Match Types, Divisions, and Levels
PCSL Match Types:
3.1 PCSL Pistol
3.2 PCSL Rifle
3.3 PCSL 2-Gun
3.3.1 PCSL Pistol Caliber 2-Gun
Identical to PCSL 2-Gun except for the following changes:
3.3.1.1 PCC Required
A PCC (defined in Section 3.13) must be used as the carbine in all divisions.
3.3.1.2 Carbine Steel Distance
Carbine paper and steel targets remain white, but carbine steel may be placed as close as 7 yards.
3.3.1.3 Division Determination
Competitor’s Division is determined by handgun only.
3.3.1.4 Pistol Caliber 2-Gun Practical Division Restrictions
In Pistol Caliber 2-Gun Practical Division only, the PCC has the following additional restrictions:
3.3.1.4.1 Maximum Rounds
Maximum rounds loaded in magazines at start signal: 30
3.3.1.4.2 High-Capacity Magazines
Magazines that are capable of holding more than 30 rounds (including drums) are allowed provided that they are only loaded to 30 rounds at the start of the stage
3.4 PCSL Shotgun
3.5 PCSL 3-Gun
PCSL Division Types
3.6 Core Divisions
PCSL’s core set of divisions for each match type.
3.6.1 PCR System Tracking
Core Divisions are always tracked by the PCR System.
3.6.2 Availability
All applicable Core Divisions shall always be available at any affiliated PCSL match, except in special cases approved directly by PCSL (e.g. a PCC-only event)
3.7 Recognized Divisions
PCSL divisions that are important to support and/or provisional, but will not be available at level 3 or 4 Events, unless a specific exemption is made by PCSL on a case-by-case basis. Recognized divisions may be available at level 1 & 2 events by discretion of the Match Director. They may also be tracked by the PCR System, especially in the case of provisional divisions under evaluation to potentially be moved up to Core divisions.
3.8 Unrecognized/Custom Divisions
Divisions that Match Directors may invent and use at their leisure. May only be implemented at affiliated Level 1 matches (or unaffiliated matches), and will never be tracked by the PCR System.
3.9 3-Gun/Shotgun Division Policy
In 3-gun and Shotgun specifically, PCSL does not currently distinguish between division types. PCSL 3-Gun & Shotgun match directors are free to offer any of the 3-Gun/Shotgun divisions listed below, or any unrecognized/custom divisions as desired.
PCSL Pistol - Core Divisions
3.10 Competition (COMP)
3.10.1 Minimum caliber
9x19mm
3.10.2 Maximum caliber
.45 ACP
3.10.3 Maximum bullet velocity
1600 fps
3.10.4 Minimum power factor
No
3.10.5 Maximum rounds loaded in magazines at start signal
30
3.10.6 Maximum magazine length
no
3.10.7 Handgun requirement
Must be a handgun per Section 2.4.1.
3.10.8 Other restrictions
No other restrictions.
3.11 Practical (PRAC)
3.11.1 Minimum caliber
9x19mm
3.11.2 Maximum caliber
.45 ACP
3.11.3 Maximum bullet velocity
1600 fps
3.11.4 Minimum power factor
125
3.11.5 Optical/electronic sight
permitted
3.11.6 Maximum rounds loaded in magazines at start signal
20
3.11.7 Maximum magazine length
no
3.11.8 Compensators
No compensators or porting
3.11.9 Frame mounted optics
No frame mounted optics
3.11.10 Gas Pedals
no restrictions
3.11.11 Flashlights/lasers
allowed
3.11.12 Magwells
allowed
3.11.13 Handgun requirement
Must be a handgun per Section 2.4.1.
3.12 Pistol Caliber Carbine (PCC)
3.12.1 Minimum caliber
9x19mm
3.12.2 Maximum caliber
.45 ACP
3.12.3 Maximum bullet velocity
1600 fps
3.12.4 Minimum power factor
125
3.12.5 Coupled magazines
Coupled (side-by-side) magazines are prohibited
3.12.6 Support devices
Tripods, bipods, bags, and related support devices are prohibited
3.12.7 Carbine requirement
Must be a carbine per Section 2.4.2.
3.12.8 Other restrictions
No other restrictions.
