The North-South Skirmish Association (N-SSA) will hold its 153rd National Competition from May 15-17, 2026, at Fort Shenandoah, which is located near Winchester, Va. Member units throughout those days will compete in live-fire matches with original or authentic reproduction Civil War period muskets, carbines, breechloading rifles, revolvers, mortars and cannons. It is the largest Civil War event of its kind in the United States.
The N-SSA is the nation’s oldest and largest Civil War shooting sports organization. It has 3,000 individuals that make up its 200 member units. Each unit represents a specific Civil War regiment or unit and members wear the same style of uniform worn more than 160 years ago.
N-SSA members come from all over the country to Fort Shenandoah each spring for this national competition, which traditionally signals opening of the organization’s activities each year. Competitions, which are called “skirmishes,” will be held throughout the summer on a regional basis. Seen above, for example, are young skirmishers from the 1st Michigan Volunteer Infantry loading and firing during last fall’s national musket match—which attracted more than 150 eight-member teams.
At a skirmish, participating teams shoot at breakable targets in several timed events. The teams with the lowest cumulative times win medals or a variety of other awards. Women participate along with the men in all events and the organization provides BB gun matches for youngsters. There are also competitions for authenticity of Civil War-period dress, both military and civilian, as well as lectures on topics of interest.
Spectators eager to witness the skilled use of these period-specific guns are welcome to attend. Admission is free and so is parking. There will also be a large sutler area with more than 30 vendors offering all things Civil War—from antique firearms to shooting supplies, uniforms and much more. Food service is also available.
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