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Thunder Valley Precision (TVP) Steel Shoot 1-3-10

Re: Thunder Valley Precision (TVP) Steel Shoot 1-3

Shooters,

I just wanted to say thanks to all for showing up and braving the low temps....
We had a great turn-out and I was glad to see it as well as others.
Again, I'm sorry for the steel situation...I'm working on the final design this week. The cold was to much for the steel drops/stems I used...although a tempory fix I expected it to perform better.
The match allowed us to produce enough revenue to complete the rest of the steel project. We thank you very much for your support and we are looking forward to the next shoot. Target issues will be slim to none...I will be testing all targets with the .338 Lapua at 200 yards to withstand the punishment to ensure minimum break downs.
Also, we will have earlier start times from now on. Especially when it warms up. Also...more strict time limits...done in 8 min..no exceptions as before. New shooters will have 10 min...if it's their first time.
With the higher turn-outs we have to be patient and tweek the format. I received lots of e-mails and PM's thanking me for the match...I appreciate the kind words and I felt bad about the target break-downs...but it seems alot of shooters had a good time anyway and learned alot about their equipment and themselves.

Thanks,
Tom Sarver
TVP
 
Re: Thunder Valley Precision (TVP) Steel Shoot 1-3

Good times for sure. Cant wait till it warms up a bit and we can get back out there. It was awesome to see so many new shooters.
 
Re: Thunder Valley Precision (TVP) Steel Shoot 1-3

It appears you all had a good time shooting...sorry I couldn't make the shoot...I've been laid up with the flu and a stomach virus for about 2 weeks now...

Hope to make the next few shoots!
 
Re: Thunder Valley Precision (TVP) Steel Shoot 1-3

Tom and Shooters,
I would like to have registration in the shed next time.
Can guys go together.(One page)
Hunting buddies. (One page)
New people.
Singles.
Teams.

There were even some guys comparing dope.
Not Bitching about the temp.
Finaly the temp, not the wind!
 
Re: Thunder Valley Precision (TVP) Steel Shoot 1-3

"Also, we will have earlier start times from now on. Especially when it warms up. Also...more strict time limits...done in 8 min..no exceptions as before. New shooters will have 10 min...if it's their first time.
With the higher turn-outs we have to be patient and tweek the format."

As we get more points for getting it done in under five, it is up to us to help! (Glen)

Spotting targets and calling correction is a world of good.
Understanding target size and distance.
Don't need to figure and count lines with a duplex!
Keeping score.

Flounder and Jon,
Please get all of the can guys together next time.

Mark,
Stop by sometime.


 
Re: Thunder Valley Precision (TVP) Steel Shoot 1-3

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: TCA4570</div><div class="ubbcode-body">
Flounder and Jon,
Please get all of the can guys together next time.

</div></div>

Glenn. 90% of the people shooting suppressed posted they would be shooting suppressed and even posted in this thread like you asked. Go check out page 6 where it starts. No offense but you knew that and this was a question you should have asked since you were registering teams and putting teams together as well as who were the first timers.

We live and learn and this was the first match of the year so little problems are to be expected. No big deal. Sounds like it may make sense for you to update the score sheet so you can put a mark beside the teams that are shooting suppressed as well as a spot for first timers so you know when they register. With as many shooters as there were, it would have been really hard to accommodate everyone. We live and learn for next time.

I think this match was a prime example of why its beneficial to put new guys with new guys, experienced with experienced, etc, etc, especially if you are going to have different times for new vs experienced.


FYI... To whoever brought that propane heater.. Thanks from all of us.
 
