The recent hosting of the State Black Powder Championship at Dubbo Pistol Club highlighted the appeal of target shooting as a sport for locals with an interest in hand-held firearms, Dubbo Deputy Mayor Cr Phillip Toynton said.

The old-style gun competition drew dozens of competitors from around NSW using a variety of antique pistols in target distances involving 50-metre, 25-metre, and international matches.

The firearms ranged from muzzle-loading single-shot replica pistols, to cap-and-ball revolvers, in a sport very much for old-style firearm aficionados, Cr Tonyton revealed in a Facebook post on the event.

Cr Tonyton -- a Shooters, Fishers and Farmers party representative on Dubbo Regional Council -- presented the award trophies and medallions on the day.

“I had the privilege of attending the State Black Powder Championship on Sunday to present the awards to the best shots in NSW," Cr Tonyton enthused.

“It was a great turnout with participants from all over the state and a great mix of young and seniors,” he added in his post.

The competition, he believes, highlights the under-appreciated pleasure of competitive target shooting as a sport and social pastime.

“This is what it's all about, a relaxed atmosphere of great people.

“I encourage anyone interested in a non-contact sport, open all year, doesn't need heavy-lifting or running, to give target pistol shooting a go,” Cr Toynton enthused.

He said that it’s a sport that anyone with a keen eye and a steady hand can have a go at.

“Interested? Head on out to your local pistol club, who will be more than happy to help you on your way to a great sport that’s open and inclusive,” Cr Tonyton said.

“Tell ’em Phil sent you!”