Livermore Rod & Gun Club

Fall 2026 Leagues at LPRG

Thu, 10 Sep 2026 15:28:01 GMT

Cool off for Fall with the hottest leagues at LPRG!

Fall is here, and with it come the Fall 2026 leagues at LPRG! No matter your skill level, come out, have fun, and challenge yourself in your shooting sport of choice! All leagues are filled with great folks, fun times, and exciting prizes for top shooters in each category.

USPSA Action Shooter League

Anyone who wants to get practical pistol shooting experience should check out the Action Shooter league! This 6 week league meets on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday evenings (5p-9p) starting September 16th thru November 18th. Signup at the Rifle/Pistol range cashier office, league fees are $125 for 6 nights of shooting. You can download the entry form here, or from the Events page.

.22 Rifle League

Rise to the challenge off the .22 rifle league, and shoot for a bullseye every time! The league starts September 9th, and meets on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday evenings (5p-9p), ending November 25th. Signup at the Rifle or Trap office, league fees are $125 for 6 nights of shooting. You can download the entry form here, or from the Events page.

Trap League

Last but certainly not least, we have the trap league starting September 17th that meets Thursday evenings (5p-9p) and runs for 10 weeks. League is a fun way to increase your trap skills while shooting with a great group of folks. League fees for the 10 week league are $225. Signup at the trap range cashier office. Check out Bryan and Roger as they chat about seasons trap league at LPRG!

Don't miss out on these fun leagues at LPRG! All experience levels are welcome.

Introduction to Trap Competitions

Tue, 25 Aug 2026 07:00:38 GMT

Everything you need to know, but didn't know to ask!

If you've spent any time shooting trap recreationally, you've probably wondered what it would be like to participate in a competition. The good news is that trap competitions are welcoming, organized, and designed to allow shooters of all skill levels to compete fairly. Whether you're looking to challenge yourself, meet fellow shooters, or track your improvement over time, understanding how competitions work can make your first event much less intimidating.

Competitive trap shooting involves much more than simply breaking targets. Shooters participate in different event formats, compete within classifications and handicap systems, manage squad assignments, and often have opportunities to participate in optional prize programs. Understanding these elements before attending your first registered shoot will help you feel prepared and confident on the line.

Types of Trap Competitions

Most registered trap competitions feature three primary disciplines: Singles, Handicap, and Doubles.

Singles events are shot from the 16-yard line. Each shooter receives one target at a time, and all competitors shoot from the same distance. Singles is often where new competitors begin because it closely resembles recreational trap shooting.

Handicap events are designed to level the playing field between shooters of different skill levels. Competitors shoot from distances ranging from 19 to 27 yards behind the trap house. More experienced and successful shooters are assigned farther yardages, making the targets more challenging.

Doubles events present two targets simultaneously from the trap house. Shooters must break both targets, requiring faster target acquisition, smooth gun movement, and strong shooting fundamentals.

Many tournaments include all three disciplines, while smaller events may focus on one or two.

Understanding Yardage and Handicap

One of the most unique aspects of trap competition is the handicap system. Unlike many sports where competitors are divided solely by skill classification, trap shooting also uses distance to create a more balanced competition.

New shooters typically begin at shorter handicap yardages. As they achieve success in registered events, they may earn "yardage punches," which move them farther from the trap house. The farther back a shooter stands, the more difficult the target presentation becomes.

The maximum handicap distance is 27 yards. Reaching the 27-yard line is considered a significant achievement within the sport and is often viewed as a milestone among competitive shooters.

Scoring and Classification

Trap scoring is straightforward: a broken target earns one point, and a missed target earns zero points.

Most events consist of 100 targets, typically shot in four rounds of 25. Perfect scores are possible, and at larger tournaments, ties among top shooters are common.

To ensure fair competition, shooters are also grouped into classifications based on their performance history. Common classes include AA, A, B, C, and D, though classifications may vary slightly depending on the governing organization and event format.

This system allows newer shooters to compete against others of similar ability while still participating in the same event as highly accomplished competitors.

Equipment and Ammunition

One of the best things about trap shooting is that you don't need specialized equipment to get started in competition.

Most competitors use 12-gauge shotguns, although other gauges may be permitted depending on the event. Popular choices include break-action over/under shotguns and single-barrel trap guns designed specifically for the sport.

Key equipment considerations include:

A properly fitted shotgun
Eye and ear protection
A shooting vest or shell pouch
Reliable target loads
Spare choke tubes and accessories

Many successful shooters begin competing with the same firearm they use for recreational trap. While specialized equipment can offer advantages, consistent fundamentals matter far more than expensive gear.

ATA vs. PITA: Understanding the Governing Bodies

In North America, two major organizations oversee registered trap shooting competitions: the Amateur Trapshooting Association (ATA) and the Pacific International Trapshooting Association (PITA).

The ATA is the largest trapshooting organization in the United States (in the world, actually) and sanctions thousands of registered events each year. It establishes rules, maintains shooter records, assigns classifications, and manages handicap yardage.

PITA primarily serves shooters in the western United States and Canada. While its target presentations and competition structure are very similar to ATA events, PITA maintains its own membership system, records, classifications, and handicap management.

For most shooters, the experience of participating in ATA and PITA competitions is remarkably similar. The primary differences involve administrative procedures, membership requirements, and how performance records are maintained.

Before entering a registered competition, it's worth confirming which organization sanctions the event so you can ensure your membership and classification information are current.

Competition Etiquette

Trap shooters are known for maintaining a strong tradition of sportsmanship and safety.

Some basic etiquette guidelines include:

Keep conversations to a minimum while competitors are shooting.
Remain still when another shooter is calling for a target.
Always keep firearms pointed in a safe direction.
Follow the instructions of the scorer and shoot management staff.
Be ready when it's your turn to shoot.