PCSL Pistol - Recognized Divisions
3.13 Practical Irons (PI)
3.13.1 Specifications
Identical to Section 3.12 except that no optical/electronic sights are permitted
3.14 Defensive Practical (DP)
3.14.1 Minimum Caliber
9x19mm
3.14.2 Maximum Caliber
.45 ACP
3.14.3 Maximum bullet velocity
1600 fps
3.14.4 Minimum power factor
125
3.14.5 Porting and/or Compensators
allowed given alternate weight and barrel length restrictions below
3.14.6 Maximum weight with empty magazine
for ported/comped handguns: 29.0 oz, and for non-ported/non-comped handguns: 34.0oz
3.14.7 Maximum barrel length
(measured breech to muzzle) for ported/comped handguns: 4.02”, and for non-ported/non-comped handguns: 4.52”
3.14.8 Maximum rounds loaded in magazines at start signal
15
3.14.9 Optics, Lights, and Laser sighting systems
No Restrictions
3.14.10 Gas Pedals/Thumb Rests
Allowed given a maximum added width of 3/8” (0.375”). Folding/deployable thumb rests will be measured in deployed configuration.
3.14.11 Magwells
allowed with maximum width of 1.625”
3.14.12 Concealment requirement
Must be shot from concealment (Section 2.10)
3.14.13 Handgun requirement
Must be a handgun per Section 2.4.1
3.15 Defensive Competition (DC)
3.15.1 Minimum Caliber
9x19mm
3.15.2 Maximum Caliber
.45 ACP
3.15.3 Maximum bullet velocity
1600 fps
3.15.4 Minimum power factor
125
3.15.5 Porting and/or Compensators
allowed given restrictions below
3.15.6 Maximum weight with empty magazine
for ported/comped handguns: 45.0 oz, and for non-ported/non-comped handguns: 50.0oz
3.15.7 Maximum barrel length
(measured breech to muzzle) for ported/comped handguns: 5.02”, and for non-ported/non-comped handguns: 5.42”
3.15.8 Maximum rounds loaded in magazines at start signal
20
3.15.9 Optics, Lights, and Laser sighting systems
No Restrictions
3.15.10 Gas Pedals/Thumb Rests
Allowed given a maximum added width of 3/8” (0.375”). Folding/deployable thumb rests will be measured in stowed configuration.
3.15.11 Magwells
allowed with maximum width of 1.625”
3.15.12 Concealment requirement
Must be shot from concealment (Section 2.10)
3.15.13 Handgun requirement
Must be a handgun per Section 2.4.1
3.16 Ten-Round Irons (TRI)
3.16.1 Minimum caliber
9x19mm
3.16.2 Maximum caliber
.45 ACP
3.16.3 Maximum bullet velocity
1600 fps
3.16.4 Minimum power factor
125
3.16.5 SAO handguns
SAO handguns with external hammers may only be single stack guns.
3.16.6 Sights
Iron sights only
3.16.7 Maximum rounds loaded in magazines at start signal
10
3.16.8 Maximum magazine length
no
3.16.9 Compensators
No compensators or porting
3.16.10 Gas Pedals
no restrictions
3.16.11 Flashlights/lasers
allowed
3.16.12 Magwells
permitted on single stack platform firearms only. Maximum width of 1.625”
3.16.13 Handgun requirement
Must be a handgun per Section 2.4.1.
3.16.14 Other restrictions
No other restrictions
3.17 Revolver (REVO)
3.17.1 Minimum caliber
9x19mm
3.17.2 Maximum caliber
.45 ACP
3.17.3 Maximum bullet velocity
1600 fps
3.17.4 Minimum power factor
125
3.17.5 Maximum cylinder capacity
8
3.17.6 Action type
DA/SA only. SAO prohibited.
3.17.7 Autorevolvers
Autorevolvers/recoil-operated revolvers prohibited
3.17.8 Handgun requirement
Must be a revolver and a handgun per Section 2.4.1.
3.17.9 Other restrictions
No other restrictions
3.18 Rimfire Rifle (RFR)
3.18.1 Caliber
.22LR only
3.18.2 Minimum power factor
No
3.18.3 Carbine requirement
Must be a carbine per Section 2.4.2
3.18.4 Maximum rounds loaded in magazines at start signal
unlimited
3.18.5 Support devices
Tripods, bipods, bags, and related support devices are prohibited
3.18.6 Other restrictions
No other restrictions - follows same stage procedures as PCC division
3.18.7 Steel targets
Many modern steel targets have no problem falling from .22LR fire. Steel that doesn’t fall can be called hit by an RO, or painted between competitors and checked for bullet strikes.
