Author: BRML

The 20 September match was quite successful. It was the first match since March 2020. We had 16 people shooting and eleven of them competed. The guests all seemed be happy with their efforts and we hope to see them back again to compete. The day was perfect with the temperature in the mid 40s to start at 9 AM. By the end of shooting, the temperature rose to a comfortable65 so most had to shed some jackets. It was sunny and clear for shooting with almost no wind to start. The breeze did pick up as the morning went along, but did not provide much deterrence to the shooters. The IWLA range clubhouse was available for the restroom, but otherwise it was closed. The BRML meeting was held outside the clubhouse, under the gazebo.

This match featured the debut of the “Invisible Critter Shoot”. Judging from the weeping, whining, and complaining, Shutzenmeister JP may not have one again soon. Art Twitchel was loving it however. The first target at 25 yards was the infamous Invisible Squirrel (Art’s favorite). JP Sherkus came in first with a score of 29. John Marhefka came in second with 27, and Kevin Collins was third with 25. Mike Kingsley, Max Kingsley, and Mike Rodzianko all rounded out fourth with 19.

The next three shot target was a new one, the Invisible Cow. This target had lots of potential to score high numbers. JP Sherkus came in first with a 57, followed by Max Kingsley with a 44, and Al Short had a 33. Mike Rodzianko came in fourth with a 32 despite a ton of problems with his rifle. Kevin Collins had a 30 with Jim Ellis with a 29.

The five shot target was also a new one, the Five Invisible Rhinos. And the whining began anew. Our president John Marhefka came in first with a respectable41. JP Sherkus came in second with a 36 followed by Max Kingsley with a 26. Fourth place was taken by Mike Kingsley with a 21.

At 50 yards we had the old White Groundhog, for the five shot target which qualified as invisible because of its black background. JP Sherkus came in first with a43 X, followed by John Marhefka with a 43. Max Kingsley came in third with a 36 and Rich Burkhart hit fourth with a 32.

The three shot target was also a new one, the Invisible Critters. It was a take on the old three critter heads peeking from around a tree. No doubt, this one was the hardest target of the day. Shutzenmeister JP may need to relook that one for sure if it is used at 50 yards, or even at 25 yards again. This is borne out by JP Sherkus taking first place with a score of only 19.John Marhefka came in second with 18, followed by Max Kingsley with an 18 and fourth was Jim Ellis with an 18 also. The places were broken down by closest to the X.

We only had two pistol shooters this month. We had the standard circular targets for both 25 and 50 yards. At 25 yards, JP Sherkus did a fair job scoring 43.Mike Rodzianko came in second with a score of 35X.The 50 yard target didn’t offer much challenge for JP as he hit a respectable 42. Mike Rodzianko had a mirror image with a 24. That left JP in first place with a total score of 85 and Mike in second place with a score of 59X.

The overall rifle scores were: JP Sherkus 184, John Marhefka 148, Max Kingsley 143, Jim Ellis 106, Al Short 104, Kevin Collins 99, Rich Burkhart 88,Frank Nicoli 86, Art Twitchell 70, Mike Kingsley52, Mike Rodzianko, 51.

The next match will be Sunday, October 18, 2020. This will be the “Halloween Shoot”. Expect some extra frightening targets from Shutzenmeister JP . It will be an Aggregate Score Competition. You get three of each rifle target and, if competing, three of each pistol target. Score your own, hand in your best target sheet. Please, do not stockpile or delay handing in your target sheet. We want to keep the score sheet current. All shots are from the free-standing, off-hand position. Shooting begins at 9 AM and ends at 2 PM. If we finish early, we can stop before 2 PM. Relays are approximately 20 minutes each. Any safe muzzle loader (flint, cap, firelock, side slapper, under hammer, inline) may be used. Iron sights (open, peep, aperture) only, no scopes or optics permitted. Spotting scopes may be used. Subject to change without notice—generally there are 5 targets, some requiring 5 shots, some only 3. Expect the unexpected and have a bundle of fun. Usually distances are 25 and 50 yards. Please return any unused, unshot targets at the end of the match.

Keep yer powder dry.

Rich

The “beer” virus must have discouraged folks because only 8 shooters showed up for the St. Patrick’s Day frolic.  The Schutzenmeister selected targets with a BIRD theme and prizes for a good Irish dinner.

At 25 yards the first target was the Black Turkey for 3 shots.  THIRD Place went to Dwight Hlustick with a 24.  Second Place also with a 24, but a hit closer to the X, was John Marhefka.  And First Place was JP Sherkus with a 28.

Next was the Black Crow for 5 shots.  This time Third Place was Max Kingsley with a 44 while John Marhefka scored 47X for Second.  And JP Sherkus took First Place with 49.

Then we had a new target, the Flying Duck for 3 shots.  Third Place with to Tony Sucher with a 20.  John Mrhefka hung in there with a 26 for Second Place and JP Sherkus took First with a 28.

