Gun Culture U.S.A.Photographer Matt Slaby explores America's fascination with

firearms

By Matt Slaby (Time Magazine)

ArmyPaintball participants wait at a three-day event in Agate, Colorado.

HobbyBob Dogget, a Vietnam Veteran, is a competitive sniper rifle shooter.

StylishA pink handgun is one of many options available at the Family Shooting Center in Cherry Creek State Park.

ToysSouvenir guns are sold in Buckskin, a recreated Wild West town that has served as backdrop in several Hollywood movies.

First TimeA Denver four-year-old plays with a new Indiana Jones gun in his backyard.

PropPerformers at Colorado's famed Casa Bonita, a Mexican-themed restaurant, prepare for a staged gunfight as part of the restaurant's hourly entertainment.

Shooting ClubGun enthusiasts gather at the Rocky Mountain Fifty Caliber Shooting Association Machine Gun Shoot, in Cheyenne Wells. The event allows participants to shoot at remote-controlled flying objects, and practice with large-caliber weapons.

NamAt the Shoot Association event, twins Sam and Dan Steinke of Culbertson, Nebraska have outfitted themselves in Vietnam-era uniforms complete with authentic M16 A1 rifles.

WW2Ted Hutton is a World War II re-enactor.

Machine Gunner"The rapid fire guys reminded me of bad photographers," writes Slaby. "The guys who never bother to look at what they're shooting, just pointing and squeezing. They call it spray and pray, just like photographers do."

Targets In addition to merchandise, the Family Shooting Center in Cherry Creek State Park offers a variety of shooting experiences, classes, and private instruction.

MarkswomanChris Morrison is one of approximately 40 recipients of the NRA's Triple Distinguished Expert ranking, a distinction which requires the demonstration of expertise in shotgun, pistol, and rifle.

TrophiesModel Megan Holmberg poses in her father's home in Lakewood.

SuccessTwo mule deer hunters haul their prey near Springfield.

VigilantA paintball warrior stands guard at the event in Agate. 450 people participated in the three-day event, popular for its ultra-realistic scenarios.