Several members of Team Hornady turned in winning performances in two divisions at the sixth annual 2011 CMMG Midwest 3-Gun Championships held at the Fire for Effect Range in Fayette, MO. Despite Friday's initial rainfall on Missouri's dense clay base, weather conditions improved over the remainder of the weekend resulting in ideal conditions for shooting steel match targets.
Match Director Ken Flood noted, "The course of fire and round count of 308 was designed so the nine stages would be challenging to all 186 registered shooters. Five of the stages were specifically set up for three guns and at each stage we had ROTC midshipman students from the University of Missouri volunteering their time assisting the shooters. Overall, it was a great match!"
In the Heavy Optics division, Team Hornady member, Adam Popplewell, took first place and says, "The 155 grain BTHP Steel Match 308 Win used in my rifle is specifically produced for 3-Gun competitions. With its reduced recoil, it lends itself perfectly for these types of matches. In my pistol, I used Hornady 40 caliber 180 grain Steel Match. I knew it would perform flawlessly despite the rainy weather and mud, and it functioned as I expected."
Seasoned professional shooter and member of Team Hornady, Jeff Cramblit, finished second in the Heavy Optics division and commented on the match, "It was well run. Some of the stages were technically challenging based on the shooting position where you had to engage. In my rifle, I used Hornady 6.5 Grendel because of its versatility and long range performance. In my pistol, I used Hornady 9mm 124 grain flat point."
In his third year competing at the CMMG Midwest event, newcomer to Team Hornady, Jared Milinazzo, finished second in the Tactical Optics division shooting 68 grain BTHP bullets in his 223 rifle. In his custom-built pistol, he handloaded Hornady 40 cal 180 grain HAP. "I use Hornady ammo because it's consistent for reloading purposes and it's readily available, affordable and dependable. The match was well organized with no delays. It was fun to observe fellow competitors sharing shooting tips and showing their willingness to grow the sport of 3-Gun as it continues to attract more shooters."