Moons Out 2026: Night Vision Rifle Match Registration Opens

Another year, another chance to prove you can run a rifle in the dark. Moons Out 2026 is on the horizon, and if you're serious about your night vision skills, this is the event you need to be at. Forget your daytime PRS competitions; this is where the real tests begin.

The folks at Nocturne Industries are sponsoring this year's event, and they’re bringing the high-speed, effective night vision gear to match. While we appreciate the vintage aesthetic of older optics, let’s be honest – it's time to step up your game. This isn’t your grandfather’s hunting rig.

Moons Out isn't just another rifle match thrown together with some night vision bolted on. It’s a purpose-built challenge, designed to push your skills and your gear. Located at the Echo Valley Training Center in West Virginia (near Winchester, Virginia – easy access from Dallasos International Airport), the event runs from March 6th to 8th, 2026. Registration opens December 1st at 6:00 AM MST on Practiscore – set an alarm.

What to Expect:

• Action Rifle Format: One rifle only.
• 10 Stages: Five stages each night.
• Part Times: Expect 3-4 minute part times – keep the pace moving.
• Night Vision Focused: Stages are designed to test your NODs capabilities, from close-quarters identification to long-range target acquisition.
• Medical & Vehicular Stages: Don't be surprised to find yourself administering aid under the cloak of darkness or shooting from a moving vehicle.
• Iron Sight Challenge: They've got a few surprises up their sleeves, including a stage that will force you to improvise with iron sights.

The Range Masters and their crew put in serious work developing and testing these stages, ensuring smooth operation and reliable props. They aren’t just stringing targets and calling it a day. This is a meticulously crafted experience.

Gear Considerations:

• Temperature: March in West Virginia can be brutal. Pack for cold, wet, and potentially snowy conditions.
• Accommodation: Camping is available, but be prepared for the elements. Hotels and Airbnbs in Winchester are a comfortable alternative.
• Thermal Division: This year marks the debut of an official thermal division thanks to heated targets. If you’ve been kicking around the idea of a thermal scope, now’s the time to deploy it.

This match isn't just about shooting; it’s about mastering a skillset. It's about operating effectively in an environment where information is scarce and mistakes are costly. It's about pushing yourself and your gear beyond your comfort zone. It's the kind of experience that separates the casual shooter from the capable operator.

Don’t be one of those guys complaining about “assault weapons bans” while you’re struggling to see the target. Get out there, train, and prove you’re prepared.

Ready to elevate your game?

• Find a Range Master near you: Sharpen your skills under the guidance of a certified instructor.
• List your custom build on the marketplace: Show off your work and connect with fellow enthusiasts.
• Claim a creator profile: Share your expertise and contribute to the community.
• Take a long-range class: Expand your capabilities and precision.

This isn't a passive community. This is a movement. Join it.