August is National Shooting Sports Month — A Time to Honor the 2nd Amendment

Every August, National Shooting Sports Month brings Americans together to celebrate more than just marksmanship. It’s an opportunity to affirm the values of the Second Amendment, reinforce our freedoms, and support safe, responsible firearm use.

Organized by the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) in partnership with the NSCA and NSSA, the initiative invites experienced marksmen, first‑time gun owners, and the curious alike to join the shooting sports community.

This year marks the eighth annual observance of National Shooting Sports Month. Hosts nationwide—including ranges, retailers, and firearm manufacturers—are teaming up to present events, training sessions, competitions, and promotions throughout August.

Joe Bartozzi, President and CEO of NSSF, explains the spirit behind the month:

“National Shooting Sports Month is a time to recognize and celebrate the values that define the shooting sports — safety, responsibility, skill development and community.”

This is more than recreation—it’s about upholding freedom, building community, and reinforcing the belief that lawful firearm use is a vital part of American heritage.

Here are five meaningful ways to join the national observance:

1. Visit a Local Range or Club
   Many facilities host special events, training sessions, and discounts during August. These venues serve as local hubs where both veterans and newcomers can safely enjoy target shooting. Use tools like NSSF’s "Find a Range" or NSCA/NSSA club locators.
2. Bring Someone New to the Range
   The +ONE Movement encourages inviting a friend or family member to experience the range. One introduction can spark a lasting interest in the shooting sports.
3. Download Free Targets
   NSSF offers printable targets—from basic bullseyes to fun drills—perfect for adding friendly competition to your next range visit.
4. Share Your Experience Online
   Use hashtags like #LetsGoShooting and #PlusOneMovement to post your range day images or first-time stories. Sharing your passion helps grow the community.
5. Host or Attend an Event
   Ranges and retailers may lead safety seminars, first‑shots clinics, or club matches. Local businesses can register their events at ShootingSportsMonth.org.

Shooting sports link directly to the Constitutionally-protected right to bear arms. Participating in these sports reminds us that the Second Amendment isn’t just a legal clause—it’s a living tradition.

Training in safe, regulated environments lets firearm owners demonstrate responsibility and stewardship. That builds public trust and underscores the argument that protecting the right to own firearms also honors the greater promise of safe civic participation.

At ALPolitics.com, we firmly believe that the First Amendment, buttressed by the Second, is the cornerstone of our Republic. Sport Shooting is just one way to support those vital freedoms.

National Shooting Sports Month offers an annual platform to reaffirm that connection: to promote safe handling, mentorship, and the passing of skills from one generation to the next. It’s a national celebration of heritage, personal responsibility, and the freedoms we hold dear. Whether you’re mentoring a new shooter, sharpening your own skills, or just stopping by the local range, your participation strengthens community and protects history.

To learn more, visit ShootingSportsMonth.org or LetsGoShooting.org to find events, resources, and partner tools to get involved.