The Q & A’s of the SWPL Points Race

Q: What the heck is the SWPL “Points Race?”

A: Before there was IPSC or USPSA, there was the Southwest Pistol League. It’s where practical pistol started. Since 1963, SWPL has awarded a Perpetual Trophy for the League winner. Some of the great names in our sport have their names on our trophy such as John Plahn, Ray Chapman, Al Nichols, Mike Dalton, Mickey Fowler, Buck Toddy and currently Taran Butler. This trophy is presented to the Open Division Winner. In 1991, SWPL added Limited and in 2001, L-10, Production and Revolver were added. We also hope to add Single Stack this year.

Q: How does it work?

A: In the days of yore, you had to be a member of the Southwest Pistol League to be able to shoot. Now, anyone can shoot our matches, but only members are eligible for the points. You are awarded points for your placing in your division (Open, Limited, L-10, Production, Revolver, Single Stack) at every match. 1^st Place is worth 12 points, 2^nd Place is worth 10 points, 3^rd Place is worth 9 points and so on down to 10^th Place which is worth 2 points. We usually have 11 matches a year and your best 7 of 11 matches are counted. This way, if you miss a match or two, you’re not SOL. In 2008, we only had 9 matches, so the best 6 out of 9 were counted.

Q: How do I join?

A: If you are a member of one of the five clubs at our range, you are automatically a member. You can also join the Southwest Pistol League for $25.00 per year. Not only are you entered in the Points Race, but you get a match discount of $5.00 at regular monthly matches. It pays to join.

Q: Do I have to join in January?

A: Nope. You can join anytime during the year. You’ll get credit for your points for the entire year and once you join, you’ll get the match discount for the rest of the year.