One individual shoots .223 Rem from a Savage action with a Shilen barrel, in a Choate stock, and a Vortex scope. Total investment in the rifle (including second hand glass) was under $3K (and the glass was almost half of that).

We also offer a "Challenger" designation during competition for shooters who don't have regulation equipment. Want to shoot your Tikka 6.5 Creedmoor off of a Caldwell rest? No problem. Fancy taking your hunting rifle out for a spin at 500 yds in competition? You're welcome here. Sure, many shooters who dip their toes in the water this way end up spending boatloads of cash on fancy equipment if they can afford it. But it just isn't necessary. If you aspire to win State of National matches, you're right, you will probably be heavily challenged. But, if you want to shoot in competition for the joy of it, do it! Also, keep in mind that gentleman with the .223 Rem who regularly beats guys shooting 6mm, 7mm or 30 cal wildcat cartridges out of custom guns. Not only is he simply a better shooter, can you imagine the satisfaction he gets holding his own with the "big boys" while using his home-made rig and shooting his relatively inexpensive ammo???

I hope the message gets across that you don't have to be excluded by finances. Find a club( or clubs) that welcome shooters simply because they want to encourage and associate with shooters. Shooting in competition is great fun. Don't deny yourself.

 

[searcher]

And don't forget a lot of guys come to every local shoot and they don't have great equipment and don't aspire to ever own it - whether they could or not. They are there for the fun of it and to improve their own skills with what they have.

 

[DShortt]

It's not fun for me if it's based on disposable income. $3K is a cheap rig. Jesus.

Same reason I don't race at the strip. It's a money game. Those guys who talk about the 'indian' have forgotten that you don't see Indians at matches.

That's fine. I don't begrudge anyone. I do find it hypocritical that there was a post on here complaining about the lack of volunteers for matches recently. Gosh, I wonder why? I suppose I should volunteer my time to make a sport viable that I can't afford to compete in.

I'll shut up now. You all have fun while you can.

 

[Greg@wfcustom]

It's not fun for me if it's based on disposable income. $3K is a cheap rig. Jesus.

Same reason I don't race at the strip. It's a money game. Those guys who talk about the 'indian' have forgotten that you don't see Indians at matches.

That's fine. I don't begrudge anyone. I do find it hypocritical that there was a post on here complaining about the lack of volunteers for matches recently. Gosh, I wonder why? I suppose I should volunteer my time to make a sport viable that I can't afford to compete in.

I'll shut up now. You all have fun while you can.

I take it back, stay where you are and sulk.
Your missing the point.

 

[DShortt]

I take it back, stay where you are and sulk.
Your missing the point.

I'd say that works 2 ways but whatever floats your boat.

 

[searcher]

It's not fun for me if it's based on disposable income. $3K is a cheap rig. Jesus.

Same reason I don't race at the strip. It's a money game. Those guys who talk about the 'indian' have forgotten that you don't see Indians at matches.

That's fine. I don't begrudge anyone. I do find it hypocritical that there was a post on here complaining about the lack of volunteers for matches recently. Gosh, I wonder why? I suppose I should volunteer my time to make a sport viable that I can't afford to compete in.

I'll shut up now. You all have fun while you can.

Shooting does not have to be a terribly expensive sport. I have, for example, a stock Remington 700 Varmint rifle (though I bedded it myself and changed the trigger). Can buy these used for $600.00 or less + a scope. It shoots 1/4" groups with mass-produced bullets when I do my part in good conditions. And I guarantee you that there will be a few shooters at the range with 5K rifle/scope combos that could be beat by it if I did my part in reading the wind better than they did - or if my rifle was shooting better than theirs. Not all those guys shooting the high-end gear shoot well. And that is what makes it interesting. You surely don't have to spend 3K to have fun.

 

[Greg@wfcustom]

Shooting does not have to be a terribly expensive sport. I have, for example, a stock Remington 700 Varmint rifle (though I bedded it myself and changed the trigger). Can buy these used for $600.00 or less + a scope. It shoots 1/4" groups with mass-produced bullets when I do my part in good conditions. And I guarantee you that there will be a few shooters at the range with 5K rifle/scope combos that could be beat by it if I did my part in reading the wind better than they did - or if my rifle was shooting better than theirs. Not all those guys shooting the high-end gear shoot well. And that is what makes it interesting. You surely don't have to spend 3K to have fun.

And that’s the point all wrapped up in a nice bow!

 

[Rank Amateur]

I'd say that works 2 ways but whatever floats your boat.

Well, many of us were trying to encourage you to come out and join us with whatever gear you have. You seem to miss that point. On the other hand, if the cost of competition is the key to your decisions, you need to find a sport where the best equipment doesn't aid performance (all else being equal). Sports where no gear is required?

If you resent that some can afford better equipment, even though that expensive gear doesn't guarantee success, then you need to find a sport where you are included even with inexpensive gear (you define what inexpensive means). As posted, many clubs do just that (as I posted, you can join our F-Class matches with whatever rifle you happen to have). Your analogy is a good one. Most of us can't afford competitive auto racing (let alone competing on a world-class level). There ARE, however, track days and informal races using slightly modified everyday drivers, and you can always find a way to race in your own beater. Same principle applies.

Still hope you can find a way to compete with what you have. If you don't try because you are convinced that only those that can afford the best gear are competitive, you haven't been paying attention.

 

[searcher]

That last paragraph really describes me. I can't afford to spend much on equipment. I can't afford to travel to matches and accommodations. I appreciate the information I glean from this forum but when I see posts where folks are complaining about spending half my gross annual income on property taxes I realize I'm looking through a window into a house I don't belong in.

The shooting sports in the US are heading the same direction they have in Europe. They're becoming too expensive for the average citizens to participate in.

So it goes.

There are a lot of guys, like me, who just enjoy shooting the local club matches. When I was working, I didn't have time required to travel to various areas to visit far away matches. At this point in my life, being fortunate to have the time and resources - I just don't want to. But I can say that I have not regretted spending my shooting time with the guys that I did (and still do). You don't need to travel to have fun unless there are no clubs within a reasonable distance from you. I found that I just enjoy shooting and perfecting my own skills and the camaraderie more than winning higher level competitions. If there aren't any clubs near you, then I sympathize with you. The closest range for me is 45 minutes. The next one is a really crappy mountain drive that is a bit over an hour. After that - they get much further away. I like those drives a bit less each year.

 

[gunnermhr]

Most local ground hog matches have a factory class, you can certainly start in a factory class and have a great time with a limited budget. Winning is fun but rest assured, it isn't everything. The friendships gained, the camaraderie, the wealth of information, the relaxation, the enjoyment and becoming a better marksman is what it's about. Sure, some guys have unlimited money to put towards the sport, but go, compete against yourself and have fun
Remember, even the best shooter you ever met, began at the bottom. Go, have fun on the budget you have and enjoy, worrying about what your neighbor has does nothing.