PCSL - the Future of Competition Shooting

PCSL describes itself as the future of competition shooting. Unlike traditional leagues that lock you into their ecosystem, PCSL operates as an open-source ruleset that any club can adopt, modify, and run—no affiliation required.

Their 2-Gun format demands both speed and accuracy. The format works with pistol and carbine (including PCC setups), with divisions designed around real-world equipment rather than artificial gun categories.

Three things set them apart:

Flexible Rules > PCSL rules can be taken, adapted, and modified to suit your club. Your club runs pistol-caliber carbine only? Define PCC as your required carbine. You have safety restrictions? Make adjustments and distribute your own version.

Higher Accuracy Standard Official PCSL targets demand more precision than other shooting sports alternatives, pushing the skill ceiling higher while the hit-factor scoring system (points per second) keeps things competitive across skill levels.

No Mandatory Affiliation Clubs can run PCSL matches using the free ruleset indefinitely. In 2025, PCSL introduced an optional club affiliation program for those who want access to the Competitor Rating (PCR) system—a modernized classification system similar to what you see in USPSA and IDPA.

Matches are listed on PractiScore—search for "PCSL" under the Matches tab. You'll need a PractiScore account to register for most PCSL events. The platform integrates directly with PCSL's scoring system.

Clubs nationwide are running their own PCSL majors independently—check PractiScore regularly for new events.

Official rulesets available:

• •PCSL General Rulebook (covers overall match rules)
• •PCSL Pistol Divisions (single-gun format)
• •PCSL 2-Gun Divisions (pistol + carbine)
• •Rifle-Only Divisions (added in Q1 2024 rulebook update)

Each includes detailed stage design guidance, stage video examples, and match directing best practices. 3-Gun rules are under review for a future update.

Official PCSL K-Zone targets are available through CHL Targets:

• •100-pack: $99 with free shipping
• •1,000+ packs: 5% discount applied

Three target styles support different match formats: Practical, Mini Practical, and Competition targets.

A modernized classifier system for clubs that want to track competitor progression. The 2025 2-Gun Classifiers PDF and PCR intro guide are available for download. This system mirrors traditional USPSA classification but applies specifically to the PCSL format.

PCSL is shifting from fine-tuning rules to cultivating a strong community. This includes:

• •Member dashboard for registered competitors
• •Active forum for rule discussions and questions
• •Regular news updates on format changes and upcoming events
• •Partnership with PractiScore 2.0 (currently in beta testing with a dedicated PCSL module)

• •SuperVel Ammunition
• •Targets USA (official target distributor)
• •ActionBooth (match media)
• •Quiet Winter Media

The format expanded accessibility for new competitors while maintaining a high skill ceiling at the elite level. Simple divisions, common-sense rules, and a practical-focused target design make it easy to jump in from any shooting background. For serious competitors, the accuracy demands and hit-factor scoring create space for new champions to establish themselves.