Competing in the IDPA with a Glock 34
There are two types of competitive shooting that one can generally be involved with. The first is called "bulleye" style shooting which focuses on slow precision shooting from a stationary and supported position. The second type is called "practical" shooting, which involves shooters using a particular weapon to engage targets in what might be called a "practical" scenario. These events focus on efficiency, speed, and the ability to consistently shoot accurately. I participate in the later of the two, normally through competitions sanctioned by the IDPA or USPSA (or IPSC). A majority of these competitions involve the use of handguns, but they often incorporate semi-automatic rifles and shotguns into "3 gun" competitions.
Cowboy Action Shooting in Texas
There are many types of practical shooting competitions that one can participate in, including Cowboy Action Shooting, which is depicted above. I prefer modern shooting simply because the weapons involved in such competitions are still in general and practical use today. Most competitors use a Glock or M1911 style pistol, an AR-15 or M-14 style rifle (the former is most popular), and some kind of shotgun (many use the Benelli M-series of shotguns). This style of shooting is fast paced, challenging, and fun for any shooter - but new shooters should probably take a shooting course before attempting to negotiate a practical shooting course. Many cities have practical shooting clubs with members who are more than willing to help less seasoned shooters. As always, obeying safety rules and using both eye and ear protection is a MUST.
Visiting the NRA Headquarters in Fairfax, VA
If you wish to become involved in any shooting sport, one of the first things you should do is join the National Rifle Association of America. This is an organization that gets lots of undeserved bad press from the liberal drive-by media - for the sole reason that it extremely effective in standing up for our right to keep and bear arms and to defend ourselves from the criminal scum lurking in the corners of our society. The concept that competitions such as these are even allowed to exist - and that people are permitted to possess the types of weapons used in these competitions - is very offensive to some very un-American people. The NRA works constantly to ensure that we win and they lose. I am a life member of the NRA and strongly believe that membership in the NRA is a prerequisite to responsible gun ownership.