Observing experienced squads for a few minutes before your event can help you become familiar with the flow of competition and reduce first-day nerves.

What to Expect on Match Day

Most competitions begin with registration, squad assignment, and a review of the day's schedule.

When your squad is called, you'll proceed to your assigned trap field and rotate through the five shooting stations. After each round of 25 targets, shooters verify scores before moving to the next field or event.

Expect some downtime between events, especially at larger shoots. Many competitors use this time to socialize, review scores, or prepare equipment for the next discipline.

The atmosphere at most clubs is welcoming, and experienced shooters are often happy to answer questions from newcomers.

Registration Information and Buy-In Options

One aspect of trap competitions that can seem confusing to new shooters is the registration process and the various options available when entering events.

What is Pre-Squadding?

Many larger competitions offer pre-squadding , which allows shooters to reserve their squad positions and shooting times before arriving at the event. Pre-squadding is especially popular at state shoots, satellite grands, and major tournaments where hundreds of competitors may be participating.

By pre-squadding, shooters can:

Reserve preferred shooting times
Shoot with friends and regular squad mates
Better plan travel and lodging arrangements
Avoid limited squad availability on the day of the event

Some clubs allow online pre-squadding, while others accept reservations by phone, mail, or email. Smaller local shoots may not offer pre-squadding at all and instead assign squads during registration.

Event Entry Fees and Buy-In Options

Every registered event includes an entry fee that covers targets, administration, and sanctioning fees. Beyond the basic entry fee, many competitions offer optional purses and special programs that allow shooters to compete for cash awards or additional prizes.

Common options include:

Lewis Class Purse – One of the most popular options for shooters of all skill levels. Scores are grouped after the event, and prize money is distributed across several score brackets. This gives average shooters a realistic chance of winning money even when competing against highly skilled competitors.

50/50 Purse – A portion of the entry fees is paid back to shooters who finish near the top of the event standings.

Class Purse – Shooters compete against others in their classification, such as AA, A, B, C, or D class.

Yardage Purse – Handicap shooters compete against others within similar yardage groups.

Additional Options – Some clubs and tournaments offer additional voluntary prize pools that reward high scores. The format varies by event.

Participating in these options is entirely voluntary. Many new competitors choose to enter only the main event during their first few shoots while they become familiar with the competition process.

Trophies, Awards, and Prize Money

Prizes vary widely depending on the size and prestige of the tournament.

Local club shoots may award:

Trophies
Plaques
Shooting accessories
Gift certificates
Club merchandise

Larger state and regional tournaments often award:

Championship trophies
Buckles
Jackets
Commemorative awards
Significant cash payouts through purses and options

Major events may distribute tens of thousands of dollars in prize money over the course of a tournament.

It's important to remember that most competitors participate for the challenge, camaraderie, and personal achievement rather than the prizes. While winning awards is certainly exciting, many shooters consider breaking a personal-best score or earning additional handicap yardage to be just as rewarding.

Before entering any event options, take a few minutes to review the tournament program. The cashier or shoot management team can explain the available purses, how payouts work, and which options may be best suited for your experience level.

Tips for First-Time Competitors

Your first competition should focus on learning rather than winning.

A few helpful suggestions include:

Arrive early.
Bring more ammunition than you think you'll need.
Introduce yourself to your squad members.
Pay attention to squad rotation procedures.
Stay hydrated, especially during summer events.
Focus on one target at a time.

Most importantly, don't let nerves affect your enjoyment. Every experienced competitor remembers being a first-time shooter, and the trapshooting community is generally supportive of newcomers.

Final Thoughts

Competitive trap shooting offers an excellent opportunity to improve your skills, meet fellow shooters, and enjoy a structured challenge.

Understanding the different event types, scoring systems, handicap yardages, governing organizations, competition etiquette, pre-squadding procedures, and prize options will help you arrive prepared and confident.

The best way to learn is to participate. Sign up for a local registered shoot, ask questions, and enjoy the experience. You may discover that competition trap shooting becomes one of the most rewarding parts of the sport.

If you would like to participate in any of the upcoming events at LPRG, check out our Events page . The full year trap competition schedule is posted and updated regularly. Don't hesitate to give us a call for more information!

2nd Annual Memorial Trap Shoot

Fri, 21 Aug 2026 20:03:15 GMT

Honoring the memory of two LPRG legends August 22

Come join us as we celebrate two amazing members of the Livermore Pleasanton Rod & Gun Club community, Norm Volponi and Al Ferreira, with our 2nd annual memorial trap shoot weekend August 22-23.

Saturday, August 22: Al Ferreira Memorial Singles
Sunday, August 23: Norm Volponi Memorial Handicap

Norm Volponi was a founding member, past President, and Director Emeritus of the Livermore-Pleasanton Rod & Gun Club , and was famous across the West Coast (Reno, Las Vegas, California) as a premier manual tournament cashier. Before computers, he could calculate complex betting options and post payoff results for over 500 handicap shooters within an hour. Norm was voted into the California Trapshooting Hall of Fame and inducted at the 113th California State Shoot.

Al Ferreira was a long time member of LPRG, and a highly respected figure in the West Coast competitive shooting community, recognized for his exceptional marksmanship and contributions to the sport. He was inducted into the California Trapshooting Hall of Fame in 2018 for his career excellence as well as being one of a select group of shooters in history to achieve the prestigious Amateur Trapshooting Association (ATA) Grand Slam , and to achieve elite AA27AA recognition .

Come out, break some targets, enjoy the competition, and help us honor two legends that are part of our trapshooting community.

Demo Day with East Bay Firearms

Fri, 21 Aug 2026 19:41:01 GMT

Try out the latest firearms so you can purchase with confidence!

