Manitoba Cowboys

Match Operation

(All text documents are in Word Perfect. If you require another format, contact Calamity Jane)

Required to Conduct a Match:
    Entry/Liability Waiver forms
    Score cards
    Cash box & float (change)
    Calculator (to tabulate scores)
    Timer (Calamity has 1, WRPA has 1)
    Clipboard for scorekeeper
    Match Scoring Sheet

Match Operation

For complete description of match operations, refer to the SASS Match Director's Handbook, and the RO1 and RO2 manuals. The following items are included as a "quick check", not as a comprehensive description of match operations.
 

Before The Match:

- Setup all targets as indicated on Stage Description

- Review overall match layout. Look for:
    - target placements:
        - ensure "splatter pattern" is behind firing line
        - no other targets form a "doble bounce" patch back to firing line.
    - placement of loading and unloading tables:
        - ensure tables can be used while maintaining down-range muzzle direction
        - ensure tables are placed to avoid sweeping active shooter, RO, and others close to firing line
    - check movement:
        - ensure movements with firearms can be made while maintaining "170 degree rule"
        - ensure path of movement is free of trip hazards

Pre-Match:

- All competetors to complete and sign an  Registration Form, a Score Card, and pay entry fee prior to Safety Meeting.

- Safety Meeting to be conducted prior to shooting. Text of the briefing can be found HERE. Ensure that all questions are answered prior to dismissing the possee for shooting.

At Each Stage:

The RO (or designated person) shall:
    - call the possee together and read the stage description.
        - Be very clear about target order, movements, etc. - demonstrate for clarity
        - Answer any questions
        - If the stage has "shooter options", explain the safety requirements and limitations
            - don't "push" shooters toward a particular option; let them work it out for themselves

    - Ensure the loading and unloading tables are manned

    - Ensure brass-pickers clear the stage in reasonable time for the next shooter

    - Immediately after shooting, the RO should note the time and number of shots (as indicated by the timer)
        - report the time to the scorekeeper
        - if the number of shots doesn't match the stage count, advise the shooter and unloading table

The RO is to be watching the shooter, NOT counting misses - that's the job of the spotters

The scorekeeper should:
    - ensure that there is 1 shooter ready to go, 1 loading, and 1 getting ready to load
    - ensure spotters are designated and ready

After The Match:

The Match Director and scorekeeper should transfer the times from the scorecards to the Match Score Sheet and calculate the match standings

While match standings are being computed, ALL shooters should help dismantle the range and put all targets and props into the storage room (as physical infirmities allow).

The Match Director will announce the results when the range has been cleared. Results will be considered "preliminary" until any complaints are addressed and the calculations have been verified by computer.


Return to How To Make A Match Successful Match