USPSA? I think I like it!

This blog is related to competition shooting and how I believe a new shooter should approach it. The idea is to, hopefully, provide some advice, steps, or even help with developing a plan to help the next person get started.

So, I must admit, I did purchase a firearm specifically for USPSA. Now, here is a disclaimer. I have familiarity with this particular system, so I knew what I was getting myself into.

Now, let's get started.

1st, there was a brainstorming session. I really had to determine what is the "Why" for my wanting to start competition shooting. As an instructor, it can be challenging to structure a plan that one can stick to for self-development. I have a book of drills, but most of the time it is just me on the range because trying to get other people to match up schedules and actually train is hard. With that being said, I decided that it was time to start on a new path which will expose areas that deserve attention. In short, I wanted to see how bad I sucked.

Well, I made the decision to actually sign up for a match at a range that is affiliated with USPSA. That range is Boondocks FTA located in Raymond, MS. They have a very nice facility, and I was fortunate to be on a squad with folks who were willing to give advice and assistance if I had questions. As I was signing up, I also chose to get a membership with USPSA, so I could track my progress when it comes to establishing a classification. I mean, who doesn't want to see their progress and obtain a ranking?

Okay, so let's talk about the game plan. I chose to shoot the match under the category of Carry Optics. What does this mean? My firearm can only be configured in a certain manner. For this match, I used my Shadow Systems XR920 [Red Dot: Aimpoint Acro P2 | WML: Surefire X300]. The pistol could not have a magwell or a compensator, so I made sure it was set up properly. I had a backup pistol as well, which is a Shadow Systems DR920L [Red Dot: Holosun 508T | WML: Surefire X300]. Of course, the DR920L will eventually become the primary system. Additionally, I had multiple 17-round magazines (We'll discuss why this did not work in my favor later).

Now, let's talk about how to arrive at the match, prepare for the match, and conclude the match.

Upon arrival, I recommend that all of your gear be stowed into a bag, case, etc. Do not have the gun on your person that you plan to shoot with. I, personally, had on my EDC, but once I arrived, I made sure to store it properly in preparation for the match. Below is a step-by-step of what's next.

1. Pay the fee

   1. Bring exact change to the match. Most people may not have a pro shop associated with their range, so be kind and bring the exact change.

2. Drive/Walk to the designated area for the safety briefing, safely equip yourself with gear, learn of the different stages, and learn which squad you are in.

3. Each stage may or may not have a handout that explains each stage. Be sure to take a moment to read the handout as many times as you can for understanding. It is also a great time to walk through the stage (NO GUN IN HAND) to develop your plan to achieve the best time. Another thing, ask questions during this time. Typically, the folks who are there are more than happy to answer those questions. Wait, maybe "read the room" and determine who is the better person to ask because there are some people who may not be as helpful. Just being real.

4. Set real expectations for yourself. I went into this match just not trying to suck. The only thing that I advise to be a focus for your 1st match is not to disqualify yourself by doing something stupid. Ask about the 180 rule. Understand the 180 rule. Live by the 180 rule.

5. Try to record at least 1 of your runs, so you can study how to improve if you decide to continue going to competitions.

6. Have fun! Oh, and don't be pulled into preparing a list of stuff to buy based on what you see the other competitors have. It is tempting, but stay the course. Make sure your skills are intact, and then go buy the enhancements.

The match was extremely fun. We, fortunately/unfortunately, were able to do some night shooting because the outside lighting was inoperable. That was actually really fun. Back to the topic though. My takeaways are really simple. I had a couple of areas of opportunity that I can fix for the next time I go back out.

1. I had a malfunction. This particular malfunction was on the 1st stage when shooting support hand only. I know for a fact my grip was trash, so during my personal range session, I will work on dominant/support hand only shooting to refine technique.

2. I had to reload a couple of times. The 1st reload was on Stage 2. The course of fire required 18 rounds. I had 17-round mags. Now, I could have prepared the gun with 1 in the chamber and then inserted a separate 17-round magazine, but no lie, I was too nervous to confirm that I was allowed to do that. I paid for it though because there is a way to effectively reload, which I didn't do. The 2nd reload happened on the final stage. You can see my POV of this. I reloaded when settled vs. on the move. I knew this stage required 20 rounds, but I was so concerned with completing the course of fire that I was so one-track-minded when realizing that I would be out of bullets sooner than later.

Definitely, I give myself grace, but there are certain things that cannot be compromised. What if this was a self-defense situation? What if I only had this single opportunity to defend myself and/or those around me? This is why I decided to begin competition shooting, so I can process multiple pieces of information with limited time.

Overall, it was great, and now the journey has begun. I will continue to learn and become better, so I can establish a credible rank that not only allows me to enter certain conversations but allows me to become a credible resource for all things gun and shooting for the purpose of living.

Results:

1. Overall - 6th out of 18

2. Division (Carry Optics) - 4th out of 7

3.