Expect 200 – 250 competitors, plan for 2 hours minimum at the range.  Based on the number of stages on TNS (4-6), the round count will vary depending on the stage design. Expect each stage to be between  15-30 rounds per stage, so there will be about 80-140 rounds required hits to complete this match.

Steel reactive targets are predominantly used throughout the courses of fire presented for the competitor every Tuesday night. Scoring is time-based, with penalties of +5 seconds assessed for targets not engaged with the required number of hits or other procedural errors. Successful participants will compete based on their equipment being used (Open, Limited, Limited 10, Revolver, Carry Optics, Production, Single Stack) and their ability to execute the courses of fire in the match (Grand Master, Master-, A-, B-, C-, D-, and Novice).

Shooters not previously classified with USPSA will start in Novice Class for three matches. Once you have shot three matches in Novice, you should register in D-Class. Advancement through the classes is determined by the “3-win” rule – win your class three times (does not need to be consecutive but you have to keep track of it) then move yourself up one class. Competitors may elect to move down one class on January 1st each year. Pins are awarded for class wins.

The match is moderately physical with standing, sitting, squatting, leaning, and prone positions sometimes required to view the targets. In most cases, you will draw your gun from the holster and will reload from the belt. It is recommended to have at least three magazines, four if limited to 10 rounds or less. Participants are challenged by hundreds of different courses during the year, with posted course descriptions outlining required hits and shooting positions, leaving execution decisions up to the competitor.