So just thinking about doing some tactical matches for the first time and wondering about some gear choices. For comps out to 1000 yards does anyone bring a wind meter with or at least take the time to use it (or have the spotter use it when doing team matches) also does anyone use vests with pokets on sides and back (to go prone) instead of a backpack?? Like i said im new to comps so sorry if it sounds stupid. Any other gear ideas would be helpful!
Newbe gear questions
- Thread starter rifleshooter5
- Start date
Re: Newbe gear questions
Kestrel is worth it. Get the ATRAG version if your so inclined, mine has been spot on. JBM, bulletflight, shooter, all will be just as good as ATRAG, but the Kestrel w/ the program sure makes it convenient to use.
Regarding your vest/belt/backpack question, most matches make it beneficial to have a mag change readily available, so some way to carry an extra mag is nice. I'm a big believer that less is more, so I carry a kydex AICS mag pouch on my belt, along with ammo and everything else I need in a pack. If a pistol is required, then just add a holster on the strong side, and one or two mag pouches on the belt.
IF the match requires cover/concealment/stalking, then all of the above is out the door and I have no good advise for that.
Kestrel is worth it. Get the ATRAG version if your so inclined, mine has been spot on. JBM, bulletflight, shooter, all will be just as good as ATRAG, but the Kestrel w/ the program sure makes it convenient to use.
Regarding your vest/belt/backpack question, most matches make it beneficial to have a mag change readily available, so some way to carry an extra mag is nice. I'm a big believer that less is more, so I carry a kydex AICS mag pouch on my belt, along with ammo and everything else I need in a pack. If a pistol is required, then just add a holster on the strong side, and one or two mag pouches on the belt.
IF the match requires cover/concealment/stalking, then all of the above is out the door and I have no good advise for that.
Re: Newbe gear questions
Sure, guys have Kestrels but they are as much weather meters as wind meters. The barometric pressure and/or density altitude is as or more important than wind. Those are factors you can control.
Now, if you don't have one, don't sweat it. Someone else will and guys will share their data if you ask them to, just explain its your first comp, don't have one, etc. Most guys are very friendly and will help you through.
I prefer the pack, no need to carry stuff all the time that you don't need on you. You can use the pack for shooting off of when needed, etc. Use the pack, it's your friend.
Lastly, guys are nervous, think they aren't good enough to be in matches, etc. Just shoot one, they are a blast, guys will shake your hand and pat you on the back if you're last place or top ten, it doesn't matter where you finish it matters that you were a good sport, fun to be with and were a safe weapons handler.
Sure, guys have Kestrels but they are as much weather meters as wind meters. The barometric pressure and/or density altitude is as or more important than wind. Those are factors you can control.
Now, if you don't have one, don't sweat it. Someone else will and guys will share their data if you ask them to, just explain its your first comp, don't have one, etc. Most guys are very friendly and will help you through.
I prefer the pack, no need to carry stuff all the time that you don't need on you. You can use the pack for shooting off of when needed, etc. Use the pack, it's your friend.
Lastly, guys are nervous, think they aren't good enough to be in matches, etc. Just shoot one, they are a blast, guys will shake your hand and pat you on the back if you're last place or top ten, it doesn't matter where you finish it matters that you were a good sport, fun to be with and were a safe weapons handler.
Re: Newbe gear questions
Thanks guys sounds great. I have a basic kestral already so ill just bring that.
Thanks guys sounds great. I have a basic kestral already so ill just bring that.
Re: Newbe gear questions
That just depends on the type of 1000yd match I guess. The two matches I participate in dont require a lot of movement during a stage.
Everyone has their rifle, Most have a rifle case/shooting mat, and a range bag for gear.
You throw down your mat, set your bag beside or behind you, grab a box of ammo, and your ready to go. When its time to move to the next area you pick it up and move.
I would love to have some local shoots where you move and shoot, move and shoot over several acres of land but we dont have any of thosse nearby.
Best is to check with the match director in what equipment is needed and not needed for a particular match.
That just depends on the type of 1000yd match I guess. The two matches I participate in dont require a lot of movement during a stage.
Everyone has their rifle, Most have a rifle case/shooting mat, and a range bag for gear.
You throw down your mat, set your bag beside or behind you, grab a box of ammo, and your ready to go. When its time to move to the next area you pick it up and move.
I would love to have some local shoots where you move and shoot, move and shoot over several acres of land but we dont have any of thosse nearby.
Best is to check with the match director in what equipment is needed and not needed for a particular match.
Re: Newbe gear questions
just to clarify briefly what may already be obvious... people don't usually use the kestrel when they're on the clock (during the stage). they use it in the staging area ahead of time. you will probably see folks holding them up in the staging area. feel free to ask them what it says. if you bring yours out expect others to ask you what it says.
for matches, the backpack is what you use to carry your crap to the staging area. you may or may not use it in the actual stage depending on the match. 90%+ the backpack stays in the staging area and i just carry what i need on a belt during the stage
just to clarify briefly what may already be obvious... people don't usually use the kestrel when they're on the clock (during the stage). they use it in the staging area ahead of time. you will probably see folks holding them up in the staging area. feel free to ask them what it says. if you bring yours out expect others to ask you what it says.
for matches, the backpack is what you use to carry your crap to the staging area. you may or may not use it in the actual stage depending on the match. 90%+ the backpack stays in the staging area and i just carry what i need on a belt during the stage
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