Andrew 'Andy' Duffy: A Shooter, Mentor, and Friend

It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of Andrew Duffy's passing. A true titan in UK shooting sports, Andy was a dedicated competitor, a respected official, and a generous instructor whose enthusiasm touched every discipline he pursued. 

Of Scottish parents Andrew Duffy was born in Dulwich in May 1958

Andrew’s unique style and passion for shooting, whether with a handgun, shotgun, or rifle, were clear for all to see. His involvement in the sport spans several decades, covering diverse roles and competitions.

An Early Career in Competition

• Handgun Shooting: Andy’s journey began in the handgun days, where his eclectic choice of guns and lively running commentary on any stage showed his one-of-a-kind approach. He was a long-standing member of the Metropolitan Police Shooting Club, "The Blue Team," and a formidable competitor for Police Sport UK (PSUK), notably placing runner-up in the PSUK Championship in 2019.

• Long-Range and International Success: He also excelled in long-range rifle shooting, competing for Great Britain in F-Class. A highlight was his participation in the 2009 World F-Class Championships, where he won a large NRA Silver Medal as part of the Great Britain team. He was a fixture at historical and rapid-fire events at Bisley, attending various NRA meetings from as early as 2008.

Leading the Target Shotgun Revolution

• NRA Discipline Development: Andy was instrumental in the formal development of Target Shotgun in the UK. Around 2010, he was appointed as the Target Shotgun representative to the National Rifle Association (NRA) Shooting Committee, helping to shape the rules and competitions for the new discipline.

• NTSA Chairman: A founding member in 2012 of the National Target Shotgun Association (NTSA), Andy served as its Chairman for many years. He was affectionately known as a guru on all things shotgun and reloading, driving the sport forward from the ground up.

• Scottish Champion (2016): He was a champion in his own right, notably winning the overall title at the Scottish Target Shotgun Championships in 2016, the same year he achieved the top-tier IPSC Grandmaster classification.

The Official and The Mentor

• Match Official: A devoted member of the UKPSA NROI, Andy was a Chief Range Officer for major events, including the significant World Shoot Ten at Bisley. He was a constant and reliable presence on the range at events, often handling the technical aspects and chronograph testing. Andy was also a Range Officer for the NRA and the NTSA.

• Instruction and Club Support: As instructors and respected members of many clubs, Andy, alongside Vanessa, introduced hundreds of newcomers to the sport. He was incredibly generous with his time and knowledge, actively supporting the development of clubs such as Metropolitan Police Shooting Club, Galloway Small Arms Club, Recoil Scotland, and Reiver Sporting Club. 

• Competition Captain: Andy was the Team Manager for the Ladies Shotgun team that won three European Team Championships and the first World team Championships. Making him the most successful team manager the UKPSA.

He exhibited tireless support for many aspects of the Sport over the years, the number of us that will miss him is a testament to his commitment to the community. Andy collected historic Firearms and was a leading member of the Historical Breechloading Small arms Association (HBSA).  Outside of shooting, Andy was Master of Arms and Keeper of the Records for clan MacDhubhsith and collected model railway engines, oil lamps and many other things.

Our deepest sympathies go out to his wife, Vanessa.