AAMS holds first outdoor airgun competition at Safi

The Arms, Armour and Militaria Society (AAMS) took target shooting sport one step further last week when it organised the first outdoor airgun competition.

AAMS members now have the possibility of practising outdoor in addition to Black Powder shooting which the club introduced in the late 80s. This was made possible thanks to the facilities granted by the Armed Forces of Malta at Safi. Here, target shooting is practised at ranges of up to 50 metres.

AAMS is setting out plans for the near future to train teams for international competitions.

Also, agreement was reached with the AFM to use Gozo's Qortin range for competitions.

The first Black Powder shoot on the sister island was held on March 20. Both Maltese and Gozitan members participated and many new members were enrolled.

During an activity to mark the occasion, AAMS president Stephen Petroni thanked Superintendent Paul Camilleri and Major Claudio Terribile for their assistance.

Petroni remarked that the AAMS wanted to show its appreciation for the AFM's assistance and support, adding that the introduction of new target shooting disciplines, under the new Arms Act, would be possible thanks to the arrangements that the AAMS has with the AFM.

He also welcomed the new Gozitan members and urged them to enjoy their sport in a self-disciplined manner.

The AAMS, set up in 1985, is the leading body for arms and militaria collectors as well as target shooting enthusiasts. The Society is a founder member of GOL - Gun Owners Lobby - which was instrumental in negotiating the provisions of the new law with the government and which is represented on the Weapons Advisory Board.

Airgun enthusiasts who wish to become AAMS members may obtain more details by writing to The Secretary AAMS, PO Box 44 Msida, MSD 01, or visit the AAMS website at www.aamsmalta.org.