Re: Thunder Valley Precision (TVP) Steel Shoot 1-3

Hey fellow shooters,
I have some thoughts on getting the matches rolling .... feel free to post your thoughts as well. It seems to me that the 10:00 start time is almost universal for any type of match. I think it would be fine as long as first shots are fired at 10:00. Starting on time is a problem at almost every other range I've been to. How about:

8:30 -range opens at benches for chrono, sighters, etc
9:00 -registration
9:30 -range is cold (enforcing this would help the most IMO) and everyone moves up the hill
10:00 first shots fired

I think we need to police ourselves on getting the match rolling. I remember 1 day last year it was 11:05 before we got to shooting. Am I wrong to think that a match is not the place to sight your rifle in and chrono ammo? 1 hour should be plenty of time?? A few sighters is one thing, but it seems to get taken advantage of. I ran this by Tom and he seems to be agreeable with the timeline. What do you think?
 
Re: Thunder Valley Precision (TVP) Steel Shoot 1-3

RANDOM THOUGHTS ON HIGH TURNOUT MATCHES AND WAYS TO SPEED IT UP.

Higer turnout has only one solution, get more shooters on the line at a time, THATS IT!! Of course only if safety allows?.

Time limits and all that sound good but in practice that stuff falls apart. And people end up waiting, RSO's are polite people by nature so time limits go by the wayside.
When you put 6 or 8 guys atta time on the line with preassigned shooter numbers , all bolts open , have em get ready range etc, then close bolts and the RSO starts em shooting........ shooter one send it,(call hit or correction then next shot) when shooter one is done he goes bolt open and stays put then shooter two send it(call hit or correction then next shot) and on down the line until each guy has exhausted his shots or hit the targets. Then rotate entire line to next targets.
This makes the conditions fair & the match run smoother, faster and more trigger time, everybody is happy. Except of course It is harder on the score keeper but with one or two spotters calling corrections and one person keeping score, its all good and everyone gets to participate with minimal down time.

Just a thought for high turn out days which it looks like its going to be from now on.

Having shot at TVP before I gotta think every station could support at least 6 shooters on a line safely?
 
Re: Thunder Valley Precision (TVP) Steel Shoot 1-3

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: woodspider</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Having shot at TVP before I gotta think every station could support at least 6 shooters on a line safely? </div></div>

Unless target positions are changed, station 2 and 4 will not support 6 shooters. You have the shooter(s) to the right needing to move left to engauge targets.
 
Re: Thunder Valley Precision (TVP) Steel Shoot 1-3

Haven't been there yet,plan to this year . I've been involved in helping run and organize a ton of match's over lot's of years,most places just won't let you sight in and crono on match day ,move start time up as early as you can and come ready to shoot ? Just an observation from afar ,hope to join in on the fun at a later date ?
 
Re: Thunder Valley Precision (TVP) Steel Shoot 1-3

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Dale Taylor</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Haven't been there yet,plan to this year . I've been involved in helping run and organize a ton of match's over lot's of years,most places just won't let you sight in and crono on match day ,move start time up as early as you can and come ready to shoot ? Just an observation from afar ,hope to join in on the fun at a later date ? </div></div>

Try to get to a match you will love this range, its huge and the people you meet are great!
 
Re: Thunder Valley Precision (TVP) Steel Shoot 1-3

If we are going to stick to the 2 man team format I think we need only 1 team at a time if time limits are enforced. How could you fairly say who used how much time with 4 shooters on the line? Movement on the other positions is a concern for me as well. If scores are kept and it's called a match, then everyone deserves a fair method of being timed. I'm also in favor of a set start position such as rifles loaded, on safe, shooters standing behind them. I've seen some guys get started with their finger on the trigger and others started before being loaded.
 
Re: Thunder Valley Precision (TVP) Steel Shoot 1-3

Time was also lost in areas other than just shooting.

Regitration, and scoring goes quicker for ____, becauase people worked together to make it better.

Registraton in building.
Right next to the head.
I made the scoresheet for two man teams.
We had 15 teams of guy's sign up!

Four on the line was added when WE saw the turnout.

Like Tom said, we may need to tweek.

How many tacticle guys shot his paper last year?
 
