
NRA Precision Pistol (Bullseye) is the oldest formal handgun competition in America. Competitors shoot one-handed at paper bullseye targets from standing position.
01 // LEARN
Understanding this shooting discipline
NRA Precision Pistol (Bullseye) is the oldest formal handgun competition in America. Competitors shoot one-handed at paper bullseye targets from standing position. The sport emphasizes accuracy, consistency, and mental discipline over speed.
Conventional Pistol uses three guns: .22 rimfire, centerfire, and .45 caliber. The course of fire includes Slow Fire (10 rounds, 10 minutes), Timed Fire (5 rounds, 20 seconds), and Rapid Fire (5 rounds, 10 seconds). Distances are 50 feet indoor and 25/50 yards outdoor.
02 // START
Equipment, costs, and tips for beginners
Getting into bullseye doesn't require starting with top-tier gear. Focus on safety fundamentals, basic equipment, and finding welcoming places to learn. The community is generally helpful to newcomers who show up prepared with the right attitude.
What you need to get started
Know these before your first shot
Advice from experienced shooters
Realistic budget expectations
$500-1,000
Basic equipment to begin
$2,000-5,000+
Quality gear for serious shooters
Hidden costs to consider: Start with a quality .22 pistol (Ruger Mark IV, S&W Victory). Add centerfire and .45 as skills develop.
Compare your options
| Type | Best For |
|---|---|
| .22 Rimfire Required gun. S&W Model 41, Ruger Mark IV, High Standard common choices. | Learning fundamentals, required for all three-gun matches |
| Centerfire .32 caliber minimum. .38 Special wadcutter or .38 Super popular. | Middle leg of three-gun aggregate |
| .45 ACP 1911 variants dominate. Colt, Kimber, Les Baer, Wilson Combat popular. | Final leg of three-gun, highest prestige |
03 // ASK
Common questions about bullseye
New to bullseye? These are the most common questions from shooters exploring this discipline. The shooting community is generally welcoming and happy to help newcomers.
Find answers to common questions about bullseye precision pistol. Can't find what you're looking for? Contact us and we'll help you out.
Yes, semi-autos are most common. Revolvers are legal but rare due to slower reloads in timed and rapid fire stages.
Bullseye predates modern combat shooting. The one-handed stance tests fundamental marksmanship without physical support. It develops excellent trigger control.
No. Many matches offer .22-only options. Build your battery over time as skills and interest develop.
Yes, in most matches. Many top competitors use red dots. Iron sights remain legal and competitive.
On the NRA B-8 target at 25 yards, 85-90 out of 100 is respectable for beginners. Experts shoot 95+.
04 // FIND
Find bullseye events near you
Action Pistol match at Pinellas Outdoor Shooting Range tests your handgun speed and accuracy under realistic conditions. This is a timed competition where you move between targets and stages while managing your shot placement—fundamentally different from static range work. You'll shoot through multiple scenarios designed to challenge both precision and decisiveness. Matches like this reward shooters who can handle the pressure of the clock while staying accurate, making it solid practice for defensive shooting or just pushing past your comfort zone.
Tuesday League. Range Reserved: Yes. Preregistration Needed: No. 4:00pm – 5:00pm Setup Event begins at 5:00pm
Defensive pistol training focuses on practical self-defense skills with a handgun. Depending on the format, this may be an instructional class or a scored league/competition using defensive scenarios. Drawing from concealment under time pressure Shooting on the move and from behind cover Multiple target engagement Low-light shooting techniques Malfunction clearance drills Handgun with strong-side hip holster Concealment garment At least 3 magazines and mag pouches 100-200 rounds of ammunition Eye and ear protection (required) Contact Best Shot for format details, round count, and any prerequisite requirements.
Open to members only. ContactRandy at [email protected] more details
Open to public. Practice using your pistol in a defensive scenario. Cost is $5 for members, and $10 for non-members. You should bring your pistol, a secure holster that you can safely draw from and re-holster safely and between 50 and 100 rounds of ammunition. Bring your own eye and ear protection. Note no magnum calibers, no shot shells.
Classes begin at 9 and include live fire. The class is open to club members and the general public. Class fee - $5 Contact: Suzanne Beaty - Wednesday Beginners email: [email protected] or 312.618.3588
05 // LOCATE
Ranges, clubs, and shops for this discipline