Everyone has questions about USPSA and SCSA rules at some point. But how do you get those questions answered?
While at matches – This is the most common place where rules questions arise, and there are a few avenues to get answers. Of course the first place to look is always the rulebook, but at matches you also have the ability to discuss questions with other range officials at the match. We always stress that officiating a stage is a team activity with a minimum of two ROs – timer RO and scorepad RO. Which means when questions occur during the course of fire, you have a teammate and rulebook to work things out with. If the RO team can’t figure it out, then there is the Range Master (yes, someone should be appointed RM for every match) to answer questions. And of course, when you get a group of competitors together, there are always general rules discussions that occur outside the course of fire. That is normal, especially at local matches where we have new competitors who are just learning the sport.
Outside of matches – Again, the rulebook is always the best place to start but we know that folks sometimes can’t find the answers or need clarification. If you have asked fellow club members the question and still don’t have an answer, reach out to NROI! The best way to ask us questions is by emailing us at rules@uspsa.org. We are more than happy to answer all your rules questions. If you asking if a certain firearm or part is legal for a Division, please include pictures and a link to the manufacturers website is even better. Even if you just want to confirm what you have been told by others, we answer those questions too!
We know the rules can be complicated at times, but remember that knowing the rules is not a solo endeavor. Ask fellow competitors who are certified range officials or ask NROI. We are ready to help!