Try this one!
Target Pistol Shooting
The Pistol Matches
Its easy to join, as there are over 80 clubs in New Zealand. There is sure to be a club near you!
I.S.S.F (International Shooting Sports Federation)
Truely worldwide, it includes both precision and rapid fire matches, with affiliates in many countries. Controls matches shot at Olympic and Commonwealth Games. Conducts World Championships. Matches for Women and Juniors, plus matches graded on shooting skills, i.e. learners shoot against other learners. New Zealand pistol shooters have competed at all Commonwealth Games since 1974 and have been regular medal winners.
Muzzle Loading (Black Powder)
Matches are shot to Muzzle Loaders Association International Committee (M.L.A.I.C.) rules and are graded so shooters compete equally. Matches are held for flintlock pistols, percussion pistols and revolvers, both originals and modern designs. Origins are deep in history, which have been revived by the historical enthusiasts and the serious target shooter. New Zealand muzzle loading shooters attend Continental and World muzzle loading Championships.
HandGun Metallic Silhouette
Originating in Mexico after WWII, this is long range shooting, and the nearest thing in New Zealand to handgun hunting. Features steel targets in the form of four different birds and animals, at up to 200 metres distance. Shot with a variety of handguns from production revolvers to custom single shot pistols in rifle-type calibres. Matches are graded, giving all shooters an equal winning chance. New Zealand HMS shooters have attended World Championships and other international competitions with distinction.
Action Shooting
Speed and action create high speed shooter/spectator interest in this pistol sport. As many of the matches require the pistol to be drawn from a holster, training and certification for holsters are handled by this section. Action shooting covers several different types of competition, each promoted by different international bodies, e.g. Speed, NRA. Involves competing against time limits with powerful handguns, and sets speed against accuracy.
Practical Shooting (I.P.S.C)
The sport of Practical Shooting is shot to the rules of the International Practical Shooting Confederation whose motto is "Dilgentia, Vis, Celeritas" (Accuracy, Power, Speed). Matches consist of individual course of fire (called stages) and many aspects are not found in more traditional sports, such as movement by the shooter, drawing from the holster, moving targets, multiple targets, and freedom for the competitor to solve the shooting problems presented within the course design. This sport uses pistols, rifles and shotguns.
Cowboy Action Shooting (C.A.S)
A new, fun, shooting sport for the whole family. Shot to international rules (Single Action Shooting Society, S.A.S.S) using firearms from the late 1800's to more modern 1900's firing black powder and smokeless cartridges. Dressing the part of a cowboy or early NZ pioneer is a mandatory requirement and whole families are involved in this fun sport.
The New Zealand Pistol Association Inc
Controls and co-ordinates pistols shooting throughout New Zealand at the request of the NZ police, since its incorporation in 1969. It has thousands of members from all walks of life who compete as recreational shooters and top international competitors. It is affiliated to most international shooting authorities, and is a foundation member of the NZ Shooting Federation. Promotes International competition plus selects and manages the National teams for the various matches under its control. Conducts National Championships to international standards. Organises training programmes and coaching. Publishes a bi-monthly magazine, provides training materials, targets and other supplies to clubs.
What will it cost?
Pistol shooting is not an expensive sport when compared with many, but still requires a modest investment in equipment and operating cost. Most New Zealand Pistol Association affiliated clubs provide club owned pistols suitable for new members to use on club days. Like many sports, the "Top end" is what you care to make it, but entry level costs can be light. Many firearms can be purchased second hand from existing members or licensed firearms dealers. The New Zealand Pistol Association's magazine "Bullshooter" publishes a wanted to buy & sell column for members.
Where to find out more?
Contact the New Zealand Pistol Association, PO Box 50-493, Porirua.
or email them at - pistolnz@clear.net.nz
For other New Zealand pistol club web pages see the links section.
Often stores that sell firearms or the police can put you in touch with you local club members.
Clubs:
There are over 80 clubs in New Zealand situated from the far north to the deep south.
