Category: Shooting Sports

IDPA, USPSA, and IPSC Release Major Rule Updates for 2026 Practical Shooting Competitions
Practical shooting sports just got a serious upgrade for 2026, and if you’re into honing your skills with a handgun, rifle, or shotgun under pressure, these rule changes from IDPA, USPSA, and IPSC are game-changers. These updates aren’t just bureaucratic tweaks—they’re designed to enhance safety, fairness, and fun while pushing competitors to master their firearms like never before. In a world where Second Amendment rights are under constant fire, events like these remind us why we train: to be proficient defenders of our freedoms.

IDPA’s Bold Moves: Safety First, Skills Sharpened

IDPA, the gold standard for practical, defensive-oriented pistol shooting, drops its 2026 rulebook updates effective January 15. These changes prioritize real-world readiness and match integrity. Here’s the breakdown:
- 2.2.3 – DQ for Non-Functional Manual Safeties: No more gaming the system. If your manual safety doesn’t work, you’re out. This enforces the defensive mindset IDPA was built on—safeties matter when lives are on the line.
- 2.9.1.3 – Refined Muzzle Exclusion Zones: Tighter definitions mean clearer no-go areas, reducing accidents and keeping everyone safe. Precision in muzzle discipline translates directly to street smarts.
- 3.2.1.5 – Updated Target Engagement Priorities: Smarter rules for no-shoots and priority targets ensure stages test decision-making under stress, just like a real encounter.
- 8.1.3.5 – BUG Capacity Bumped to 8+1: Backup Gun division gets more firepower, making it viable for more shooters without sacrificing concealability.
- A.6.2.1.3 – .380 ACP Removed from BUG: Snappier calibers only now—keeps the division competitive and realistic for everyday carry.
Match admins also get marching orders: Awards now go to 5th place and all classes at Tier Two events. More recognition means more motivation to show up and sling lead responsibly.

USPSA’s Change Log: Evolving the Speed Game

USPSA isn’t sitting idle. Their 2026 Competition Rules change log is out, detailing tweaks across divisions. Expect refinements to equipment rules, stage design, and scoring that reward speed, accuracy, and power. Whether you’re running Open, Limited, or Carry Optics, these updates level the playing field and keep the adrenaline pumping. USPSA’s focus on high-volume, fast-paced action builds the muscle memory every 2A enthusiast needs.

IPSC Goes All-In: Fresh Rulebooks Across Disciplines

IPSC levels up with January 2026 editions for Handgun, Shotgun, Rifle, Mini-Rifle, Pistol Caliber Carbine, and Shotgun Slug. These comprehensive updates standardize international play, from mag limits to fault lines. If you’re chasing world-class status, these rules ensure consistency and push the boundaries of what’s possible with modern firearms.

Why This Matters for Every Gun Owner

These rule updates aren’t just for top-tier competitors—they’re a boon for all of us who value the Second Amendment. Practical shooting teaches trigger control, movement, and situational awareness that go way beyond the range. In an era of rising threats, showing up to IDPA, USPSA, or IPSC matches arms you with skills that could save your life or a loved one’s. Plus, it’s a blast rubbing shoulders with like-minded patriots who live the 2A lifestyle.

Grab the new rulebooks, dust off your gear, and start dry-firing those stages. 2026 is your year to compete, improve, and defend our rights one perfect shot at a time. What’s your take on these changes? Drop a comment below and let’s discuss—see you on the range!

References
May 12, 2026
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Re-Establishes Hunting and Shooting Sports Conservation and Access Council, Opens Nominations
Great news for hunters, shooters, and conservationists across America! The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) under the Department of the Interior has re-established the Hunting and Shooting Sports Conservation and Access Council. This move signals a renewed commitment to protecting our hunting heritage, expanding access to public lands, and promoting the vital role shooting sports play in wildlife conservation.

Why This Council Matters to the 2A Community

For Second Amendment supporters, this isn’t just bureaucracy—it’s a frontline defense for our rights. The council will advise the Secretaries of the Interior and Agriculture on key issues like:
- Wildlife conservation: Hunters have long been the backbone of conservation efforts, funding programs through excise taxes on firearms and ammo via the Pittman-Robertson Act.
- Habitat access: Ensuring public lands remain open for hunting and shooting, fighting back against closures pushed by anti-access groups.
- Promotion of hunting and shooting sports: Growing the next generation of responsible gun owners and outdoor enthusiasts.
In an era where urban elites try to paint hunting and shooting as relics of the past, this council amplifies our voice. It ensures that policies reflect the values of millions of law-abiding Americans who cherish our traditions.