Someone needs to “adjust” JP’s sights.

50 yards started out with the white Turkey Head for 5 shots.  Tony Sucher took Third Place with a 43X.  John Marhefka got a 45 and JP Sherkus took First with 48X

Maybe someone should “adjust” John’s sights too.

John calls it a Grouse.  JP calls it a Quail.  Tony calls it a Pheasant.  Whatever it is, it was the last target at 50 yards.  Greg Delk got a 19X and Third Place.  JP Sherkus got bumped down to Second Place with a 24 and John Marhefka’s 30X took First Place.

There were only 3 shooters in the Pistol Competition this time.  Third Place went to Max Kingsley with 42 at 25 yards and 40 at 50 yreds for an 82 total.  Second Place went to John Marhefka with 44 at 25 yards and 39X at 50 yards for 83X total.  First Place went to JP Sherkus with 41 at 25 yards and 45X at 50 yards for 86X total.

The top shooter for the day was JP Sherkus with 177X.  Right behind with 172XX was John Marhefka.  Then scores really fell off with Dwight Hlustick scoring 138, Tony Sucher with 134X and Max Kingsley scoring 126X for the top 5.  Then came Greg Delk, Frank Niccoli and Doug Crowe.

The next match will be April 19, 2020 beginning at 9:00 AM and ending at 2:00 PM..  It will be an Aggregate Score Competition.  You get 3 of each rifle target. There will be a pistol competition for those who wish to participate.  Score your own, hand in your best.  Please, do not stock pile or delay handing in your targets.  You have 3 of each.  After you shoot your best score of the three and score your own, turn it in so we can keep the score sheet current.  All shots are from the free-standing, off-hand position.  Shooting begins at 9AM and ends at 2 PM.

Relays are approximately 20 minutes each.  Any safe muzzle loader (flint, cap, firelock, side slapper, under hammer, inline) may be used.  Iron sights (open, peep, aperture) only, no scopes or optics permitted.  Spotting scopes may be used.

Subject to change without notice—generally there are 5 targets, some requiring 5 shots, some only 3.  Expect the unexpected and have a bundle of fun.  Usually distances are 25 and 50 yards.

Thank you for the “Shinin’ Times.”

 Keep yer powder dry.

               Tony

It was a GREAT day for a shoot.  

Club Officers for 2020 were elected with John Marhefka, President; Frank Niccoli, Vice President; Tony Sucher, Secretary and Art Twichell, Treasurer.  Dwight Hlustick was designated Director of Tardiness, in absentia, while JP Sherkus was appointed Schutzenmeister.  Prize getters are JP Sherkus, John Marhefka and Mike Rodzianko.  To lighten the load on getting prizes we’d really like one or two other volunteers.  For details see Tony Sucher.

The change back to our original hours, 9 AM to 2 PM, brought out more people that we’ve seen in a while.  There were 13 competitors, including new comer Greg Delk.  Greg also joined BRML.  WELCOME GREG!!!  Shawn Carden also joined us, but just to shoot his rifle this time.  Shawn also joined BRML.  WELCOME SHAWN!!  We also had a father and son team come for a short time to test fire a beautiful smoothbore flintlock down on position 17.  There was another individual who came for some information and advice on shooting his muzzle loader down around position 14.  Then Art was busy with not one, not 2 but 3 young ladies who were new AF/IWLA members and wanted to learn about muzzle loaders.  All in all, a busy day!!!

The Schutzenmeister dug out some interesting targets to challenge one and all.  First at 25 yards was a 3 Apples target for one shot at each apple.  John Marhefka shot 30X to beat JP by an X for First Place.  JP Sherkus was Second with 30.  Frank Niccoli took Third with 28X beating Pete Salvano’s Fourth Place 28 by an X.

Next was the 3 New Years Bells for one shot per bell.  Pete Salvano took First with a 28.  Rich Burkhart was Second with 22 while Max Kingsley took Third with 19 just beating Mike Rodzianko with 18 for Fourth.

Then came the Toilet Seat for 5 shots.  Pete Salvano cleaned house with a 44XX for First.  Second went to JP Sherkus with 42X.  Mike Rodzianko and Rob Capp both shot 40X, but I didn’t write down who was Third and who was Fourth.  Sorry guys.

At 50 yards we had a Yule Tree for three shots.  Looked like a Christmas tree to me, but the Schutzenmeister insisted it was a YULE TREE.  Whatever it was, it wasn’t very popular except with JP Sherkus who took First with a 24.  A 21 gave Frank Niccoli Second Place while 20 got John Marhefka into Third.  Max Kingsley came in Fourth with 19.

