Over the past 5 weeks I have been fortunate to shoot a local pin match. I shot in open class, against 19 other shooters using Shadows, Checkmates, and various custom guns . So magwells, comps, and 2 lb. triggers dominated. The setup was mirrored so they could run two shooters simultaneously, but timed individually. First run cost $10, with each additional run being $5. Fastest time counts for score.
Because of peoples busy schedules, you drew a number, and your time went against theirs in the bracket. You may shoot at the same time as another, but it may not be against the one who drew your number. Pins were placed on cut up pallets at varying heights.The course of fire varied slightly from week to week, but always consisted of 10 pins, usually including a red stop pin. The array was anywhere from 7 - 10 yards, occasionally required a mag change and even had cut down pins one week.
I was pleased to win all of my brackets, had the fastest overall time 4/5 weeks and was just .17 behind the fastest shooter for that week. I was .28 faster than the second place shooter this week (unless he snuck back in and did another run). He was the one to beat, and was using a Shadow. I was using my carry gun, a USP9c v7 LEM. To say I am thrilled, is an understatement. I missed the first week, so I will not have the most wins, but should take second unless there is a shoot off. Highly recommend getting out and shooting some local leagues/matches, they are a heck of a lot of fun. Met some really cool folks and enjoyed myself.
Things I learned: When raw time counts, don't miss. Maintain flexibility to smooth transitions. Don't over drive the gun. If given the choice, start low and allow recoil to carry you to the higher targets. Focus on your shooting, not the guy next to you. Soft target focus worked well out to 10 yards for me. Gear doesn't matter, until it does. If you ask me how to shoot the course, I may make several suggestions. None of which will be the fastest.