Re: Thunder Valley Precision (TVP) Steel Shoot 1-3

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: mscott</div><div class="ubbcode-body">If we are going to stick to the 2 man team format I think we need only 1 team at a time if time limits are enforced. How could you fairly say who used how much time with 4 shooters on the line? Movement on the other positions is a concern for me as well. If scores are kept and it's called a match, then everyone deserves a fair method of being timed. I'm also in favor of a set start position such as rifles loaded, on safe, shooters standing behind them. I've seen some guys get started with their finger on the trigger and others started before being loaded. </div></div>

One spotter for each team?
Both keep score and spot?
Both teams have at least five min to talk about next target.
Both are on same page.
Spotters included.

Talk to your partner.
 
Re: Thunder Valley Precision (TVP) Steel Shoot 1-3

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: mscott</div><div class="ubbcode-body">If we are going to stick to the 2 man team format I think we need only 1 team at a time if time limits are enforced. How could you fairly say who used how much time with 4 shooters on the line? Movement on the other positions is a concern for me as well. If scores are kept and it's called a match, then everyone deserves a fair method of being timed. I'm also in favor of a set start position such as rifles loaded, on safe, shooters standing behind them. I've seen some guys get started with their finger on the trigger and others started before being loaded. </div></div>

The idea of the dual stop watch came up on our way home. That way you can fairly track 2 teams at once. I just think you need 2 score keepers. Team A shoots 1-4 and Team B shoots 4-1. That may or may not work for a fast shooting team versus a slow shooting team but I'm sure with a little thought we could work it out. I will volunteer as Test Team A Shooter 1
grin.gif
.
 
Re: Thunder Valley Precision (TVP) Steel Shoot 1-3

shooters,
We will work this out. I think (one)two man team only is probably the way to go. 8 minutes ONLY is more than fair and will make a better out of everyone....once you realize why.
Maybe even get the time down to 6 min...which is possible when some are getting it done in under 5. Also, your correct Mike, it will only be fair for bonus if you can actually keep track correctly. I think it take more time to set up 4-6 shooters than two. 20-30 shooters can still get done is a reasonable amount time on the course without stress.
Also...steel shooters can learn wait times also by going to any one range that is 1000 yard IBS affiliated and shoot benchrest. We shoot relays and it could be 1-2 hours before you shoot again. We need to keep the "fun" in this match. Together we can work it out. Each match this year will get better..we will evolve. Every good shooting sport and range experiences growing pains...it's how people react and understand this that seperates us from "them". Believe me...I hear people talk and other shooters can't wait to come and tell me what they heard somewhere else..I can't help but wonder why...or how well they would do under the same circumstance. So with that, the next match needs to be paid attention to and discussed DURING the match as it's happening. I think we will find the answer soon.
And in the end when we all find out we still have wait times...we can learn what to do to make "use" of it.

Tom
TVP
 
Re: Thunder Valley Precision (TVP) Steel Shoot 1-3

Rodent,
Sounds good to me.
Registration, We need help with too.
I was thinking sign up in the shed for different groups.
Same as signing up 600 and 1000 light and heavy.(Paper)

If it is ok with Tom, I enjoyed taking shooters around the course last year.

Would still like to do that, if possible.

Thanks
 
Re: Thunder Valley Precision (TVP) Steel Shoot 1-3

I have to say that this was the first time we really seemed to follow the time limit and I liked the extra challenge. It obviously showed in my pts or lack there of.
 
Re: Thunder Valley Precision (TVP) Steel Shoot 1-3

Not to put the newbs under tremendous pressure, and to keep it fun for guys just getting into it, 8 min. to make contact with 4 targets seems extremely long. Stress is what makes you better, and dealing with it, and doing well is all the more rewarding, someday I hope to feel that reward
crazy.gif


8 min x roughly 16 teams is 2 hours per stage, thats a lot of standing around doing nothing.

Without having to mil targets, math on the fly, etc., on known distant targets, it can/should be done faster. There are guys on this board that put on fantastic matches, with great fun relays, with very little down time. Everyone should bounce ideas around from the experiance match hosters, and see what can be contrived.

