There are multiple models of shot timers that will now sync with PractiScore via a Bluetooth connection, but what are the best practices for using these as you RO?
[Read more…] about Bluetooth timer best practicesSpecial penalty calculations
Before the advent of PractiScore, the scorekeeper had to do math to ensure all the hits were scored and recorded on the scoresheet. It was simple addition, but was critical to prevent scoresheet errors. PractiScore automatically does that math now, and doesn’t let us proceed if too few or too many hits are recorded. However, there is one rare situation where you as the RO may be required to do math – when the special penalty of 20% of the points shot is used. Let’s learn more in this Question of the Month.
[Read more…] about Special penalty calculationsHow to appeal a call at your local match
Almost every Monday we get emails with questions pertaining to things that happened at local matches over the weekend. The questions range from “did we call this right” to “I believe I was penalized incorrectly” to the very occasional “the RO treated me unfairly”. We always respond explaining which rules apply, and we also ask if the appeal process was followed and if the Range Master was called. If you are saying to yourself that “only big matches have RMs,” then this post is for you!
[Read more…] about How to appeal a call at your local matchWhat does weak side really mean?
This Question of the Month was inspired by Stage 4 from the 2025 Racegun Nationals. When my staff squad shot it, I was asked by a PCC shooter if he could shoot from the hip right after the start signal. I gave him an answer, and then told him I better double check the rulebook. Based on the results of this poll, I don’t think many folks checked the rulebook. Let’s revisit the question and find out what the correct answer is!
[Read more…] about What does weak side really mean?Popper problem prevention
Poppers. Some folks love them. Some folks hate them. But if they are not properly maintained and managed, then folks really hate them! Let’s cover some common popper issues that can be easily managed to make poppers more enjoyable for everyone.
[Read more…] about Popper problem preventionWhy follow the rules?
We have talked before on the blog about the phrase “It’s only a local match” and how it annoys those of us who spend our weekends educating members on the rules. It’s not because rules accidentally get overlooked, not applied, or misapplied, we understand that happens once in a while. It bugs us when clubs have attitudes that either they aren’t capable of following the rules (everyone is capable) or blatantly ignore the rules.
[Read more…] about Why follow the rules?Why we appreciate our officials
Yep, time for the annual reflection on our wonderful and dedicated volunteer range officials. We always say that we can’t have our sport without them. And that is very true. All match levels rely on our members who step up to serve as match officials and here are the reasons they are critical to our sport.
[Read more…] about Why we appreciate our officialsYou didn’t enter the shooting area
Occasionally stages require competitors to start completely outside the shooting area and require a step or two of movement to enter the shooting area. But sometimes The Neuralyzer (a.k.a. the timer beep) wipes any and all stage plans and competitors engage targets before entering the shooting area. For this Question of the Month we look at how to handle this situation as a RO.
[Read more…] about You didn’t enter the shooting area