Outdoor Life: What Hunters Get Wrong About PRS

Competitive shooting has long been a proving ground for hunters seeking to sharpen their skills, and Tyler Freel argues that Precision Rifle Series (PRS) competition deserves far more attention from sportsmen than it often receives. While many hunters gravitate toward NRL Hunter for its obvious field-oriented format, Freel's first PRS match convinced him that the fast-paced discipline develops many of the same core skills hunters rely on in the field—just through a different approach. Let's check out his thoughts in his latest article.

Understanding the Differences

Although NRL Hunter and PRS share many similarities, each emphasizes different aspects of precision shooting. Both feature multi-stage competitions in which shooters engage steel targets from designated positions under time limits, but the formats differ dramatically. NRL Hunter requires competitors to locate and range unknown targets before engaging them, emphasizing skills such as target identification, ranging, and fieldcraft. PRS removes that uncertainty by providing target locations and distances in advance (each shooter receives a match book with the layout and distances), allowing shooters to focus entirely on executing a stage as efficiently as possible. With shorter stage times, more rounds fired, and increasingly complex shooting positions, PRS places a premium on speed, movement, recoil management, and positional stability (all good fundamentals to learn to become a better shooter).

A Different Kind of Challenge

Freel arrived at the 2026 Hornady Precision Rifle Challenge with the same lightweight rifle he had used in NRL Hunter's Open Light division, rather than the heavier, purpose-built rifles commonly associated with PRS. His goal wasn't to compete for a podium finish, but to see how his hunting-oriented setup would perform against experienced competitors. His Open Light NRL Hunter rifle actually qualified for the new PRS Sportsman Division.

Tyler struggled early—which is expected. This is essentially a new sport to him. Things like trigger control and stability were compounded by strong wind gusts of 20 to 30 mph, making even moderate-distance shots demanding. As the match progressed, however, Freel settled into a rhythm, refined his movement between positions, and built more stable shooting platforms. Improved conditions on the second day helped, but so did growing confidence.

Lessons That Translate to Hunting

Freel's key takeaway is that PRS forces shooters to master fundamentals through repetition. Unlike NRL Hunter, where target acquisition can consume valuable time (especially for new competitors), PRS offers more opportunities to build positions, manage recoil, work the rifle efficiently, and fire accurate shots under pressure. The sheer volume of quality trigger time exposes weaknesses while reinforcing efficient movement and sound shooting mechanics.

Free also discussed gear considerations, particularly ammunition. PRS allows competitors to choose from a wide range of cartridges, with many favoring low-recoil 6mm options alongside 6.5 Creedmoor and 25 Creedmoor. At the same time, NRL Hunter's power factor requirements limit cartridge choices (with exemptions for factory ammo). Although factory ammunition is generally high quality, Freel states that serious PRS competitors often rely on carefully crafted handloads to achieve the best possible performance.

Zooming Out

Freel concludes that hunters shouldn't dismiss PRS simply because it features heavy rifles, specialized equipment, or dedicated competition shooters. Beyond the gear, PRS fosters an environment that rewards efficiency, sound fundamentals, and mental discipline under pressure—all skills that translate directly to ethical, effective hunting. He also found the PRS community welcoming and eager to help newcomers succeed. While premium rifles and equipment certainly have their place, Freel argues that investing in marksmanship and practical shooting experience remains one of the best ways any hunter can become more capable in the field.

For more articles like this, check out Tyler Freel at Outdoor Life.