Maggie Reese Voigt has been shooting competitively for over 10 years. In that time, shooting has taken her all around the world, from Alaska to Florida, Europe to Asia, and Africa, even as far away as Russia. In that time, Maggie has won multiple national championships in USPSA (United States Practical Shooting Association), IPSC (International Practical Shooting Confederation), USSL (United Shooting Sports Leagues), and Outlaw 3-Gun. Maggie has even made television appearances on Top Shot, Shooting USA, Modern Shooter, and 3 Gun Nation. It’s fair to say everything in her life revolves around guns — even meeting her husband on the range!
Maggie, what age were you when you first started shooting?
I first started shooting when I was 18-years old. My dad took me to the range and I instantly loved it. I borrowed his 1911 in 45 caliber and an old Bianchi holster with a belt that was too big for me. Some days I would practice until my hands bled. People told me that a 45 was “too big” for me but I was too stubborn to listen. I kept on shooting that gun for years and for that reason 1911s will always hold a special place in my heart. Eventually my dad and I began shooting steel matches together and it inspired a competitiveness in me that I didn’t know I had. From there I kept on searching for more and more competitions.
Who introduced you to shooting?
My dad first taught me to shoot. He was very patient with a huge focus on safety and fundamentals. Then in 2007, I met my future husband Michael Voigt at a local match. Mike was a multi-time World Champion across several disciplines and I set out to be just as versatile as him, whether it’s USPSA, 3-Gun, Steel Challenge, or Bianchi, I love the challenges that each sport presents.
What’s been the most valuable lesson you have learned from shooting?
To make every second count. Shooting teaches you to be efficient, decisive, and to own the moment.
Why did you choose to specialize in 3-Gun competitions?
I love how 3-Gun forces you to not just be good at one thing, but instead excel with everything. In 3-Gun you are constantly being tested across so many skill sets. Plus, it’s never repetitive, never boring. Every competition is unique with its own “flavor” and that really helps keep the passion alive for me.
What advice would you give to anyone interested in shooting competitively?
Everyone was a brand new shooter at some point. You just have to get out there and do it! Don’t worry about being the best shooter or having the fanciest equipment. Grab your gear and come out to the range. You are going to meet incredible people and there will always be someone there to help you if you need it.
Tell us about your competition set up.
It’s always changing but my favorite gun right now is my Ruger pistol caliber carbine with Bushnell TRS-26 red dot. I pair that with my Safariland ELS belt and mag pouches for competition. I load at home and I love my Hornady 124gr XTPs for this gun. I’ve become much more health conscious in recent years so I always wipe my hands off with Hoppe’s lead wipes when I am done shooting or loading.
How do you prepare for competitions?
Practice, practice and practice! I am still constantly pushing myself every day. The more time I can spend at the range, the more confidence I have going into a competition. When I get to the match I focus on my mental game and being present in the moment. You have to be able to let everything go when you step on the line.
What has been your greatest achievement in your shooting career?
My husband passed away in 2018. Of course I am grateful for every title and every trophy, I worked hard for them all, but my greatest achievement was pursing my passion with the person I love. In the end, what I treasure most are all the laughs we shared and the memories we made together.
Do you have any goals for the future?
I’m here for the long-haul. I am so incredibly grateful to be a part of this industry and I just want to continue to be the best version of myself both as a competitor and an ambassador for the sport.
How long have you been a Hornady sponsored shooter?
I have used Hornady bullets my entire career! One of the biggest takeaways from my husband is to never compromise with your gear if you are truly serious about competition. Once you step onto the line, trust in your equipment and let everything come down to you and your performance.