The final Rifle target was an Offset Bull for 5 shots.  JP Sherkus was shootin’ sideways for a 47X and First Place followed by Mike Rodzianko at 44X and Second.  Frank Niccoli won Third Place with a 44.  Tony Sucher took Fourth with 43X.

There were 4 shooters in the Pistol Competition.  At 25 yards Mike Rodzianko shot 44X while John Marhefka shot 44.  JP Sherkus shot 42 and Max Kingsley shot 40.  John and JP shot their 50 yard targets early to an advantage.  A bit of a breeze stirred up later and really held Mike and Max’s scores.  At 50 yards JP Sherkus shot 45X for a total of 87X and First Place.  John Marhefka shot 42 for a total of 86 and Second Place.  Mike Rodzianko shot 30 and totaled 74X for Third place.  Max Kingsley got 34 and 74 total for Fourth Place.

The next match will be February 16, 2020 beginning at 9:00 AM and ending at 2:00 PM..  It will be an Aggregate Score Competition.  You get 3 of each rifle target. There will be a pistol competition for those who wish to participate.  Score your own, hand in your best.  Please, do not stock pile or delay handing in your targets.  You have 3 of each.  After you shoot your best score of the three and score your own, turn it in so we can keep the score sheet current.  All shots are from the free-standing, off-hand position.  Shooting begins at 9AM and ends at 2 PM.

Relays are approximately 20 minutes each.  Any safe muzzle loader (flint, cap, firelock, side slapper, under hammer, inline) may be used.  Iron sights (open, peep, aperture) only, no scopes or optics permitted.  Spotting scopes may be used.

Subject to change without notice—generally there are 5 targets, some requiring 5 shots, some only 3.  Expect the unexpected and have a bundle of fun.  Usually distances are 25 and 50 yards.

 Keep yer powder dry.       

Tony

It was a GREAT day for a shoot.  

Club Officers for 2020 were elected with John Marhefka, President; Frank Niccoli, Vice President; Tony Sucher, Secretary and Art Twichell, Treasurer.  Dwight Hlustick was designated Director of Tardiness, in absentia, while JP Sherkus was appointed Schutzenmeister.  Prize getters are JP Sherkus, John Marhefka and Mike Rodzianko.  To lighten the load on getting prizes we’d really like one or two other volunteers.  For details see Tony Sucher.

The change back to our original hours, 9 AM to 2 PM, brought out more people that we’ve seen in a while.  There were 13 competitors, including new comer Greg Delk.  Greg also joined BRML.  WELCOME GREG!!!  Shawn Carden also joined us, but just to shoot his rifle this time.  Shawn also joined BRML.  WELCOME SHAWN!!  We also had a father and son team come for a short time to test fire a beautiful smoothbore flintlock down on position 17.  There was another individual who came for some information and advice on shooting his muzzle loader down around position 14.  Then Art was busy with not one, not 2 but 3 young ladies who were new AF/IWLA members and wanted to learn about muzzle loaders.  All in all, a busy day!!!

The Schutzenmeister dug out some interesting targets to challenge one and all.  First at 25 yards was a 3 Apples target for one shot at each apple.  John Marhefka shot 30X to beat JP by an X for First Place.  JP Sherkus was Second with 30.  Frank Niccoli took Third with 28X beating Pete Salvano’s Fourth Place 28 by an X.

Next was the 3 New Years Bells for one shot per bell.  Pete Salvano took First with a 28.  Rich Burkhart was Second with 22 while Max Kingsley took Third with 19 just beating Mike Rodzianko with 18 for Fourth.

Then came the Toilet Seat for 5 shots.  Pete Salvano cleaned house with a 44XX for First.  Second went to JP Sherkus with 42X.  Mike Rodzianko and Rob Capp both shot 40X, but I didn’t write down who was Third and who was Fourth.  Sorry guys.

At 50 yards we had a Yule Tree for three shots.  Looked like a Christmas tree to me, but the Schutzenmeister insisted it was a YULE TREE.  Whatever it was, it wasn’t very popular except with JP Sherkus who took First with a 24.  A 21 gave Frank Niccoli Second Place while 20 got John Marhefka into Third.  Max Kingsley came in Fourth with 19.

The final Rifle target was an Offset Bull for 5 shots.  JP Sherkus was shootin’ sideways for a 47X and First Place followed by Mike Rodzianko at 44X and Second.  Frank Niccoli won Third Place with a 44.  Tony Sucher took Fourth with 43X.

There were 4 shooters in the Pistol Competition.  At 25 yards Mike Rodzianko shot 44X while John Marhefka shot 44.  JP Sherkus shot 42 and Max Kingsley shot 40.  John and JP shot their 50 yard targets early to an advantage.  A bit of a breeze stirred up later and really held Mike and Max’s scores.  At 50 yards JP Sherkus shot 45X for a total of 87X and First Place.  John Marhefka shot 42 for a total of 86 and Second Place.  Mike Rodzianko shot 30 and totaled 74X for Third place.  Max Kingsley got 34 and 74 total for Fourth Place.

