Gun Laws And 2a
What’s In Your Range Bag, Joey Sauerland?
What’s In Your Range Bag, Joey Sauerland?
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✍️By ZRIntel Editorial Team📍Ohio, USA
Joey Sauerland, an Ohio-based USPSA Grand Master, has quickly made a name for himself in the competitive shooting world, recently clinching the title of national champion at the 2024 Limited Nationals after only three-and-a-half years of participating in the sport. Such a swift rise is remarkable, especially considering he started shooting recreationally in 2021 after being inspired by the famous “John Wick” movies. Many might wonder what secrets lie in the range bag of a champion like Sauerland.
Sauerland's journey into competitive shooting began with minimal experience. After his initial foray into the sport, he dedicated himself to an intense regimen of dry-fire training, which proved pivotal in refining his shooting skills. Within just a year, he garnered his first victory at a Level One Club match, followed by wins in subsequent years for a Level Two State Championship and a Level Three Area Championship, leading up to his recent national title in 2024.
When asked about the gear that accompanies him on the range, Sauerland emphasized a practical approach. He started with a Glock G34 but has since transitioned to using high-performance 2011s from MasterPiece Arms, demonstrating a serious commitment to optimizing his equipment for competitions. His ammunition is custom-loaded—Sauerland uses .40 caliber bullets provided by Summit City and primed brass sourced from Republic Ammunition. This level of customization underlines the importance of personal gear in competitive shooting events.
Sauerland's choice of a Shooters Connection range bag for both practice and competition is another point of interest. They offer two sizes; the larger for matches and a smaller version for training to ensure all essentials are kept organized. “I have to keep things organized, or I’ll show up missing something,” he notes, a sentiment that rings true for many competitive shooters.
In his bag, Sauerland includes Isotunes Sport ear protection to safeguard his hearing, Hunters HD Gold eye protection to enhance visibility while shooting, and specialized magazines with inserts designed exclusively for dry-fire practice, courtesy of JV Training Accessories. His meticulousness also extends to his choice of targets and pasters, sourced from Shooters Connection—once again reflecting his dedication to preparation and performance.
Beyond shooting, Sauerland emphasizes the significance of fitness in enhancing his competitive edge. He maintains a rigorous workout schedule, focusing not only on strength but also on speed, mobility, balance, and agility, an approach that aligns closely with his background in bodybuilding before he switched his focus to shooting sports. He even keeps electrolytes in his range bag to ensure optimum hydration during training sessions.
For those new to the sport, Sauerland generously encourages prospective shooters to participate in USPSA matches, stating that the community is welcoming and filled with helpful individuals eager to assist newcomers. Those who join will find a sport that is both stimulating and addictive, characterized by a rewarding learning curve.
He also expresses a willingness to mentor aspiring shooters, offering his expertise in training speed, accuracy, and movement enhancement. “These days, I travel all over to teach classes for all levels, from beginner to advanced,” he mentions, exemplifying his commitment to fostering the sport’s growth through education.
Joey's narrative exemplifies the emerging trend within the competitive shooting community, where individuals with varying levels of experience can find their footing and achieve remarkable success. His story serves as a beacon for new shooters who may initially feel daunted by the sport’s complexities.
Whether you are a seasoned competitor or a novice contemplating your first match, remember that the world of competitive shooting offers vast opportunities for growth, camaraderie, and achievement. As Sauerland demonstrates, commitment, quality gear, and community support can lead to exceptional accomplishments in competitive shooting, making it an exciting pursuit worth exploring.
ShoQ’s Take: Joey Sauerland's swift rise to the top mirrors a growing trend in competitive shooting—dedication pays off, and supportive communities foster newcomers. As shooting sports gain traction, expect to see more individuals from various backgrounds embrace competitive shooting, enhancing the landscape of the sport. Funding for local matches and training programs may become essential as participation grows. Therefore, it is crucial for the community to support new shooters and enhance opportunities for training and competition. What remains to be seen is how this expanding participation will influence future competitions and the overall landscape of shooting sports.