Now and then we get queries about “DQ Policies” that clubs or sections impose on competitors wherein if a competitor gets more than X DQs during Y period of time they are ineligible to participate in matches for Z period of time and/or they complete other requirements. Folks seem to have a couple questions about these so let’s dig in.
[Read more…] about Local DQ PoliciesMatch Directors
When good steel goes bad
Metal targets are not maintenance free, especially if your club chooses to purchase targets made from a softer steel than AR500. But even the more expensive steel targets eventually require some attention. Let’s look at some of the common issues we see.
[Read more…] about When good steel goes badNew Competitor Orientation
Local matches are the first step in the USPSA shooting experience. New competitors arrive knowing only what they may have seen online or what a friend has told them. They bring whatever firearm they might have and enter the match with some trepidation, hoping to learn as they go. Wonderful! But what about the match staff? How do they prepare or deal with these new competitors?
[Read more…] about New Competitor OrientationMatch Book Thoughts
When I got into the sport almost twenty years ago, match books were printed paper documents you received when you checked in at a Major match. Some majors might have a website with some stage diagrams but this was, at first, the exception. It was the rare local club that did a formal match book for local matches. With the integration of the Internet into daily life, match books became more electronic in nature; although printed match books still ruled the day for almost another decade. Nowadays, it is rare to find a printed match book being handed out. Instead, electronic match books rule the roost. Match books do serve a purpose and are an important part of Major matches. Let’s look at some dos and don’ts for these important documents.
[Read more…] about Match Book ThoughtsAdding stages to the Form C
USPSA uses an online Form C for major matches. Any Level II or higher match needs to have a Form C submitted and submit the stage designs for approval. Level II matches need the stages approved one month before the match and Level III matches need stage approval two months before the match.
[Read more…] about Adding stages to the Form CUnsung Hero: The Target Stick
Our rules basically state that they don’t exist; yet, matches wouldn’t go very far without them. People complain about their cost, after all, you buy nice ones that are mostly straight, mostly dimensioned appropriately, we seem to never have quite enough of them to start with and then people cut them up and shoot them to pieces. Alas, they are the unsung heroes of our sport; I give you, the lowly target stick.
[Read more…] about Unsung Hero: The Target StickClassifiers and Special Classifier Matches
Guest post by Jake Martens, Director of Media & Events, A52987
The USPSA Classification system is a way to compare your skill level to other members and track your progress. The stages have been designed to test your shooting skills against high hit factors that have been set in each division. There are differences in the hit factors between divisions because each division is somewhat unique based on the allowed gear and firearms.
[Read more…] about Classifiers and Special Classifier MatchesFixing Floppy USPSA Targets
I forget where I first heard about the concept of using small bamboo skewers to support the floppy upper scoring zone on USPSA cardboard targets so it isn’t possible for me to give credit where credit is due. For whomever first thought this one up, thank you!
[Read more…] about Fixing Floppy USPSA Targets