The part that’s so enflaming about this thread, is 99% of the top guys didn’t start out with a 7-10k set-up. I’m gonna venture to say most people started out with some sort of a factory rifle like a Rem 700 PSS, MilSpec 5R etc in a .308 and shot the shit out of it. Then, after a shit ton of rounds, re-barreled it and had it trued possibly it an a different caliber, maybe installed a brake, large bolt knob, DBM and eventually upgraded as they got more into it and improved. Prior to PRS/NRL, it was all local matches. People shot, ALOT, upgraded gear and became better shooters.
These are the top guys now, but for some reason, newer shooters are coming in, and want immediate gratification, immediate results, immediate recognition and when they don’t get it, blame it on the gear, their lower income and expect everyone else to make accommodations for them so they can get their freaking trophy. People are where they deserve to be.
Earn that shit just like everyone else did and stop making excuses. You want a trophy? Shot at the prize table? Put in the freaking work and earn it, just like everyone else did. Start at the bottom and work your way up. You don’t deserve a damn thing, and it’s nobody else’s fault but yours that you are where you are in life, shooting, PRS/NRL etc etc etc. nobody owes you anything.
The guys complaining are the same guys the night before a match drinking with there buddies, meanwhile the top competitors are in there hotel room dry firing, practicing positional, going over dope, adjusting their gear and getting ready for the match. Then come time for March results, have the balls go and blame their ranking on their lack of gear, and credit the other guys success on the amount of ?? they spent. That’s some Bernie Sanders horse shit.
Most people here participate in these matches because the enjoy shoooting, the comradery, and becoming more proficient marksman. Not for a pat on the ass...
Suck it up, put in the work and quit your whining... there a production class in place. You can get a hell of a great shooting rifle for well under 2k and a optic that will perform with the best of them for well under 2k.
If you can’t afford that, then save your money or find a new hobby.