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Practical Pistol

Practical Pistol Matches at NMSA

The goal of Practical Pistol Matches at North Montour Sportsmen’s Association is to help shooters become familiar with—and ultimately master—their individual firearms. Matches are designed to be welcoming, educational, and safety-focused.

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There are no divisions or classifications. Shooters of all experience levels are encouraged to participate, from first-time novices to seasoned competitors. Men, women, and junior shooters are welcome.

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Junior Shooters:
Juniors must be accompanied by an adult. The accompanying adult is responsible for transporting the firearm(s) from the vehicle to the range.

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Each month features rotating stage scenarios, with up to two stages carried over from the previous month. Most matches consist of four stages, each requiring approximately 12 rounds, for a total of 48 rounds. Some months may require additional rounds, though efforts are made to keep shooting costs affordable.

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Stages are timed, and shooters will be able to see their hits; however, stages are not scored at this time. Scoring may be added in the future if interest and demand increase.

Match Format

  • Typical match includes four (4) stages

  • Each stage requires a minimum of 12 rounds

  • Some stages may require additional rounds (limited to keep costs reasonable)

  • Shooters may run multiple firearms or shoot additional stages

  • Additional cost: $10 per additional firearm or stage

Equipment Rules

  • All safe, functional pistol types and accessories are permitted

  • Firearms must be in proper working order

  • Rifle calibers with stabilizing braces are not permitted, unless required due to a documented disability and approved by match officials

Shooter Responsibilities

All participants are expected to conduct themselves safely and respectfully at all times.

 

Shooters must:

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A. Follow the Four Universal Laws of Firearm Safety

  1. Treat all firearms as if they are loaded.

  2. Never point the muzzle at anything you are not willing to destroy.

  3. Keep your finger off the trigger until you intend to fire.

  4. Be sure of your target, backstop, and what lies beyond.

 

B. Practice safe firearm handling at all times
 

C. Use the designated safe table when changing firearms
   • A second person must be present during firearm changeover
 

D. Assist with resetting targets and collecting brass as needed
 

E. Be ready to shoot when called to the line
 

F. Be courteous and respectful to match officials and fellow shooters
 

G. Have fun, socialize, learn, and improve your shooting skills

Range Safety – Zero Tolerance

Any shooter or Range Officer may call “CEASE FIRE” at any time.

Upon a cease fire command:

  • Immediately stop shooting

  • Keep the firearm pointed downrange

  • Remove your finger from the trigger

  • Await further instructions from the Range Officer

Range Commands

Range commands may vary slightly but will follow this general format:

  • Downrange is not safe

  • Load and make ready / holster

  • Range is hot

  • Is the shooter ready?

  • Start signal (verbal command, whistle, or shot timer)

  • Make clear and safe; show clear to Range Officer

  • Point muzzle downrange, release slide, press trigger

  • Holster a safe firearm

  • Range is now safe

Unsafe Actions & Corrective Responses

The following actions are considered unsafe and may result in corrective action or disqualification:

  • Finger in the trigger guard when not actively engaging a target
    Corrective Action: Index trigger finger

  • Muzzle not pointed in a safe direction
    Corrective Action: Point muzzle downrange

  • “Cease Fire” command issued due to unsafe conditions
    Corrective Action: Immediately stop the course of fire

 

Additional violations include:

  • Firing over the backstop

  • Failure to follow course-of-fire (COF) instructions

  • Failure to use cover or reload as required

  • Improper movement or draw technique

  • Failure to use holster retention devices as intended

Disqualification Policy

Immediate disqualification will occur for any of the following:

  • Breaking the 180-degree rule
    (Allowing the muzzle to cross or swing behind the fault line)

  • Endangering another person

  • Handling a loaded firearm outside the firing line

  • Repeated or dangerous trigger-finger violations

  • Accidental discharge within 2 yards of the firing line

  • Gross unsportsmanlike conduct, as determined by the Range Master

 

Upon disqualification, the shooter will be instructed to:

  1. Stop immediately

  2. Unload the firearm

  3. Make the firearm safe

  4. Holster as directed by the Range Officer

Have Questions?

For questions or additional information:
Adrian Hummel: 570-329-6342

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