As of this weekend (July 4), there have been 27 matches in the 2025 PRS Pro Series Schedule vs. 24 matches at the same time in the 2024. This includes the 4 matches new to 2025 (Berger Snowbird, Gravestone, Clinton House, and Northern Lights), but also the 1 match that was dropped from the 2025 schedule (Frontline).
First off, I have been an active participant in PRS Pro, Regional, and Rimfire matches since 2022. I would like to see participation grow and I would like to see the community grow and thrive so as to create opportunities for myself, my children, and the companies endemic to the sport.
Second, I don't think I am putting out anything that Mr. Wheeler or his MDs are not already seeing in the data and I put this out there so the community can chime in on possible drivers of this trend. I have my theories, but have not taken the time to analyze the impact of Rimfire and / or Regional series, Y/Y changes in match fees, or the schedule has had on match participation. Let's hear what the Hide thinks (that means you @Sheldon N ).
Lastly, I have two kids, work in Tech, a CRAZY baby mama, and $4.50 per gallon gas that all factor into whether I participate in a match. So as much as I too would like to convert $ into loud 'bangs' I know that I have had to balance my time more this year and that has led to fewer matches.
- The Good: The overall number of participants for Pro Series matches is up 10% season-to-date in 2025. That's good for the PRS.
- The Bad: 20 of the 24 matches that carried over from 2024 attracted fewer shooters. In fact, the average number of participants declined 14%. That's a tough pill for the average MD, who brought in ~$7K less from registration fees (all else equal). The trend since 2023 is even more stark.
- The Biggest Gainers Y/Y: Rifleman's Revival, Nut Crusher, Vengence, and A-Team. These matches saw an increase in participation of ~13% on average.
- The Biggest Decliners Y/Y: Parma Rumble (-43%), Koenig Ruger (-36%), and Cashout Chaos (-34%)
First off, I have been an active participant in PRS Pro, Regional, and Rimfire matches since 2022. I would like to see participation grow and I would like to see the community grow and thrive so as to create opportunities for myself, my children, and the companies endemic to the sport.
Second, I don't think I am putting out anything that Mr. Wheeler or his MDs are not already seeing in the data and I put this out there so the community can chime in on possible drivers of this trend. I have my theories, but have not taken the time to analyze the impact of Rimfire and / or Regional series, Y/Y changes in match fees, or the schedule has had on match participation. Let's hear what the Hide thinks (that means you @Sheldon N ).
Lastly, I have two kids, work in Tech, a CRAZY baby mama, and $4.50 per gallon gas that all factor into whether I participate in a match. So as much as I too would like to convert $ into loud 'bangs' I know that I have had to balance my time more this year and that has led to fewer matches.
