Practical Shooting Transformation

It’s hard to believe the season is over! I have so enjoyed sharing NRA Women’s Love at First Shot with you. Erin, Jasmine and Natalie have learned and experienced what millions of hunters and shooters enjoy in recreational shooting and hunting.  In case you haven’t seen the final episode of the season you can watch it here or on your favorite device, big or small, through NRA.TV.

This week’s behind-the-scenes is a video of Natalie and her friend Anna competing with me at the USPSA Area 5 Championships in Wisconsin. Match Director Dan Pawlak and his wonderful staff made us feel right at home. It was the perfect major match experience and not only did fellow shooters welcome the ladies, they were so helpful! It was a proud moment for me both in mentoring two new shooters in the sport and being a member of this wonderful shooting organization. USPSA shooters truly are kind and encouraging. Here’s the video.

If you haven’t already considered taking the plunge in competitive shooting, hopefully, this video will help inspire you. A few new competitors do’s and don’ts:

• Safety is ALWAYS first! We shooters say it constantly because it really is this important. Basic gun safety and range rules must be followed.
• Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Sometimes shooters use lingo or take for granted a new competitor’s understanding of the sport or procedures. When it doubt, it’s always best to ask.
• Do set a realistic goal for your first competition(s). Whether it’s hitting all your targets or picking a plan and sticking to it for each course of fire, set goals based on your ability and comfort level.
• Don’t compare yourself to other shooters. Everyone has to start somewhere. Comparing yourself to an experienced shooter will only leave you disappointed. To perform the best you can, you need to focus on you.
• Do have fun… LOTS! You’ll likely be nervous. You’ll probably make a few mistakes. That’s all part of the game. Have a blast! [Pun intended.]

Thanks so much to Smith & Wesson and NRAWomen.TV for once again assigning me the role of head trainer. Remember, even if you don’t have a ton of experience in shooting and hunting, it doesn’t mean you can’t inspire or mentor new shooters to give it a try. Share your experiences with the #loveatfirstshot and #shareshooting online. I can’t wait to see them.