Spectators Introduced to Shooting As the fastest shooters in the world competed this weekend at the Steel Challenge in Piru, Calif., many local residents from southern California―young and old―seized an opportunity to take their first shots. NSSF's First Shots program set up shop at the world speed shooting championships, and, in response to an invitation they received via radio advertisements, many residents came out to learn about handgun shooting and state ownership requirements. Leading industry companies, including Smith & Wesson, Taurus, Sturm, Ruger & Co., Crimson Trace, Meggitt Defense Systems Caswell and Federal Cartridge Co. provided firearms, ammunition and other equipment. Steel Challenge creators Mike Dalton and Mike Fichman partnered with NSSF to provide professional instructors well versed in California handgun requirements, and U.S. Practical Shooting Association executive director Dave Thomas assisted on the range to provide first-timers with a successful introduction. After their lesson, participants had the opportunity to see the world's fastest shooters in action and tried various side games. This year's Steel Challenge included more than 250 shooters vying for the title of world's fastest shooter. J.J. Racaza was named fastest gun.