One of the most difficult things about purchasing firearms is not really *knowing* in advance if that handgun is really right for you. East Bay Firearms understands that challenge, and has worked with LPRG to solve that problem!

Once a month, on the 4th Saturday of the month, the East Bay Firearms crew brings a great selection of the handguns to the range for shooters to test out for themselves. They supply the firearms, ammo and targets, all you need to do is decide what you want to try! It's a great opportunity to engage with them to ask more questions about their firearms while you get hands-on experience with the newest models on the market.

Range fees for demo day are $15 per person, and you will need to have a valid ID and complete a waiver of liability for the range. Demo day hours are 10am to 3pm, hope to see you soon!

Contact East Bay Firearms with any questions, including asking about what firearms they might be bringing for Demo Day!

Basics of Trap Shooting

Thu, 20 Aug 2026 18:21:17 GMT

Understanding the fundamentals of the sport of trap

Trap shooting is one of the most popular shotgun sports in North America and around the world. It combines concentration, hand-eye coordination, consistency, and safe firearm handling into a challenging and rewarding recreational activity. Whether you're interested in casual weekend shooting, league competition, or tournament participation, understanding the fundamentals of trap shooting can help you get started on the right foot.

At its core, trap shooting is a clay target sport in which participants use shotguns to break flying clay targets launched from a machine. While the basic concept is simple, the sport offers a variety of formats and levels of difficulty that appeal to shooters of all experience levels.

What Are the Rules of Trap Shooting?

In standard American trap shooting, shooters stand at one of five shooting stations positioned in an arc from 16 to 27 yards behind the trap house. The trap house contains a machine that launches clay targets away from the shooters at varying horizontal angles.

A regulation round consists of 25 targets. Shooters rotate through all five stations, shooting at five targets from each position. After firing at a target, shooters wait for the rest of their squad to shoot before moving to the next station when appropriate.

In singles trap, each shooter is presented with one target at a time and is allowed only one shot to break it. Targets are released after the shooter calls for the bird. Since the target angle is unknown until it appears, shooters must react quickly and maintain proper technique throughout the shot.

Safety is a critical component of the sport. Shooters must keep their firearms pointed downrange, keep actions open when not shooting, and follow all range commands and local regulations.

Scoring is straightforward. One point is awarded for each target that is visibly broken. A perfect score is 25 out of 25, while competitive events often involve multiple rounds where shooters may face 100, 200, or even more targets over the course of a tournament.

Common Variations of Trap Shooting

While singles trap is the most widely recognized format, several variations exist that introduce different challenges and skill requirements.

Singles Trap

Singles trap is the foundation of the sport and the best place for beginners to start. One target is launched at a time, and the shooter takes a single shot. Because the target is moving away from the shooter, success depends on maintaining a smooth gun mount, proper follow-through, and consistent target acquisition.

Most recreational leagues and introductory programs focus on singles trap because it allows shooters to develop core skills before moving on to more advanced disciplines.

Doubles Trap

Doubles trap increases the challenge by launching two targets simultaneously. The shooter must engage both targets in quick succession, typically firing one shot at each target.

This format demands faster target recognition, efficient gun movement, and the ability to transition smoothly from the first target to the second. Many experienced trap shooters enjoy doubles because it tests both speed and accuracy.

Wobble Trap

Wobble trap adds a significant level of unpredictability to the game. Unlike standard trap machines that launch targets within a relatively consistent range of trajectories, wobble trap machines vary both horizontally and vertically.

Targets may appear higher, lower, faster, or at wider angles than expected. This variation forces shooters to react quickly and adapt to constantly changing target presentations, making it an excellent training tool for improving reflexes and target-reading skills.

Continental Trap

Continental trap is a popular international variation that combines elements of traditional trap and Olympic-style competition. Targets are generally faster and can be thrown at wider angles than those found in standard American trap.

Shooters are often allowed two shots per target, but the increased speed and difficulty still make the discipline highly challenging. Continental trap is especially popular among shooters looking to expand their experience beyond traditional American formats.

Trap vs. Other Clay Target Sports

Although trap shooting is one of the most recognizable clay target disciplines, several other shotgun sports offer unique challenges and shooting experiences.

Trap Shooting

In trap shooting, targets move generally away from the shooter from a single trap house. The primary challenge lies in reacting to unknown target angles while maintaining smooth and consistent gun movement.

Skeet Shooting

Skeet shooting differs significantly from trap. Instead of moving away from the shooter, targets cross in front of the shooter from two houses positioned at opposite ends of a semi-circular field.

Shooters move through eight stations around the field and encounter a variety of crossing target presentations. Skeet emphasizes timing, lead, and precise target tracking.

Olympic Bunker Trap

Olympic bunker trap is considered one of the most demanding clay target disciplines in the world. Shooters face extremely fast targets launched from multiple trap machines hidden within a bunker.

Target angles are more extreme than those found in American trap, and shooters have less time to react. Olympic bunker trap requires exceptional concentration, refined technique, and quick decision-making.

The Olympic Bunker at LPRG is a great challenge for anyone who wants to grow their shooting skills! Our 15 trap machines are ready for you to c heck it out!

5-Stand

5-Stand combines elements of trap, skeet, and sporting clays into a compact shooting format. Shooters rotate among five stations and encounter a wide variety of target presentations.

Depending on the course setup, targets may be crossing, incoming, outgoing, overhead, or rolling along the ground. Because every station can offer different target combinations, 5-Stand keeps shooters engaged and continuously adapting.

Sporting Clays

Often referred to as "golf with a shotgun," sporting clays is designed to simulate real-world hunting situations through diverse and challenging target presentations. Rather than shooting on a fixed field, participants move through a course consisting of multiple stations, each featuring unique target trajectories.

