March 19, 2026

USPSA, SCSA Sign on as NSSF’s First Shots Partners

WASHINGTON, D.C. — NSSF^®, The Firearm Industry Trade Association, is pleased to announce the United States Practical Shooting Association (USPSA) and Steel Challenge Shooting Association (SCSA) have become official partners of NSSF’s First Shots^® program. First Shots is an introductory and refresher target-shooting program offering participants a safe, engaging entry into the shooting sports — hosted at shooting ranges across the country.

The USPSA is the national governing body of practical shooting in the U.S. under the International Practical Shooting Confederation (IPSC). With over 43,000 active members and more than 800 affiliated clubs, USPSA is the largest practical shooting organization in the U.S.

A division of USPSA, SCSA is the national governing body for the sport of speed shooting competitions — with local Steel Challenge matches serving as catalysts for the sport. SCSA promotes safe, fair and fun participation in Steel Challenge competition for members of all ages and skill levels.

At participating clubs, the First Shots Intro to Steel Challenge experience will give people the opportunity to come out and participate on a Steel Challenge stage with a rimfire pistol or rifle — providing a safe and fun introduction to the sport.

“This partnership between First Shots and USPSA and SCSA will provide significant opportunities for new shooters to be introduced to the thrill of competition shooting in a safe, structured environment,” said Zach Snow, NSSF Director, Member Development. “With the recent growth among competition shooting, we hope this partnership benefits host clubs and facilitates even more growth within SCSA in the long term. I encourage all SCSA clubs to help grow your sport by hosting a First Shots Intro to Steel Challenge event this year!”

“This unique opportunity to partner with the NSSF First Shots Program will help serve as a great starting point for those who are interested in learning about competition shooting,” said Jake Martens, USPSA Director of Media and Events. “Steel Challenge offers everyone of all skill levels and experience a place to get started in their journey of competitive shooting.”

NSSF invites other organizations associated with the shooting sports and industry to consider becoming First Shots partners. The benefits to the organization and to the future of the shooting sports are considerable. Learn how to become a First Shots partner by contacting Zach Snow at 203-426-1320, ext. 224.

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About NSSF
NSSF is the trade association for the firearm industry. Its mission is to promote, protect and preserve hunting and the shooting sports. Formed in 1961, NSSF has a membership of thousands of manufacturers, distributors, firearm retailers, shooting ranges, sportsmen’s organizations and publishers nationwide. For more information, visit nssf.org.

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NSSF Media contact:
Bill Brassard
203-426-1320 ext. 212