3.18.8 Activator targets
Activator targets may not reliably fall from .22LR hits. Rimfire competitors shall be awarded full points on un-activated targets, without engagement(or penalties), provided they successfully hit the activator(s).
3.19 Rimfire Pistol (RFP)
3.19.1 Caliber
.22LR only
3.19.2 Minimum power factor
No
3.19.3 Handgun requirement
Must be a handgun per Section 2.4.1
3.19.4 Maximum rounds loaded in magazines at start signal
unlimited
3.19.5 Other restrictions
No other restrictions - follows same stage procedures as other pistol divisions
3.19.6 Steel targets
Many modern steel targets have no problem falling from .22LR fire. Steel that doesn’t fall can be called hit by an RO, or painted between competitors and checked for bullet strikes.
3.19.7 Activator targets
Activator targets may not reliably fall from .22LR hits. Rimfire competitors shall be awarded full points on un-activated targets, without engagement(or penalties), provided they successfully hit the activator(s).
Note: No PCSL classifiers have any activated/moving targets, so PCSL can still reliably collect classification data for .22LR divisions.
BAN STATE DIVISIONS - PCSL recognizes lower capacity versions of all core and recognized divisions when shot in a state or region that has laws restricting magazine capacity. These divisions (such as Competition-10, Practical-10, etc) are considered separate recognized divisions and will not be scored against their standard capacity counterparts (both at the individual match and in the PCR System).
PCSL Rifle - Core Divisions
3.20 Competition (COMP)
3.20.1 PCC allowed
Pistol Caliber Carbines as defined in Section 3.13 are allowed as your carbine (not a handgun replacement).
3.20.2 Minimum caliber
5.7x28, 5.45x39, 5.56x45, 9x19mm
3.20.3 Maximum caliber
.308 Win/7.62x51
3.20.4 Minimum power factor
3.20.4.1 Rifle Calibers
No
3.20.4.2 PCC
125
3.20.5 Optics
no restrictions
3.20.6 Suppressors
allowed
3.20.7 Support devices
Bipods, bags, and related support devices are allowed in PCSL Rifle or 3-Gun matches in Competition division only, but not in PCSL 2-Gun matches.
3.20.7.1 Tripods
Tripods are never allowed outside of PCSL 3-Gun Open division.
3.20.8 Other restrictions
No other restrictions
3.21 Practical (PRAC)
3.21.1 Minimum caliber
5.45x39, 5.56x45
3.21.2 Maximum caliber
.308 Win/7.62x51
3.21.3 Minimum power factor
No
3.21.4 Optics
no restrictions
3.21.5 Maximum rounds loaded in magazines at start signal
30
3.21.6 High-capacity magazines
Magazines that are capable of holding more than 30 rounds (including drums) are allowed provided that they are only loaded to 30 rounds at the start of the stage
3.21.7 Coupled magazines
Coupled magazines (side by side) are prohibited
3.21.8 Magwells
Magwells up to 2.000” outer width are allowed
3.21.9 Suppressors
allowed
3.21.10 Muzzle brakes
Muzzle brakes are prohibited UNLESS used for the purpose of adapting a suppressor, as long as the suppressor remains attached.
3.21.10.1 Muzzle brake definition
A muzzle brake is defined as any muzzle device that features at least one set of externally visible braking baffles for which the uncompromising purpose is to reduce recoil force, rather than compensate for muzzle rise or act as a flash hider. Examples:
- The PWS PRC Compensator IS defined as a muzzle brake because the first ports closest to the barrel constitute a set of externally visible braking baffles. However, the similar PWS FSC Compensator is NOT defined as a muzzle brake because its baffle set is compromised in terms of recoil reduction in order to achieve its hybrid purpose.
- The Surefire Warcomp is NOT defined as a muzzle brake because it acts as a flash hider with muzzle rise compensating ports, not braking baffles to reduce recoil force.
- The KAC MAMS, Precision Armament EFAB and AFAB, and similar devices are NOT defined as muzzle brakes because their baffle sets do not have the uncompromised purpose of reducing recoil due to the pinhole-style gas port design.