The next match will be February 16, 2020 beginning at 9:00 AM and ending at 2:00 PM..  It will be an Aggregate Score Competition.  You get 3 of each rifle target. There will be a pistol competition for those who wish to participate.  Score your own, hand in your best.  Please, do not stock pile or delay handing in your targets.  You have 3 of each.  After you shoot your best score of the three and score your own, turn it in so we can keep the score sheet current.  All shots are from the free-standing, off-hand position.  Shooting begins at 9AM and ends at 2 PM.

Relays are approximately 20 minutes each.  Any safe muzzle loader (flint, cap, firelock, side slapper, under hammer, inline) may be used.  Iron sights (open, peep, aperture) only, no scopes or optics permitted.  Spotting scopes may be used.

Subject to change without notice—generally there are 5 targets, some requiring 5 shots, some only 3.  Expect the unexpected and have a bundle of fun.  Usually distances are 25 and 50 yards.

 Keep yer powder dry.       

Tony

Next Match will be on Sunday January 19, 2020 beginning at 9:00 AM and ending at 2:00 PM

On December 15th we had a GREAT day for a shoot. It was a little cool to start but warmed up nicely. The sun was bright and the wind stayed away until later in the day. The barometer was riding steady at 29.61 inHG and humidity was reasonable. The only thing missing were shooters. Only 7 shooters had finished their Christmas shopping so they could come to the match. Mike Kingsley over slept from what we hear. But an old member, Ron Vecchioni, discovered that we were still active and rejoined BRML. Welcome back, Ron!!!

The Schutzenmeister got festive and found some Christmas related targets for us to enjoy at this shoot.

At 25 yards we had a new Christmas Candles target for 3 shots.

JP Sherkus took First Place with 27 but Tony Sucher was close behind in Second with 25. Third was John Marhefka with 15 while Frank Niccoli took Fourth with 13.

Next was Art Twichell’s favorite target the Invisible Squirrel for 3 shots.

This time Tony Sucher took First Place with 29 and JP Sherkus was 2 points behind at 27 and Second. Third went to Frank Niccoli with 22. Doug Crowe was Fourth with 21.

The last 25 yard target was four Christmas Ornaments for 5 shots, which meant one had to have two holes in it.

First place went to JP Sherkus with 47. John Marhefka shot 37 and took Second. Tony Sucher got one “snow bird” but still managed a 35 and Third Place while Frank Niccoli and Rich Burkhart both shot 34 but Frank had a hit closest to a center for Fourth Place.

At 50 yards there was a Christmas Tree for 3 shots that proved more difficult than it seemed.

Doug Crowe took First Place with 22. John Marhefka managed a 21 for Second Place. JP Sherkus squeaked an 18 for Third Place and Rich Burkhart squeezed out a 13 for Fourth.

The final rifle target was the Egg for 5 shots.

John Marhefka and JP Sherkus both shot 47X, but John Marhefka had a hit ON the X for First Place leaving JP Sherkus in Second. Doug Crowe shot a 47 for Third Place. Tony Sucher and Rich Burkhart both shot 45 but Tony Sucher was closer to the X for Fourth Place.

There were only two Pistol shooters this time. It was close at 25 yards with John Marhefka at 43 and JP Sherkus at 46X. At 50 yards JP Sherkus shot 46X AGAIN!!! John Marhefka had stabbed himself with a used percussion cap and could only manage a 17X. So JP Sherkus took First Place with 92XX and John Marhefka was Second with 60X.

The top shooter for the day was JP Sherkus (166X) followed by Tony Sucher (145), John Marhefka (140X), Doug Crowe (124), Frank Niccoli (123), Rich Burkhart (119), and Art Twichell (73)

A total of 26 different shooters competed in BRML matches through the year. They shot an average of 4.3 matches each. So the top 4 scores for each shooter were totaled and ranked in descending order. The 2019 TOP RIFLE SHOT was JP Sherkus (759). He was followed by John Marhefka (718), Pete Salvano (676) and Mike Rodzianko (634).

There were 9 Pistol shooters through the year. The 2019 TOP PISTOL SHOT was JP Sherkus (361). Then came John Marhefka (348), Mike Rodzianko (308), and Kevin Collins (224).

The next match will be January 19, 2020 beginning at 9:00 AM and ending at 2:00 PM.. It will be an Individual Target Competition. You get 3 of each rifle target. There will be a pistol competition for those who wish to participate. Score your own, hand in your best. Please, do not stock pile or delay handing in your targets. You have 3 of each. After you shoot your best score of the three and score your own, turn it in so we can keep the score sheet current. All shots are from the free-standing, off-hand position. Shooting begins at 9AM and ends at 2 PM.

