AASP/NJ Past President Jeff McDowell Excels with the North South Skirmish Association

Recently, McDowell came in fifth place shooting an 1858 Enfield rifle-musket in a 100-yard competition. Awards are given to the top 10 marksmen in these competitions; McDowell placed fifth in a contest of 400 competitors. N-SSA commemorates the heroism of the men and women of both sides of the Civil War through friendly, competitive shooting in a family-oriented atmosphere that celebrates the particular time period.

When not busy helping to lead AASP/NJ as past president, running a successful collision repair business or playing an integral role in making the NORTHEAST® Automotive Services Show what it is today, McDowell has become quite the experienced shooter with black powder firearms and artillery such as muskets, mortars and even cannons.

A history buff and former member of the military with firearm experience, McDowell easily fell in with N-SSA. It all started when he accompanied a friend to an event many years ago. He hasn’t stopped going for the past 37 years.

“We aren’t reenactors; we don’t run around in the woods chasing each other. We shoot specifically for competition and for score. We shoot pistols, cannons…anything that was general issue during the Civil War.”

When asked how one prepares for such a competition, McDowell simply replied, “You have to shoot. Your skill level goes up and down depending on how much you practice.”

New Jersey shooting ranges won’t allow black powder firearms, so McDowell goes out of state for practice. N-SSA’s two annual national competitions are held at their range in Winchester, VA.

N-SSA events go beyond the thrill of the competition. McDowell enjoys the camaraderie that comes from campfires and community meals. It’s a full weekend of parades, lectures and other social activities designed to involve everyone. Uniform and period dress competitions also involve the ladies and even little children.

Speaking of dress, everyone who takes part wears the uniforms of the particular unit they represent. In McDowell’s case, he is part of the First Tennessee Infantry regiment.

“We consider it to be a living history. We are honoring the past.”