Welcome back to another exciting episode of A Pirate Talks Guns — your go-to source for all things firearms, shooting, and personal defense. Today we're diving into a topic that’s been making waves in the firearms community: women in the shooting sports. Whether you're new to the range or a seasoned shooter, this episode is packed with insights, stories, and tips designed just for you. So, let’s get to it.
Before we begin, I want to send a shout-out to Jacob. He listens to this podcast and came out and shot in his first IDPA match this past Saturday. He did great and said it was a lot more fun than just coming to the range and practicing. It’s a great feeling to know you’ve positively influenced someone. It lets me know I’m not just shouting into the ether. Thank you Jacob, and I hope to see you again next month.
I also realize I’m way behind schedule with this podcast. It’s been a busy few weeks. We had a water leak from our refrigerator here at casa pirate, and the kitchen has been torn up since January. The final steps of a complete recovery, which consisted of flooring and total cabinetry replacement, drywall work, and painting is finally finished, and things have returned to normal.
Alright, let’s kick things off by looking at the rise of women in the shooting sports. Over the last decade, there’s been a significant increase in female participation across all shooting disciplines. According to the National Shooting Sports Foundation, women now make up nearly 25% of all target shooters. That’s not just a number; it’s a testament to how our sport is evolving and becoming more inclusive.
One story that stands out to me is that of Julie Golob, a champion shooter who has broken countless records and inspired countless women. Julie’s journey from a young girl fascinated by her father’s shooting to becoming one of the most decorated shooters in history is truly inspiring. Her achievements underscore that with passion and dedication, there are no limits to what women can achieve in this field.
Speaking of achievements, let’s talk about some of the different disciplines within shooting sports that are attracting women. Whether you’re interested in precision shooting, action shooting, or anything in between, there’s something for everyone.
Now, for those of you new to the sport, or even those looking to try something different, let’s break down some popular shooting disciplines where women are excelling.
We’ll start with precision rifle competitions. Precision rifle shooting involves long-range targets and requires a steady hand and a sharp eye. Women like Regina Milkovich have made a name for themselves in this discipline. Precision shooting demands patience, technical knowledge, and a good grasp of ballistics. If you enjoy the challenge of hitting a small target from a long distance, this might be your calling.
For the action and movement oriented, there’s 3-gun matches. 3-Gun involves using a rifle, shotgun, and pistol in fast-paced, multi-gun stages. It’s a dynamic and adrenaline-pumping sport where you transition between different firearms and engage targets at varying distances. Lena Miculek, a top 3-Gun competitor, showcases how women can dominate in this demanding sport. If you like versatility and action, 3-Gun could be for you.
If you’re a concealed carry permit holder, or carry through constitutional carry, I can’t recommend IDPA enough. IDPA, the International Defensive Pistol Association (kind of a misnomer, as pistol caliber carbines have infected the sport) will make you proficient in everything you may have to do in a defensive scenario. You’ll be shooting, moving, reloading, and using cover while avoiding no-shoot targets. IDPA focuses on defensive shooting scenarios and simulates real-life self-defense situations. Women like Tiffany Piper excel here, proving that practical shooting skills are invaluable. It’s about accuracy, speed, and problem-solving under pressure. If self-defense is a primary interest, IDPA provides a competitive yet practical outlet.
Another pair of long gun sports that have been attracting women lately are trap and skeet. Trap and skeet shooting are shotgun sports that test your reaction time and accuracy against moving targets. Kim Rhode, a six-time Olympic medalist, exemplifies success in this arena. These sports offer a great way to improve your shotgun skills and have fun in a more relaxed setting.
Alright, whether it’s precision or speed, there’s no shortage of options. But let’s switch gears and talk about how to get started if you’re new to shooting sports.
For those of you eager to join the ranks of competitive shooters, here are some tips to help you get started.
Start by finding a local range or shooting club. Many clubs offer introductory classes and have experienced shooters who can guide you. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or seek advice. The shooting community is generally very supportive and welcoming.
Investing in a class can provide you with a solid foundation. Look for classes that focus on the discipline you’re interested in. Learning the basics from a professional can make a huge difference in your confidence and skills. If you’re in the Anderson, South Carolina universe, we are putting on one of our popular Ladies Only Clinics July 20th and 21st. These clinics are open to women of all levels of shooting skills, and are extremely popular. I’ll put a link in the show notes if you’re interested.
