What is Canning Mandar ?
Mandar evolved from a mandatory annual revolver qualification used by law enforcement in the UK . The requalification was modified to suit Club based competitions. Its design allows for a variety of firearms types to be used, a grading system ensures people compete against others of similar skill levels.
Mandar is a popular event shot at many handgun clubs throughout WA.
Mandar focuses on precision and consistency under time pressure, making it both beginner-friendly and highly challenging at advanced levels.
Key Features of Mandar
Static Precision Shooting
Mandar is a static discipline, meaning shooters fire from a fixed position rather than moving between stages.
The challenge comes from:
- Accuracy
- Speed
- Mental control under time pressure
Targets turn to face shooters for limited periods, forcing competitors to fire accurately within strict time limits.
Course of Fire
A standard Mandar match consists of:
- 5 stages
- 48 rounds total
- Distances from 10 m to 25 m
After each stage:
- Targets are scored
- Previous shots are patched
- The next stage begins
Because the course of fire is always the same, shooters can continuously practice and refine their technique.
Equipment
Shooters may use:
- Revolvers
- Semi-automatic pistols
Options include:
- Iron sights
- Optical sights
- Highly customised competition pistols
However: 
The same pistol must be used for the entire match.
Mandar also has 4 equipment divisions, so competitors compete with similar types of firearms.
Target Used
Mandar uses the T13-X target from the ACS catalogue.
Target details:
- Approx size: 420 mm × 650 mm
- 10-ring: 100 mm × 150 mm
- X-ring: small centre mark used for tie breaking
Scoring rule:
Any shot touching a scoring line receives the higher score.
Scoring and Shoot-Offs
All shots from the entire match are recorded on the same target.
If competitors tie:
- X-count decides the winner
- If still tied → a shoot-off
Shoot-Off
Shooters repeat the final course of fire with reducing time limits until someone posts the higher score.
Shoot-offs are known for being extremely intense because they demand perfect accuracy under extreme pressure.
Who Can Shoot Mandar?
One of the biggest strengths of Mandar is its accessibility.
Competitors of all kinds shoot together:
- Men
- Women
- Junior shooters
- Seniors
- Disabled shooters
A grading system ensures people compete against others of similar skill levels.
Why People Like Mandar
Mandar is popular because it offers:
- Simple rules
- A consistent course of fire
- Equal competition
- A strong focus on accuracy
It’s easy for beginners to learn, yet extremely demanding at the top level.
In short: Mandar is a precision handgun competition that rewards calm, disciplined shooting under time pressure.
Note: See Disciplines Range Standing Orders for more information
