10 reasons to consider competitive shooting

Diana Hufstedler from Sass, Brass & Bullets shares the top 10 reasons why she likes competitive shooting. 

 

Why competitive shooting sports? – This is probably the most common question I get from relatives, friends, coworkers, etc. Here are my top 10 reasons. What are yours?

 

1. Adrenaline – Sorry folks, call me shallow but this is my number one reason. I have always been a thrill junkie – rock climbing, flying, hunting, fast cars, guns…. I like it all. Maybe less so after I had a child, but that mixed wave of fear, excitement & pleasure gets me going like nothing else. If an elevated heart-rate is your idea of nirvana – shooting sports are definitely for you!
2. Fun – Have you ever watched a video on YouTube and thought “Jeez, that looks like fun”? Well, it’s because it is! Just think about it – you can shoot Zombies, sniper something 1000 yards away, practice self-defense, or pretend to be a navy seal. Whatever it is that gets your chest muscle pumping – there is a shooting discipline for it. (watch for my next article outlining some of the disciplines I’ve dabbled in)
3. Friends – Really, I should call them a Shooting Family. Because that’s what it really is. Contrary to common (media) portrayal, “gun people” are usually the nicest, kindest, most helpful and caring individuals you’d ever meet. We are working professionals, parents, patriots, hobbyists, and generally have a very strong sense of community – one you’d really want to be a part of when the Zombies come. 🙂
4. Skills – This is one of the original reasons I first started competing. As a woman I sometimes feel particularly vulnerable to an attack (and I have been attacked & robbed as a teenager). Yes, target practice and maybe a Conceal & Carry class are (marginally) better than nothing but I firmly believe consistent muscle-memory learning under stress (this is really important) is the best way to train your body to react to a threat. I hope I never need to use these skills but I’d rather be prepared.
5. Travel – Based on budget & time constrains, you might choose to travel for some bigger matches. My husband & I are hobbyists so we selectively pick which matches to attend based on cost, location, and level of fun. It is an added bonus that we get to see new places, meet new people and make a mini family vacation out of each trip.

Read more at Sass, Brass & Bullets.

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  The Women's Outdoor News, aka The WON, features news, reviews and stories about women who are shooting, hunting, fishing and actively engaging in outdoor adventure. This publication is for women, by women. View all posts by The WON →