Otero Practical Shooting Association

The Otero Practical Shooting Association (OPSA) is a nonprofit practical shooting club operating out of La Luz, New Mexico since 1995. What started as a Cowboy Action shooting group has evolved into a core part of the Sidney Paul Gordon Shooting Range, hosting monthly matches that attract competitors from across southern New Mexico.

Unlike static target shooting, practical shooting is dynamic. You're moving between positions, engaging multiple targets, reloading under pressure, and solving stage puzzles in real time. Scoring balances speed and accuracy—you can't just shoot fast or just shoot accurately. You need both. Targets are set at various distances, and courses simulate real-world scenarios. Some stages are cardboard, some steel. Each one presents different challenges.

• •Sign up on PractiScore. Matches typically post about a week before the event. Cash entry fee is $20.

• •A function-tested, unloaded firearm (brought in a case or bag)
• •100-150 rounds of ammunition
• •A safe holster (any IWB, appendix, or OWB works—no special competition holster required for the Fun Match)
• •2+ magazines with 35+ round total capacity
• •A sturdy belt to support your gun and holster
• •Eye and ear protection (OPSA has extras if you need to borrow)
• •$20 cash for match fee
• •Water, sunscreen, and snacks (it gets hot in La Luz)

Bonus items: Mag pouches make reloads smoother, and gloves are appreciated during stage teardown.

Most OPSA matches (except .22 NRL) use hit factor scoring:

HF = Points / Time

Cardboard targets have three zones: A (5 points), C (3 minor / 4 major), and D (1 minor / 2 major). Steel targets are either hits or misses. Your time starts with an audible beep and stops when you fire your last shot.

Stages fall into three categories: - Comstock: Unlimited shots, no time limit. Makeup missed targets. - Virginia: Limited shots per target. Penalties for extras. No time limit. - Fixed Time: Limited shots AND a maximum time to complete the stage.

Common penalties include foot faults (shooting outside designated lines), failure to reload when required, and hitting no-shoot targets (think of them as hostages).

For USPSA/Fun Match: - Open: Major power factor allowed. Compensators permitted. - Limited Optics: Slide-mounted optics only. No compensators. Minor only. - Limited: 2011s and magwell guns. Major allowed. No compensators. - Carry Optics: Production pistols with optics. Minor only. - Production: Production pistols, iron sights only. Minor only. 15-round magazine limit. - Single Stack: 1911-style pistols. Major allowed. - PCC: Pistol caliber carbines (9mm ARs, etc.). - Revolver: Major or minor depending on power factor. 6 or 8 rounds.

For PCSL 2 Gun: - Irons: Both rifle and pistol use iron sights. - Practical: No compensators on either gun. - Competition: Compensators allowed.

• •The 180 Rule: When facing the berm, your muzzle can never cross a 180-degree plane—up, down, left, right. Violating this = disqualification.

• •Cold Range: Until the Range Officer says "make ready," your gun stays unloaded and holstered. No ammunition on safe tables. Violating this = disqualification.

• •Trigger Discipline: Your finger stays visibly outside the trigger guard until you're actively aiming at a target. Accidental discharge away from a target = disqualification.

OPSA meets on the third Tuesday of every month at 6:30 p.m. at Casa De Sueños restaurant in Tularosa, NM (35 St. Francis Dr). You don't need to be a member to attend.

Membership benefits: - Support club growth (funds new props and targets) - After six months, access to a Conex box with props, stands, and gear for personal practice - Discounts on club merchandise - Voting rights on club decisions

The club is actively exploring additional member benefits.

• •Range Address: 19 Rock Cliff Rd, La Luz, NM 88337

• •When you arrive: Take the first right up the hill toward the Conex boxes. You'll check in there.

Current Board: - President: Derek Driscoll - Vice President: Jeffery McAllister - Secretary: Damon Marez - Treasurer: Brian Casinger - Match Director: Diana Driscoll

Connect via Facebook or download the membership form from their website.