Pemi 2023 Mud Match

On a cold windy day in March we headed up to Pemi for the annual Mud Match.  By we, I mean 18 crazy shooters of which three regular Silhouette shooters were graciously allowed to come to the line and knock off the winter rust. One silhouette type even brought a vintage service rifle to help blend in with the crowd.  I failed in that regard!  Just once a year they will permit those silly lever guns.  Next year I am not sure they will be so accommodating.  But, since we are all standing on our own two feet, all willing to suffer the elements, we were allowed to burn some primers in an effort to see who could land more holes on paper with the highest values.  All "off hand" of course.    

It was cold.  More so, there was a steady wind if not vortex blowing through the covered range.  Would have been a nice breeze in July but not March.  After the first 10 shots, I had to look at my finger to confirm it was on the trigger and not some part of the lever.  

Many old guns.  Some new but more old guns than usual.  Nice.  Randy and Ev added the type of rifle being used by each competitor to help newbies learn more about the Service Rifle pursuit.  I got some good tips on how to tackle reloading for my M1.  I have not figured out how to reload 30-06 for it and my Greek supply is just about out.  Maybe when I retire!  For now, I have to stay focused on growing Silhouette and finding the next leader.  Maybe I can recruit a service rifle type???  

John stepped up to the challenge and shot his M1.  Well done!  Amazing how we have gone from a giant 30-06 down to a .223/5.56 of today.  I also learned the correct term is MSR for Modern Sporting Rifle.  Not AR.  AR stands for ArmaLite.  

I thought I would share the photo below. Shell in air, bolt open on a M1 and if you look closely, a small bit of smoke in the chamber that was protected from the wind.  Although I cringe to think of what our WWII forefathers endured, this match reminds you of the sacrifices made by others so that we can enjoy days like this.  This photo spins my imagination and appreciation for the day we all enjoyed.    

A sample target.  Dang 9 o'clock shot, edge of paper! Dumb dumb dumb!  I would much have preferred 5 pts than 0 points.  Next year!  Used my self cast 3118 Lyman bullet as used on 50 meter chickens.  Mouse load.  Target used was a SR-1 which is a scaled down version of the 200 yard target for use at 100 yards.  Aiming black is 6.35" for those who are curious.  6" circle is small at 100 yards.  Period!!  

2023 Results.  Thanks Randy and Ev for putting on the match!