Pistol Action Shooting Rules

Fitchville Action Shooting Match Guidelines

Event Schedule:

  • Sign-in: Begins at 8:30 a.m.
  • Shooting: Begins at 9:00 a.m.
  • Setup: Starts at approximately 7:30 a.m. (Volunteers encouraged to assist.)

Course of Fire:

  • 3 Stages:
    • Tombstone Targets
    • Moving Targets
    • Steel Targets
  • Each stage is timed separately.
  • Stages are scored individually.
  • Each stage will have a winner.
  • Stages change monthly with new scenarios.

Match Fees:

  • Action Handgun Match: $5 per run
  • Shooters under 18 years of age: FREE

Waiver Requirement:

  • All members and non-members must sign a Release of Liability Waiver (one per year).
  • [Click here to download the required waiver.]

General Rules and Regulations:

  • Follow fundamental firearm safety rules at all times:
    • ALWAYS keep a firearm pointed in a safe direction.
    • ALWAYS keep your finger off the trigger until ready to shoot.
    • ALWAYS keep a firearm unloaded until instructed otherwise by a Range Safety Officer (RSO).
  • Proper eye and ear protection must be worn at all times.
  • Do not handle firearms behind the firing line without RSO approval.
  • No magazines or speed loaders may be in any firearm until instructed by an RSO.
  • Maintain appropriate personal conduct (courtesy, limit profanity, etc.).
  • Address any questions or concerns to the nearest RSO.

Required Equipment:

  • Handgun: Semi-automatic pistol or revolver in safe operating condition.
  • Holster: Strong-side, good-quality construction.
  • Magazines/Speed Loaders: At least 3 (more recommended).
  • Ammunition: Minimum 50 rounds (more recommended).
  • Ammunition Carrier: Secure and safe construction.
  • RSOs will determine the safety and appropriateness of all equipment.

Classifications:

  • Men’s Pistol
  • Men’s Revolver
  • Women’s Pistol
  • Women’s Revolver
  • Youth Pistol
  • Youth Revolver
  • Rimfire Pistol
  • Rimfire Revolver

Scoring Procedure:

  • Run time is recorded using an electronic shot timer.
  • Time ends at the last shot fired.
  • Scoring:
    • A Zone hit: 0 pts
    • B Zone hit: 1 pt
    • C Zone hit: 2 pts
    • D Zone hit: 3 pts
    • Misses: 10 pts
    • Penalties: 5 pts
  • Overall Time Calculation:
    • Run Time + (Points Dropped * 0.5) = Final Score

Range Commands:

  • Cease Fire: Stop immediately, remove finger from the trigger, and await RSO instructions.
  • Shooter Up: Report to the start position.
  • Shooter On Deck: Prepare to begin (do not handle firearms yet).
  • Make Ready: Get ready as instructed during the pre-match briefing.
  • Standby: Await the start signal.
  • During Course of Fire:
    • Trigger, Trigger, Trigger: Keep your finger off the trigger while moving or off target.
    • Muzzle, Muzzle, Muzzle: Ensure your muzzle remains pointed in a safe direction.
    • Cover: Use provided cover or concealment.
  • End of Course of Fire:
    • Unload, Show Clear: Unload and show an open chamber for verification.
    • Range is Safe: Once all firearms are clear, volunteers may move forward to score and tape targets.

Hints and Tips:

  • Arrive early to avoid delays and hear full instructions.
  • Dress appropriately for weather conditions and range terrain.
  • Run each course at your own pace while prioritizing safety.
  • Remember: “Slow is smooth, smooth is fast.”
  • Most importantly, relax, have fun, and stay safe!