Targets may cross from left to right, fly overhead, approach the shooter, move away, or even roll along the ground as "rabbit" targets. Shooters frequently encounter both single targets and pairs, requiring strategic planning as well as shooting skill.

A sporting clays course typically includes 50 to 100 targets and offers tremendous variety from station to station. Because no two presentations are exactly alike, sporting clays places a strong emphasis on adaptability, target reading, and shot execution.

Final Thoughts

Trap shooting remains one of the most accessible and enjoyable shotgun sports available today. Its straightforward rules make it easy for newcomers to learn, while its competitive nature provides endless opportunities for improvement. Whether participating in singles, doubles, wobble trap, or continental trap, shooters can continually refine their skills and challenge themselves in new ways.

Understanding the differences between trap, skeet, Olympic bunker trap, 5-Stand, and sporting clays can also help shooters explore other disciplines and discover which formats they enjoy most. Regardless of the discipline chosen, clay target sports offer a fun, social, and rewarding way to develop marksmanship, focus, and confidence on the range.

If you want to learn how to shoot trap, we highly encourage you to explore firearms training at LPRG! Our experienced instructors will give you the skills you need to enjoy this great sport!

HomeAid Charity Trap Shoot Sept. 10

Fri, 14 Aug 2026 22:00:11 GMT

Come join an amazing event for a great cause!

Livermore Pleasanton Rod & Gun club is proud to once again host the HomeAid Northern California charity trap shoot on Thursday, September 10, 2026.

HomeAid’s mission is to help people experiencing or at risk of homelessness build new lives through construction, community engagement, and education. LPRG has partnered with HomeAid for many years to bring awareness to this mission and to help raise funds for this important cause.

If you are interested in participating or even sponsoring this event, visit the HomeAid NC website for more information.

Basics of USPSA Action Shooting

Fri, 31 Jul 2026 18:21:07 GMT

Getting to Know Practical Pistol Shooting

If you've ever watched a competitor move quickly through a course while engaging multiple steel and paper targets with speed and precision, you've likely seen USPSA action shooting in action. Fast-paced, challenging, and incredibly rewarding, USPSA competition has become one of the most popular handgun shooting sports in the United States.

While it may look intimidating at first glance, USPSA is designed to challenge shooters of all skill levels. Whether you're an experienced recreational shooter looking for a new challenge or someone interested in developing practical firearm skills in a structured environment, USPSA offers a welcoming community and a sport that rewards both accuracy and strategy.

What Is USPSA Action Shooting?

USPSA (United States Practical Shooting Association) is a competitive shooting sport that combines speed, accuracy, and problem-solving. Rather than standing in one place and firing at stationary targets, competitors navigate a unique course of fire that requires movement between shooting positions while engaging a variety of targets.

Every stage presents a different challenge. Shooters may need to move through doorways, shoot around barricades, engage steel targets, perform magazine changes, or decide the most efficient route through the course. The objective is simple: score the highest number of points in the shortest amount of time while safely completing the stage.

Unlike many traditional shooting disciplines, USPSA rewards competitors who can balance speed with precision. Shooting too quickly can result in misses or penalties, while moving too slowly costs valuable time. Finding that balance is what makes practical shooting both exciting and endlessly challenging.

Understanding USPSA Divisions

One of the unique aspects of USPSA competition is its equipment divisions. Divisions allow shooters using similar firearms and accessories to compete against one another fairly.

Some of the most common divisions include:

Production – Designed for stock or minimally modified handguns found on the USPSA approved Production list.
Carry Optics – Production-style pistols equipped with slide-mounted red dot optics.
Limited – Iron-sighted pistols with increased magazine capacity and customization options.
Limited Optics – Similar to Limited but allowing slide-mounted optics.
Open – Highly customized pistols featuring frame-mounted optics, compensators, even greater magazine capacity, and other performance enhancements.
Single Stack – Traditional 1911-style pistols using single-stack magazines.
Revolver – Competition dedicated to double- and single-action revolvers.
PCC (Pistol Caliber Carbine) – Allows competitors to use pistol-caliber carbines on many of the same courses.

Most new shooters start in Production or Carry Optics using the handgun they already own, making USPSA more accessible than many people realize.

What Equipment Do You Need?

Getting started in USPSA doesn't require a race gun or thousands of dollars in specialized equipment. Many competitors begin with a reliable handgun they already own and add equipment as they gain experience.

A typical beginner's equipment list includes:

A reliable handgun that meets USPSA division requirements.
At least three to five magazines.
A sturdy belt designed to support a holster and magazine pouches.
A quality outside-the-waistband holster that completely covers the trigger guard and is approved for your division.
Magazine carriers for quick reloads.
Eye and ear protection.
Approximately 150–250 rounds of ammunition for a local match, depending on the number of stages.

Comfortable clothing and athletic shoes are also recommended since you'll spend much of the day walking between stages and moving through courses of fire. As your interest in the sport grows, you can upgrade your equipment, but it's not necessary to be competitive—or to have fun—at your first match.

What to Expect at Your First Match

Your first USPSA competition may seem overwhelming, but most clubs work hard to make newcomers feel welcome.

A typical match begins with registration and a safety briefing before shooters are assigned to a squad. Each squad rotates together through several stages during the day.

Before shooting each stage, competitors are given time to walk through the course and develop a shooting plan. Since every stage is unique, deciding where to move, when to reload, and which targets to engage first becomes part of the challenge.

When it's your turn, the Range Officer will provide commands and start the stage with an audible timer, or possibly a visual or tactile signal. After completing the course, your score is calculated using both your accuracy and the time it took to finish.

