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Prepping for 1st Field Target event

Getting ready for my first Field Target experience. Yesterday I found my HS setting for under 20 ft. lbs. Was able to mark my turret yardage. Today I made a new scope tape and a reminder for on the scope cover (because I'm a simpleton and need it). Looking forward to the Palmyra Sportsmans upcoming shoot. If anyone has any suggestions, I'm all ears.

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Most matches max range is 60 yds but what ever max range is zero scope for half of that so lets say 30 yds then you need to range find using your reticle and then find your proper aim point on the reticle without dialing the scope. Therefore a mil dot or similar reticle will be key for hunter class. For example at 10 yds you may be 2 mils low of center and at 60 yrs you may be 2 mils high of center and then if really windy you can of course use your windage mils for adjustment as well. 

In addition to proper "hold" technique for the rifle of course so you are steady HFT is really about proper hold over or under (and windage when necessary) on the reticle based on your best estimate of the distance to the target using the information the reticle will provide you. 20 yds or closer KZ will probably be dime sized 40 yds + probably quarter to half dollar some lanes may be a * forced * off hand so be sure you are prepared for that as well. Good luck and have fun!
 
Water and bug spray. Check out Deadeye’s videos on FT. Hes got some great info for new ft shooters. Best advice I have for the first match is to have fun. Dont worry about scores, you will hit some targets. Walk away from the match with a good understanding of what YOU need to practice and prepare for the next match. Remember the seven P’s…Piss Poor Planning Provides Piss Poor Performance. 

Ask questions at the match and have fun! 


https://youtu.be/zeukgyx8oK0
 
On the non-technical side of things: Go, have fun, and learn. There's lots to learn and plenty of time to do it. No rush. You'll pick up something every match. Guys are more than willing to answer questions, so ask away. See this season as a learning and getting used to the sport time. If you do, you'll be more relaxed and have more fun. Welcome to Field Target. Such a great sport. 

Chas
 
I know this is an old thread but wanted to give an update for anyone else on the fence.

I attended 3 local FT events since my original post. Everyone was right, each shooter was willing to answer questions. My daughter and I get to spend quality time together. She enjoys the matches as much, if not more than I do. We see new to FT shooters each week. One day we will be able to offer them tips, but in the meantime we do our part by making them feel welcome. A simple smile and hello is all it takes to put someone at ease.

My Dad attended the last shoot of the year and it appears he is hooked. Other shooters were generous enough to allow him to try their rifles. At the end of the day he had shot several different rifles (under levers, pcp bullpups and rifles). 

The yardage guessing game helps even the playing field for all.

We enjoy it so much that next year we plan on attending all the shoots at the local club as well as a few road trip shoots.

Thanks for all the advice!