Team Hornady Takes Two Division Titles at Fallen Brethren 3-Gun Challenge
OutdoorHub 12.12.11
Members of Team Hornady competed at the Inaugural Fallen Brethren 3-Gun Challenge, held at the Spartan Tactical Range Complex in Jackson, Texas, December 2-4, 2011. Despite the onset of rain, fog and cold temperatures, Hornady bullets delivered winning results.
Over 140 hardcore 3-Gun competitors from twenty-two states attended the match that was created to honor the men and women who sacrificed their lives for our country and its freedom. With nine stages spread amongst the 10,000 acres of natural rocky terrain, competitors faced multiple target presentations that would test their game plan. Whether it was pistol targets set at 35 yards, or being driven to Stage 9 in a Pinzgauer Swiss Military Vehicle to shoot rifle targets set out to 550 yards, the three-day event ended with competitors anxious to return again next year.
Team Hornady member, Kelly Neal won the Tact Optics division with a winning score of 824.46. He shot Hornady 125 grain 9mm Steel Match™ in his pistol and Hornady 75 grain 223 Rem Steel Match in his rifle. “I always say that 9mm Steel Match is my ‘go-to ammo’ because of its known accuracy and this match demands that,” said Neal. “What I like about the 75 grain Steel Match™ load is its power — they simply hit reactive targets harder than lighter bullets.
With a field of over 100 competitors, fellow team member, Adam Popplewell placed fourth in the Tactical Optics division, shooting Hornady180 XTP 40 caliber in his pistol and 75 grain 223 Rem Steel Match in his rifle. “Both bullets performed extremely well even in the inclement weather. I was impressed with their downrange performance.” Following in fifth place was Team Hornady newcomer, Trip McIngvale.
Returning to Team Hornady and the 3-Gun competition tour with vengeance after last year’s back surgery, Tate Moots won the Heavy Metal Division scoring 877.14. He shot Hornady 9mm 125 grain Steel Match™ in his pistol and Hornady 308 Win 155 grain TAP in his rifle. “With all the rain, fog and slippery conditions, it felt more like we were training for combat,” Moots said, “And through it all, my ammo performed flawlessly. Hornady ammo always rocks.”
Match statistician, Sandra Orvig, commented, “All of us involved with the match were excited to provide the competitors with a very generous sponsor prize table, considering this match was put together in July. We’re looking forward to next year’s match and welcoming more 3-Gun enthusiasts to Texas.”