Between shooters, competitors help reset the stage by taping targets, repainting steel, and preparing the course for the next shooter. USPSA is known for its friendly atmosphere, and experienced competitors are usually eager to answer questions and help new shooters learn the sport.

How Is USPSA Scoring Done?

USPSA uses a scoring system called Hit Factor, which rewards both speed and accuracy. Your total points earned on the targets are divided by the time it took you to complete the stage, resulting in your Hit Factor score.

Paper targets contain multiple scoring zones, with center hits worth more points than peripheral hits. Steel targets must simply fall to count as a hit. Misses, failure-to-engage penalties, procedural errors, and other rule violations reduce your overall score.

The shooter with the highest Hit Factor on a stage receives the maximum available stage points, while everyone else earns points based on their percentage of that top score. Final match standings are determined by combining the stage points earned across every course of fire.

This scoring method encourages competitors to find the right balance between speed and precision. Shooting faster isn't always better if it comes at the expense of accuracy.

Who Should Try USPSA?

USPSA is suitable for a wide range of shooters. While previous handgun experience is recommended, you do not need to be an expert marksman to enjoy the sport.

The ideal new competitor should already have a solid understanding of firearm safety, be comfortable handling and operating their handgun, and consistently demonstrate safe muzzle control and trigger discipline. Many clubs recommend that shooters have experience drawing from a holster, performing reloads, and hitting targets accurately at typical pistol distances before attending their first match.

If you aren't quite there yet, participating in handgun fundamentals classes or practice sessions is an excellent way to build confidence before competing. In most cases, clubs will require you to take a new shooter safety course before you can participate in any practice sessions for USPSA action shooter training.

The safety course will teach you about the rules of USPSA action shooter, safety considerations on the range, scoring and more. They will also have a practical component of the training for you to demonstrate your ability to safely handle and shoot your firearm.

USPSA welcomes everyone from recreational shooters and concealed carry permit holders to law enforcement officers and seasoned competitors. The sport offers enough variety and challenge that even experienced shooters continue learning with every match.

What Does a USPSA Course of Fire Look Like?

Every USPSA stage is different, which keeps the sport fresh and exciting. A course of fire may require competitors to engage paper targets, knock down steel plates, shoot through ports or windows, move between multiple shooting positions, or fire from behind barriers.

Stages are carefully designed to test a variety of shooting skills, including:

Target transitions
Movement while maintaining firearm control
Reload efficiency
Accuracy at varying distances
Stage planning and decision-making

Some stages are short "speed shoots" consisting of only a handful of targets, while others are larger field courses requiring dozens of rounds and multiple movement sequences. No two matches are exactly alike, and even experienced competitors are continually adapting to new stage designs.

Ready to Give It a Try?

USPSA action shooting combines athletic movement, precision shooting, and strategic thinking into one exciting sport. Every match offers a new set of challenges, making it just as engaging for first-time competitors as it is for national champions.

If you're comfortable handling a handgun safely and are looking for a fun way to improve your shooting skills, your local USPSA club is a great place to start. You'll find a supportive community, plenty of opportunities to learn, and a competition that rewards practice, preparation, and safe firearm handling.

Whether your goal is to become a serious competitor or simply enjoy a new shooting discipline, USPSA offers an exciting next step in your shooting journey.

Check out more about the USPSA Action Shooter program at LPRG ! Our crew would love to see you!

Summer 2026 Leagues at LPRG

Fri, 05 Jun 2026 22:29:16 GMT

There's something for every shotgun, rifle and pistol shooter in the 2026 Summer leagues!

Summer is here, bringing great weather along with the Summer 2026 leagues at LPRG! We've got something for everyone here at the range. All of the leagues include and awards dinner with prizes for the top shooters in each category.

USPSA Action Shooter League

Anyone who wants to get practical pistol shooting experience should check out the Action Shooter league! This 6 week league meets on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday evenings (5p-9p) starting June 3rd, thru August 19th. Signup at the Rifle/Pistol range cashier office, league fees are $125 for 6 nights of shooting.

.22 Rifle League

Rise to the challenge off the .22 rifle league, and shoot for a bullseye every time! The league starts June 10th, and meets on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday evenings (5p-9p), ending August 26th. Signup at the Rifle or Trap office, league fees are $125 for 6 nights of shooting. You can download the entry form here, or from the Events page.

Trap League

Last but certainly not least, we have the trap league starting June 11th that meets Thursday evenings (5p-9p) and runs for 10 weeks. League is a fun way to increase your trap skills while shooting with a great group of folks. League fees for the 10 week league are $225. Signup at the trap range cashier office. Check out Bryan and Roger as they chat about the upcoming trap league at LPRG!

Don't miss out on these fun leagues at LPRG! All experience levels are welcome.

This CSTA CA State Shoot Is Here!

Thu, 21 May 2026 18:04:22 GMT

Don't miss out on the Ladies Shoot Night on Sunday, May 24th at the CA State Shoot

If you want to know more about what's happening this weekend at the CSTA California State Shoot, look no further. This PITA trap shoot has an 800 target HOA across AA-D classes, with $21,000 in added money for this 4 day event!

There are vendors here all weekend for your shooting needs (including a shotgun shell vendor), as well as breakfast and lunch vendors every day. There's a free shooter appreciation dinner planned for Saturday, courtesy of Livermore Rod and Gun Club.

Ladies, don't miss out on the ladies fun shoot event on Sunday, May 24th, immediately after the doubles championship. If you're new to trap shooting, this is an excellent event for you! You don't need to be registered with PITA, all experience levels are welcome for a fun time. Don't miss out!

CYSSA Sr State Trap Championship June 13-14

Fri, 15 May 2026 18:41:27 GMT

Come watch this exciting championship!

The Livermore Pleasanton Rod & Gun Club is honored to be hosting the 2026 CYSSA Senior State Trap Championship! Youth shooters have been working hard all season and they're ready to win!

