Most Popular Types of Guns for Shooting Competitions

In competitive shooting, the firearm you choose can be as crucial as your skill and precision. Competitors from all over the globe participate in various shooting disciplines, each requiring a unique combination of speed, accuracy, and power. The diversity in competition shooting ranges from precision long-range rifle matches to fast-paced pistol shooting events. This variety necessitates a wide array of firearms, each tailored to meet the specific demands of the competition.

Understanding the most popular types of guns used in these competitions helps participants select the best tool for the job. It also offers enthusiasts a glimpse into the intricate world of shooting sports. From the sleek and speedy semi-automatic pistols to the robust and precise bolt-action rifles, the selection of firearms is vast and varied. This variety sheds light on their characteristics, advantages, and why they dominate the shooting sports arena.

Top Gun Types for Competitive Shooting

Here are the most popular guns for shooting competitions. Each is selected for its performance, reliability, and the competitive edge it offers shooters aiming for victory.

Handguns

Handguns are prized in the competitive shooting world for their versatility, maneuverability, and the skill required to master them. These qualities make them a staple in various shooting disciplines, from rapid-fire pistol matches to precision-based revolver competitions. Exploring the two primary categories of handguns in competitive shooting, pistols and revolvers, reveal their unique advantages and applications.

Pistols

Pistols, particularly semi-automatic models, are a mainstay in action shooting sports, such as the International Practical Shooting Confederation (IPSC) and the United States Practical Shooting Association (USPSA). A prime example is the Glock 34, renowned for its reliability, long sight radius, and lightweight design. It's a favorite among competitors for its out-of-the-box performance and the ease with which it can be customized. Another standout is the CZ Shadow 2, designed with input from top shooters to excel in competition. With its precision engineering, enhanced ergonomics, and superior accuracy, the CZ Shadow 2 is a top choice for shooters aiming for the podium.

Revolvers

Though semi-automatic pistols dominate the scene, revolvers hold a special place in specific shooting sports niches. Competitions like Cowboy Action Shooting celebrate the historical aspects of shooting, featuring firearms reminiscent of the Old West. The Smith & Wesson 686, with its classic design and modern engineering, exemplifies the blend of tradition and performance sought by revolver enthusiasts. Its accuracy, reliability, and the challenge of mastering its double-action trigger pull make it a beloved choice for those competing in revolver-specific categories.

Rifles

Rifles offer a range of competition formats, from precision bolt-action challenges to dynamic semi-automatic events. The choice between a bolt-action and a semi-automatic gun often comes down to the specific requirements of the competition.

Precision Rifles

For long-range precision shooting, such as in the Precision Rifle Series (PRS), shooters lean towards bolt-action rifles for their unparalleled accuracy and stability. The Ruger Precision Rifle stands out in this category. Engineered for precision, it features a highly adjustable stock, a free-floated barrel for maximum accuracy, and a modular design that allows for extensive customization. Its performance in long-range shooting competitions has made it a favorite among precision shooters.

Semi-Automatic Rifles

In the realm of action shooting sports, such as the increasingly popular 3-Gun competitions, semi-automatic rifles, especially those based on the AR-15 platform, reign supreme. The AR-15's modularity, reliability, and ease of handling make it ideal for courses that demand speed and precision. Competitors often customize their AR-15s with various optics, triggers, and barrels to suit their shooting style, making it a versatile tool for multiple shooting disciplines.

Shotguns

Shotguns are essential in clay shooting sports like trap, skeet, sporting clays, and multi-gun competitions. The choice of shotgun is influenced by the type of competition, with over-under and semi-automatic shotguns being the most popular choices.

Over-Under Shotguns

For disciplines like trap and skeet, where precision and consistency are paramount, over-under shotguns like the Beretta 686 are favored. Their balanced design, reliability, and the ability to select different chokes for each barrel give competitors an edge. The simplicity and elegance of over-under shotguns and their inherent accuracy make them a perennial choice among clay shooters.

Semi-Automatic Shotguns

In the fast-paced world of 3-Gun competitions and some sporting clay events, semi-automatic shotguns like the Benelli M2 stand out for their rapid-fire capability and ease of reloading. Known for its reliability, speed, and light recoil, the Benelli M2 allows shooters to engage targets quickly and accurately. It is a top choice for competitors looking to shave seconds off their times.