The range is so large, half of the shooters could be shooting another relay, if guys are willing to run help run/score a match. I assume TVP has range fees, offer a discounted fee for guys who would volunteer to run a match....0.02.
 
Re: Thunder Valley Precision (TVP) Steel Shoot 1-3

Also...steel shooters can learn wait times also by going to any one range that is 1000 yard IBS affiliated and shoot benchrest. We shoot relays and it could be 1-2 hours before you shoot again. We need to keep the "fun" in this match. Together we can work it out. Each match this year will get better..we will evolve. Every good shooting sport and range experiences growing pains...it's how people react and understand this that seperates us from "them".

Build it and they will come!

Tom has done that.

Thank-You.

It is up to us to help make better for us.
This is a day for us.

Who are them?
 
Re: Thunder Valley Precision (TVP) Steel Shoot 1-3

I went to the TVP match to be a spectator this past weekend and the turnout was great, maybe too great if there is such a thing. Tom has a fantastic piece of property to run these matches on and with an increase in interest for this type of shooting matches I can only see the attendance pick up this summer.

Since ideas are being tossed around we have to look at the type of match Tom wants to run. He and most shooters there seem to enjoy the challenge of shooting from various positions on the property at sometimes the same targets used on other stages but from different angles and distances which makes the challenge better due to different lighting and wind variations. That uniqueness of his matches also dictates that multiple shooting stations can't be set up and used at the same time.

To allow more shooters to participate and get done in a timely fashion having more shooting stations being used at same time with it's each RO/timer/scorekeeper would make it faster but the target locations would have to be redone. Having maybe 2 stations with enough room for 2 teams at each could help the match run smoothly and in a timely fashion.

One team (with an independent spotter if needed behind them) could be shooting from position one at first set of targets while second team getting set up safely beside them. As team one finishes on first set of targets while they are discussing ranges and getting set up to shoot second set of targets team two could be shooting their first set. Then back to team one on second set of targets while team two is discussing stragety on second set. While second team is shooting second set of targets new team moves in to team ones spot and gets set up for their first set.

At other location the same thing could be going on in a similiar fashion. When all are done possibly a short break to eat and switch locations. But, setting up a match like this would speed things up but would also take away some of the challenge his range offers in the match in it's present configuration. It's nice to have a larger group shooting the matches but it'll probably come down to what Tom and the shooters would like to have. Keep the challenging conditions as they are and possibly limit the shooters per day or rearrange the range and shooting positions to get more thru and give up the 4 positions.

As I said I was only there to watch, I can see this will be a very challenging and fun place to shoot. I've shot various forms of competition since the very early 80's and am only offering my observation. It would be great to keep present format and work out a system where it all comes together. Someone mentioned about the liberal time limits allowed, If you and your teammate get early hits time is no problem, if you shoot 3 shots on each of 4 targets to connect and your buddy does the same you've fired up to 24 shots in those minutes with any corrections you make while doing it. That is part of the challenge but also a consideration that we aren't only shooting 4 shots each but possibly 12 shots each.

No matter what, I'm looking forward to getting to as many of Toms shoots that I can and know that whatever they come up with will be with making the match a fun challenging day for everyone. Offering to help with spotting, time keeping, scoring or helping the next team get moved safely into positon is always welcome to anyone putting on a match such as this. I've always considered any shoot I participate in as also being a social time, fun to compete but also fun to share stories, load data, equipment recommendations or just BS about anything that comes up while waiting your turn.

Topstrap
 
Re: Thunder Valley Precision (TVP) Steel Shoot 1-3

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Topstrap</div><div class="ubbcode-body"> I've always considered any shoot I participate in as also being a social time, fun to compete but also fun to share stories, load data, equipment recommendations or just BS about anything that comes up while waiting your turn.