Relays are approximately 20 minutes each. Any safe muzzle loader (flint, cap, firelock, side slapper, under hammer, inline) may be used. Iron sights (open, peep, aperture) only, no scopes or optics permitted. Spotting scopes may be used.

Subject to change without notice—generally there are 5 targets, some requiring 5 shots, some only 3. Expect the unexpected and have a bundle of fun. Usually distances are 25 and 50 yards.

Keep your powder dry,

Tony

It didn’t seem to be a bad day for a competition but a number of competitors complained about excessive fouling buildup, hang fires, and unexplained errant shots. Surprisingly there one word about the selection of turkey targets for the competition.

The first target at 25 yards was the 3 Turkey Heads, one shot per head. J.P. Sherkus was top scorer with a 30. John Marhefka was next with 27, followed by Mikel Kingsley, Rich Burkhart, and Pete Salvano with 26. Then came Max Kingsley, 3 points behind his son at 23 and Mike Rodzianko at 18.

Next was the Black Turkey for 3 shots. John Marhefka and Max Kingsley both had 26. I believe John had a hit closer to the X. Pete Salvano and Al Short were close behind with 25 and JP Sherkus was chasing hard with 24. Then Dwight Hlustick got in there with 22 and Doug Crowe with 21 and Tony Sucher with 20.

Then came the Zero Turkey, cousin to the Invisible Squirrel. Pete Salvano picked this one out with a 47 2X. John Marhefka did well with a 45 while Dwight Hlustick got a 44 1X. Kevin Collins was next with 43 and JP Sherkus had a 42.

At 50 yards we started with the Big Black Turkey Head for 3 shots. JP Sherkus got his groove back and turned in another 30 for First. Mike Rodzianko managed to stop his hang fires long enough to score 27 X for Second. Pete Salvano and Kevin Collins both had 27 while Dwight Hlustick, John Marhefka and Al Short all had 26.

The final target was the skinny Turkey Head. John Marhefka scored 47 for First while Second went to Doug Crowe with 45X. Third was Pete Salvano with 42 and JP Sherkus was Fourth with 34X

There was no pistol competition.

The Top Shot for the day was John Marhefka with a 171. Second was Pete Salvano with a 167 2X while Third went to JP Sherkus with 160X. Fourth Place was Doug Crowe at 139 2X . Then there was Dwight Hlustick at 134X and Al Short at 134 with Kev-in Collins at 134 too. Al beat Kevin with a better score at the most difficult target, the 3 Turkey Heads. Then Mike Rodzianko, Max Kingsley, Rich Burkhart, Frank Niccoli, Mikel Kingsley, Tony Sucher, Ben Burkhart and Art Twichell.

The next match will be December 15, 2019. It will be an Aggre-gate Score Competition. You get 3 of each rifle target. There will be a pistol competition for those who wish to participate. Score your own, hand in your best. Please, do not stock pile or delay handing in your targets. You have 3 of each. After you shoot your best score of the three and score your own, turn it in so we can keep the score sheet current. All shots are from the free-standing, off-hand position. Shooting begins at 8 AM and ends at 12 PM.

Relays are approximately 20 minutes each. Any safe muzzle loader (flint, cap, firelock, side slapper, under hammer, inline) may be used. Iron sights (open, peep, aperture) only, no scopes or optics permitted. Spotting scopes may be used.

Subject to change without notice—generally there are 5 targets, some requiring 5 shots, some only 3. Expect the unexpected and have a bundle of fun. Usually distances are 25 and 50 yards.

Keep your powder dry,

Tony

Temperatures started off at 51° and only rose to 55° but it was comfortable. There was no wind at first but it built to 4 mph from the East by the end of the match.  Barometric pressure was 29.93 in Hg.  So it was a nice day.  Only the humidity was high, at 97%, which gave some people issues with fouling.

To everyone’s excitement and joy Schutzenmeister Sherkus brought in wonderfully executed, beautifully detailed new targets for the event.  Because it was cloudy and the sun wasn’t high in the sky the light was poor.  Wettbewerbsaufseher Sucher decided that all targets would be shot at 25 yards.

It should be noted that the high humidity was giving Art Twichell some difficulties.  He had brought his matchlock to shoot and the burning slow match wouldn’t stay lit.  Jim Ellis finished the match early, with good scores, probably because with all the black powder around he wanted to get away from Art as quickly as possible.

The first new target was a wondrous Crow sitting on a Skull for three shots.  At some point in the match JP Sherkus cut his trigger finger on the sharp edge of a percussion cap.  That didn’t prevent him from scoring 29 and taking First Place.  Jim Ellis was in Second Place with a 28.  Frank Niccoli took Third Place with 28  and Tony Sucher took Fourth with 22.

