Official Competition Rules & Guidelines
This Challenge is designed to introduce participants to the fundamentals of handgun competition using commonly owned pistols. The event promotes firearm safety, outdoor recreation, and family-friendly competition without requiring specialized equipment.
Participation Requirements
- Open free of charge to holders of a valid Alabama Heritage, Hunting, Fishing, or WMA License
- Youth shooters must be accompanied by a qualified licensed parent or guardian
Course of Fire
- Three phases per shooter
- Each phase:
- 10 rounds
- Fired within 60 seconds
- At a bullseye target from 25 yards
- Shooters must remain at the firing line throughout
- Standing position required; shooting may be one- or two-handed
- Maximum score: 300 points, with up to 30 X-ring hits
- Ties are resolved by fastest time
Range Procedure
- Load: Retrieve and load firearm with 10 rounds, assume ready position
- Standby: Prepare for firing
- Fire signal: One long whistle blast
- Ceasefire: One long whistle blast, any shots after signal incur 10-point deductions
- Unload: Clear firearm and place on bench
Scoring Guidelines
- Targets must include shooter’s name.
- Scores certified by Range Safety Officer (RSO) and signed by the shooter.
- Shooters may photograph scored targets for personal record.
- Appeals may be submitted to the Master Range Officer (MRO); panel decisions are final.
General Safety Rules
- The Four Firearms Safety Rules are strictly enforced.
- Equipment must comply with all guidelines.
- Any unintentional discharge results in immediate disqualification.
- Violations of procedure or failure to follow commands may result in removal and disqualification.
Firearm Specification
| REQUIREMENT | DETAIL |
| Firearm Type | Centerfire pistols only |
| Allowed Calibers | 9mm, .40 S&W, .45 ACP, .38 Special (non-magnum only) |
| Sights | Open sights only |
| Barrel Length | 6 inches or less |
| Ammunition | SAAMI-approved, manufactured rounds |
| Size Limits | Semi-automatic must fit in a box measuring 10” x 6” x 1.75”
Revolver must fit in a box measuring 11.25” x 6” x 1.75” |
Note: Pistols rated for magnum calibers may be used with non-magnum ammunition (e.g., .357 Magnum revolver shooting .38 Special).
Targets
- Official Target: SR-21C
- Each sheet includes one 10.5” bullseye
- The shooter’s signature is required on their target. This acknowledges acceptance of the scoring by the Range Safety Officer, to include any X-ring hits and deductions.
- Targets are property of the Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Division
Registration Process
- E-mail the DCNR Law Enforcement Office at Carolyn.hale@dcnr.alabama.gov or call (334) 242-3467
- Present valid photo ID and required license at check-in
Locations
Challenge events are held at state-operated public shooting ranges. Full schedule and locations are available on the Outdoor Alabama website.