Nominations Now Open: Your Chance to Get Involved

The USFWS is seeking a diverse slate of council members—hunters, shooters, landowners, outfitters, and conservation experts from all walks of life. Nominations are open to individuals with proven leadership in these areas. This is your opportunity to shape federal policy from the inside.

Key details:
- Deadline: Check the official USFWS announcement for the exact cutoff (typically 30-60 days from publication).
- Requirements: Demonstrated expertise in hunting, shooting sports, or related fields; commitment to conservation.
- How to nominate: Submit via the Federal Register notice or USFWS website—include bio, qualifications, and references.
Don’t sit this one out. If you or someone you know is passionate about 2A rights and the outdoors, step up. Nominate today and help secure more access, better conservation, and stronger protections for our shooting sports.

A Win for Freedom and the Great Outdoors

Re-establishing this council is a victory for all who believe in self-reliance, stewardship of our natural resources, and the unalienable right to keep and bear arms. It’s a reminder that our way of life—rooted in the fields, ranges, and forests—is alive and fighting back.

Stay tuned to GunStuff.tv for updates on nominations and council activities. Gear up, get involved, and keep the Second Amendment strong!

Originally published based on the U.S. Department of the Interior announcement. For full nomination details, visit USFWS.gov.

References
May 12, 2026
2026 IPSC Shotgun World Shoot in Corinth, Greece: NRO Applications Open with Full Event Details Released
Mark your calendars, shotgun enthusiasts! The shotgun world is about to explode with elite competition as the 2026 IPSC Shotgun World Shoot gears up in the sun-drenched hills of Corinth, Greece. From September 21 to October 4, this Level V masterpiece will challenge the planet’s top practical shooters with dynamic stages that demand speed, precision, and raw shotgun mastery. If you’re a defender of the Second Amendment, events like this are pure gold—they showcase the pinnacle of responsible firearm handling and prove why armed citizens are the best advocates for our rights.

Promotional poster for the 2026 IPSC Shotgun World Shoot featuring shotgun competitors in action against a backdrop of ancient Greek ruins in Corinth (via 2026sws.worldshoot.org)

Applications Open: NROs, Step Up to the Plate

Organizers just dropped the bomb: National Regional Officer (NRO) applications are now live. If you’re an IPSC leader in your region, this is your call to action. Secure your spot by grabbing the official application form from the event website. They’ve also released match invitation letters and declaration forms, making it easier than ever to rally your squad and represent your nation on the world stage.

Pro tip for our pro-2A patriots: NRO roles aren’t just administrative—they’re about fostering the next generation of skilled shooters who embody the shooting sports ethos. In a world where anti-gunners try to paint us as reckless, events like this highlight discipline, safety, and excellence.

Full Details Unleashed: FAQs, Schedules, and More

No more waiting in the dark. The team has rolled out comprehensive FAQs, general information packets, and sponsor opportunities. Here’s the rundown:
- Dates: Main match September 25–October 4 (with training days September 21–24).
- Location: Corinth, Greece—a historic powerhouse blending ancient vibes with modern firepower.
- Divisions: Expect Standard, Modified, and Open classes, plus categories for men, women, juniors, seniors, and super seniors.
- Stages: 30+ dynamic courses testing everything from close-quarters blasts to long-range slugs.
- Entry Fees: Early bird specials for national teams—check the forms for deets.
For competitors, download your declaration form and start prepping those loads. Sponsors, this is prime real estate to align with a global audience of freedom-loving shooters. Dive into the FAQs for travel, ammo rules, and squadding info—everything’s crystal clear now.

Competitors engaging dynamic shotgun stages at a previous IPSC World Shoot, with Greek landscape in the background (via 2026sws.worldshoot.org)

Why This Matters for 2A Warriors

Practical shooting isn’t just a sport; it’s a training ground for real-world proficiency. The IPSC Shotgun World Shoot draws thousands from over 50 countries, all united by one truth: firearms in skilled hands save lives and preserve liberty. In Greece—a nation with its own battles for gun rights—this event amplifies our global message. American shooters, bring that Stars and Stripes pride and show the world what Second Amendment excellence looks like.

From buckshot barrages to slug precision, expect non-stop action that’ll have you glued to live streams (fingers crossed for coverage). Past World Shoots have crowned legends; who will dominate 2026?

Get In the Game—Now!

Don’t sleep on this. Head to the official IPSC site for NRO apps, competitor forms, and sponsor packs. Follow GunStuff.tv for updates, gear reviews tailored for shotgun comps, and pro-2A breakdowns. Train hard, shoot straight, and let’s make Corinth echo with American thunder.