The program is available now, download the program to get the latest information about the event, pre-squadding and fees.

Camping/RV sites are available for the event, give the LPRG trap office a call at (925) 449-8780 for reservations and more info.

Presquading forms are available on the CYSSA website. Check the flyer for the deadline and contact information.

That's a Wrap! Recap of the 2026 Golden West Grand

Thu, 14 May 2026 21:25:01 GMT

Did you miss out on the Golden West Grand? Here's the highlights of LPRG's flagship trap shoot event.

We've wrapped up an action packed week at the Golden West Grand! Over 200 shooters across 8 states joined the 2026 Golden West Grand trap shoot, with a great time had by all.

The week started with early bird shooters joining 12–time All American trap shooter and Trap Talk co-host, Zach Nannini for a trap shoot clinic. This was an excellent way for folks to get warmed up for the week to come, and to polish up their skills for the event!

Here's the highlights of our 5 day event:

Day 1: Our busiest day, with 3 events scheduled. Preliminary Doubles, Class Singles and the Russ McLennan Handicap. Check out the recap of the day with our premier sponsor Ron Prescott and LPRG general manager Bryan Weeks .
Day 2: The fun continued with Class Doubles and GWG Preliminary Handicap events. We were able to catch up with the Golden West Grand Shoot Director, Annette Spiteri, with the recap of day 2.
Day 3: Friday brought the first of the championship events with the GWG Doubles Championship, followed by the Don Bonillas Handicap. We had several heavy hitters with us for the daily recap of the event , check it out!
Day 4: Saturday brought the Jim Wyllie Singles Championship. With 200 targets, this all day event was a must attend event! Bryan Weeks took a moment to give an update about this very busy day!
Day 5: We closed our flagship event with the Norm Volponi Handicap followed by the GWG Handicap Championship. Congratulations to this years handicap champion, Heath Habib with a score of 96!

Anyone who wants to check out their scores can find them on the Shoot Score Board site.

The 74th Golden West Grand is a wrap! We look forward to seeing you next year for the 75th annual shoot, May 2027!

The Results Are In For the 2026 Multi State Challenge

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 21:24:04 GMT

It was a great day as Livermore trap shooters dominated the rankings at the 2026 MSC

It was a great weekend for trap shooting here at LPRG and across the 6 clubs participating across 5 states in this challenging event! California showed its shooting sports spirit, with over 50 participants in each of the events over 3 days.

Livermore shooters did themselves proud at the MSC. 3 of the 7 event championships went to LPRG shooters, a great achievement! In aggregate across the events, LPRG shooters brought home 39 trophies across all classes and categories. Way to go!

Here are some of the highlights for LPRG participants!

Event 1 Singles: Bart Clowdus shot 100 and won the shoot-off to take the event championship! LPRG shooters also took the Class B, Veteran and Chair Championship in this event
Event 2 Huge X Handicap: Livermore shooters represented, taking 4 trophies home in the event
Event 3 Doubles: Alice Wiebe , LPRG All American took the Sub Junior Championship, while Lannette Bettanini won the Lady I championship, way to go ladies! Overall LPRG shooters took home 8 championships in this event.
Event 4 Championship Singles: LPRG's own Bryan Weeks shot 198 and won the shoot-off against Alice Wiebe to take home the Event championship! (Check them out in the video above). LPRG dominated, winning 9 championships, including Class AA, A, B, Veteran and Chair
Event 5 Handicap: LPRG Director Don Pilkington won the Sub Veteran category, with LPRG shooters taking home 5 trophies in the event
Event 6 Championship Doubles: Gary Bonetti and Richard Moore have consistently taking Veteran and Chair championships at the MSC and this event is no different. Great shooting guys!
Event 7 Championship Handicap: Gary Bonetti shot 95 and won the shoot-off to the event championship! LPRG ended the event with 7 trophies.

Don't miss out on next years MSC, its a great competition to be part of!

The 2026 ATA Multi-State Challenge April 17-19

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 18:44:47 GMT

What started as a friendly two state rivalry has expanded into a hot competition across nine states

The Livermore Pleasanton Rod & Gun Club is excited to announce that we're participating in the 2026 ATA Multi-State Challenge. The Multi-State Challenge is a unique competition that pits shooters from six clubs across three time zones and 3 days of competition.

This is an All American point shoot, with an 700 target HOA and a 400 target HAA for championship shoots. Unlike local shoot competitions, shooter are shooting against all participating clubs every day.

Show your California spirit, and join us for a great weekend!

More information about the events and fees are in the flyer. Camping/RV sites are available, give the LPRG trap office a call for reservations and more info.

There are so many great prizes at the Multi State Challenge, sponsored by Mid State Precious Metals . Check them out with Bryan Weeks, General Manager at LPRG!

The Golden West Grand is Here, May 6-10

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 16:40:09 GMT

The 74th Annual Golden West Grand at LPRG is a Can't Miss Event!

The Livermore-Pleasanton Rod & Gun Club will host the 74th Annual Golden West Grand from May 6-10, 2026.

The event features 1000 ATA registered targets, with singles, doubles, handicaps, special events, and the SCTP Junior Tournament. Twelve trap fields will use Canterbury voice releases and Pat-Traps, while White Flyer green-top pitch targets will be thrown.

Every yardage group, class, and category is getting a trophy this year, as well as a gold coin to every event champion! See you there!

All the event information is available now at t he newly launched Golden West Grand website. Check it out!

 Presquading is now open at ScoresR.com, and is available until 4:30pm May 5, 2026.

