Q: What do I need to bring to a match?
A: For starters, you'll need to bring some PPE, namely eye and ear protection. These are required for all competitors AND spectators. You'll also need your firearm (unloaded & secured in a case, bag, or in a holster), ammunition, magazines, and any other related equipment like a belt and holster, mag carriers for your belt (if you want them), and tools you may need. The priority is your safety equipment, then your firearm, ammo, magazines, and belt & holster. You should be able to finish any BPS with just these essentials. It's also never a bad idea to bring some water and maybe a snack.
Q: I'm pretty new to shooting and competitions. Should I even be attempting a competition? I don't feel like I'm good enough to compete.
A: As long as you can adhere to the safety rules, you ARE ready to compete! No one starts their first match by winning; everyone you will shoot this match with was in your shoes when they started, and they worked their way up. You'll have a hard time finding a friendlier, more helpful crowd of people. Competition is the best way to improve your skills; if you don't think you're good enough for a match, then this is exactly where you need to be to get better!
Q: How do I sign up for a BPS match?
A: Registration for BPS events is performed online through Practiscore.com, the premier shooting sports registration and scoring website. get a free account and search "Belton Practical Shooting" in the Matches section to find our matches and register to compete! A limited number of walk-ons may be allowed during the registration period before the match. Match fees that are not paid online through Practiscore (if available) should be paid in cash during the registration period immediately before the match. Scores will also be posted to Practiscore where you can view them with your account.
Q: The rulebook seems like a lot of information to sift through. Do I really have to know ALL of it?
A: Strictly speaking, not really. Not as a newbie, anyway. It is absolutely essential that you understand and follow the safety rules; failure to do so will result in your disqualification, or worse, someone getting hurt. Firearms are lethal tools, and while shooting competitions are safer than the average football game, this is only because we take safety so seriously. Outside of safety rules and understanding match procedures, you really don't HAVE to know the ins and outs of scoring beyond the basic level of "shoot only from inside the shooting area, shoot fast, and don't miss." We can also help you find the right division to compete in if you're not sure where your equipment belongs.
Q: I want to shoot my carry gun at the match, but since I carry it, it is loaded. What do I do so I don't violate any safety rules?
A: We greatly encourage those who want to get practical practice with their carry guns at a match. We also don't want you to have to unload your carry gun in the parking lot of some gas station on your way to the match, or worse, in our own parking lot. If you have a loaded carry gun that you wish to compete with, approach one of the match staff and inform them you need supervision for unloading. They will accompany you to an appropriate area where you can unload and show clear. At the conclusion of the match, you should follow the same procedure from loading your gun before leaving the range. DO NOT attempt to unload or load your gun in your vehicle on the property. Doing so will result in a disqualification and/or expulsion from the range. We have this easy-to-follow process in place so we can all remain safe. Help us to help you!