Last year, I had the pleasure of attending my inaugural outdoor Glock Sports Shooting Foundation (GSSF) event at Foothills Sporting Foundation in Cherryville, NC and it was an outstanding experience! I connected with incredible people, shot the GSSF course, encourage more women to embrace shooting, and managed to sell some merchandise.
Foothills is gearing up for its second GSSF event on May 4th - 5th, and I'm excited to share some insights from last year and offer some helpful tips to ensure you make the most of this upcoming event.
Firstly, it's important to note that a GSSF membership is required for participation. Memberships are available at various intervals, starting at $35 per year, with discounts kicking in at 3 years for $60. There's also a lifetime membership option at $350, which is definitely a worthwhile investment for avid shooters.
To join the event, registration is necessary for each specific event you wish to participate in, with a $30 registration fee. There are several categories to choose from, catering to different skill levels and interests, including Amateur Civilian, GLOCK Girls*, Rimfire*, Subcompact*, and Amateur Guardian.
You have to register for each event you plan to participate in (there is a
Now, let's talk essentials. Here's a checklist of what to bring:
- Hat
- Bug spray
- Water
- Sunscreen
- Snacks
- Chair
- Wagon/Cart
- Hand sanitizer
- Personal and de-lead wipes
- Lunch (although food is available for purchase at the range, bringing your own ensures you have what you prefer)
- Range bag, eye, and ear protection
- Firearms
- Three (3) magazines per handgun caliber/handgun you intend to shoot
- Ammunition! Ammunition! Ammunition! at least 50 rounds per event/caliber.
Here are some tips and what you can expect:
- Dress appropriately for the weather, as it can be chilly in the morning and scorching in the afternoon.
- Pre-load your magazines before arriving at the shooting area. If you couldn't manage, there's a designated safe loading zone sponsored by Hoppe's 9, a reputable cleaning supplies manufacturer.
- Be prepared for varying wait times depending on your arrival and position in line. Sign up for your events promptly upon arrival, as you need to be ready to shoot when called.
- Each stage involves standing still and shooting at multiple targets.
- There are three shooting stages: (1) 5 to GLOCK, (2) GLOCK 'M, and (3) GLOCK the Plates. These stages feature a mix of paper and steel targets, each with its own challenge.
One of my personal goals is to increase female participation in competition shooting within the Charlotte Metro Area. GSSF events provide an excellent entry point. The staff and volunteers are incredibly supportive and encouraging, whether you're a seasoned shooter or just getting started. So, whether you're keen to shoot or simply observe, come join us!
Whether you're a seasoned shooter or just starting out, there's something for everyone at the GSSF event. Plus, we're on a mission to empower more women in the Charlotte Metro Area to embrace the shooting sport!
To ensure your spot, register now and mark your calendars for May 4th & 5th. Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity to hone your skills, make new friends, and have a blast!
Join us at Foothills Public Shooting Complex for an unforgettable weekend of shooting fun. See you there!
Warm regards,
Ladi Ammo
#WomanWithAWeapon #Charlotte #GSSF #LadiAmmo #GLOCK #foothills #letsshoot #rangetime #rangeday
* 2023 events I participated in.