Ed - good questions. One thing we have learned through these many gatherings is that it is way better to be able to run the shooting activities at or very near the campsite. We've managed to do otherwise a few times early on, but it was messy and not near as enjoyable.
The location in Tonto basin is flat enough in general to enable decent spots for campers/tents for the number that normally attend and a good common area for eating, spreading bull, etc., - but the surroundings are hilly so, to shoot at that site, we are pretty much limited to 150 yards. For the summer event up in the forest at Armijo Springs, we can reach out to 300 yards from the camp site.
Why do we shoot some events at more than 100 yards? We do this to provide variety of shooting activity not enabled elsewhere and, because some of these guys are very good shooters, we do it to create good challenges. Yes, some folks are at a disadvantage in some cases due to dearth of longer range practice sites, lack of time to practice, less sophisticated equipment than others, diminished eyesight, etc., etc. Always happens. Two summers ago we ran a very short range contest - a big game shoot complete with a fast charging elephant, and shot only with big bore rifles and heavy bullets/loads. The range got down to less than 10 feet. I think we did not allow scopes. It was successful, but some guys were at a disadvantage because they did not own such a rifle and had to use someone else's if they wanted to join in, some had never shot a big bore heavy rifle at a moving target, and some simply didn't want to deal with that level of recoil energy. But - we all had fun - including the spectators and that fast running guy that pulled the targets. We'll probably use an ATV the next time - if there is a next time.
With regard to distances, we reason that the three 150 yard shoots aren't very much more challenging than a 100 yard shoot - some folks may need to adjust sights once in camp, and there is plenty of time/opportunity for that. An exception may be the .22LR shoot at 150 yds. That one is a bit of a wild card - and if there is any wind of note, high-dollar equipment/ammo and previous practice can prove inconsequential. So, for anyone there is always hope.
The 30 yard rimfire shoot may seem much easier, but then it is not from a bench rest and scopes are not allowed - some of our eyes are so lousy that we can't score well with open or iron sights. I guess it all evens out. We try to put all emphasis on enjoyment and friendly competition - thus camaraderie. From experience, we know that you are an excellent shooter. For one, I feel certain that you will enjoy it. Hope this is responsive.