- For any specific muzzle device questions, please send a link to the product or very clear pictures of the device to info@pcsleague.com
3.21.10.2 Blast mitigation devices
A blast mitigation device such as the Surefire Warden or Griffin Armament Blast Shield that remains attached to a muzzle brake is allowed as long as the device directs all gasses forward of the muzzle.
3.21.11 Bolt Carrier Groups
Lightened or Reduced Mass BCGs are prohibited. In any platform, the total assembled BCG mass must be no less than 0.2oz under the OEM BCG mass of the platform. In an AR-15, the OEM BCG mass is considered to be 11.0oz.
3.21.12 Support devices
Tripods, bipods, bags, and related support devices are prohibited.
3.21.13 Other restrictions
No other restrictions.
PCSL 2-Gun - Core Divisions
3.22 Competition (COMP)
3.22.1 Carbine
Any carbine allowed per Section 3.20.
3.22.2 Handgun
Any handgun allowed per Section 3.11.
3.23 Practical (PRAC)
3.23.1 Carbine
Any carbine allowed per Section 3.21.
3.23.2 Handgun
Any handgun allowed per Section 3.12.
PCSL Shotgun Divisions
3.24 Open (OPEN)
3.24.1 Minimum Caliber
20 Gauge
3.24.2 Minimum power factor
No
3.24.3 Shotgun requirement
Must be a shotgun per Section 2.4.3
3.24.4 Other restrictions
No other restrictions
3.25 Modified (MOD)
3.25.1 Minimum Caliber
20 Gauge
3.25.2 Minimum power factor
No
3.25.3 Magazine type
Fixed single magazine tube only, no speed-loading devices allowed
3.25.4 Optical sight
A single non-magnified optical sight is permitted
3.25.5 Flashlights/lasers
No restrictions on flashlights/lasers
3.25.6 Barrel porting
allowed
3.25.7 Compensators and brakes
allowed
3.25.8 Maximum magazine tube capacity
N/A
3.25.9 Maximum rounds loaded at start signal
13 if starting chambered, 12 if starting with an empty chamber.
3.25.10 Support devices
Bipods, bags, and other related support devices may not be used
3.25.11 Shotgun requirement
Must be a shotgun per Section 2.4.3
3.25.12 Other restrictions
No other restrictions
3.26 Practical (PRAC)
3.26.1 Minimum Caliber
20 Gauge
3.26.2 Minimum power factor
No
3.26.3 Magazine type
Fixed tube magazine only, no speed-loading devices allowed
3.26.4 Optical sight
A single non-magnified optical sight is permitted
3.26.5 Barrel porting
allowed
3.26.6 Compensators
No compensators or brakes
3.26.7 Maximum barrel length
21.0”
3.26.8 Maximum magazine tube capacity
8
3.26.9 Maximum rounds loaded at start signal
9 if starting chambered, 8 if starting with an empty chamber.
3.26.10 Support devices
Bipods, bags, and other related support devices may not be used.
3.26.11 Shotgun requirement
Must be a shotgun per Section 2.4.3
3.26.12 Other restrictions
No other restrictions
3.27 Tac Optics (TAC)
3.27.1 Minimum Caliber
20 Gauge
3.27.2 Minimum power factor
No
3.27.3 Magazine type
Fixed tube magazine only, no speed-loading devices allowed
3.27.4 Sights
Iron sights only
3.27.5 Barrel porting
No barrel porting or compensators
3.27.6 Maximum magazine tube capacity
N/A
3.27.7 Maximum rounds loaded at start signal
9 if starting chambered, 8 if starting with an empty chamber.
3.27.8 Support devices
Bipods, bags, and other related support devices may not be used.
3.27.9 Shotgun requirement
Must be a shotgun per Section 2.4.3
3.27.10 Other restrictions
No other restrictions
PCSL 3-Gun Divisions
3.28 Open (OPEN)
3.28.1 Carbine
Any carbine allowed per Section 3.20.
3.28.2 Handgun
Any handgun allowed per Section 3.11, except that the maximum magazine length is 171.25mm and magazines may be loaded full.
3.28.3 Shotgun
Any shotgun allowed per Section 3.24
3.28.4 Pre-Staging of equipment
Pre-Staging of tripods or other equipment on the course of fire is never allowed unless specifically stated in the WSB. All equipment must start on the competitor’s person, held or attached in a way that it does not rest on the ground or any other object.