The next new target for 3 shots was a detailed Storm Trooper that would do George Lucas proud.  JP Sherkus (injured finger?) took First Place with 27.  John Marhefka was Second with 26 while Tony Sucher took Third with 25.  Jim Ellis was Fourth with 24.

A revised Gargoyle (II) was next for 5 shots.  Pete Hansen won First Place with a 38.  JP Sherkus and John Marhefka both scored 36X but JP took Second with hits closer to the X.  John finished Third.  Fourth place went to Jim Ellis with 34.

A plumpky Pumpkin from Elm Street showed up for 3 shots.  With three eye shots JP Sherkus took first place with 30X.  Jim Ellis got Second Place with a 28X .  John Marhefka took Third with 27X while Tony Sucher was Fourth with 27.

A Pirate Skull (Davey Jones?) was the final target for the day for 5 shots.  John Marhefka took First Place with 48.  JP Sherkus was Second with 46XX, probably due to that cut finger.  Tony Sucher was Third with 43X and closer to the X than Jim Ellis with 43X for Fourth Place.

In the Pistol Competition Art Twichell scored 43 on the Big Bull.  JP Sherkus scored 43 on the Big Bull and John Marhefka scored 43X on the Big Bull.

On the Small Bull JP Sherkus scored 46 but Art Twichell scored 46X and John Marhefka scored 40.

So First Place went to Art Twichell with 89X.  Second Place was JP Sherkus with 89 and Third Place was John Marhefka with 83X.

The Top Shooter for the day with a score of 168XXXX was JP Sherkus.  John Marhefka was next with 159XX.  Jim Ellis followed with 157XX then Pete Hansen with 155.  Tony Sucher had a 150 and Frank Niccoli had 141.  Then came Joe Sturiale and Art Twichell.

Tony

Don’t know where everybody was, but they should have been at the range for the match because it was beautiful. We did have an experienced newbie, Joe Sturiale, come out and join us. Joe had a couple of large caliber rifled muskets that he wanted to re-educate himself about. Based on the tight groups he was getting and the grin on his face I think he was a success. Welcome, Joe!! Come join us often!!

Pete Hanson also rejoined the group. We haven’t seen Pete since the DEEP FREEZE of February 2018. Welcome back, Pete.

John Marhefka advised the group that our Director of Tardiness, Dwight Hlustick, is recovering well and may return to the matches in October …… coming late of course.

In the pre-match meeting the group asked me to talk to Bill Frerking, the IWL Director for the Rifle/Pistol Range, about restoring our original shooting time. 1) Based on the range log book, since May 2014 there are more muzzleloaders on hand than modern shooters coming in between 12 and 2 PM. 2) Even with the reduced number of targets and shots it is difficult to complete a match (i.e. I haven’t shot an Individual Score Match in a couple of years with admin and RO duties). 3) Anyone traveling any distance is getting up mighty early.

Another topic would be BRML making and maintaining their own target frames. This had been done successfully before. Space is available for storage and it would resolve a number of mistaken impressions.

The Schutzenmeister must have some evil target twist in mind for a future match. His target selection was decidedly easy. At 25 yards the first target was the Groundhog for 3 shots. John Marhefka took First Place with a 29XX. A score of 28 wasentered by both Mike Rodzianko and Frank Niccoli. Then

Pete Salvano came in Fourth with 25.

Next was Yeti/Big Foot/Sasquatch for 3 shots. A score of 30 by JP Sherkus took First Place. Right behind at 29 was Pete Salvano for Second Place. Third went to John Marhefka with 28 and Bob Drake shot 26 for Fourth.

Then for 5 shots came the Soccer Ball. JP Sherkus didn’t get 100 like he did in May 2018, but he did score 95 for First Place. John Marhefka did well with 77 and Second Place. Third Place went to Pete Salvano with 75 and Pete Hansen got Fourth Place with 60.

At 50 yards the first target was the large Turkey Head for 5 shots. A score of 48 claimed First place for John Marhefka. Pete Salvano was chasing with a 41X for Second Place. Then a 40 by Mike Rodzianko took Third Place and Fourth Place went to Doug Crowe with 34.

The final target was the X with Zero’s in the Arms that seem to attract lead roundballs. JP Sherkus must have bismuth balls because he shot 30X for First Place. John Marhefka must have square balls because his Second Place score was 25!!. Then came Bob Drake and Pete Hansen with 24 for Third and Fourth.It was TIGHT in the Pistol Competition. The 50 yard targets were turned in first with Mike Rodzianko scoring 45X, John Mahefka with 45X and JP Sherkus with 45. WOW!!!

At 25 yards Mike Rodzianko turned in a 45 For 90X total. And JP Sherkus turned in a 45X for 90X. Oh, Oh. But Mike had a hit closer to the X than JP. Then John Marhefka turned in a 48X for a 93XX total and First Place. Mike Rodzianko was Second Place and JP Sherkus took Third Place. John Marhefka was also the TOP Rifle Shot with 207XX points. JP Sherkus was next with 204X. Then Pete Salvano with180X and Pete Hansen with 161. They were followed by Mike Rodzianko with 128, Frank Niccoli at 122, Doug Crowe with 119, Bob Drake 112, Joe Sturiale at 92 and Art Twichell at 69.