Topstrap</div></div>

I could not agree more! I personaly like the down time between times I get to shoot thats half the fun of coming to these matches. Time has never been a problem a TVP for me I like talking and checking out everyones gear but thats just me. I guess if I wanted to get threw the corse quick I would just do what I did last summer come on a weekend or weekday that there were no matches scheduled and shoot the corse by myself or a couple buddies. Like I said I dont think time has ever been a problem!
 
Re: Thunder Valley Precision (TVP) Steel Shoot 1-3

It seems that most are figuring on 30+ shooters at every match. It didn't seem to be that way last year. Why not? I don't think I seen more than 16 shooters at a match, but I didn't attend every one either. Why so many on a crappy day in January? Cabin fever or was it the fact it was scheduled a month in advance? What I'm getting at is everyone seems to be trying to solve the problem of 30+ shooters, but I'm not convinced it will be a problem. I guess we'll figure it out as the year moves on.
 
Re: Thunder Valley Precision (TVP) Steel Shoot 1-3

Flounder,
What was the score of the person you spotted for?
Who was it?
What format?

His dope was good for first shot hit.
Blanked rest.
Corections were wrong.

I did the opposite for my Bro.

Who is right?

New 600 hundred and under.

Yotes get me stiffer right now.

Looking for a close call.
 
Re: Thunder Valley Precision (TVP) Steel Shoot 1-3

Shooters,

I like where this is leading...us working together to resolve the issue. I don't think it will be too much of an issue unless 40 people show up. I will have the steel BULLET proof...so to speak...so should not have slow downs there. I can get us through the course...but it will take some "snap to"...so as long as no feelings get hurt..and new shooters don't look at me as a nut job or an asshole... I can get it done. Plus, you will benefit in the long when shooting in stressful situations like run and gun. Which we will be doing more of. I have a course in mind and have been planning it for a couple of years. It will be called..."The Gauntlet"..consisting of 20 steel targets strung out over one/half mile...timed of course.

We're on the right track here guys...the match will come together and you will spend more time laughing (at Jeff) instead of looking at your watch.

Tom
TVP
 
Re: Thunder Valley Precision (TVP) Steel Shoot 1-3

"The Gauntlet" Nice!!! sounds like we will love it.
The one thing I REALLY REALLY like about TVP is that so far the steel tactical matches have from what Ive seen been pretty much the same course/scoring system no matter which match you show up for. So people can truly compare scores against older matches etc. The uniformity helps to build the friendly competition.
Once this thing is set in stone such as the aspired "Gauntlet" course of fire, the match to match comparisons and competition will make it all the more fun. For example People will be able to know the best "gauntlet" score ever and where they fall versus their last outing etc.

P.S. I agree with Tom about the hurt feelings part, new shooters may sometimes be a little taken back by the snap too of crowded matches, but in the long run they will learn alot by keeping their ears and eyes open during other shooters strings. The group as a whole (during matches) should avoid when possible the tendency to slow down to accodomate the newer guys. There will always be time later to coach, explain and share information with newer folks.

The gauntlet (gotta think up a cool T-shirt design for TVP's Gauntlet hmmmmm) .....cant wait...........ok back to work.
 
Re: Thunder Valley Precision (TVP) Steel Shoot 1-3

The Gauntlet...

Can I shoot the course from my truck?





Just kidding.

That course would probably help me get back into shape.I want a different shape.I'm tired of round.

From the description Tom gave me a couple years ago,the course is going to be kickass.I only hope I will be around at least this summer/fall to participate in this.It really sucked to see everybody having a good time last year.To me it was like being on the outside looking in.


Flounder-
I may just shoot that AR10 of mine again.I like the way it shot last Sunday.Josh and I shot it soon after you left.If your buddy is still interested though let me know.



van
 
Re: Thunder Valley Precision (TVP) Steel Shoot 1-3

Van,

I'm working on the course design still. Yes, it will get your heart pumping. Will use long gun and carbine and hand gun..even shotgun options. Targets from 35 yards to 1000 at this moment.
Ace this...and you get the 100% bad ass t-shirt!

