Action Match is an exciting and fast-paced pistol shooting discipline that combines speed, accuracy, and tactical movement. Designed to be more accessible than IPSC while maintaining the dynamic challenge of practical shooting, Action Match offers shooters the opportunity to engage multiple targets in realistic scenarios using both rimfire and centrefire pistols.
What is Action Match?
Action Match courses of fire simulate real-world defensive scenarios where competitors must engage multiple targets from various positions, often while moving between shooting stations. Each stage presents unique challenges that test a shooter’s ability to balance speed with precision under time pressure.
The discipline emphasizes:
- Speed and accuracy - Shots must be both fast and precise
- Movement - Stages often require transitioning between positions
- Target engagement - Multiple targets at varying distances
- Practical skills - Realistic defensive shooting scenarios
Competition Format
Action Match competitions typically consist of multiple stages, each with different challenges:
- Stage duration: 10-30 seconds per stage
- Target distances: 7-25 meters
- Scoring: Combined time and accuracy (points per second)
- Equipment divisions: Rimfire and centrefire categories
Competitors are scored using a “points per second” system, where accuracy points are divided by the time taken to complete the stage. This rewards both speed and precision equally.
Equipment Requirements
Rimfire Division
- .22 LR calibre pistols (semi-automatic)
- Magazines: Typically 10-round capacity
- Holsters: Outside waistband, strong-side carry
- Ammunition: Standard or high-velocity .22LR
Centrefire Division
- 9mm or larger calibre pistols
- Magazines: Typically 10-round capacity for Production division
- Holsters: Outside waistband, strong-side carry
- Ammunition: Factory or reloaded centrefire ammunition
General Equipment
- Eye protection: Mandatory - impact-rated shooting glasses
- Ear protection: Mandatory - electronic muffs or plugs recommended
- Range bag: For carrying ammunition, magazines, and equipment
- Belt: Sturdy belt designed for holster carry
Safety
Safety is paramount in Action Match shooting. All competitors must:
- Demonstrate safe gun handling at all times
- Keep pistol holstered or on the firing line until Range Officer commands
- Keep finger off trigger until sights are on target
- Follow all Range Officer instructions immediately
- Undergo safety briefing before first competition
Any unsafe gun handling results in immediate disqualification from the match.
Why Shoot Action Match?
Action Match is an excellent discipline for shooters who want:
- Dynamic shooting experience without the higher costs of IPSC
- Practical skills development for defensive shooting
- Affordable rimfire option to practice at lower cost
- Friendly competition in a supportive club environment
- Progressive challenge suitable for beginners to advanced shooters
The discipline is particularly popular because it offers an exciting, challenging format that’s more accessible than full-scale IPSC competition, while still providing the thrill of practical shooting sports.
Getting Started
New shooters are always welcome at Geelong Pistol Club’s Action Match events. We recommend:
- Attend as a spectator - Watch a match to understand the format
- Complete safety training - Attend our club safety courses
- Start with rimfire - Lower cost and recoil for learning
- Borrow or rent equipment - Try before you buy
- Shoot your first match - Experienced shooters will help you through
Action Match provides an excellent introduction to dynamic pistol shooting, with a supportive community ready to help new competitors develop their skills.
Competition Schedule
Geelong Pistol Club hosts regular Action Match competitions. Check our contact page or phone the club for current schedules and upcoming match dates.
Whether you’re a seasoned IPSC competitor looking for affordable practice or a new shooter wanting to try dynamic pistol sports, Action Match offers an exciting and rewarding shooting experience.
Range guides
A guide on compettiton rules and process can be found on the Pistol Australia site here - https://pistol.org.au/range-guides/