Stay armed, stay informed. What’s your take—heading to Greece or cheering from the sidelines? Drop a comment below!

References
May 12, 2026
IDPA Announces 2026 National Championship at The Cardinal Center in Ohio – Registration Opens April 20
Hey, fellow shooters and Second Amendment defenders! If you’re passionate about practical pistol shooting that mirrors real-world defensive scenarios, we’ve got some thrilling news straight from the International Defensive Pistol Association (IDPA). They’ve just dropped the details for the 2026 IDPA National Championship, and it’s shaping up to be the can’t-miss event of the year. Mark your calendars for September 24-26, 2026, at the stunning The Cardinal Center in Marengo, Ohio. Registration kicks off on April 20—that’s your green light to gear up and sign up early!

In a world where anti-gun activists try to paint firearm enthusiasts as reckless, events like the IDPA Nationals stand tall as a testament to responsible ownership, skill-building, and pure shooting camaraderie. IDPA isn’t just about holstering your sidearm and running stages—it’s about honing the defensive pistol skills that every concealed carrier needs. From Stock Service Pistol to Carry Optics, this championship draws shooters from every division and experience level, proving that the Second Amendment community is diverse, dedicated, and damn good at what we do.

The Venue: The Cardinal Center – A Shooter’s Paradise

Nestled in the heart of Ohio’s shooting country, The Cardinal Center is no stranger to hosting top-tier competitions. This 1,000-acre facility boasts world-class ranges, ample space for spectators, and all the amenities you need for a weekend of high-octane action. Think berms that handle everything from .38 Special to .45 ACP without breaking a sweat, plus indoor facilities for vendor rows, classifiers, and side matches. Ohio’s pro-gun laws and welcoming vibe make it the perfect backdrop for celebrating our rights.

The Cardinal Center – Marengo, OH – Drone Aerial View – Trapshooting Clay Shooting Destination!

What’s New? Updated Rulebooks and Fresh Challenges

IDPA’s been busy refining the game with updated rulebooks for 2026, ensuring stages stay true to practical defense while keeping things fair and fun. Expect tweaks that reward solid fundamentals: smooth draws, accurate shot placement, and efficient movement. Whether you’re a grand master or just hitting your first classifier, these Nationals will push you to improve. It’s not about gaming the system—it’s about becoming a better defender of yourself and your family.

Past championships have seen record turnouts, with hundreds of competitors vying for national titles across 19 divisions. Who will claim the top spots in 2026? Will it be a rising star from the Midwest or a veteran from the coasts? One thing’s for sure: the competition will be fierce, the scores tight, and the stories legendary.

Why You Need to Be There – Pro-2A Power in Action

As gun owners, we know the best counter to misinformation is participation. The IDPA Nationals aren’t just a match; they’re a rally for the Second Amendment. You’ll network with like-minded patriots, test the latest gear from top manufacturers (hello, sponsor booths!), and walk away with skills that translate directly to the street. Imagine running a stage that simulates a low-light home defense scenario—reloads under stress, fault lines to respect cover, and classifiers to benchmark your progress.
- All Skill Levels Welcome: From novices to pros, there’s a division for you.
- Family-Friendly: Bring the crew—spectator areas, junior matches, and more.
- Real-World Focus: No fancy race guns; everyday carry pistols rule the day.
- Community Spirit: Banquets, awards, and tales around the fire pit.
Plus, Ohio’s central location means easy travel for shooters nationwide. Fly into Columbus, rent a truck for your gear, and dive into gun-friendly territory.

Results: 2023 IDPA World Championship | An NRA Shooting Sports Journal

Registration and Prep: Don’t Get Left on the Sidelines

Registration opens April 20 via the official IDPA website—head to idpa.com and create your profile if you haven’t already. Slots fill fast, so set a reminder. In the meantime, hit your local club for practice. Focus on IDPA-specific drills: El Prez, Bill Drill, and scenario walks. Gear check: reliable holster, mag pouches, and a pistol that runs clean.

Pro tip: If you’re new to IDPA, grab the updated rulebook now and attend a safety officer clinic. It’s the gateway to a lifetime of defensive shooting excellence.

Final Shot: Gear Up for Glory

The 2026 IDPA National Championship at The Cardinal Center is more than a match—it’s a celebration of our rights, skills, and shared passion for pistols. In an era when every range trip defends the Second Amendment, events like this remind the world that we’re safe, skilled, and unbreakable. Who’s ready to run and gun? We are! Stay tuned to GunStuff.tv for more updates, training tips, and gear reviews to get you championship-ready.

