Competitors’ Corner: October 2025

In the breathtaking high desert of Raton, New Mexico, the backdrop was nothing short of spectacular as elite silhouette shooters from across the globe converged for the 2025 NRA Rifle Silhouette National Championships at the renowned NRA Whittington Center. Over a grueling six-day period, competitors from the United States, Mexico, Canada, and Australia showcased their skills, endurance, and precision in both smallbore and high power events, making this championship a not-to-miss spectacle. The culmination of the event was heightened by the thrilling finale of the Lapua Monarch Cup, a premier multi-stage smallbore series, which showcased the depth of talent and commitment in the shooting sports community.

In a compelling Product Focus segment, we delve into the performance of CZ’s full-size, optics-ready P-10 F OR. Designed for serious shooting enthusiasts, this 9 mm platform boasts a 4.5-inch cold-hammer-forged barrel, a 19+1 capacity, and an extended ergonomic grip, alongside fully ambidextrous controls. As our author P.E. Fitch notes from his hands-on experience, the P-10 F OR performed flawlessly through more than 450 rounds, demonstrating accuracy that stands up to Production-class competition expectations. With a competitive MSRP of $499, this model offers shooters reliable performance without breaking the bank, a factor that makes it appealing to both newcomers and seasoned veterans alike.

In a touchstone for international smallbore matches, the storied Roberts Match, held every eight years, once again brought together shooting competitors from the United States and Great Britain. This past August, the historic Bisley Range in England played host to this revered contest, where Great Britain emerged victorious. Special commendation goes to Team USA’s Sarah Beard, who not only topped the combined Roberts Match field but also tied a British record after her impressive performance at the inaugural Brock D. Comer Memorial Match. The legacy of the Roberts Match continues as a symbol of excellence, camaraderie, and competitive spirit among the best in the field.

Turning our focus to youth involvement in shooting sports, the MidwayUSA Foundation has recently made headlines, transforming the landscape with a revolutionary $14.2 million in grants this year alone. This funding is crucial for youth shooting teams, often making the difference between success and struggle. The MidwayUSA Foundation's endowment programs, range development initiatives, and coach training initiatives are rewriting what’s possible for young athletes across the country. In this article, we explore the profound impact this foundation is having, reshaping the future of youth shooting sports in America and instilling the values of personal growth, responsibility, and sportsmanship.

The 2025 Scholastic Steel Squadrons Federation National Championships celebrated more than 3,000 young athletes competing in shotgun and action shooting sports at Ohio’s Cardinal Shooting Center in July. This event emphasized the importance of personal development, family involvement, and the robust community built around shooting sports, and partnerships with colleges serve to further solidify the fabric of this vibrant space.

In such a dynamic field where lessons of past competitions, emerging talent, and entire programs rely on community support and financial backing, the landscape of shooting sports is lighting up. Events like the NRA Rifle Silhouette National Championships not only foster healthy competition but also inspire the next generation of shooters to embrace the sport with passion and dedication. As we dissect the many aspects of our incredible firearms community, it is evident that all eyes will be on the results and trends stemming from these significant events.

As the shooting sports continue to evolve, the influx of youth participants backed by innovative funding strategies like those from the MidwayUSA Foundation signals a promising future. These efforts not only expand participation but also foster a deeper connection to the sport in communities. Early indications suggest that youth investment could breed the next generation of champions, further enriching the culture around shooting sports. However, continued support from a variety of stakeholders will be essential as the sport grows. The implications for community engagement, competitive trajectories, and industry support are extensive and still unfolding. What remains clear is that opportunities for young shooters are blossoming, and the future of competitive shooting looks bright.