Action Air
Dynamic shooting - combining movement and accuracy
About Action Air
Action air is the most dynamic and fast-paced discipline we offer. Unlike traditional target shooting where you’re stationary, action air involves movement, multiple targets, and time pressure. It’s exciting, challenging, and incredibly fun - more like action shooting sports you might see on TV, but using safe air-powered firearms.
Action air shooting photo to be added
The Discipline
Key Characteristics
- Dynamic: Movement between shooting positions
- Multiple Targets: Various targets in each stage
- Time Pressure: Scored on both accuracy and speed
- Equipment: Air pistols and rifles
- Scenarios: Different course designs and challenges
- Exciting: Fast-paced and engaging
What Makes It Different?
Unlike other shooting disciplines where you aim for the highest score on a precision target, action air is about:
- Engaging multiple targets quickly
- Moving between shooting positions
- Making rapid decisions
- Shooting from various positions (standing, kneeling, etc.)
- Time-based scoring
Why Try Action Air?
Pure Fun
Action air is simply fun! It’s active, engaging, and rewarding. If you want an exciting shooting experience, this is it.
Different Challenge
If you’ve tried traditional target shooting and want something different, action air offers a completely new type of challenge.
Practical Skills
Develops fast target acquisition, shooting under pressure, and movement - skills that translate to various shooting contexts.
Physical Activity
More active than stationary shooting. You’ll be moving, bending, and working - it’s a genuine physical activity.
How It Works
Course of Fire
An action air “stage” or “course of fire” typically involves:
- Start Position: Clearly defined starting position and ready stance
- Start Signal: Timer beep or command to start
- Engage Targets: Shoot designated targets in correct order or as required
- Movement: Move between shooting positions as needed
- Complete: Finish when all targets engaged or time runs out
Scoring
Scoring combines accuracy and speed:
- Points for targets hit
- Time bonuses for fast completion
- Penalties for misses or procedural errors
- Different target values (some targets worth more points)
Safety First
Despite the dynamic nature of action air, safety remains paramount. All movements and shooting must follow strict safety protocols. You’ll be thoroughly briefed on safety procedures before participating.
Equipment
Getting Started
The club has air pistols and rifles available for action air. You don’t need specialised equipment to try it - any suitable air pistol or rifle will work.
What You’ll Need
- Air Pistol or Rifle: Standard air-powered firearms
- Eye Protection: Mandatory safety equipment
- Comfortable Clothing: Wear clothes you can move in
- Appropriate Footwear: Stable shoes (no flip-flops!)
As You Progress
Experienced action air shooters may invest in:
- Holsters for pistol shooting
- Additional magazines or loading aids
- Timer for practice
- More specialised air pistols or rifles
Skills Developed
Action air develops unique skills:
- Speed: Rapid target acquisition and engagement
- Accuracy Under Pressure: Maintaining accuracy while moving quickly
- Decision Making: Quick tactical decisions
- Movement: Shooting while moving or from awkward positions
- Stress Management: Performing under time pressure
- Efficiency: Minimizing wasted motion and time
- Adaptability: Quickly adjusting to new course designs
Typical Challenges
Action air stages can include various challenges:
Steel Plates
Knock down metal targets - visual and audio feedback when hit.
Paper Targets
Score zones on paper targets - different zones worth different points.
Moving Targets
Targets that move or swing - adding complexity to the shot.
Barricades
Shooting around or over obstacles.
Position Changes
Moving between different shooting positions (standing, kneeling, etc.).
Competitions & Events
While action air is newer than traditional disciplines, it has a growing following:
- Club Nights: Informal action air sessions
- Club Competitions: Organized matches with multiple stages
- Regional Events: Larger competitions hosted by various clubs
- Special Events: Themed competitions (zombie shoots, etc.)
Beginner Friendly
Don’t be intimidated by the action-packed nature! Action air welcomes shooters of all skill levels. Stages can be adjusted for difficulty, and you’ll always start at a comfortable pace. The focus is on fun and gradual improvement.
Training & Getting Started
New to action air? Here’s how to get started:
- Safety Briefing: Thorough briefing on action air safety
- Walk Through: Course demonstration before you shoot
- Supervised First Runs: Instructor present for your first attempts
- Progressive Difficulty: Start simple, add complexity as you’re comfortable
- Regular Practice: Special action air evenings for practice
Who Will Enjoy Action Air?
Action air appeals to shooters who:
- Want something more dynamic than traditional target shooting
- Enjoy physical challenges and movement
- Like variety - every course is different
- Appreciate the combination of speed and accuracy
- Want a fun, social shooting experience
- Are interested in practical shooting sports
Safety in Action Air
Action air requires heightened safety awareness due to movement and multiple targets:
- Muzzle Discipline: Strict control of where firearm points at all times
- Finger Discipline: Finger off trigger except when actually shooting
- Range Commands: Following RCO instructions instantly
- Stage Briefing: Understanding allowed shooting directions
- No Shortcuts: Following the course design exactly
Our Range Conducting Officers are specially trained in action air safety and will ensure all participants operate safely.
Try Action Air at Pinhoe TSC
Experience the excitement of dynamic shooting at our club. Perfect for beginners and experienced shooters alike.