This week’s Shooter Showcase.
Meet Rob Gearing, a seasoned shooter whose journey into the captivating world of firearms began in the UK during his early years. Like many enthusiasts in the country, Rob’s initial foray into shooting involved air guns and the pursuit of rabbits in a local graveyard – a quirky but character-building start to his lifelong passion.

A cherished gift from his father, the Webley & Scott Junior Mk 11, still occupies a place of honor on Rob’s desk, serving as a tangible connection to the origins of his shooting adventures.

Unlike those who gravitate towards a specific shooting discipline, Rob finds joy in the diversity of all shooting activities. However, his heart lies in mountain hunting, and he considers himself fortunate to spend the majority of his life abroad. This nomadic lifestyle allows him to sample a wide array of shooting experiences around the world, reinforcing his belief that shooting is a sport that continually offers new challenges and knowledge.

Yet, despite his passion, Rob has encountered frustrations in the UK shooting scene. Comparing it to other countries, he deems the process of getting into shooting in the UK frustratingly difficult. Rob believes that a lack of unity within the UK shooting community contributes to these challenges, preventing potential enthusiasts, especially young people, from exploring the sport.

One of Rob’s significant personal challenges centers around the logistics of taking rifles out of Heathrow. Despite investing hours into the process, he consistently faces difficulties, describing the service as disgraceful. Rob expresses his concern, highlighting the urgent need for improvement in procedures. He recounts instances where he has come dangerously close to missing flights despite being well ahead of schedule.

In conclusion, Rob Gearing advocates for making shooting more accessible to young people in the UK. He believes that a more connected and aligned shooting community could address challenges and create a more welcoming environment for enthusiasts. Rob’s experiences and perspectives provide insight into both the joys and hurdles within the world of shooting.