IHMSA – International Handgun Metallic Silhouette Association

About

History and Tradition 

Our roots trace back to rifle Siluetas and got its start in the 19th century. 

In 1975 in Tucson Arizona, a group of dedicated handgunners got together to have some fun. Those notable handgunners included such famous shooters as, Lee Jurras and Harry Sanford of AutoMag fame, Jeff Cooper, Dean Grennell, George Nonte, J. D. Jones of SSK, Hal Swigget, Ray Chapman, and Elgin Gates. 

What evolved from this match is IHMSA. 

The IHMSA organization started in 1976 with the purpose of promoting handgun silhouette competition. The object of the competition is to knock down metallic silhouettes (10 each of chickens, pigs, turkeys and rams) at various ranges to a maximum of 200 meters. The sport has spread to many countries and matches are shot all over the USA. Many of the inovations you see in handgunning today came from the sport of Pistol Silhouettes and the International Handgun Metallic Silhouette Assoc. 

Something for everyone! 

Many different types of matches are shot and there is always one to suit any member of the family. 

The matches vary according to handgun type ( Air Pistol to .22 to big bore) and shooting position (standing to free style). We pride ourselves in our diversity as IHMSA is open to men, women and children of all ages and physical abilities. If you are physically challenged and interested in shooting, we have a PC committee willing to meet your needs. Each shooter is classified based on skill level and only compete against those of the class. 

Its Simple and exciting! 

Hit a steel target and knock it over. 

You will find silhouette shooters helpful and friendly and more than willing to go out of their way to assist you. The game is actually very simple and you probably already own a handgun that qualifies for competition. It will make you the absolute best pistol shot you can be! 

World Class!

IHMSA produces the annual IHMSA International championship with shooters from countries around the world. Don’t miss your opportunity to participate in this World Class Event!

Governing Body

Governing Body is  IHMSA ( International Handgun Metallic Silhouette Association)

How A Match Is Run

Please see www.ihmsa.org. There you’ll find a PDF rule book you can download.

Divisons

  • Big Bore
  • Field Pistol
  • Small Bore ( .22  )
  • Air

They are then broken down into categories: Unlimited, Production, Standing, Revolver, etc.

There are sub-categories for both open sights as well as scopes.

It’s then further divided into classes based on skill level from: International, AAA, AA, A, B and C

Equipment

Any legal handgun will fit into at least 1 division/category

Fees

$8.00 for Big Bore and Field Pistol

$6.00 for .22 and Air

Registration

Takes place the day of the match on the 200 meter range at or after 9:30 am. We normally try to have the last relay start by 3pm. It takes approximately  60 minutes to shoot a course of fire.

Dates

The 1st Sat. May thru August 9:30 am – 3 pm

Safety

Basic safety rules are practiced, no gun handling while targetsetters are down range, actions are always open, eye and ear protection required.

Eligibility/Prerequisites

For More Information

Randy Lober   mrl1503@sbcglobal.net

Dave Smith  das3581@charter.net