This past Saturday (August 17, 2013) 39 competitors showed up at Evergreen Shooting Club in Drayton Valley for the 5th edition of the Lande Tactical Shoot. The competition is a memorial and tribute to Derek Lande offered up by a number of his friends. The day long shoot tests marksmen (and women) with an evolving series of challenges. From a twirling "Texas Star" at around 180 meters to aspirins at 100, the day was filled with events that left more than a few shooters scratching their heads at their performance or slack jawed at the tremendous skill on display.
This is perhaps the most entertaining and enjoyable shooting event it has been my pleasure to attend. Not only is the shoot extremely well organized by the dedicated friends of Derek Lande, the atmosphere and comradeship created by the competitors is unique for this level of competition. There is no gaming, no #####ing or carping, few alibis and even fewer sulk sessions. Laughter (both with and at) is common. Perhaps the most distinguishing aspect of this match is the generosity of the competitors. Participants freely share their experience, tips, tricks, info, ammo and even equipment so that others can participate with their best effort. Don't get me wrong. This isn't some giggle-fest for half-arsed shooters. So far the best time for taking out the 5 plates of the Texas Star is 28 seconds...with a bolt gun. Three competitors shot 4 aspirins in a row (one with a .308 AR10). The deadlock was broken by a three shot tightest group won with a span of .333" at 100 M from prone. This was my third trip to Lande, I will be back next year and hope there will be many more.
This is perhaps the most entertaining and enjoyable shooting event it has been my pleasure to attend. Not only is the shoot extremely well organized by the dedicated friends of Derek Lande, the atmosphere and comradeship created by the competitors is unique for this level of competition. There is no gaming, no #####ing or carping, few alibis and even fewer sulk sessions. Laughter (both with and at) is common. Perhaps the most distinguishing aspect of this match is the generosity of the competitors. Participants freely share their experience, tips, tricks, info, ammo and even equipment so that others can participate with their best effort. Don't get me wrong. This isn't some giggle-fest for half-arsed shooters. So far the best time for taking out the 5 plates of the Texas Star is 28 seconds...with a bolt gun. Three competitors shot 4 aspirins in a row (one with a .308 AR10). The deadlock was broken by a three shot tightest group won with a span of .333" at 100 M from prone. This was my third trip to Lande, I will be back next year and hope there will be many more.