Lock, load, and let’s defend those rights—one stage at a time.

References
May 3, 2026
LA28 Olympic Games Confirm Whittier Narrows and Long Beach as Key Shooting Venues for Rifle, Pistol, and Shotgun Events
Big news for shooting sports enthusiasts and Second Amendment supporters: the LA28 Olympic and Paralympic Games are locking in two iconic Southern California venues for the full spectrum of Olympic shooting events. Whittier Narrows Clay Shooting Center in South El Monte will host the shotgun competitions, while the Long Beach Target Shooting Hall takes on rifle and pistol events. This is a massive win for the shooting community, bringing world-class competition to our backyard and shining a spotlight on the precision, skill, and tradition of firearm sports right here in the heart of gun-friendly ranges.

Whittier Narrows: The Shotgun Showdown

Whittier Narrows isn’t just any range—it’s a public facility that’s been a staple for clay busters across LA County for decades. Picture this: trap, skeet, and bunker trap events where elite athletes shatter flying targets at blistering speeds. The LA28 committee chose this spot for its proven track record and natural beauty, nestled against the San Gabriel River. In a state often criticized for its restrictive gun laws, hosting Olympic shotgun here is a testament to the enduring popularity of shooting sports. It’s going to draw crowds, boost local business, and remind everyone that shotguns are tools of sport, not just Hollywood props.

Long Beach Target Shooting Hall: Precision Rifle and Pistol Paradise

Over in Long Beach, the Target Shooting Hall—part of the city’s storied shooting complex—will echo with the crisp reports of .22 rifles and pistols. This venue has history; it hosted events during the 1984 LA Olympics, making LA28 a homecoming of sorts. Expect ISSF rifle events like 10m air rifle, 50m rifle three positions, and pistol disciplines including 10m air pistol and 25m rapid fire pistol. These aren’t arcade games; they’re tests of focus, breath control, and marksmanship that embody the disciplined spirit of the Second Amendment.

A Pro-2A Victory in the Golden State

California’s regulatory landscape makes this announcement even sweeter. Despite endless battles over ranges and ammo taxes, LA28 proves that shooting sports thrive when given a stage. These events will expose millions to the safe, competitive side of firearms—family-friendly, skill-building, and downright exhilarating. Olympic shooters like Vincent Hancock (shotgun gold medalist) and Mary Tucker (rifle phenom) are walking billboards for responsible gun ownership. Expect packed spectator stands, youth programs inspired by the Games, and a surge in range memberships. This is how we build support for the Second Amendment: one perfect shot at a time.

Looking Ahead to 2028

Mark your calendars—shooting events kick off in July 2028, with Paralympic counterparts following in August. Whittier Narrows and Long Beach are gearing up with upgrades to meet Olympic standards, ensuring top-tier facilities for competitors from over 200 nations. For us in the shooting world, it’s a chance to cheer on Team USA, volunteer, or just soak in the atmosphere.

Support your local ranges, hit the line regularly, and stay tuned to GunStuff.tv for more updates on LA28 shooting. Who’s ready to see gold medals won on American soil? Drop your thoughts in the comments—will you be there?

Stay armed, stay informed, and keep shooting straight.

References
May 1, 2026
USPSA Announces Exciting 2026 Schedule: Split Nationals, World Speed Shooting Championship, and Multigun Nationals
Hey, Second Amendment patriots! If you’re like me, there’s nothing that gets the blood pumping quite like the crack of competition gunfire echoing across a range. Well, buckle up because the United States Practical Shooting Association (USPSA) just dropped their 2026 major match schedule, and it’s a game-changer packed with high-octane action for pistol, rifle, and shotgun slingers alike.

Split Nationals: Factory Gun in Utah, Race Gun in Ohio

First up, the big one—USPSA Nationals are going split! Production and Carry Optics shooters (that’s your Factory Gun division) will battle it out in the Beehive State at the stunning Desert Sportsman’s Center in Tooele, Utah. Picture this: red rock vistas, blazing sun, and you ripping through stages with your everyday carry rig. It’s the ultimate test of real-world speed and accuracy.

Meanwhile, the Race Gun crowd—Open, Limited, and Limited 10—heads to the Buckeye State for glory at the Action Pistol Center in Xenia, Ohio. These matches aren’t just competitions; they’re celebrations of innovation in firearms tech, where custom rigs push the boundaries of what’s possible under USPSA rules. Dates are set for late summer/early fall, so start dry-firing now!