Begin with small, manageable goals. Don’t feel pressured to compete right away. Focus on mastering the fundamentals and gradually build up to more advanced techniques. Do not compare yourself to experienced shooters. They’ve worked long and hard to hone their skills. You’ll get there eventually with enough practice. At the beginning, your concentration should be on safe gun handling, the operation of your gun, and mastering the basic marksmanship skills.
Having the right gear can enhance your experience. Start with quality basics and upgrade as you become more experienced. Remember, it’s not about having the most expensive gear but the gear that works best for you.
Join online forums, follow social media groups, and connect with other female shooters. Networking can provide you with support, advice, and camaraderie. Plus, you can learn from others’ experiences and avoid common pitfalls. A caveat here is to be careful about who you follow and what you learn from the internet and YouTube. There is a lot of really bad information out there. As Obi Wan cautioned about the Mos Eisley spaceport in Star Wars, it’s also true for the interwebs: “You will never find a more wretched hive of scum and villainy. We must be cautious.”
As you embark on your journey in the shooting sports, you’ll find that the skills you develop are not just about hitting a target. Let’s talk about the broader benefits and how shooting sports can empower you in everyday life.
Participating in shooting sports offers more than just the thrill of competition. Here are some ways it can positively impact your life:
Confidence and Empowerment: Handling firearms and improving your shooting skills can boost your confidence. Knowing that you can safely and effectively use a firearm is empowering, and that confidence often extends to other areas of life.
Stress Relief: Shooting can be a great way to relieve stress. Focusing on the target and the mechanics of shooting can provide a mental break from daily stressors, offering a form of active meditation.
Physical and Mental Discipline: Shooting requires both physical and mental discipline. From controlling your breathing to maintaining focus, the skills you develop can enhance your overall discipline and self-control.
Community and Friendship: The shooting sports community is diverse and supportive. Engaging in these activities can lead to lifelong friendships and a sense of belonging. Sharing a passion with others who understand and appreciate it can be incredibly rewarding. There are quite a few organizations for women who want to get into the shooting sports or enhance their current skills. I’ll put links to them in the show notes.
One that I’m very familiar with is the Armed Women of America. Mrs. Pirate is a chapter leader along with the SkipJ range owner. Needless to say I get to provide a good bit of support. While theirs is a relatively new chapter, it grew quickly and continues to attract new members. They meet once a month, have a short classroom session, and then hit the range. There are members of all skill levels, and the sharing of tips is pretty awesome. If you’re looking for a fun, safe environment to get your introduction to shooting this is definitely a great avenue for you.
I want to take a minute here to tell you about a veteran owned business right here in South Carolina. Fort Mill Firearms builds custom modern sporting rifles, the AR platform we all love. They build their guns one at a time, giving you a quality firearm without the Gucci prices. They'll work with you one on one to build a rifle that fills your specific needs, be it hunting, competition, range toy, or defensive gun. Quality parts, outstanding customer service, attention to detail, and fair pricing...what more could you ask? Give them a call at (803) 509-0100. I'll put the rest of their contact information and web address in the show notes.
Now, as we wrap up, I’d like to share some actionable takeaways to help you continue growing in your shooting journey. Here are some final tips to keep you on target:
Set Goals:
Set both short-term and long-term goals. Whether it’s improving your accuracy or entering a competition, having goals keeps you motivated.
Practice Regularly:
Consistent practice is key. Even if it’s just dry firing at home or a quick session at the range, regular practice helps maintain and improve your skills.
Seek Feedback:
Don’t hesitate to ask for feedback from experienced shooters. Constructive criticism can be incredibly valuable for your development.
Stay Safe:
Always prioritize safety. Follow the fundamental rules of firearm safety, and never compromise on protective gear and safe handling practices. Any movement or handling you make with a firearm has to be deliberate.
Most importantly, have fun! Shooting sports should be enjoyable. Celebrate your successes and learn from your challenges without being too hard on yourself.
And there you have it, folks — a comprehensive guide to women in the shooting sports. I hope you found this episode informative and inspiring.
I want to thank all our listeners for tuning in. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or just getting started, remember that the world of shooting sports is open to everyone, and there’s a place for you here.
We have a Ladies Only clinic scheduled for Saturday, July 20th and Sunday, July 21st. If you know anyone who might be interested let them know. I’ll put a link to the registration site in the show notes.
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Until next time, shoot safe.
