About Us

Back in 1967, William K. Theis, of Williamsport, Pa., was passionate about long range deer hunting, but craved more targets and more shooting. So he thought, “Why not start a long range shooting club?” After bouncing the idea off of fellow long range deer hunters, George H. Reeder and David H. Troxell, both also from Williamsport, Pa., they collaborated to bring their vision to life.

On October 1, 1967, they held their very first 1000 yard shooting match. Using portable 3-legged benches set up at the Carl U. Lynn farm, local shooters and hunters took aim at 2 X 4 frame targets located at neighboring Merlin Waltz farm, at a measured distance of just over 1000 yards in a two man relay. This marked the birth of the 1000 yard benchrest club.

Named by David H. Troxell, and made official by vote, the club was then named: “The Original Pennsylvania 1000 Yard Benchrest Club Inc.”

Click the button below to read Dave Troxell’s article on the history of Original Pennsylvania 1000 Yards Benchrest Club, Inc. and the beginning of 1000 yard shooting.