TFB Behind the Gun #145: The Proving Grounds 2024 Championship

We’ve had on some of The Proving Grounds Crew in the past but just as a quick refresher – The Proving Grounds is a multi-gun competition that takes place in South Carolina at The Sawmill Training Complex. A grueling two-day affair, The Proving Grounds brings out both new and seasoned shooter alike to test their skills in a highly dynamic and often physically punishing set of stages. Now that the competition is over, We’ve invited stage ROs Matt and Dan, as well as 2nd place finisher Austin and Stage 1 RO and competition Newcomer Timmy to talk about their experiences at this year’s match.

More TFB Behind the Gun Podcast Episodes:

TFB Behind the Gun #143 Silver Screen Wheel Guns w/ Sam & Hop TFB Behind the Gun #142: Rob Gearing w/ Spartan Precision Equipment TFB Behind the Gun #141: Cold War Guns & Competition w/ Matt & Dan

TFB Behind the Gun #145: The Proving Grounds 2024 Championship Post-Match Recap

In this week’s episode of TFB’s Behind the Gun Podcast, we’re going to have both old and new guests on the show. Today we’re talking about The Proving Grounds Competition now that our guests have had a chance to put themselves through it. Held annually at The Sawmill Training Complex in Laurens, South Carolina—a sprawling 240-acre training facility known for its top-tier tactical courses—The Proving Grounds thrusts competitors into an intense two-day gauntlet. Built around rifle, and pistol shooting, the match doesn’t just test your marksmanship; it tests grit, stamina, and mental fortitude by weaving in climbing, running, weighted carries, and other physically punishing obstacles in addition to many odd shooting positions.

Open to both novices and diehard multi-gun veterans, The Proving Grounds has become infamous for pushing shooters to their limits. Successful participants don’t just demonstrate accuracy; they also learn to adapt quickly and maintain focus under stress. Beyond the adrenaline rush, it’s a camaraderie-driven event, with seasoned pros mentoring newcomers in everything from proper gear selection to advanced shooting techniques and even providing gear for those who really want to try, but just might not think they have the proper set of tools yet.

Now that this year’s match has wrapped up, we’ve invited a few familiar faces to share their thoughts. Joining us for a post-game debrief are returning Stage ROs Matt and Dan, second-place finisher Austin, and Timmy—a fresh face to the competition scene, who served as Stage 1 RO. Together, they’ll shed light on the behind-the-scenes prep work, the most challenging courses, and what it takes to thrive in an environment designed to push your skills to the brink.

Check Out Austin’s Match Coverage Here

https://theprovinggroundscompetition.com/ The Proving Grounds Facebook The Proving Grounds On Instagram The Proving Grounds On YouTube

Sponsors of The Proving Grounds:

ZRODelta US Optics Lynx Defense Hunters HD Gold KCI Krate Tactical C&H Precision Herrington Arms Rx Plates Ammo IncBrave Castle

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