One of the great thing about shooting is that marksmanship is one of the few sports where physically-challenged persons can compete at the highest level — with some provisions for wheelchair access and mobility. Matt Schwartzkopf, for example, is one of the top competitors in the F-Class division. Matt, who is a rangemaster in Arizona at Ben Avery, is a double-amputee (below knee). He hasn’t let this challenge stop him. He has placed in the Top 10 at major F-Class competitions and was selected to shoot with F-TR Team USA. Matt Schwartzkopf, a member of F-TR Team USA, is a double-amputee below his knees. He had both lower legs amputated due to a congenital defect. It hasn’t stopped him. Matt is an example to us all. He said: “This condition is not holding me back from anything.” He added jokingly, “I may have a ‘leg to stand on,’ but that doesn’t make it impossible for me to shoot 10s andXs at 1,000.” Matt is proof that competitive shooting can be a sport that is enjoyed by all — young and old and able-bodied or physically challenged. Matt is not only a talented shooter, he also runs the range operations at Ben Avery’s in Arizona. Matt is often seen at major matches supervising the firing lines, organizing pit crews and posting match results. New USA Nationwide Adventure Database For Adaptive Shooters Here is a great opportunity for shooters with physical limitations. The NRA created a database of hunting and fishing experiences for people with disabilities. There are 45+ organizations that offer programs across the country, including Buckmasters Freedom Hunters Hope Outdoors Hunting with Heroes Safari Club International. “Venturing outdoors is a proven way to heal the body and the soul”, said Dr. Joe Logar of the NRA National Adaptive Shooting Programmes. These benefits are even greater for those with disabilities or illnesses. The NRA’s Hunter Services and Adaptive Shooting Programs maintain a list of organizations that offer outdoor opportunities to people with disabilities. A searchable database allows adaptive shooters to easily select adventures like guided whitetail hunting, chartered fishing and accessible hiking trails across the country. Visit the NRA Adaptive Shooting Program’s Hunting/Fishing Trip Database to find a program. NRA Resources for Adaptive Shooting EventsThe NRA Adaptive Shooting Program provides information to organizations planning events that include people with disabilities. Veterans’ groups, rehab facilities, and gun club can organize events. For more information visit AdaptiveShooting.NRA.org. Adaptive Shooting in the United Kingdom The National Rifle Association of the United Kingdom, or NRAUK, also offers adaptive shooting programs. The NRA.ORG.UK site has a wealth information for shooters who have physical challenges. The NRAUK states that there are many different target shooting options available in Great Britain. Some are easily accessible to people with disabilities, while others are not. Some shooting clubs and facilities only offer a single discipline, while larger complexes are able to accommodate many. Bisley Camp, in Surrey, is the only place where you can try out almost all disciplines. The outdoor ranges are becoming more accessible, but most are already. Do not give up if the disciplines you are interested in are not available or suitable for your disability. Target shooting is a very similar skill for all disciplines. You could start with another but similar discipline, learn the key skills and then take up your first option when it becomes available.
The Summer 2019 issue NRA Club Connections magazine includes a feature on Adaptive shooting. This article explains to range owners how they can make their firing lines more accessible by adding a simple mat.
