The Annual MOA Long Range Handgun Shoot 2010

This Sundance, Wyoming Shoot is Handgun Only, with bench matches at 500, 750, and 1,000 yards. In 2010 we are adding a "Roving Field Course", which is very similar to a field tactical course, but with a "hunting flavor". The Field course will be shot on steel......

Check out our website, you can get a better idea of what is offered. You'll see some faces you might know... Ernie Bishop, Steve Hugel and Mark Hampton. Make sure you read the article in American Handgunner (Jan.-Feb. issue) that Mark wrote on the 2009 Shoot. (Available digitally on our site)

If you are searching for something different, make sure you give this match a look!

Thanks,
Mike

Mike,
Welcome to HH!
Can't wait till June.

Might be a pipe dream depending, but if I can I'll be there and hope to have Dan B in tow.

That would be awesome!

Ernie, Thanks for the welcome! I know I am going to like it here!

Tigger, I can't say it better than Ernie already did....looking forward to meeting you and Dan!

Someone has to carry his gear! May as well be me.

Yes yes, sir Tigger needs a gun bearer.

Heck...as handsome as I am...I could be a gun model!

Here's to it!!

I think we are going to have a great group of shooters there come June-I'm getting excited!!!

Hello Mike! And welcome to Handgun Hunter Magazine!

I am buying an XP-100 (compliments of Ernie) and hope to have a gun built by then and be able to attend.

Steve, It will be the best yet....EVERYONE is putting a lot into the Shoot and even though we have more than 6 months to go, there is a LOT of interest. We have been posting and "stacking" flyers wherever we can...and Rich Mertz will be going to the Shot Show in Vegas in January, and leaving a trail of "Shoot Flyers" along the way!

If anyone is not aware, we have a couple of Flyers that anyone can print on their PC and post at their range, friendly gun shop, etc. Flyer #2 is the best choice (see our website nav-bar). I left an earlier one on as well, because it explains a little more. For anyone that would do us that favor...we greatly appreciate! Or simply print one and mail it to a friend who is not "computer friendly".

Gregg, Thank You for the kind words, and your Support! I started contacting vendors on approx. Nov. 1st, and results have been almost overwhelming! Thank You to all of our Supporters, Vendors, and Media Contacts who will make 2010 a great year for LR Handgunning.....make sure everyone checks our Link Pages, and that you support those that support us....

Gregg, when that project gets further along, make sure you share some details....I think all of us live "vicariously" through each others projects....Ernie will steer you in the right direction.

Thanks Everyone!

Mike

Too bad there isn't a long range iron sight wheelgun group.

Use your FA in the silhouette class. You may place or win, as this is a new class, so I doubt if there will be a lot of competitors.

Any caliber or cartridge restrictions?

First, Welcome gibar!!!

I do not know enough about Silhouette competition to know what restrictions exist or don't exist. Giving Rich a call is what I would do (307)283-3030

Here is what the MOA web site says:

Richard Mertz has introduced another event for the Silhouette Shooters out there. For 2010 any Handgun which meets IHMSA rules for Iron Sight Production or Iron Sight Unlimited Pistol may compete in this event. This Match will be shot at 500 yards, for group, on paper. You will be shooting from the Creedmoor position, on a raised platform. The other particulars and safety rules will be the same as the bench matches!
# Any Handgun meeting Iron Sight Production or Iron Sight Unlimited Rules is welcome.


# Designed to be shot as a "shooter/spotter team"


# You have 5 minutes when called to the line to get set-up, and ready to shoot. Safety Flags must be in guns.


# Upon the Line Rep's command, remove safety flags, and you have 5 minutes, shooting at steel sighters, then pause to clear area of all but 5 rounds of ammunition for record group. Then...

# You will have 5 minutes to shoot your 5 shots on Paper, for Record Group, at 500 yards, from the Creedmoor Position.


# The 2 best groups from each relay will go to the Shootoffs.

Gregg- it's gonna be great to see u there.

U know this could be just what the DR. ordered for the SP world. Since the old BR shoots that they used to have there's really been no formal gathering that had the possibility of attracting so many shooters as well as promoting SP shooting--long overdue IMO! Thanks to Mike for his promoting it and Rich's MOA.

BTT

Plannin' on making the drive if the wife gets the 'ok' to travel that far. Gotta try out that Christmas present!

Russell,

Sounds great! A New E.A. Brown, I "think" you'll be the first to shoot one at the MOA....sounds like a nice gun. If you have any questions, feel free...I'm sure that one of us has the answer. Looking forward to meeting you!