Tom
TVP
 
Re: Thunder Valley Precision (TVP) Steel Shoot 1-3

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Tom Sarver</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Van,

I'm working on the course design still. Yes, it will get your heart pumping. Will use long gun and carbine and hand gun..even shotgun options. Targets from 35 yards to 1000 at this moment.
Ace this...and you get the 100% bad ass t-shirt!

Tom
TVP </div></div>

Tom,

Do you think the course will be ready soon?I'm ready for it,I think?Maybe before I leave for work again...could you run me through some of it?I would like to hit at least one target this year.35 yards might be a good start.I thought I was ready to hit targets last weekend.I guess I was wrong.My ace turned into a deuce!


van

 
Re: Thunder Valley Precision (TVP) Steel Shoot 1-3

Oh...my Jedi Knight..you've come far. I should know..how long have we been training together? I just wish we could 24/7 !
I'm 40 years old ...feel like 25...maybe 27....life has been good. People have been trying to kill me and eat for years..I'm still smiling...there's more but I'll leave that part out. My momma might be reading this....

Tom
TVP
 
Re: Thunder Valley Precision (TVP) Steel Shoot 1-3

Well they have been trying to kill me and eat me too.Just not in the same order!I like it though!I'm 41 going on 42 wishing I was 20 again.

Life has been real good.

van
 
Re: Thunder Valley Precision (TVP) Steel Shoot 1-3

van,

I was quite impressed with how your ar10 shot after the match.Especially considering the conditions.I could not even feel my finger on the trigger it was so cold out!Not sure why you would sell,it seem like a keeper to me.Anyway,thanks again for leting me burn up a few of your rnds.

Josh
 
Re: Thunder Valley Precision (TVP) Steel Shoot 1-3

Shooters

How about a paper match Sunday, January 24th? I've had a few guys ask about it. Could do a three target agg. on IBS target or half man group and score at 600 and 1000? Let me know, I have that weekend opened.

Tom
 
Re: Thunder Valley Precision (TVP) Steel Shoot 1-3

I have a couple of rifles I wouldn't mind shooting at paper at 600 and 1,000. I don't care how or if it's scored ..... I just want to shoot. I'm guessing zero in with clay pigeons and then shoot paper? Is there any steel on the range to finish out the day?
 
Re: Thunder Valley Precision (TVP) Steel Shoot 1-3

mscott,

Yes...we zero in on birds then go to target. Shoot for group and score for fun...great chance to get trigger time and accuracy results. Shoot as many targets as you want if if nit in match or extra if you are. Yes..steel will be set up.

Tom
 
Re: Thunder Valley Precision (TVP) Steel Shoot 1-3

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: raptorfendercash</div><div class="ubbcode-body">van,

I was quite impressed with how your ar10 shot after the match.Especially considering the conditions.I could not even feel my finger on the trigger it was so cold out!Not sure why you would sell,it seem like a keeper to me.Anyway,thanks again for leting me burn up a few of your rnds.

Josh </div></div>

Josh-

No problem,glad you liked it.I think I may keep it.

van
 
Re: Thunder Valley Precision (TVP) Steel Shoot 1-3

CK,
Can't wait to meet you.
Night before, was the night before.
Conditions change by the min.

All shooters.
Teaching all shooters should be our goal.

Two targets each yardage.
Same as paper.
Minus seven min.
(could someone please get Tom doing this on video?)

I have seen Record Shots done before the watch was set down.
 
Re: Thunder Valley Precision (TVP) Steel Shoot 1-3

GH, where would you like to help?
Central OH should give max drive time of 45 min.
Concession stand has several things for us.
We should have many things that need hooked up.

Tom's record still stands.

Please don't take me wrong.
RIDDLER
 
Re: Thunder Valley Precision (TVP) Steel Shoot 1-3

Its a little over an hour for me. I'm more than happy to help but don't expect me to pay to work. Most people who work are paid to do it. No offence of course.