World Speed Shooting Championship at CMP Marksmanship Park

Taking center stage in Alabama at the world-class CMP Marksmanship Park in Columbus is the World Speed Shooting Championship (WSSC). This isn’t your grandpa’s bullseye match—it’s a blistering fusion of USPSA precision and IPSC speed shooting, drawing top talent from around the globe. Expect lightning-fast stages that demand flawless draws, transitions, and reloads. CMP’s facilities are top-tier, with berms that can handle the thunder. If you’re chasing international bragging rights, this is your shot.

Multigun Nationals in Minnesota

And for the multi-gun maniacs, the Multigun Nationals land in the Land of 10,000 Lakes at the Viking Shooters range. Rifle, pistol, and shotgun in one adrenaline-fueled extravaganza? Yes, please! Navigate complex stages switching disciplines on the fly, all while keeping those plates spinning. Minnesota’s ranges are legendary for their setups, and this event will test your versatility like nothing else.

These events aren’t just about who hoists the trophy—they’re the heartbeat of the practical shooting community. In a world that loves to demonize our God-given right to keep and bear arms, USPSA matches prove we’re the most disciplined, skilled shooters on the planet. We’re training hard, competing fair, and defending the Second Amendment every trigger pull.

Gear Up and Get Registered

Mark your calendars, hit the range, and upgrade that rig. Registration details are hitting USPSA’s site soon, so stay glued to uspsa.org. Whether you’re a classifier chasing M status or a weekend warrior, 2026 is your year to level up.

What are you most hyped for? Drop a comment below, share your training regimen, and let’s keep the pro-2A fire burning. Stay safe, shoot straight, and exercise those rights!

References
April 28, 2026
USA Shooting Announces Pistol and Rifle National Teams for 2026 ISSF World Cups
Excitement is building in the shooting sports world as USA Shooting officially announces the Pistol and Rifle National Teams set to represent the Stars and Stripes at the 2026 ISSF World Cup events. Fresh off intense battles at the spring selection match in Kerrville, Texas, these elite athletes have earned their spots through sheer precision, grit, and unbreakable focus—qualities that embody the American spirit and the enduring power of our Second Amendment rights.

Selection Match Showdown in Kerrville

Held at the pristine ranges in Kerrville, the spring selection match was a high-stakes proving ground where the nation’s top shooters vied for national team berths. This event isn’t just about medals; it’s a testament to the rigorous training and competitive edge honed by athletes who live and breathe the shooting sports. From air pistol to rifle 3-positions, every shot counted toward securing a ticket to international glory in Munich, Germany (May 24-31), and Beijing, China.

These World Cups are crucial stepping stones on the road to Olympic dreams, and USA Shooting’s selections highlight a deep bench of talent ready to dominate. In a world where anti-gun voices try to chip away at our rights, events like these remind everyone that responsible, competitive shooting is a cornerstone of American excellence.

Standout Stars Leading the Charge

Leading the Pistol squad is Will Shively, who crushed it in both air pistol and rapid fire pistol. Shively’s dominance at Kerrville positions him as a frontrunner to medal on the global stage, proving once again that American pistol shooters are forces to be reckoned with.

On the Rifle side, Haleigh Carr shines in the demanding 3-positions discipline, blending prone, kneeling, and standing shots with flawless execution. Carr’s selection underscores the rising tide of female talent in USA Shooting, inspiring the next generation of shooters to pick up a rifle and defend our 2A heritage.

The full rosters are packed with proven performers:
- Pistol Team: Will Shively (Air Pistol, Rapid Fire Pistol), plus other qualifiers ready to unload precision fire.
- Rifle Team: Haleigh Carr (3-Positions), alongside teammates primed for international showdowns.
Why This Matters for 2A Patriots

As we gear up for these World Cups, let’s celebrate how shooting sports keep our skills sharp, our communities safe, and our freedoms intact. USA Shooting’s success directly ties back to the Second Amendment, which ensures access to the tools, training, and competitions that build champions. In Munich and Beijing, these athletes will wave the American flag high, silencing critics who don’t understand the discipline behind every trigger pull.

Support our teams by following USA Shooting’s updates, attending local matches, and standing firm for gun rights. Whether you’re a weekend plinker or a competitive shooter, this is your fight too. Let’s cheer on Will, Haleigh, and the entire squad as they aim for gold—and remind the world why America leads in shooting sports.

Stay locked and loaded for more pro-2A updates right here on GunStuff.tv!

References
April 28, 2026