In the short time I've been doing this, the #1 reason by far that people either won't participate in competitions or quit soon after trying it is because they don't like to do anything at which they can't excel. I'm sure many other excuses and reasons are sincere, but the most common is that a lot of people won't do something if they know they can't "win" and along the same lines that other people will see and know.
Years ago I said to a small group of shooters who were discussing this issue that if I only did things I was good at doing, I'd be limited to watching television and running my mouth. I shoot in competitions because it's a fun way to practice.
That's why I give the sight adjustment knob a hard turn to the left before I hand it over!
There is! 'No I dont'There should be an option for "Not any more".
Never really had the urge to enter organized competition. I'm sure I would have enjoyed it a few years ago ~ just never really had the time or money due to raising 6 children. I am sure I would have met some great people -- my loss.
Do compete against my family members and really enjoy that aspect of shooting! Eyes aren't good enough to be competitive anymore unless I am using a scope, but still enjoy shooting. Do have plenty of time ~ retired, but have other things I am doing that take up a lot of time (Woodworking, helping out a disabled friend, etc.). Have plenty of ammo and pretty decent firearms, like Hi-power rifle, but unfortunately currently only have 100 yd range at club - little more at son's house but not 300 YD like I used to shoot. Do a lot of 25 ~ 50 yard handgun shooting. Also have a lot of fun shooting skeet (against family).
It amazes me how many ppl use the "my eyes aren't that good anymore excuse" for not competing. I hear it all the time. My father n law uses that excuse. He also will shoot with us at home. The guy is a excellent shot! He just doesn't have the kahoonas to compete nor does he want to. Lol
Funny thing is he can sit in his basement and tie fishing flys, but he can't shoot competition where the plates are 24"x24" or larger.
This example works until the guy you are talking to is actually legally blind. Would be funnier when the legally blind guy is actually shooting competitions.
Do have plenty of time ~ retired
I think that probably one of the most valuable aspects of competition is finding out just how well your gun really runs. Or doesn't. Most gun owners don't shoot enough to really see and understand how important reliability is. I have seen so many guns fail in competition that just really shook the confidence of the owner.
Whatever. I ran 50 FLAWLESS rounds through my HK. It's good to go. I don't need to compete for that.
This example works until the guy you are talking to is actually legally blind. Would be funnier when the legally blind guy is actually shooting competitions.