Shoot United—a Winchester/Olin initiative launched quietly in late 2021—provides firearms and ammunition for participant use during the organization’s outings, each designed to provide a glimpse of the personal and professional benefits of the shooting sports to those who have never been exposed to the pursuit. On Saturday, the organization is holding a free and open-to-the-public event, the second of its kind this year, at the Hyatt Farms Shooting Complex in Polkton, N.C.
“There is a significant need, as well as a responsibility, to share accurate, helpful information surrounding the shooting sports, which is what this initiative’s foundation is built upon,” said Jason Gilbertson, director of marketing for Shoot United. “We are working directly with shooting ranges that are willing to collaborate on events that are inviting, convenient and fun for people who are just getting started in the firearm ownership journey. The goal is to get people signed up and allow them to gain guidance, training and education. In return, they will gain confidence, knowledge and new friends in the process.”
More than 60 million people participate in the shooting sports each year, making it one of the most popular recreation activities in the country. Shoot United is an initiative designed to promote all that’s wholesome and healthful about the shooting sports and responsible firearm ownership. The mission is to drive awareness and activate new participants to the sport by sharing engaging and educational content as well as providing resources where people can learn how to participate in the shooting sports and hunting activities.
The initiative supports key advocacy groups on a variety of topics important to our industry, including training and education, and specific programs such as Gun Owners Care and Project ChildSafe. Shoot United will continue to support programs, organizations and individuals that promote hunting and shooting sports activities in a positive and responsible environment. Any use of firearms by youth participants should be done under the direct supervision of a parent, guardian or other responsible adult.
The group’s first event took place at The Modern Sportsmen in Burnsville, Minn., earlier this month. The focus was an introduction to handguns, but in North Carolina, participants will have a chance to sample handgun and rifle target shooting, as well as sporting clays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
