SPORTING SHOOTERS ASSOCIATION

Transcription

1 WESTERN AUSTRALIA Scoped 3 Positional / Field Rifle / NRA and Air Rifle SPORTING SHOOTERS ASSOCIATION OF AUSTRALIA WA INC. Sporting Shooters Association of Australia WA Inc. Scoped Target Rifle Shooting 1 Scoped Target Rifle Shooting Matthew Boots

2 FOR SCOPED TARGET RIFLE SHOOTING Produced for Western Australia s SSAA Scoped 3 Positional, Field Rifle, NRA & Air Rifle Discipline, SSAA (WA) Inc. By Matthew Boots Sporting Shooters Association of Australia WA Inc. Scoped Target Rifle Shooting 2

3 Contents 1. Introduction 4 2. Equipment Costs 5 3. Breathing 6 How Breathing affects the Body & the Shot 6 How much air should be in the lungs when breath is being held? 7 Lungs Half Full 7 Handy Tips 8 4. Trigger Control 9 Finger Position on the Trigger 9 Types of Trigger 9 Trigger Control & Follow Through 10 Handy Tip Sights 11 Optical Sights 11 Metallic (Iron) Sights How to Fire the Shot Reading the Wind 14 Factors That Affect Shot Placement Scoped 3 Positional, Field Rifle, NRA & Air Rifle 16 Scoped 3 Positional 16 Prone 18 Standing 23 Sitting/Kneeling 24 Field Rifle 25 Rapid Fire 27 Offhand 29 Standing Post Rest 30 Sitting Post Rest Range Commands 32 Scoped 3 Positional 32 Field Rifle Rapid Fire 33 Field Rifle Slow Fire 34 Scoped Air Rifle Competition 35 NRA Competition Small-bore Target Rifle New Rifles Contact List 42 Sporting Shooters Association of Australia WA Inc. Scoped Target Rifle Shooting 3

4 INTRODUCTION For many shooters, competition in the Field Rifle Discipline (which incorporates Scoped 3 Positional, Field Rifle, NRA & Air Rifle) takes place at a local or club level. Most don t even consider competing at a State level and very few make the trip to a National event with only the elite being selected to compete at International events. Most don t even realise that there is the opportunity to represent SSAA and Australia at events outside of their own country. SSAA Scoped 3-Positional & Field Rifle have been around since 1970, Air Rifle was added in 2006 and finally the NRA 3x40 in These are the official years when Hall of Fame points started to be kept and the existing National Championships turned into a seven gun event. There was lots of debate and anger at the time and the Field Rifle Discipline suffered for a little while but is now on the up again. Strength at State and National events needs to rise in order for competitors to get the chance to compete at international levels and for funding of the discipline. At a National level, Field Rifle has its own fund which enables the National Champions Jacket to be purchased and also for International Team funding above what SSAA funds. The discipline adds to this fund via a contribution from the annual National Championships and also the Postal Competitions. At this point, Western Australia does not have a Discipline Fund that it can draw on to help competitors, however, SSAA(WA) Inc. does assist Western Australian Competitors who make the WA Team to compete at the National Championships and also those WA Competitors that are selected for the International Team. In order to make the transition from beginner to elite and all levels in between you must realise that it is possible but will take time, practice and mental toughness and also funding for the various pieces of equipment that are needed. It is possible to get sponsorship from various places but this should not be relied upon, instead be prepared for the fact that it will cost you a fair bit to get to the top but it s spread out over a period of time. Physical fitness, balance, mental preparedness and attitude are the major parts which will get you to where you want to be. Sporting Shooters Association of Australia WA Inc. Scoped Target Rifle Shooting 4

