August 14, 2005 Newsletter

We managed to dodge the rain for all but 15 minutes this weekend. We had 35 shooters and 14 reshoots for a total of 49 guns. Let Ed know what you thought of his big stages this month. We like feedback! Thanks very much to all who helped to set up and tear down.

We had two new shooters this month, Amy Damon and Rick Short.

We had a shooter miss scores on both of the field courses this month because his time was not recorded. Everyone, check your scoresheet after you shoot and make sure the hits are right and that your time is recorded. I have no choice but to give you a DNF if I don't have a time to enter. And those running the clipboard, think how you would feel if you ended up with no score.

Bud's Safety Minute

I'd like to point out some things that will help you be safer on the range. This month one of the stages had you end up facing to the right side of the bay. When the RO says "If you are finished, unload and show clear" you should turn and point the handgun downrange. This will reduce the possibility of a 180 violation. The same holds true when you are told to "Load and make ready". We had several shooters on that same stage that were facing the targets on the left side of the bay. Turn and face the back berm. And when you drop the hammer to prove that your handgun is clear, point the muzzle at the back berm. I've had concrete or dirt blown back at me when the gun went bang! Use the back berm, that's what it is there for.

In the left bay, many shooters were standing right next to the rope fault line. When they went to reholster, several almost knocked the gun out of their hand. Don't be afraid to back up and give yourself room to work.

And finally, we had another DQ this month. Last month was an AD on the draw. This month was a shot over the berm. Remember, you are responsible for your rounds, wherever they go. Keep your finger out of the trigger guard when moving or reloading. See Rules 8.5.1 & 10.4.

I have noticed that a few of you have let your USPSA membership lapse. Not to complain, but I get a warning message that a shooter is expired as I enter your name into the match. So help me out, reduce my stress level and rejoin USPSA. You can rejoin at our match and shoot for free that month. See Bill at registration for an application.

Our next match will be on Sunday, September 11th at Crooked Creek in Hartsgrove. We'll start setup at 4:00 PM on Saturday, September 10th and you can shoot one gun afterwards. Signups for Sunday start at 8:00 AM with final registration at 1:00 PM. And Ed says he is giving away a Cadillac to the top shooter in each division. So come on out and take a shot at winning your division.

Here is the Outdoor Schedule at Crooked Creek for the rest of the year:

September 11, 2005

October 9, 2005

We'll worry about the indoor schedule in September! And tell us if you really missed the indoor shoots last winter or not.

This months Top Shooters are:

August 14, 2005 Results

Bud Connolly
stats@practicalpistol.net