Between 1997 and 1999, when Vera was first learning the Bianchi format, in addition to her participation in the Steel Challenge Championships, she shot 85,000 rounds each year.
Currently, Vera shoots approximately 40,000 to 50,000 rounds of ammunition every year from training and various competitions. Vera practices under the sun or in the rain with temperature ranges from 27 degrees to 110 degrees Fahrenheit for many hours each day. She starts training two to three months before each major championship and used to spend between five to eight hours at the shooting range each day, totaling approximately 2 weeks in a month, depending on what and how she needs to practice for the matches. Recently, the total days that Vera spends on practice in a year is about 60 to 70 days.
Equipment
Vera mostly shoots a 1911 government model in frame and slide (like a typical .45 calibre gun) in a .38 super calibre. A .38 super is a competitive calibre for its versatility because the bullet can be custom loaded to the power factor that is required by the shooting competition. It can carry a load up to a major power factor that is hotter than the average .45 calibre factory ammo, or loaded down to nearly like that of a 9mm. Vera’s ammunition power factor for the Bianchi Cup is 134. Bianchi Cup competition rules require a power factor of no less than 120. Vera’s competition pistols are often sensitive and tempermental with a relatively short peak performance life span. The pistols weigh approximately 5 lbs. when loaded with bullets. Vera shoots with custom-built race guns with technologically advanced accessories. The pistols have metal wings protruding out from both sides of the frame, with a shroud over the slide and with an apparatus for lead adjustments for moving targets, extended grip with an extra large magazine well, an aimport electronic scope with elevation and windage adjustment knobs.
- Mover mount unit by Warren Moore of Kansas, U.S.A.
- MSA Sordin earmuffs and ear plugs.
- Bianchi black leather belts and holster.
- Pistols are custom built by Don Golembieski of Arizona, U.S.A. and by Garth Peterson of Nowlin’s Custom Guns of Oklahoma, U.S.A.
- Vera is currently sponsored by Vihta Vouri and Lapau of Kaltron Pettibone, and Briley of Texas, U.S.A.
- The ammunition is commercially reloaded by Load-X Co. in Santa Rosa, California, U.S.A.
- Electronic scopes by Aimport of Sweden.
- 1911 model frame and slide by Nowlin and Caspian (manufacturers) of U.S.A.
Specs on ammo
4.6 grn of Vihta Vouri N320
Hornady 115grn XTPHP bullets
Montana Gold 121 grn bullets
Federal small pistol primers
Starline brass cases