
Steel Challenge is a speed shooting sport where competitors engage five steel targets in a fixed pattern as fast as possible. Each stage is shot five times, with the slowest run dropped.
01 // LEARN
Understanding this shooting discipline
Steel Challenge is a speed shooting sport where competitors engage five steel targets in a fixed pattern as fast as possible. Each stage is shot five times, with the slowest run dropped. The pure time-based format makes it one of the most spectator-friendly shooting sports.
Steel Challenge welcomes both rimfire (.22 LR) and centerfire competitors. The sport is excellent for new shooters - stages are straightforward and equipment requirements are minimal compared to other action shooting sports.
02 // START
Equipment, costs, and tips for beginners
Getting into steel challenge 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
$300-600 (rimfire)
Basic equipment to begin
$1,000-3,000+ (centerfire)
Quality gear for serious shooters
Hidden costs to consider: Steel Challenge is the most affordable action shooting sport. Start with rimfire - same stages, same skills, fraction of the cost.
Compare your options
| Type | Best For |
|---|---|
| Rimfire Pistol/Rifle .22 LR only. Low cost, low recoil. Same stages as centerfire. | Beginners, budget-conscious shooters, youth competitors |
| Centerfire Iron Sights Factory pistol, iron sights only. Draw from holster. | Those wanting to use carry or duty guns |
| Carry Optics / Open Red dot optics allowed. Faster target acquisition. | Competitors seeking maximum speed potential |
03 // ASK
Common questions about steel challenge
New to steel challenge? 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 steel challenge. Can't find what you're looking for? Contact us and we'll help you out.
Yes, Rimfire Pistol and Rimfire Rifle are popular divisions. Many competitors start with rimfire to learn stages at low cost. A quality .22 pistol or rifle is perfect for getting started.
Pure time. You shoot each stage five times, and your slowest run is dropped. Total time across all stages determines placement. Misses add penalties, but there is no accuracy bonus - just hit the steel.
The eight stages are: Smoke & Hope, Showdown, Five to Go, Speed Option, Pendulum, Outer Limits, Accelerator, and Roundabout. Each has a unique target layout that competitors memorize.
A typical match (8 stages, 5 runs each, 5 targets) requires a minimum of 200 rounds. Bring 250+ to account for makeups. Rimfire ammo makes this very affordable.
04 // FIND
Find steel challenge events near you
This class is designed for shooters who want to challenge their abilities at long ranges. This 6-8 hour class will cover all the necessary skills for shooting out to 600 yards. This class is broken up into two days: Day 1: Classroom portion at GAT Guns Day 2: Range portion is held at the Aurora Sportsman’s Club, Waterman, IL Each student will receive a copy of the material in the classroom. This class will also qualify you for the follow up courses offered by Safe Side Tactical to enhance and develop your skills as a long range shooter. In the classroom we will cover ballistic information and calculations needed for long range shooting. At the range we will confirm your zero, perform the tall target drill to confirm scope adjustments, perform ballistic calculations and then shoot on the 600 yard range to confirm your adjustments. Prior to the class your rifle needs to be zeroed at 100 or 200 yards. Rifle and ammunition should be suitable for long range shooting. Appropriate calibers (but not limited to) .223/5.56 (62gr.- 80gr.), .308, .30-06, etc. Lighter bullet weights are not recommended for long ranges. If you have any questions or concerns, contact one of the instructors before class. Lynn Garnand – 847-767-2275 [email protected] ( mailto:[email protected] ) Paul Warren – 630-276-8108 [email protected] ( mailto:[email protected] ) This is a 2 Day Class at 2 different locations. $250.00 for both days. What's included in the Class? Classroom Instruction & Material Range Time What's needed for the Class? A rifle in an appropriate long range caliber (see above) Eye & Ear Protection 100 Rounds of Ammunition OPTIONAL BUT RECOMMENDED: Spotting Scope, Calculator, Shooting Rest Prerequisites to take the Class? Although there are no prerequisite class requirements to take this course, we highly recommend Intro to Long Range Rifle, Basic NRA Rifle, or a solid knowledge of your rifle with previous range experience. Experience Level Indicator 90 1 -35 = Beginner | 36-70 = Intermediate | 71-100 = Advanced Class Cancellation / Reschedule Policy If you need to Cancel or Reschedule a class, you must call the store: 847-428-4867 Cancellation / Reschedule of a class from one week to the day of the class is $50.00
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Format: 40 Rounds for record with unlimited sighters. You will have 2 record targets and a sighter target per relay and you shoot 2 relays. You can only shoot 10 rounds on each record target but you can shoot an unlimited number of sighters during the course of fire. There will be a 30 minute time limit for each relay. Equipment: Front rest or bipod with rear bag. Muzzle break is allowed but you are responsible for your muzzle blast. This will be a prone or bench rest match so bring appropriate equipment. Eye and ear protection. Camera system or spotting scope is allowed. .22 cal to .35 cal are welcomed to shoot. Must have a scope and your rifle zeroed in at 300 yards before the match. Fee: $15 per shooter (covers both relays) - there will also be an optional $10 entry fee if you want to get into a prize pot Time: Match starts at 9am to completion. You can pre-register with the match director or last minute sign up is at 8:15am at the club. All shooters must go through a safety inspection, be present during roll call, and hear the match rules to be able to shoot. To pre- register email [email protected] with you name and phone number and event your shooting.
May 16th: Idaho Enhanced CCW 9:30-5:30 $150 https://www.nrainstructors.org/CourseDetails.aspx?Courseid=900332 https://site.corsizio.com/event/699b80b99d5eb3334c331aec Chris Schaefer-Firearms Instructor
Come celebrate Pride music, vendors, art activities, fun for the whole family, June 27, 2026 at Martin Park in Sturgeon Bay 10am-5pm! Fun Games, Face Painting, The Ribbon Project, What’s My Pride? photo selfie station, New- Art Tent with activities for all ages Beer/NA Beverage Tent, Food Trucks, Fun Pride Merch, Vendors, 50/50 raffle and silent auction items including SBHS volunteer artists designed skateboard decks, local business gift packages and much more. Rain or Shine More information
05 // LOCATE
Ranges, clubs, and shops for this discipline