The next match will be October 20, 2019. It will be an Aggregate Score Competition. You get 3 of each rifle target and, if competing, three of each pistol targets. Score your own, hand in your best. Please, do not stock pile or delay handing in your targets.

You have 3 of each. After you shoot your best score of the three and score your own, turn it in so we can keep the score sheet current. All shots are from the free-standing, off-hand position.

Shooting begins at 8 AM and ends at 12 PM. Relays are approximately 20 minutes each. Any safe muzzleloader (flint, cap, firelock, side slapper, under hammer, inline) may be used. Iron sights (open, peep, aperture) only, no scopes or optics permitted. Spotting scopes may be used.

Subject to change without notice—generally there are 5 targets, some requiring 5 shots, some only 3.

Expect the unexpected and have a bundle of fun. Usually distances are 25 and 50 yards.

Keep yer powder dry.

Tony

What a great day for a match.  The day started at 77° and 85% humidity but the sky’s were clear and the breeze just enough to clear the smoke.  It warmed up to 90° and 52% humidity by the end of the match but the sky’s stayed clear and the breeze favorable.  Although, sometimes I did have to wait for JP’s smoke to get away from my target…..

 It was reported that our Director of Tardiness, Dwight Hlustick, is doing well in his recovery.  There’s a possibility that he’ll show up late for the September match.

 A total of 11 shooters showed up for the match so the Schutzenmeister selected a whole series of small and invisible targets for both 25 and 50 yards.  It seemed the 50 yard targets were smaller and more invisible than the 25 yard targets.

 At 25 yards the first target for 3 shots was the beloved X with the 0 arms that seemed to attract hits.  But it didn’t fool Tony Sucher, John Marhefka, JP Sherkus or Matt Shuster who all shot 30X.  Sorry guys, I was so in awe of the scores that I didn’t note who got what positions.

 Second was the Groundhog Head for 3 shots.  John Marhefka and Bob Drake both shot 30 with John a little closer to the X for First Place and Bob in Second.  Third belonged to Max Kingsley with 29X and Fourth went to JP Sherkus with 29.

 The final target was the Running Deer for 5 shots.  John Marhefka shot a very respectable 47 for First Place.  JP Sherkus was Second with 42 while Mike Rodzianko took Third also with a 42.  Tony Sucher shot 39 for Fourth Place.

 At 50 yards the first target was the small  Buffalo for 5 shots.   First Place went to JP Sherkus with 47.  A 39 gave Art Twichell Second Place while Max Kingsley took Third Place with a 34.  Matt Shuster also shot 34 but wasn’t as close to the X so he got Fourth Place.

 The modified, still invisible Gargoyle was the final target at 50 yards.  JP Sherkus shot a 47 for First Place.  Good eyes, JP!!  John Marhefka shot a 35X for Second Place and Max Kingsley shot 34X for Third Place.  Rob Capp rounded out the top four with 34 for Fourth Place.

 There were only 2 pistol shooters for this match.  At 25 yards JP Sherkus just edged John Marhefka 45 to 43 to take an early lead.  At 50 yards John Marhefka was first turning in a consistent score of 41 for a total of 84.   But JP Sherkus finished 50 yards with a 44 and a total of 89 for First Place.  John Marhefka took Second Place.

 The top shooter for the day was JP Sherkus with 195X.  John Marhefka was Second with 174XX.  Third Place went to Matt Shuster with 156XXX while Tony Sucher took Fourth with 154X.  Then came Max Kingsley with 150XXX, Rob Capp with 144.  Art Twichell at 139X.  Mike Rodzianko, Frank Niccoli, Bob Drake and Richard Drake.

 Usually At 25 yards we have one target for 5 shots and two for  3 shots.  Then at 50 yards there are one for 5 shots and one for 3 shots.  For the July Individual Target Match the two 50 yard targets and one 25 yard target were all 5 shots .  I noticed that a couple of people were pushing the time limit to complete the match.  For the August Aggregate Match there was again one 25 yard target and both 50 yard targets for 5 shots.  While this is only 2 to 6 additional shots there were, again, several individuals (myself included) pushing the time limit to complete the match.  I know why it took me longer but how does the group feel about the change?  Both times I heard no one say anything, so did anyone actually notice?

  The next match will be September 15, 2019.  It will be an Individual Score Competition.  You get 3 of each rifle target and, if competing, three of each pistol targets.  Score your own, hand in your best.  Please, do not stock pile or delay handing in your targets.  You have 3 of each.  After you shoot your best score of the three and score your own, turn it in so we can keep the score sheet current.  All shots are from the free-standing, off-hand position.  Shooting begins at 8 AM and ends at 12 PM.

