Re: Rayner's SE Ohio Sniper Challenge Oct. 29-30
I just wanted to pass along some some observations me and my son had while helping Tom at this match. First I'd like to say that it was a real pleasure to watch all the shooters while they tackled each station and it's unique challenges. From the seasoned tactical shooters down to the first time at a match shooter everyone was very observant of gun safety even though some stations required some movement between shots or awkward shooting positions.
Most everyone said they thought this was a bit tougher than the Spring match but that adds to the challenge but the shots were not that difficult due to distances. The time element and locations of some targets got the heart beating a bit faster and the frustration. One stage in particular I think the 4 letter words are still hovering over that hide. Short time limit and 2 targets that did not want to be found. 4 shooters did find them and eliminate them successfully.
Wish we had some videos of the Stump stage, one shooter in particular (no names mentioned) would of made a great video. He found some limbs, made a neat tripod to shoot off of on the stump which was barely large enough for your butt and feet to fit on. At the buzzer he started to sit and feet went out from under him, almost went off the stump, the tripod went in all directions and looked like it was trying to eat his gun. It was sticking out all directions, he was trying to stay on the stump and get his shots off and looked like a cat trying to land on his feet after being tossed off a shed roof. Somehow it all came together and I think he got hits on both targets, guess that is where skill and experience pay off.
If some of those wild animals would of gotten out of the fenced in area from Zanesville I'm sure you saw on the news and traveled a few miles to our match we might of had a "Save your Ass" stage. Been kinda neat having a Bengal Tiger or African Lion charging across the field towards your hide but might of been a bit hard to train them to charge at the buzzer towards the shooter. Truthfully though, shame that had to happen to all those beautiful wild animals that didn't need to be all killed.
On one of the stages on Saturday on the 615 yard target as I was setting up the spotting scope the target looked odd. It had ears...... standing directly in front of it was a small doe looking right at me. It couldn't of been more perfectly centered if we'd placed it there. Had a few that asked about bonus points but figured after the first shooter we'd have to rustle up more deer to keep it fair for everyone. It finally wandered around behind the target but any miss on the plate would of allowed us venison for lunch. Everyone said they'd not miss the target ( I would of not taken that bet ) and Bambi would be safe but she finally wandered off at her own slow pace.
We got to see a wide assortment of weapons and equipment from top of the line big dollar dream stuff down to normal hunting weapons. Still comes down to the shooter knowing his gun and being observant of weather conditions and being able to shoot in all positions.
This is the second match we've helped at and I think I'm about to slip over to the dark side and try a long barreled gun and give this a try. Son is also anxious to give it a whirl. After 2 days watching everyone else having so much fun/frustration I'm feeling a bit more Snipery. Think I'll go watch more Mall Ninja videos and start practicing for April.
All joshing aside, we both appreciate Tom and Dan for all the work they did setting this up and allowing us a chance to help. Also had a great time with a great group of shooters/competitors and being part of the gang.
Thanks for a fun weekend
Dennis & Chris