5 EQUIPMENT The following are approximate costs; you may be able to find things a bit cheaper if you look around a bit. Rimfire Rifle - $500 - $3500, will get you a CZ or 1416 Anschutz with scope to a match 54 Anschutz which is the top of the line Anschutz or a top line Walther. Scope - $200 - $1000 +, most of the time your rifle will come with a scope if purchased second hand otherwise you can pick up a decent scope for $ or an elite scope for $ Positional Jacket - $ , a jacket will keep you a lot steadier in 3-Positional competitions and enable your scores to jump by 10 points or more..177 Air Rifle - $200 + for standard break barrel or lever sporter rifles or ~ $ for pneumatic world class rifles. NRA Small-bore.22 - $2500 +, these are single shot world class rifles, however, you can modify your standard 3P/Field Rifle to shoot this event at a lower level. Centrefire Rifle - You should be well and truly hooked and if you can afford it you re better off going for a good Centrefire rifle which will cost around the $3000 mark. Otherwise you can get them for cheaper at around $900. Best ones for our competition are anything from.222 6mm, it is pointless getting a hornet unless you re a junior or don t have the funds at this stage. Small-bore gear - This is for the higher levels of Air Rifle and NRA Small-bore Competition, you will need most of these items to be competitive at the elite level within Australia and also International levels. $900 - $5000, depending on what style you go for. $700 - $1500 will give you a good starting point so that you can at least see if this is the competition for you. The rifle and scope will also be useful right up until almost the elite stage i.e. Field Rifle competition from C grade to A grade or Scoped 3-Positional competition from C grade to A or AA grade. With a 3P jacket you should be able to reach the top grade AAA in Scoped 3-Positional competition. Be sure that you have a trigger that is light enough so that you don t pull your shots. All instructions in this book are for a right handed shooter, if you are a left handed shooter then just reverse the instructions i.e. where it says left foot use right foot etc. Instructions are based on movement from left to right hand targets or a U shape pattern where there are four targets i.e. 3 Positional. Sporting Shooters Association of Australia WA Inc. Scoped Target Rifle Shooting 5

6 BREATHING Breathing is the most natural thing for a person to do and each person usually breaths without any conscious thought. The human body also adapts the way it breathes to suit different situations. For example breathing becomes fast and deep when the body is physically exerting itself and is slow and shallow when at rest. Breathing will unconsciously be changed to match each activity the body engages in. However some activities require that breathing is paused for a few moments, this might be because the person is unable to breath due to location, swimming underwater perhaps, or because breathing prevents the person from being perfectly still for a short period of time. The need to be motionless in the final moments of aiming and firing a shot requires a conscious control of breathing by the shooter. How breathing affects the body and the shot How much air should be in the lungs when breath is being held? Lungs half full Handy tips for breathing How breathing affects the body and the shot When a person breathes their chest expands and if they are lying flat on their stomach each breath taken raises the body up off the ground a little bit. If the person lying down is holding a rifle the breathing motion will be transferred to the rifle and the task of aiming precisely is made a lot more difficult with a moving rifle. This is why, for a few seconds, whilst aiming and firing a shot the shooter must hold their breath. To minimise the movement in the rifle when breathing the shooter should raise the right knee (for a right handed shooter) as this has the effect of raising the diaphragm allowing for expansion and contraction of the lungs without the body lifting significantly up and down. Important Do not hold a breath for too long, after approx 5 seconds the oxygen levels in the blood start to reduce which will have an immediate effect on the shooters vision. If a breath is held in the lungs for too long then physiological affects begin to occur as the level of Oxygen in the lungs becomes insufficient to meet the needs of the body. These affects will impact the ability of the shooter to accurately focus on the rifle sights and the target. Sporting Shooters Association of Australia WA Inc. Scoped Target Rifle Shooting 6

7 How much air should be in the lungs when breath is being held? The commonly used phrase for the amount of air a person should hold in their lungs whilst taking a shot is to have the lungs half full. The reason why holding a breath with either full or empty lungs is not a good idea can be demonstrated in a simple exercise: (do not do this exercise within 30 minutes before shooting because it will have a negative impact on aiming.) The shooter should take a deep breath and hold it for about 20 seconds. At the end of this time they should think about the physical and mental experience they have just had. