Bullseye Precision Pistol
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
What is Bullseye Pistol?
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.
Types & Variations
02 // START
Getting Started with Bullseye
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.
Essential Equipment
What you need to get started
Safety & Rules
Know these before your first shot
Pro Tips for Beginners
Advice from experienced shooters
What Does Bullseye Cost?
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.
Bullseye Pistol Choices
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
Frequently Asked Questions
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
Upcoming Events
Find bullseye events near you
Defensive pistol
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 Brooklyn Sportsman's Club for format details, round count, and any prerequisite requirements.
Action Pistol
Every Monday Range Reserved: Yes. Preregistration Needed: No. Prequalification Required: New shooters arrive at 5:15pm – 5:30pm For more information, click here
Monday Night Bullseye League
4 May to 24 Aug, except 25 May 6:00 PM Start 22 Rimfire Only Range closes one hour before each match for setup
Basic Pistol training
Must contact Larry Hupp to make an appointment between 10am and 4pm. [email protected]
Bullseye Shoot
Bullseye (also called Conventional Pistol or Precision Pistol) is the traditional one-handed pistol competition. Shooters fire at the classic bullseye target at 25 and 50 yards in slow fire, timed fire, and rapid fire stages. | Detail | Info | |--------|------| | Distances | 25 and 50 yards | | Shooting hand | One-handed (strong hand only) | | Calibers | .22 LR, centerfire (.32-.45), .45 ACP | | Course of fire | 2700 (full) or 1800 (short) aggregate | .22 LR pistol and/or centerfire pistol (.45 ACP for full 2700) Ammunition (90 rounds per gun for full course) Shooting box or bench for equipment Spotting scope Eye and ear protection (required) Contact Cape Cod Fish and Game Association for match format (2700 vs. 1800), entry fees, and start time.
Bullseye 2025 (GR or TT Closed)
Bi-Weekly Bullseye. All are welcome. What to bring: 100-200 rounds (Rimfire recommended for those who have not done this with WRRC before) Pistol – Chamber Flag (although there will probably be one available if you don’t have one) Hearing protection Eye Protection Bag or case for your firearm
05 // LOCATE
Where to Shoot
Ranges, clubs, and shops for this discipline