Representatives of Wyoming firearms manufacturers were on hand Monday, as Gov. Matt Mead announced three new initiatives to promote shooting sports across the state as part of “Wyoming’s Day at the Range.”
“We have a growing firearms industry in Wyoming,” Mead said at ceremony at the Otto Road Shooting Range west of Cheyenne. “Some of those companies relocated here because of our support for their industry. Some are Wyoming entrepreneurs starting a new business. They are helping to diversify our economy — we are glad to have them here.”
The “Open Ranges Initiative” will facilitate locally led partnerships to increase access to public shooting ranges. The “Wyoming 100” initiative will recognize the top 100 shooters in Wyoming and the “Governor’s Match” is a national two-gun (semi-automatic rifle and pistol) match that will feature some of the best competitors in the country.
“Wyoming is a firearms state and we are proud of that,” said Mead. “These initiatives promote safe shooting and participation in shooting sports — whether that’s hunting, target shooting or sanctioned competitions. Working with the Game and Fish Department, the National Rifle Association, the firearms industry and local governments we hope to open more opportunity for people to shoot safely.”
“The “Wyoming 100” is an amateur level competition and will be open to all shooters. The shooting competition’s goal is to find Wyoming’s Top 100 marksmen with a carbine or “modern saddle gun.” Rules for the competition will be posted on the Game and Fish website and on Facebook. Competitors must have a Wyoming Conservation Stamp available from the Game and Fish.