Bobby McGee is a US Army veteran known as one of the best multi-disciplined competitive shooters in the country. A United States Practical Shooting Association (USPSA) three-division Grand Master and an International Defensive Pistol Association (IDPA) five-division Master, the Hornady sponsored shooter also holds many titles, including an IDPA National Champion. Bobby is also a certified National Rifle Association (NRA) pistol instructor.
Regarded as one of the finest trainers in the US, Bobby has coached civilians, state and federal law enforcement agencies, and the military. He has received numerous accolades and honors for his training, including the Gold Schützenschnur badge from the German Army Marksmanship Unit, the highest decoration awarded.
Based in Los Angeles, Bobby is director of research and development at The Safariland Group, which manufactures and distributes law enforcement and security products, including duty gear, holsters, body armor and tactical headsets.
How old were you when you started shooting?
I started shooting at the age of seven with a Ruger single action .22 magnum revolver. I then graduated to centerfire revolvers and semi-automatic handguns, before I started shooting in USPSA and IDPA in the year 1999.
What advice would you pass onto other shooters?
To enjoy our sport, I highly recommend studying the fundamentals of competition shooting. I see a lot of time lost in stage planning. Gripping the pistol is key. We have to be able to manage recoil. While at the shooting range, you ask fellow shooters if you can try out their pistols to see which platform works best for your hands and how well you can manage the recoil pulse.
Why does competitive handgun shooting in IDPA and USPSA competitions appeal to you?
I really like handguns because the platform is the most challenging and, more importantly, it builds confidence for me in my everyday concealed carry.
What has been your proudest achievement in shooting?
Probably when I was shooting IDPA exclusively and won the WA State IDPA Championship several times in a row, when competing against top level shooters.
In your opinion, what makes a good handgun shooter?
It takes a solid understanding of the fundamentals of marksmanship to go far in our sport. Accuracy is key.
What is your preferred set-up for competitions?
For USPSA production and IDPA Enhanced Service pistol, I shoot an IFG — Tanfoglio 9mm Stock 1. I shoot hand-loaded ammunition, Hornady’s 147 grain XTP, Hornady 9mm brass, Vihtavuori N320 at 3.5 grains, OAL 1.100.
How long have you been a Hornady sponsored shooter?
I’ve been with Hornady now for 10 years. I am a strong believer in their products. I have been to Hornady’s manufacturing facility many times, where I saw first-hand how their products are made and the quality materials that are use for manufacturing. I highly recommend Hornady products for law enforcement and the sporting markets.
You are well-known in the industry as a holster designer. Where did your inspiration come from?
It started when holster companies were not manufacturing a holster for my specific needs, so I built my own presses and started making my own holster and pouches.
