A native of Goliad, Texas, 21-year-old trapshooter Matthew Kutz got his start in clay target competition through the 4-H program. Since then, he’s garnered four medals in international trap and is a three-time U.S. Junior National Team member. Learn what he keeps in his range bag.
What are your first memories of handling a firearm?
I first picked up a firearm when I was in the third grade. It was a Remington 11–87 semi-automatic shotgun.
Tell us how you began in competition shooting.
I first started competing in shotgun sports in the third grade through the 4-H program. My parents wanted me to get involved with a local club, so we chose the shotgun team in my town. Fast forward 11 years, and I found my path in USA Shooting. I am blessed to be a member of Team USA.
Please share with us some of your major shooting accomplishments.
My major accomplishments include winning the 2023 ISSF Junior World Cup in Suhl, Germany, and receiving three other medals over the course of six World Cups and World Championships. I’m also a two-time National Team member and a three-time Junior National Team member.
What firearms and other gear do you use for competition?
For my shotgun, I shoot a Perazzi MX8 12-gauge over-under. I also use Fiocchi ammunition, Pilla glasses, Muller chokes, a Shoot the Moon vest and Kick EEZ buttpad. Cole Gunsmithing and Clay Shooters Supply are big supporters. I really like my barrel stickers that highlight some of my sponsors. It’s a fun way to decorate your gun and recognize who supports you.
Tell us about your range bag and what you carry in it besides your firearms.
My range bag is a Nike Air Max Clay Shooters Supply Edition. I keep all my shooting gear in it, and I love how it has many different compartments, as well as how durable it has been over the three years that I’ve used it. Additionally, when traveling overseas, I carry my glasses, vest, medicine and a folder with important travel papers in my range bag.
What do you do in your free time?
In my free time, I love hanging out with friends, playing pickleball, attending social events at my college and playing video games.
What would you tell someone interested in finding out more about your sport?
For anyone who is interested in finding out more about Olympic Trap, I suggest visiting the USA Shooting website at usashooting.org. Find a local or national event, attend the event and start your process of creating dreams.
Any tips for the new shooter?
Keep at it. There will be many occasions where you will be discouraged and want to give up, but just know that everything is worth it in the end.
Anything you would like to add?
I am so blessed and fortunate to be in the position that I am with this sport. It really has changed my life, and I am forever grateful for the opportunities USA Shooting provides.
Follow Matthew Kutz on Instagram: @matthew.kutz.
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