Asheville Practical Shooting Association

Asheville Practical Shooting Association (APSA) formed in the mid-1970s as the Asheville Practical Pistol League—back when practical shooting was still defining itself. In 1991, APSA became a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. The club holds a specific distinction: APSA was the first club in North Carolina to become USPSA affiliated.

Over nearly 50 years, the club has evolved through multiple range locations—from a cow pasture in Burnsville to Lake Lure and back—before settling into their current homes at two facilities serving the Asheville region.

APSA runs USPSA Level 1 matches on the second Saturday of every month, year-round at Triggers, Traps & Trout in Burnsville, NC. Registration opens 9:00-9:30 am with the shooter's meeting at 10 am sharp. Matches wrap by 3:30 pm, followed by a late lunch.

Match Pricing: - Members: $15 - Non-members: $20

Competitive Divisions: - Limited - Limited 10 - Open - Production - Revolver - Single Stack - Carry Optics - Limited Optics - PCC (Pistol Caliber Carbine)

Registration through Practiscore opens one week before each match. First-timers are welcome—just email before you arrive to confirm the match is shooting that day.

For casual shooting and skill building, APSA hosts weekly defensive shooting matches every Thursday at 6:30 pm at Bear Arms Indoor Shooting Range in Brevard, NC.

Cost: $7.50 range fee + $2.00 APSA event fee

These loosely follow USPDA and IDPA formats with different courses each week. Shooters move around the range engaging multiple targets while timed. No membership required—just show up.

APSA also runs 3-gun matches using the complete trifecta: modern sporting rifle (AR-platform), pistol, and shotgun. Competitors move through multiple stages, transitioning between firearms and engaging targets from various positions. Check the calendar for upcoming events—these fill up fast with competitors from across the region.

APSA's women's handgun training program, formerly "Women on Target," is currently suspended due to insurance costs. The club is actively seeking solutions and encourages shooters to check back periodically.

When available, W.A.Y.S. provides beginner handgun training specifically structured for women with little to no firearms experience. Classes were $45 all-day Saturday sessions (9 am-3 pm) at Bear Arms in Brevard, including firearms, ammunition, targets, safety gear, and lunch provided.

Annual Membership Fees: - Individual: $45/year - Family: $55/year

Members receive voting rights and discounts on match entry fees. You don't need membership to attend matches, but APSA makes it easy to join on the spot at any event.

APSA strictly follows USPSA rules. The club emphasizes that everything revolves around safety. Key range rules:

• •Cold range only—no loaded firearms in parking areas or safe zones
• •All firearms in cases when entering the range
• •Eye and ear protection mandatory once range goes hot
• •Holstered weapons at all times except during active shooting stages
• •Finger off trigger visibly when moving or reloading
• •Watch your 180s—no pointing firearms uprange of the 180-degree line
• •Zero alcohol or drugs on the premises
• •Sportsman-like conduct required—disqualifications enforced

Young shooters under 18 are welcome when accompanied by an adult.

APSA holds yearly elections with member voting. Current leadership (as of January 2023):

• •President: Chris Britt
• •Vice President: Steve Schoenberger
• •Treasurer: Mike Privette
• •Secretary: David Hartley
• •Chief Range Officer: Phil Flack

• •Contact: For W.A.Y.S. and training questions, reach out to coordinators Mike and Beth Privette at 828-966-9611 or [email protected].

APSA's 50-year history in the practical shooting sport means experienced range officers, well-established courses, and a serious shooter community. Whether you're testing your skills at monthly USPSA matches, building speed and accuracy at Thursday funshoots, or learning fundamentals through their women's training program, APSA provides structure, consistency, and the infrastructure that comes from five decades of running matches in Western North Carolina.