Specialty Firearms and Categories

Specialized firearms cater to specific shooting disciplines beyond the mainstream handguns, rifles, and shotguns. Black powder rifles, for instance, are used in historical reenactment competitions, where accuracy and authenticity go hand in hand. Similarly, air rifles and pistols are featured in Olympic-style shooting events, emphasizing precision and control over power.

Choosing firearms for these specialty categories often requires a deep understanding of the competition's historical or technical requirements. Competitors must balance the firearm's historical accuracy with modern performance standards, creating a unique challenge that adds depth and variety to the world of competitive shooting.

Rules and Safety Protocols in Shooting Competitions

Shooting competitions, whether involving handguns or long guns, are governed by a comprehensive set of rules and safety protocols. These guidelines ensure fair play, equal competition, and the safety of all participants and spectators. Understanding and adhering to these rules and protocols is paramount for anyone participating in or attending shooting sports.

General Safety Protocols

• Muzzle Control: Always keep the firearm pointed to a safe direction, typically downward. This fundamental rule applies whether the firearm is a handgun, rifle, or shotgun.
• Trigger Discipline: Keep your finger off and outside the trigger guard until you are ready to shoot. That prevents accidental discharges.
• Firearm Status: Treat all firearms as if they are always loaded. Double-check the firearm's status (loaded or unloaded) when receiving it from someone else or picking it up.
• Eye and Ear Protection: All competitors and spectators must wear appropriate eye and ear protection to safeguard against the hazards of flying debris and the noise of gunfire.

Specific Rules for Handguns and Long Guns

Holstering and Slinging

Handguns must be holstered securely when not in use, with the muzzle pointing in a safe direction. According to the competition's guidelines, long guns should be carried with the muzzle up or down, using slings for hands-free movement.

Transportation

Firearms should be transported to and from the competition area in a safe, unloaded condition, preferably in a case or bag designed for firearms.

Range Commands

Participants must follow all range commands promptly. These commands govern the start and stop of firing, when it's safe to move to and from the firing line, and when to load and unload firearms.

Conduct During Competitions

Respect Boundaries

Competitors must remain within designated areas during their turn. Crossing boundaries can lead to disqualification.

Handling Malfunctions

If a firearm malfunctions, the shooter should keep the muzzle pointed down and signal for a range officer's assistance.

Reporting Violations

Participants are encouraged to immediately report any safety violations or concerns to the range officers or competition organizers.

Ethical Considerations and Sportsmanship

• Honesty: Competitors are expected to score their targets honestly and challenge scores only in good faith.
• Respect: Respecting fellow competitors, range officers, and organizers fosters a positive and supportive environment. This includes respecting officials' decisions, even if one disagrees.
• Helping Others: The shooting community values knowledge sharing and assistance. Experienced shooters are often seen advising newcomers on technique, safety, and equipment.

Safety protocols and rules in shooting competitions create a structured and secure environment, allowing shooters to focus on their performance while ensuring the well-being of everyone involved. Adherence to these guidelines reflects a shooter's commitment to the sport's integrity and the collective safety of the shooting community. Whether handling handguns or long guns, safety, fairness, and respect are universal and vital to competitive shooting sports' enduring popularity and enjoyment.

Choosing the Right Gun for the Competition

While the firearms listed above are among the top choices for their versatility, performance, and popularity in competitive shooting, the "best" firearm can vary widely depending on the specific requirements of the competition, the shooter's preferences, and ongoing developments in firearm technology. Selecting the appropriate firearm involves careful consideration of the event's rules, experience level, and personal preference. Beyond choosing the right gun, understanding and adhering to the competition's safety protocols and regulations is crucial to ensure safety and fair play.

Ultimately, the best firearm for competition shooting is one that fits the shooter's skills, complements their strategy, and meets the stringent safety and regulatory standards of the sport. Whether opting for a precision rifle, a rapid-fire pistol, or another type of firearm, competitors must ensure their selection complies with the specific regulations of their chosen discipline. At Gunline Shooting, Mississippi's premier outdoor shooting range, we offer elite facilities and competitive events for shooters of all levels. Join our next competition and see where excellence meets passion. Visit our Gunline Shooting blog today – your journey to becoming a champion starts here.