Greetings all...I know that some of you already compete in short-mid-long range events, so if you will beg my pardon, I will address this to those who have not yet competed in a formal event. Why compete? First and foremost...it's fun! You already have the rifle and you've probably got a load worked up. If you compete, all that time you spent at the range will not have been in vain! Your match rifle was born to compete! It's like owning a Ferrari and only driving it to church on Sunday. At a match, you will meet a lot of like-minded new friends and get to exchange ideas and information in person. Wouldn't it be great if all the members of this forum got together in one place for a shoot? I'll bet we would all learn a lot! What a hoot that would be. I promise that if you start to compete, your skill level will go to a higher level. Remember, you are really only competing against yourself, but when you shoot against people who are better than you, you will rise to a higher skill level because nobody strives to be mediocre. You will learn the effects of wind and mirage in a way that can't be duplicated at 100-200 yds. I am fully aware that it is a little intimidating to do something new. New hobby, new people, won't do well etc. but doesn't the longest journey start with the first step? Check with your local clubs, state, or national organizations for information. A search on the internet will give you lots of leads also. I positively guarantee that you may do lousy at your first match but you'll have a ball doing it!!!!   Cheers    Paul

Range time and experience are needed. Good accuracy can be attained with basic shooting skills at short range, but start pushing the ranges out and you need experience. A lot of weather can happen in a thousand yards and shooting in it is the only way to learn. You'll find you're shooting with like minded people who, so long as you're not interrupting them during their shooting, will generally be happy to help with advice and guidance.

We all have to start somewhere, so take every opportunity you can to shoot at long range. The results will take care of themselves. Get to the range, learn and enjoy!

David