Manu Bhaker optimistic on new pistol as Indian shooting gears up for big 2026 season

Manu Bhaker , aiming for a stronger 2026 season after a relatively subdued 2025, is confident of climbing back to the podium with renewed focus under coach Jaspal Rana . The double Olympic medallist, who made history at Paris 2024 by winning two medals, a bronze in the women’s 10m air pistol and another in the 10m air pistol mixed team event, will also be using the new Pardini sport pistol , which she says offers better balance and improved stability for her 25m events. The latest model features ergonomic grips, lightweight reinforced magazines, and enhanced precision, designed to help shooters maintain steadier aim and consistency during both precision and rapid-fire stages.

“2025 was a year of full circle. I had some very good matches and was in decent form, but podium finishes were comparatively fewer. I’m hopeful that this year will be better,” Bhaker said. She will continue using her familiar 10m pistol in events she has competed in since 2017, emphasizing that while upgraded equipment helps, results ultimately depend on the athlete’s skill and preparation.

For Indian shooters, 2026 promises a busy international calendar as they prepare for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics . Key events include the Asian Rifle and Pistol Championship in New Delhi from February 2 to 14, where over 300 shooters from 17 countries will compete, and the Asian Games in Japan , offering medals and Olympic quota opportunities. Several ISSF World Cup legs throughout the year will provide exposure and ranking points, while domestic competitions like the Shooting League of India will showcase top talent across rifle, pistol, and shotgun disciplines.

India’s top shooters have been actively competing both at home and abroad. Besides Bhaker, Suruchi Singh and Esha Singh have consistently excelled in 10m and 25m pistol events, winning multiple medals on the ISSF World Cup circuit. Anish Bhanwala has performed strongly in rapid-fire pistol events, while rifle shooters such as Swapnil Kusale, Elavenil Valarivan, Sift Kaur Samra, Arjun Babuta, and Aishwary Pratap Singh Tomar have regularly represented India at World Cups and World Championships. Junior shooters have also performed well at the ISSF Junior World Cup, demonstrating the depth of emerging talent.

Bhaker welcomed the rise of young competitors, calling it healthy for the sport. “Indian shooting has grown immensely. Comparing the 2016 and 2025 Nationals, the difference is clear. At this point, my main competition is myself, focusing on improving my own game,” she said. She also expressed appreciation for growing fan support since her Olympic success, noting that criticism or praise no longer affects her as it once did.

The latest Pardini 25m sport pistols only became available around 2025. Strict import regulations, high costs, and the need for athletes to adapt to new grips and balance meant India couldn’t use them earlier. With proper testing and coaching adjustments, shooters like Bhaker are now incorporating the upgraded pistols to gain even slight improvements in precision and stability.

With two marquee events, the Asian Championship and the Asian Games, just ahead, Indian shooters are focused on fine-tuning their form and strategy. These competitions will also help assess technical strengths and identify areas for improvement. For Bhaker and her teammates, the ultimate target remains Los Angeles 2028, but the next few months will be crucial for building confidence, rankings, and securing Olympic quota opportunities.

“Healthy competition, continuous improvement, and regular exposure to global tournaments will define our success this year,” Bhaker said, reflecting the optimism and determination shared across India’s shooting squad. Indian shooting enters a pivotal 2026 season with top athletes regularly competing at home and abroad, the latest Pardini pistols enhancing precision and balance, and major events like the Asian Championship and Asian Games shaping the road to Los Angeles 2028.