Mike

Lookin' forward to it. Went to the MOA web site and printed off the entry form and the two flyers. Trying to talk an old high school buddy and his wife into making the trip, too. George is an XP shooter and would make a good 'spotter'.

Russell...Sounds great! We are planning a PD Shoot in the Gillette area for Monday and Tuesday prior to the MOA Shoot.
We'll have more details available....I'm looking forward to it!
If you are interested let us know, we'll get some more details to you.

Dale, Happy to see you are signed on! Checked on SP to see how you were doing....hope you are feeling better.

Happy New Year to All!

Mike

Depending on other vacation schedules...I'm still kicking around making the trip.

Dan, I know the feeling. So much to do, so little time. I actually made a "pro-con" list for tags, applications for 2010 yesterday. Made a "promise" to myself that I would DO (not WANT to do) some of those things that I always had an interest for....it is a challenge to balance time, money, and family.

As Steve said earlier in the post, this shoot would be a great place for us all to gather....really...it is unique.... Long Range Handgunning has few other venues! Dan...keepin' up hope for you! I know Ernie would really like to get you there!

I think i'll have off the Mon. and Tues. before the shoot, and if so will be there to spot for any PD shooters who want one. I love spotting.

Steve...Likewise! It's goin' to be a good time!


Mike

BTT for a worthy cause. Y'all come out now!!!

We are getting great industry support for this event so maybe this will tip you fence sitters to get off before the barbed wire bites ya!!!!!

From what i gather it's gonna be 1 heck of a prize table this year.

Necessities for the match:

Items to consider for this years shoot:

Accomodations - Three decent motels in Sundance but very limited dining choices. Check our website for local accomodations. If you are coming with the family I would suggest staying in Spearfish SD. This town has most of the chain motels and restaurants. Even has a wallyworld for forgotten necessities. This is a 30 min. drive from Sundance.

The range - The match is held on leased ranch/grazing land. There is enough parking for a large turnout but we need to be mindful to the owners. This year the match is being held in late June so expect temps of mid 80's. The grass will be dry. It would be a good suggestion to carpool from the motels if possible. Also because of the dry grass a vehicle with some ground clearance so as not to catch the grass on fire from a hot catalytic converter is suggested. Elevation at the range is approx. 4830 feet.

There is no shade at the match so if you have an extra canopy to share will be nice. There will be a portapotty. Bring chairs, drinks and and food you need. No concessions at the range.

Match needs for the Cold Turkey Match - The benchtops are approx. 24" square and 36" tall or slightly less depending how much landscaping is needed to get the bench level. You will need to bring your own shooting stool, rest, bags, Kestrel, line windflags, spotting scope. 15 rounds for score at each distance with an unlimited number of sighters for each 5 min. prep time(3 groups of 5 for score and a separate prep time for each string).

Match needs for Open sight - much simpler for us sillywet shooters - ammo for sighters and record shots, shooting mat, elbow pad, spotting scope etc.

Match needs for the field course - ammo, the rest of your choice, spotting scope, range finder, water and BOOTS - there are small cacti on the property and also some of those things that RATTLE!

I am sure that I have omitted something so check back for updates.

And yes - once you have packed all the little things don't forget your GUNS!

Lets all have fun this summer in Sundance and get your entries in early so the necessary targets and barbeque items can be planned. Gary/MOA Shooters Committee

Update #1: Richard may work a deal with Blackhills Shooters Supply on reloading supplies. You will be able to pick up at the match and save shipping and hazmat fees. Contact Rich for additional info.

FYI: there is no license required to shoot prairie dogs in Wyoming. Come on down!

Yes, no hunting license is required for varmints in Wyoming. But if you were born after 1964 you must have a hunters education card with you when shooting varmints to present to a game officer if he asks for it.

Just making sure nobody gets a ticket.

Dale,

Thank you...good catch. I'm going through and adding that to the forums where we have posted.

Here is the link to their FAQ page dealing with the subject...if you are using a firearm to shoot P-Dogs, and you were born after 1965, you must have a valid Hunter Safety Certificate.

Wyoming Game and Fish (misc. category) FAQ page

Dang Dale--u are 1 helpful dude, brotha'! Thks.

Though no license is required, do you need to buy a conservation stamp??

I just called Wyoming Game and Fish at 307-777-4600 and was told "no." Also refer to page 42 of the 2010 Wyoming Big Game License Application Booklet.