3.29 Modified (MOD)
3.29.1 Carbine
Any carbine allowed per Section 3.20 with the following adjustments:
3.29.1.1 Maximum muzzle device size
1.0” diameter x 3.0” length measured from end of barrel to end of muzzle.
3.29.1.2 Optical sighting system
Only a single optical sighting system is allowed.
3.29.1.3 Bipod
A single bipod may be attached to the carbine, but must remain attached throughout the course of fire.
3.29.2 Handgun
Any handgun allowed per Section 3.12 with the following adjustments
3.29.2.1 Max magazine length
141.25mm
3.29.2.2 Minimum power factor
No
3.29.2.3 Maximum rounds loaded in magazines at start signal
N/A
3.29.3 Shotgun
Any shotgun allowed per Section 3.25
3.30 Practical (PRAC)
3.30.1 Carbine
Any carbine allowed per Section 3.21
3.30.2 Handgun
Any handgun allowed per Section 3.12
3.30.3 Shotgun
Any shotgun allowed per Section 3.26
3.31 Tactical Optics (TAC)
3.31.1 Carbine
Any carbine allowed per Section 3.20 with the following adjustments
3.31.1.1 Optical sighting system
Only a single optical sighting system is allowed.
3.31.1.2 Maximum muzzle device size
1.0” diameter x 3.0” length measured from end of barrel to end of muzzle.
3.31.2 Handgun
Any handgun allowed per Section 3.12 with the following adjustments
3.31.2.1 Max magazine length
141.25mm
3.31.2.2 Minimum power factor
No
3.31.2.3 Maximum rounds loaded in magazines at start signal
N/A
3.31.2.4 Sights
Iron Sights Only
3.31.3 Shotgun
Any shotgun allowed per Section 3.27
PCSL Match Level Schedule
| Level 0 | Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Level 4 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Designation | Unaffiliated | Local | State/Sectional | Regional | National |
| PCSL Affiliation Required | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| PCR System Multiplier* | N/A | 1* | 3* | 5* | 10* |
| PCSL Interaction Required | No | Club Affiliation Only | Club Affiliation + PCSL Written Approval | PCSL-Run, or by contract | PCSL-Run, or by contract |
| Competitor PCSL Membership Requirement | N/A | Free | Free | Free through 2026 | Free through 2026 |
| Core Divisions Available | N/A | Always | Always | Always | Always |
| Recognized Divisions Available | N/A | Recommended, MD Decision | MD Decision | Never | Never |
| Unrecognized Divisions Available | Yes | Yes | Never | Never | Never |
| Activity Fees Paid to PCSL | No | No | Yes, no more than 5% of match fee per scored competitor | N/A (PCSL-Run) | N/A (PCSL-Run) |
| Paper Target Type | N/A | PCSL Only | PCSL Only | PCSL Only | PCSL Only |
| Allowed Match Types | N/A | 2-Gun/PC 2-Gun, Pistol, Rifle, 3-Gun, Shotgun | 2-Gun/PC 2-Gun, Pistol, Rifle, 3-Gun, Shotgun | 2-Gun, Pistol, Rifle | 2-Gun, Pistol, Rifle |
| PCSL 2-Gun/PC 2-Gun Allowed Scoring Types | N/A | PCSL Hit Factor | PCSL Hit Factor | PCSL Hit Factor | PCSL Hit Factor |
| PCSL Rifle Allowed Scoring Types | N/A | PCSL Hit Factor | PCSL Hit Factor | PCSL Hit Factor | PCSL Hit Factor |
| PCSL Pistol Allowed Scoring Types | N/A | PCSL Hit Factor | PCSL Hit Factor | PCSL Hit Factor | PCSL Hit Factor |
| PCSL Shotgun Allowed Scoring Types | N/A | PCSL Hit Factor, PCSL Time-Plus Points | PCSL Hit Factor, PCSL Time-Plus Points | N/A | N/A |
| PCSL 3-Gun Allowed Scoring Types | N/A | PCSL Hit Factor, PCSL Time-Plus Points | PCSL Hit Factor, PCSL Time-Plus Points | N/A | N/A |
| Stage Count Restrictions | N/A | No | No | No | No |
| Round Count Restrictions | N/A | No | No | No | No |
| Classifier Stage Restrictions | N/A | No | Maximum 1 per every 4 stages | Case by case | Case by case |
*subject to change