Don't Miss Out on Zach Nannini Coming to LPRG

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 16:39:36 GMT

Trap fans can get classes from 12 time All–American Zach Nannini May 2-4, 2026

Spring is here and shoot fans will be happy to hear about some of the awesome opportunities coming to Livermore Pleasanton Rod & Gun Club!

The Multi State Challenge is almost here, April 17-19, you don't want to miss out on this cross state challenge! Right on the heels of the MSC is the Golden West Grand , LPRG's flagship trap competition May 6-10, drawing competitors from across the Western US. Pre-squadding for both events is now open on ScoresR.com .

The big news of the day is 12 time All-American Zach Nannini coming to LPRG for the Golden West Grand! He's coming early to offer classes to shoot fans, so don't miss out on the opportunity to improve your skills from one of the best. He'll be offering classes May 2nd, 3rd and 4th at LPRG.

Anyone interested in signing up for classes can reach out to Zach directly at the contact info below.

Cell: (636) 578-6677

Email: zacharinannini@yahoo.com

See you soo n!

The 2026 CSTA California State Shoot May 22-25

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 16:39:32 GMT

The California PITA State Shoot is nearly here!

The Livermore Pleasanton Rod & Gun Club is honored to be hosting the 2026 California PITA State Shoot May 22-25 on behalf of the California Trap Shooting Association.

Check out 2025 CA State PITA Champion Erica King and our club manager Bryan Weeks as they talk about the upcoming shoot.

The program is available now, download the program to get the latest information about the events and fees. Camping/RV sites are available, give the LPRG trap office a call for reservations and more info.

Presquading is now open at ScoresR.com, and is available until 5:00pm May 19, 2026.

Spring Trap Shooting is Heating Up at LPRG

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 23:45:10 GMT

Don't miss out on the upcoming Spring trap shoot competitions at LPRG

Spring is here, and with it are several exciting competitive events for trap enthusiasts. Watch Livermore Pleasanton Rod and Gun Club's General Manager Bryan Weeks and Tony Bettanini, LPRG club member and 2025 PITA Handicap Champion, as they review the upcoming major trap shoots at LPRG.

What's on deck at LPRG this Spring?

2026 Multi-State Challenge, April 17-19 : Join fellow shooters from 6 clubs across 3 time zones for this high stake challenge!
74th Golden West Grand, May 6-10: Shooters come from across the western US to compete in the GWG, an LPRG exclusive event
2026 California State Shoot, May 21-25: Come check out this CSTA trap event hosted at LPRG
2026 CYSSA Senior State Trap Championships, June 13-14: LPRG is proud to host the CYSSA series championships

More information is coming for each of these events. Stay tuned!

A Quick Tour of the LPRG Ranges

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 16:35:34 GMT

Don't Miss Out on the Ranges at LPRG!

Livermore Pleasanton Rod & Gun Club has so much to offer for shooting sports enthusiasts. If you haven't checked us out yet, you're missing out! Here's a quick overview of all our ranges!

Pistol

We have 17 standing pistol benches, with target distance options of 7 yards, 10 yards, 50 feet and 25 yards. We can even add a 50 yard base for the sharp shooters among you! If you want a more interactive pistol experience, you can also join our USPSA Action Shooter league to learn practical shooting skills while drawing from the holster.

The pistol range is co-located with the rifle range, and shooters can choose to shoot on both ranges for an additional $5 fee.

Rifle

Long gun enthusiasts will be pleased with our 29 seated rifle benches , with target distances of 25, 50, 75 and 100 yards. All of our benches have rests and spotting scopes so you have a great shooting experience.

Did you know that we have a competitive .22 Rifle League? It meets on alternate Wednesday evenings throughout the year. You can ask the rifle-pistol range cashier for more info.

Trap

The 9 voice activated trap houses are configured for singles by default, but can also be set for doubles and wobbles upon request. We also have a trap league that meets on Thursday evenings for added fun.

LPRG hosts a variety of competitive trap events throughout the year, including our flagship event, the 74th annual Golden West Grand , coming up in May. Contact the trap range cashier for more information about the upcoming events

Olympic Bunker

The Olympic Bunker at LPRG is easily one of the best west of the Rockies (or so we've been told). Challenge yourself with high speed clays thrown from any 1 of the 15 trap throwers in the bunker. Don't miss out on the extra challenge of the Olympic Bunker.

We look forward to seeing you soon at LPRG. Don't miss out!

Trap Talk with LPRG General Manager Bryan Weeks

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 19:59:49 GMT

Listen to Trap Talk hosts Zach Nannini and Richard Marshall Jr. as they sit down with Bryan Weeks to talk trap!

Trap enthusiasts won’t want to miss this great discussion between Trap Talk hosts, Zach Nannini and Richard Marshall Jr. as they sit down with Livermore Pleasanton Rod and Gun Club General Manager, Bryan Weeks. For those who don’t know Bryan yet, he’s an avid shooting sports enthusiast and competitor who is the 2025 California State ATA Singles Champion, and a three-time PITA All-Star.

In this episode of Trap Talk, Bryan shares how he got hooked after hitting his first target in 2005, his journey from league shooter to running one of the largest trap facilities in California, and what it really takes to keep a gun club running smooth.

The conversation digs deep into:

74th Annual Golden West Grand (May 6–10) — gold coin belt buckles for every event, shooter appreciation dinner, and why this shoot is a West Coast classic
Multi-State Challenge coming to Livermore (April 17–19) — a new All-American point shoot giving California shooters better access to compete
North Bay & South Bay leagues — how these monthly 150-target competitions shaped some of California's best shooters
California trap shooting legends — Dave Kelly, Bob Graves, Rich Bullard, and the nostalgia of shooting at Livermore, Martinez, and Sunnyvale what makes a sea-level target so tough — and why Zach's 100 straight at Martinez is still a story worth telling

Whether you're planning a trip to California to shoot at Livermore Pleasanton Rod and Gun Club or just want to hear some classic trap talk and war stories, this one's for you.

