If you’re a revolver enthusiast looking to test your skills in a fast-paced, competitive environment, the International Confederation of Revolver Enthusiasts (ICORE) is a great option. ICORE competitions combine speed, accuracy, and strategy using competition revolvers in dynamic match formats.

What Is ICORE?

ICORE is a global shooting sports organization dedicated specifically to revolver competition. Founded in 1991, ICORE blends elements of traditional IPSC/USPSA-style shooting with revolver-only stages, encouraging quick shooting, movement, and problem-solving with six or eight-shot revolvers. The sport attracts competitive shooters who appreciate the mechanical reliability and old-school challenge of the wheelgun.

How Do You Become an ICORE Member?

Joining ICORE is simple. You can register online through the official ICORE website for a $30 annual fee. Membership includes access to local and sanctioned matches, classification tracking, and the ability to compete in regional and international championships. Many clubs, including ours at The Marksman Indoor Shooting Range, host ICORE-friendly events.

What Is an ICORE Match Like?

Stages: ICORE matches typically consist of multiple stages, each requiring the shooter to engage various targets in different positions. The stages can vary in complexity, with different challenges such as shooting from behind cover or at moving targets.

Course of Fire: Each stage will have a set number of rounds you need to fire, typically between 12 and 24 rounds per stage. Shooters must reload during the stage when they run out of ammo, which adds an element of strategy and speed.

Targets: Targets are generally steel plates or paper targets. Steel targets are reactive, and they make a satisfying “ping” sound when hit, which helps with tracking performance.

Divisions: ICORE has different divisions based on the type of revolver used (more on this next). Competitors are grouped based on their revolver’s characteristics such as barrel length, modifications, and sights.

Time and Scoring: Shooters are timed during each stage, and penalties can be incurred for misses or procedural errors (like not hitting a target in the correct order or failing to reload properly). The goal is to complete the course of fire as quickly and accurately as possible.

Atmosphere: ICORE matches are often fast-paced and exciting, with shooters in a competitive yet friendly environment. Participants typically enjoy the challenge of fine-tuning their revolver skills in a variety of situations.

Are There Any Divisions for an ICORE Match?

Icore matches are divided into four competitive divisions, allowing shooters to participate based on their equipment and preferences.

• Open Division: This is the most flexible category, allowing optical sights (like red dots), ported barrels, and other performance upgrades. Typically used with 8-shot revolvers and moon clips.
• Limited Division: Designed for iron-sight revolvers that hold more than six rounds, often 7- or 8-shot revolvers with moon clips, but no optics or compensators allowed.
• Limited 6 Division: A newer category for shooters using 6-shot, iron-sight revolvers. Reloads can be done with speed loaders or moon clips. This division focuses on traditional revolver handling while leveling the playing field.
• Classic Division: A throwback to the roots of revolver shooting, only 6-shot, double-action revolvers are allowed, with speedloaders (no moon clips). Guns must be holstered in a traditional, strong-side hip holster.

What Should You Look for in a Competition Revolver

For ICORE, your revolver should be reliable, smooth, and capable of quick reloads. Features to look for include:

1. Accuracy

• Barrel Length: A longer barrel typically provides better accuracy, as it gives the bullet more time to stabilize and exit the barrel. However, it can also affect maneuverability. Common barrel lengths for competition revolvers are 4″ to 6″.
• Sights: Adjustable target sights (such as the Williams or Novak sights) are commonly used in competition, as they allow for precise aiming adjustments. Some shooters prefer fiber optic front sights for quick acquisition.

2. Trigger

• Smoothness: A smooth, consistent trigger pull is essential for accuracy and speed. Look for revolvers with a trigger that can be tuned or has a factory setup with a light, smooth pull.
• Double Action/Single Action: A revolver that can be operated in both double-action (pull the trigger for both cocking and firing) and single-action (cocking the hammer manually) modes is often preferred for competition. Double-action allows for faster shooting, while single-action is more precise.

3. Ergonomics

• Grip: A good grip is one of the most important things for proper handling, especially during rapid shooting. You want a grip that fits your hand comfortably, provides good traction, and allows for control. Many shooters use custom grips made of materials like rubber or wood, but the factory grip may also work well.
• Weight: Heavier revolvers absorb recoil better, making for more controlled and accurate follow-up shots. However, a heavy revolver can be harder to handle, especially in fast-paced stages. Some competition shooters opt for revolvers with a balanced weight, not too heavy but not too light.

4. Speed

• Cylinder Speed and Ejection: Quick reloads are essential in competition. Look for a revolver with a smooth, fast ejection system for spent cartridges and a cylinder that rotates easily. Many competition revolvers feature a polished cylinder and frame to ensure smooth operation.
  
• Speed Loaders: Consider revolvers that work well with speed loaders (devices that help quickly load ammunition into the revolver’s cylinder), as these can significantly reduce reloading times.

5. Recoil Management

• Ported Barrel or Compensator: Some competition revolvers come with a ported barrel or a compensator that reduces recoil and muzzle rise. This feature can help you maintain faster target transitions.
• Grip: A grip that absorbs recoil can also help in managing the recoil, allowing for quicker follow-up shots.

6. Durability and Reliability

• Construction: Look for revolvers made with high-quality materials like stainless steel or forged steel for durability. Since you’ll be shooting a lot during competitions, you’ll want a revolver that can withstand heavy use.
  
• Reliability: The revolver should function smoothly without malfunctions under high-stress, high-round count conditions. Some shooters test their revolvers with different types of ammunition to ensure they work reliably.

7. Custom Modifications

Many competition shooters prefer revolvers that can be easily customized. Look for models that have a good aftermarket support for parts like trigger kits, sights, grips, and compensators. Some revolvers come with factory enhancements, while others might require some tuning.

8. Budget

Competition revolvers can range significantly in price. While you might want to opt for a high-quality, high-performance model, consider your budget. Keep in mind that additional accessories like holsters, speed loaders, and extra cylinders will add to the overall cost.

9. Reputation and Reviews

It’s worth checking reviews from other competition shooters to see how a revolver performs in real-world competition settings. Brands like Smith & Wesson, Ruger, and Colt are known for making reliable competition revolvers, but it’s always good to gather feedback from others.

Remember the type of revolver you choose will make you eligible/ineligible for certain subdivisions of ICORE. Review the guidelines carefully to make sure your weapon matches the requirements for the division in which you want to compete. 

The Smith & Wesson Model 20 has a classic look and feel. This six shooter is chambered in a modern .357 magnum and utilizes single action/double action. 

How Can I Participate in an ICORE Match?

If you’re interested in participating, visiting a local range that hosts ICORE events is the best way to get started. The Marksman Indoor Shooting Range offers resources and guidance for shooters interested in revolver competition. We recommend attending a match as a spectator or joining one of our practice nights to get a feel for the flow, safety rules, and expectations. 

Join an Omaha Shooting Competition

Think you’ve got what it takes to compete? Whether you’re looking to test your skills, meet other revolver fans, or have a great time, ICORE is an excellent entry point into competitive shooting. Visit The Marksman Indoor Shooting Range to learn more about local matches and check the Events page often to see when our next ICORE match will be held. 

The Marksman Indoor Range

The Marksman is Omaha's top indoor shooting range. Our instructors have been shooting and teaching for decades and look foward to helping you improve your skill, whether you are a novice or a seasoned shooter. Stop by or book a class online today!

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