Traditional Muzzleloading Association

TMA Events and Activites => TMA Postal Shoots => Topic started by: The Miner '49er on September 21, 2020, 12:24:46 PM

Title: sighting shots
Post by: The Miner '49er on September 21, 2020, 12:24:46 PM
I'm thinking about trying a postal match, and understand sight requirements, targets to use, and where to mail. One thing I don't see, or might have missed, however is are sighting shots allowed prior to shooting the target that will be scored, and if so, how many shots are permitted? Thanks, guys.
Title: Re: sighting shots
Post by: Ohio Joe on September 21, 2020, 07:16:38 PM
We have never to my knowledge, ever had a sighting shot rule before shooting for score - and if we did, I don't see how it could be enforced in a Postal Match. It's all on the honor system... :shake

My personal approach is that I post my target(s), and go to shooting' just like I would if it was the Rendezvous era of (as an example) 1825 - 1840...

Also, I never take warm up shots at our Chadron Fur Trade Days Spring Shoot (April or May) and none at the July Rendezvous... Always figure once I'm zeroed, I'm zeroed... It's just a matter of windage and elevation after that.   

Title: Re: sighting shots
Post by: Bigsmoke on September 21, 2020, 07:58:58 PM
Why bother taking a sighting shot.  There is every likelihood that will be your best shot of the day.
I never take a sighter.  If a person feels he has to foul the barrel, pour 20 grains of powder down the bore and shoot it off.

John (Bigsmoke)
Title: Re: sighting shots
Post by: Ohio Joe on September 21, 2020, 08:29:20 PM
Why bother taking a sighting shot.  There is every likelihood that will be your best shot of the day.
I never take a sighter.  If a person feels he has to foul the barrel, pour 20 grains of powder down the bore and shoot it off.

John (Bigsmoke)

A whole lot of truth in what you say, John... That's for sure!!!  :toast :shake
Title: Re: sighting shots
Post by: BEAVERMAN on September 22, 2020, 01:24:47 AM
Why bother taking a sighting shot.  There is every likelihood that will be your best shot of the day.
I never take a sighter.  If a person feels he has to foul the barrel, pour 20 grains of powder down the bore and shoot it off.

John (Bigsmoke)

Thats what I do at our monthly shoots, especially if I'm using a capper, dry patch the barrel, snap a couple caps and then touch it off !