Preparing for a GLOCK Sport Shooting Foundation (GSSF) match goes beyond honing your shooting skills. Equally important is packing the right gear to ensure a successful and enjoyable experience. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned competitor, knowing what to bring to a GSSF match can significantly impact your performance and overall enjoyment.
What to Bring to a GSSF Match
Firearms and Ammunition
- GLOCK Pistol: Ensure it complies with the division you are competing in.
- Ammunition: Bring sufficient high-quality ammunition, as purchasing it on-site might not be an option. You will need 100-150 rounds PER DIVISION for your shoot and possible reshoots.
Safety Equipment
- Eye Protection: High-impact glasses to shield your eyes. Remember, two stages have steel, and having safety glasses that wrap are HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
- Ear Protection: Noise-cancelling earmuffs or earplugs.
Shooting Gear
- Holster: A suitable holster that fits your GLOCK securely and covers the trigger.
- Pistol Bag: If you are not carrying your GLOCK in a holster, your GLOCK should be secured in a bag until the range safety officer tells you that you may remove it from the bag.
- Magazines: Bring extra magazines to avoid constant reloading. It is recommended that you have 3 loaded magazines for the Give to GLOCK and GLOCK M stages loaded to 10 rounds per magazine. For GLOCK the Plates, you will need 4 loaded magazines with 10 rounds per magazine. (Remember, you are allowed a “barney round” so prepare an extra magazine to use to load these.)
- Magazine Loader: To save time and effort when loading magazines.
Clothing and Personal Items
- Comfortable Clothing: Weather-appropriate attire that allows for ease of movement. The top of the shirt should be high and not low cut or a V-cut to avoid hot spent brass from going down your shirt while on the line.
- Shooting Gloves: For better grip and recoil management.
- Hat and Sunglasses: Protection against sun and ejected casings.
- Sturdy Footwear: Comfortable, closed-toe shoes for navigating the range.
Tools and Cleaning Supplies
- Multi-tool or Gun Toolkit: For any quick adjustments or fixes.
- Cleaning Kit: Basic gun cleaning supplies for maintenance.
- Spare Batteries: If you use any electronic devices like a red dot sigh
Miscellaneous
- Water and Snacks: Stay hydrated and energized throughout the event.
- First Aid Kit: For any minor injuries or emergencies.
- Notebook and Pen: To jot down scores or notes during the match.
- Range Bag: To carry all your equipment conveniently.
- Collapsible Chair: You may have to wait to shoot so bringing a comfortable chair may be a good idea as some ranges don’t have open seating for shooters and spectators.
- Range Wagon: If you are shooting more than one stage, you may consider bringing your range wagon to easily navigate between stages.
- Cash: For on-site expenses, such as food or vendor purchases.
Weather-Related Items
- Sunscreen: To protect against sunburn during outdoor events.
- Rain Gear: A waterproof jacket or poncho in case of rain.
- Umbrella or Hat: For shade or shelter.
Arriving at a GSSF match with the right gear can make a significant difference in your overall experience. From the necessary shooting equipment to personal comfort items, being well-prepared allows you to focus solely on your performance. Remember, the key to a successful and enjoyable GSSF match lies in meticulous preparation and having the right tools at your disposal. Pack smart, and you’re all set for an exciting day of competitive shooting