It would be a good thing to do however as it does help the Game Management departments and the cost is only $12.50.

You're 'on the ball', Gregg! Thank you for the info!

Sheriff, You are welcome, Sir. I may be one page off however: this time I found it on page 43:

http://gf.state.wy.us/downloads/pdf/10appbooklet/10NR42-44.pdf

The distinguishing language that is pertinent is "each person LICENSED to hunt or fish in Wyoming must purchase (1) Conservation Stamp for $12.50..."

Because a LICENSE is not required to shoot Prairie Dogs the Conservation Stamp requirement does not apply.

Still, I urge those that attend the prairie dog shoot to buy the Conservation Stamp. Wyoming is one of the last "best" hunting states in the lower 48 and we can help it stay strong in that way.

My Ninety-Nine Cents Worth.

Gregg Richter

It looks like the moderators over at the Beartooth Bullet forum are not exactly enthralled about the MOA shoot. With lots of competition for our cast bullet dollars, it should be noted.

SW,
Every forum is a little different in what they encourage or allow.
I'm grateful that we have the privilege here to talk about LR shooting, hunting, and competitions with handguns without fear of getting banned.
I try to respect the wishes of each forum owner-It is their playground and they set the rules.

That's true. However, I work with several companies in the hunting/shooting industry, and unfortunately, there is a growing number that don't really support the end users in spite of record earnings the last few years.

Please explain.........

For obvious reasons of liability, company names must remain anonymous. I've been in this game since the late '70s, so I can speak with some authority on the matter.

SW,

Our endeavors to grow the match have been "interesting". We have received a great amount of encouragement and support from almost all sectors....in the rare case where we are rebuffed there is usually a problem with my communications skills. Just makes me try harder...and I do appreciate those that do choose to support our efforts to grow participation in the Match just that much more!

......Thanks for being in our (the "shooters") corner...I do appreciate it! And I hope you'll consider joining us.

Mike

Mike, I don't think the problem was with your communication skills at all. The problem is that some in the industry will only promote their products at "specific" event or to a specific audience. My opinion is that while sales are through-the-roof right now, they will slow down at some point. When it comes time to make a purchase, folks like "us" tend to remember which companies support the shooting sports and which do not. With a shrinking economy, and lots of pressure for spending money, companies should help out whenever they can.

With all that blather being said, it does bode well for the MOA Shoot to have as much support as you do. With silhouette shoots now few and far betwen, perhaps the MOA Shoot will get some of the old steel shooters out of hibernation???

SW: We have posted on the ihmsa.net/forums board trying to attract the old time sillywet shooters as well as having run into a large number of them at the SHOT Show. Hpoefully this will pay off in attendence. Hopefully those stubborm companies will realize we ALL nedd to support each other. Gary?MOA Shooters committee

I shot steel till the eyes went south for using iron sites. While most of the steel shooters have gone to scopes, 200 meter targets are one thing, but 500/750/1000 yard targets sound quite intimidating. Also, they may not have the right "equipment" required for the accuracy needed at the extreme ranges.

BTT

You're not kidding when you say 500/750and 1000 yds being intimidating. LOL I don't even shooth that far with my rifles. I'm sure equipment might be another factor, it is for me. I'm was seriously contemplating coming down even just to watch but at the price of gas I might as well shoot if I'm going to drive down. I'm still trying to get something going so I may just show up yet.
Mike

Mike,
I hope you can make it-You will really enjoy yourself.

Although walk in entries are accepted, those sent in by the May 15 request date will help us plan better. If you need an incentive there are three firearms(possibly a fourth), scopes, barrels, and many other quality prizes to be won or given away as door prize. Should be over $5000 worth of goodies. So come on out and play with us. See you in June.

The Shoot dates are rapidly approaching...still time to join us!

Even if you decide not to shoot the bench matches...feel free to stop by and meet everyone. Saturday is our "fun" day, and also this year the "Roving Field Course", which is an open sign-up.

Just to update the earlier post(s):

Dates are set for 2011...June 23,24, and 25th

We will once again offer a 2 Day Prairie Dog Shoot on June 20th and 21st, courtesy of Ernie Bishop. (Thanks Ernie!)

The Match "grew" in 2010 by 300% over the previous year...we want to get all of the "Specialty Handgunners" out to Wyoming in 2011! Last year's prize table was fantastic! And..the region is a fantastic destination for a family vacation!

Check out both websites...we hope that you put the Match on your calendar for next year!


Mike