About Us
Great Britain’s Home for Practical Shooting Sports
The United Kingdom Practical Shooting Association (UKPSA) is the official governing body for practical shooting in Great Britain and a registered charity dedicated to promoting the sport of practical shooting. As the recognized regional affiliate of the International Practical Shooting Confederation (IPSC), the UKPSA proudly represents the global vision of practical shooting in the UK. Since 1977, we have been committed to advancing, developing, and regulating this dynamic and challenging sport.
Practical shooting is a sport that pushes the boundaries of accuracy, power, and speed, requiring competitors to demonstrate precision, agility, and strategic thinking. Each competition features unique courses of fire that include multiple targets, moving elements, and obstacles, all designed to test a shooter’s ability to adapt and perform under pressure.
At the heart of practical shooting is the IPSC motto: Diligentia, Vis, Celeritas—Accuracy, Power, Speed. These principles guide the sport, making it a true test of skill, determination, and athleticism.
The International Practical Shooting Confederation (IPSC) is the worldwide governing body for practical shooting. Founded in 1976, the IPSC is dedicated to fostering a safe and inclusive shooting environment while setting the global standard for the sport. With over 100 member countries, the IPSC unites practical shooting enthusiasts from all corners of the world, offering a universal platform for competition and collaboration.
Our Constitution
Dedicated to the governance, growth, and integrity of practical shooting in the UK.
Our Clubs
United by passion, our affiliated clubs form the foundation of practical shooting.
Our Council
Guiding the future of practical shooting with leadership, integrity, and vision.
As a registered charity, the UKPSA is focused on making practical shooting accessible, safe, and inclusive for everyone, while fostering a supportive community dedicated to the growth of the sport in Great Britain.
As Great Britian’s representative of the IPSC, the UKPSA ensures that practical shooting thrives across the nation. We are committed to supporting shooters of all skill levels, from beginners discovering the sport to elite athletes competing internationally.
UKPSA History
The Birth of Practical Shooting in the UK
Practical shooting as a sport emerged in the mid-20th century, combining elements of accuracy, power, and speed to create dynamic and challenging competitions. Inspired by the global growth of this discipline, the United Kingdom Practical Shooting Association (UKPSA) was founded in 1977 to establish a formal structure for the sport in Great Britain.
The UKPSA became the official regional affiliate of the International Practical Shooting Confederation (IPSC), which had been founded just a year earlier in 1976. This partnership brought the global vision of practical shooting—embodied in the motto Diligentia, Vis, Celeritas (Accuracy, Power, Speed)—to the UK, ensuring that British shooters could participate in international competitions while adhering to the highest standards of safety and sportsmanship.
The Early Years
In its early days, the UKPSA focused on building a foundation for practical shooting by forming local clubs, training members, and hosting the first competitions in Great Britain. These formative years saw the UKPSA introducing shooters to the sport and fostering a community passionate about this dynamic discipline.
Growth and Recognition
Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, the UKPSA expanded rapidly, adapting to the evolving nature of practical shooting and embracing new disciplines like Shotgun, Mini Rifle, and Action Air. By maintaining strict adherence to IPSC rules and regulations, the UKPSA solidified its reputation as the leading organization for practical shooting in the UK.
This period also marked the rise of British shooters on the international stage. Teams representing the UKPSA competed in IPSC World and European Championships, showcasing the skill and dedication of the UK’s practical shooting community.
Adapting to Challenges
Like many shooting sports, practical shooting in the UK has faced regulatory and cultural challenges over the years. The UKPSA has worked tirelessly to advocate for its members, ensuring that practical shooting remains accessible and safe for enthusiasts across the country. The association has also adapted its training and competition structures to accommodate changes in firearm legislation while maintaining the spirit of the sport.
A Modern Organization
Today, the UKPSA is a thriving organization with a diverse membership that includes shooters of all ages, genders, and skill levels. As practical shooting continues to grow in popularity, the UKPSA remains at the forefront of innovation, offering cutting-edge training programs, hosting world-class competitions, and supporting the next generation of shooters.
Looking to the Future
The UKPSA is committed to advancing practical shooting in the UK and beyond. By staying true to its founding principles of safety, community, and excellence, the UKPSA ensures that practical shooting remains one of the most exciting and rewarding sports available.
With over four decades of history behind us, the UKPSA is proud to continue its mission of promoting, developing, and safeguarding practical shooting for generations to come.
Join us and be part of the story.