Do you know the sports shooting federations: ISSF, WAFTA and IPSC? Find out here.

Sports shooting is an activity practised in many different formats around the world, a discipline that combines precision, speed, strategy and, in some cases, the simulation of real-life scenarios!

To ensure the standardisation, regulation and development of the discipline, several international federations are involved in organising championships and defining rules. Among the most important are the ISSF, WAFTA and IPSC. In this article, we will show you the main differences and the role of each of them.

1. ISSF – International Shooting Sport Federation

The ISSF (International Shooting Sport Federation) is the federation that governs Olympic shooting. Founded in 1907, it is recognised by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and organises the shooting events at the Olympic Games, European Games and other international championships.

Main disciplines:
Main disciplines:
Air pistol and air rifle (10m);
Live-fire pistol and rifle (25m and 50m);
Clay shooting: Trap, Skeet and Double Trap.

Who is it for?
Ideal for those who enjoy controlled environments, absolute focus on precision, and are interested in competing at the highest level — including if you dream of one day stepping onto the “sacred” stage of the Olympic Games.

Fun fact:
Did you know that shooting is one of the oldest Olympic disciplines, having been part of the Games since 1896?

2. WAFTA – World Airgun Field Target Federation

The WAFTA (World Airgun Field Target Federation) regulates Field Target, a type of target shooting competition in which participants shoot at metal targets shaped like animals or other objects. The targets are placed at varying distances, between 9 and 50 metres, and the shooter must hit the centre of a target in the “kill zone”, which ranges in size from 15 to 40 mm, to knock it down and score points.

Founded in the early 1990s, it arose from the need to unify the rules of Field Target, which initially varied between countries.

Main disciplines:

• Outdoor shots, with metal targets placed between 9 and 50 metres;
• Requires distance calculation, wind reading, and sight adjustment;
• Uses high-precision air rifles.

Who is it for?
Ideal for those who enjoy being in contact with nature, appreciating technical challenges and solving problems in real time, as if hunting, but without harming animals.

3. IPSC – International Practical Shooting Confederation

The IPSC (International Practical Shooting Confederation) governs practical shooting, a dynamic and demanding discipline that combines speed, precision, and power. Founded in 1976, the IPSC is known for its realistic and challenging shooting courses.

Main disciplines:

• Handgun;
• Shotgun;
• Rifle;
• Action Air.

Who is it for?
Ideal for those seeking adrenaline, movement, quick problem-solving, and scenarios inspired by real-life situations. It is highly valued by civilian shooters, security forces, and tactical training enthusiasts.

Are you just starting out in sports shooting?

Some quick tips
Starting sports shooting may seem complicated at first, but with the right information, everything becomes more accessible. Each federation has its particularities, from the type of weapon and environment to the kind of training required. Here we explain the essentials to help you start the right way:

1.Start by visiting a club
The best way to enter the world of shooting is to visit a club in your area. You can watch training sessions, talk to practitioners, and understand which discipline attracts you the most.

2. Try various disciplines
The secret to deciding which area you’re most passionate about is to try different disciplines. Avoid spending money on equipment right at the start. Clubs usually lend guns, protective gear, and ammunition for beginners. This way, you can test different guns and disciplines without any commitment.

3. Take an introductory shooting course
Regardless of the discipline, most clubs require you to take a safety and introductory course. Discover in the article “Sports Shooting Course: Could This Be an Essential Step for Your Progress?” all the benefits you can gain from specialised shooting training.

4. Inform yourself about the legislation
In Portugal, to handle and own firearms, it is mandatory to have a Firearm Use and Carry Licence (LUPA) and comply with legal requirements. To learn more about the legislation, you can read more here.

5. Be patient at the start
Progress may seem slow during the first training sessions, whether in aiming, technique, or weapon control. But as with any sport, practice and consistency make the difference.

6. Start with more accessible disciplines
If you’re undecided, you can start with:

• ISSF with air rifles (10m) – Requires less space and investment;
  
• WAFTA/Field Target – Ideal for those who enjoy nature and technical challenges;
  
• IPSC Action Air (with airsoft) – More economical and with less bureaucracy.
  

Important: Do not confuse sports shooting with hunting or self-defence. Sports shooting is a regulated, controlled activity with recreational or competitive purposes.

Other federations to know

Besides the ISSF, WAFTA, and IPSC, there are other federations worth knowing, such as FITASC – Fédération Internationale de Tir aux Armes Sportives de Chasse, which organises more dynamic clay shooting events similar to hunting; ICFRA – International Confederation of Fullbore Rifle Associations, focused on long-range shooting with large-calibre rifles; and IDPA – International Defensive Pistol Association, which focuses on practical shooting scenarios with an emphasis on self-defence.

Each offers different styles, so if you want to explore new disciplines in the future, there are many options within the world of sports shooting.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a lover of Olympic precision, a field explorer, or a fan of tactical action, there is a sports shooting discipline made just for you. Knowing the ISSF, WAFTA, and IPSC federations is the first step to entering this fascinating world.

If you’re curious, visit a club, try a class, and discover for yourself what sports shooting has to offer. And when it comes time to choose your equipment, count on Mundilar to support you.

From air rifles, sights, targets, ammunition, to accessories, you’ll find everything in one place, with the help of a team that truly knows the subject and can advise beginners.

Ready to get started?
Visit mundilar.net and discover what we have for you.

Notes
This article was written based on the information available on the official websites of the ISSF, WAFTA, and IPSC at the time of publication.

Sources:
ISSF (International Shooting Sport Federation) – www.issf-sports.org
WAFTA (World Field Target Federation) – www.world-field-target-federation.org
IPSC (International Practical Shooting Confederation) – www.ipsc.org