Relays are approximately 20 minutes each.  Any safe muzzle loader (flint, cap, firelock, side slapper, under hammer, inline) may be used.  Iron sights (open, peep, aperture) only, no scopes or optics permitted.  Spotting scopes may be used.

 Subject to change without notice—generally there are 5 targets, some requiring 5 shots, some only 3.  Expect the unexpected and have a bundle of fun.  Usually distances are 25 and 50 yards.

Tony

NEWS and SHOOT RESULTS

The weather weenies predicted record breaking heat and it certainly got there.  BUT the match was well over before temperatures got unbearable.  However the prediction was apparently enough to put off some folks and only 9 shooters showed up to participate.

Jim Scott came by to see what we were all about.  Art got him down to position 2 and gave him a really good dose of black powder/white smoke.  Hurry back, Jim.  You’re most welcomed. 

Schutzenmeister Sherkus had some real surprises for us.  First, he flip flopped the arrangement of targets on the table placing the 50 yard targets before the 25 yard targets.  Second, the 50 yard targets BOTH required 5 shots.  Third, BOTH the 50 yard targets were NEW.  Fourth, the arrangement of targets on the table was flip flopped too!!!  Fifth, the 25 yard pistol target was the BLOB, not the usual bullseye.  THEN he announced that he has more NEW targets for the August shoot!!! 

At 25 yards there was the Invisible Squirrel for 3 shots.  Art loves the invisible squirrel.  First Place went to JP Sherkus with a 28.  A 28 also won Second Place for Art Twichell but JP was closer to the eye.  Third Place went to Mike Rodzianko with 25 and Fourth Place was Matt Shuster with 25 but he wasn’t as close to the eye as Mike.

Then came the Half Fox for 5 shots.  First Place went to Matt Shuster with 50X.  John Marhefka was Second Place with 48X while JP Sherkus took Third Place with 48.  Fourth Place went to Pete Salvano with 44.

With a 50X on a qualifying target Matt Shuster is the third person to win a Perfect 50 Pin.  Congratulations Matt!!  Great Shooting !!!! 

The final 25 yard target was the Groundhog for 3 shots.  Pete Salvano cleaned house with a 30XXX and First Place.  John Marhefka was Second with 28 and JP Sherkus had 28 for Third but John was closer to the X.  Fourth Place went to Art Twichell with 26. 

And then came the TURTLE at 50 yards and 5 shots.  First Place was John Marhefka with 32.  Then came Matt Shuster in Second Place with 30.  Art Twichell scored 27 for Third Place and Mike Rodzianko got Fourth Place with 26. 

A GARGOYLE was the final 50 yard target ALSO for 5 shots.  Mike Rodzianko came through with a 34X for First Place.  Second Place went to Art Twichell with 32X.  A score of 29XX brought in Third Place for Matt Shuster and Pete Salvano took Fourth with a 29.   

Those new targets sure lowered scores and Schutzenmeister Sherkus has a couple more surprises for us in August. 

Pistol got a surprise too.  The SMALL BULLSEYE was shot at 50 yards where John Marhefka scored 41, JP Sherkus scored 23 and Mike Rodzianko got 9.  THEN the rifle target BLOB was shot at 25 yards.  JP Sherkus got 46 while John Marhefka scored 45.  Mike Rodzianko scored 39.  So John Marhefka took First Place with a 86 total score.  Second Place was JP Sherkus with a total of 69.  Mike Rodzianko was Third Place with 48. 

The top shooter for the day was John Marhefka with 161X.  Next was Matt Shuster with 160XXX.  Then came JP Sherkus with 157 and Mike Rodzianko with 151X.  He was followed by Art Twichell at 147X, Pete Salvano at 141XXX, Jim Ellis at 111, Frank Niccoli at 106 and Rich Burkhart at 105.  

The next match will be August 18, 2019.  It will be an Aggregate Score Competition.  You get 3 of each rifle target and, if competing, three of each pistol targets.  Score your own, hand in your best.  Please, do not stock pile or delay handing in your targets.  You have 3 of each.  After you shoot your best score of the three and score your own, turn it in so we can keep the score sheet current.  All shots are from the free-standing, off-hand position.  Shooting begins at 8 AM and ends at 12 PM.Relays are approximately 20 minutes each.  Any safe muzzle loader (flint, cap, firelock, side slapper, under hammer, inline) may be used.  Iron sights (open, peep, aperture) only, no scopes or optics permitted.  Spotting scopes may be used.Subject to change without notice—generally there are 5 targets, some requiring 5 shots, some only 3.  Expect the unexpected and have a bundle of fun.  Usually distances are 25 and 50 yards.

Keep your powder dry,

Tony