Don’t forget that we have several big events coming up at LPRG. You can see them all on our events page .

Golden West Grand: May 6–10, 2026 @ Livermore-Pleasanton Rod & Gun Club
Multi-State Challenge: April 17–19, 2026 @ Livermore
PITA State Shoot: Two weeks after the Golden West Grand

Don't Miss Out on the LPRG Pistol Range

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 01:46:21 GMT

The LPRG Pistol range has everything you need to accelerate your shooting experience!

Have you ever wondered what the difference is between an indoor and outdoor pistol range? Perhaps it's time to come to Livermore Pleasanton Rod and Gun Club to find out!

If you haven't been to LPRG lately, you'll be happily to know that last summer we expanded the pistol line to add additional benches. There are now 17 benches for standing pistol shooting. You can choose to shoot at 7 yard, 10 yard, 50 feet or 25 yard distances. For the sharp shooters among you, we can also offer a 50 yard target upon request. LPRG supplies target and target frames for you, no need to bring your own.

Obviously, the main difference truly is being outdoors, with fresh air and sunlight adding to your shooting experience. Targets are taken downrange during periodic ceasefires, with safety being top of mind during those times. No need to worry about inclement weather, our shooting benches are covered so that you remain dry even if it rains.

Check out the Rifle/Pistol range page for more information and hours of operation. If you are new to LPRG, you should also check out this helpful Range Safety video so that you're prepared for a great range experience.

If you're ready for a more interactive shooting experience, check out this blog on the USPSA Action Shooter program at LPRG.

Don't miss out!

The 74th Annual Golden West Grand is Coming Soon!

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 03:44:53 GMT

Don't miss out on the year's hottest trap competition!

The 74th Annual Golden West Grand is happening at the Livermore Pleasanton Rod & Gun Club May 6-10, 2026. You don't want to miss out on this exciting competition! Watch the video to listen to General Manager Bryan Weeks and long time club member Carl Reynolds talk about the upcoming event.

What is the Golden West Grand? Authorized by the Amateur Trapshooting Association, the GWG brings together trap shooters from across the western US to compete across 6 classes (AAA thru D) and 3 yardage groups for your shooting pleasure. There are multiple events planned, with the HOA coming in at 1000 thrown targets this year. Don't forget the prizes and All American points you can earn as well!

If you want to know more about the event, check out the new Golden West Grand website! It has everything you need to about registration, squadding, trophies, and more!

Get Into the Action with USPSA Action Shooter

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 22:30:03 GMT

If you aren't training with Dave Bunn and USPSA National Champion Keith Garcia, you're missing out!

Do you want to do more than just shoot at a static target? Are you ready to advance beyond the fundamentals of shooting for accuracy? Then USPSA Action Shooting is your next move.

US Practical Shooting Association (USPSA) focuses on promoting safe, fair, and fun participation in practical shooting sports, and Livermore Rod and Gun Club is host to our own USPSA Action Shooter league! League members engage in dynamic and challenging courses of fire, where speed, accuracy, and power are equally tested. Through USPSA Action Shooter, shooters of all skill levels find an inclusive community passionate about firearms proficiency, self-improvement, and the thrill of competition. Whether you're a seasoned shooter or new to the sport, USPSA offers a structured, exciting path to elevate your shooting skills in a supportive environment.

We recently had the unique please of hosting USPSA National Champion Keith Garcia (@keithgarcia_3gun) at LPRG for a day of advanced training for our action shooter league members. He focused on advanced skills of shooting on the move, safely and effectively. Check out the exciting video of their training day!

Are you interested in learning more about USPSA Action Shooter?

Contact Dave Bunn, league coordinator at dave.bunn64@yahoo.com or call/text at (925) 337-2969

The 2026 Trap Season Has Begun

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 22:29:26 GMT

The 2026 Trap Season is starting now. Check out these upcoming events!

February is here, which means the 2026 Trap shooting season is officially underway!

Experienced shooters will enjoy the friendly competition that these shoots provide, with 9 active trap houses (13 on busy event weekends) available for your squads. If you are new to trap, don't worry, there are always folks around who can show you the ropes and help you along.

Here are the next 2 trap shoots scheduled at LPRG, contact us to learn more!

Manny Mingoia 200 Handicap on Feb 22nd

LPRGC’s first 2026 club shoot on Feb 28th

Click here to see the full list of 2026 trap events. We look forward to seeing you soon!

Questions? Contact us to learn more .

Come Train With Leo Defensive Concepts at LPRG

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 18:38:01 GMT

If you’re not training at the Livermore Pleasanton Rod & Gun Club in 2026, then you're missing out!

Anyone who owns a firearm can tell you that it's so much more fun to shoot when you are shooting well! Livermore Pleasanton Rod & Gun Club partners with some spectacular trainers who can take your shooting to the next level.

Let us introduce Leo Defensive Concepts, one of our elite training partners. They offer a wide variety of classes for rifle, pistol and shotgun enthusiasts, from basic firearms training to tactical classes, including concealed carry weapon (CCW) certifications for Alameda and surrounding counties.

Don't miss out on these great training opportunties! Contact Leo Defensive Concepts today!

Just for Fun

paul@creatability.com (Paul Wakefield) — Fri, 31 Mar 2023 03:00:23 GMT

Just for Fun

I remembered seeing this video but couldn't find it.

Well I just did and thought I'd share it.

Would be fun to see this replicated on the LPRG rifle range sometime (but you need to wear protective eyewear!)

Now there's a challenge for our rifle shooters.

Just be careful to not shoot the wooden frames when practicing.

Be safe and keep your finger off the trigger until you're ready to shoot!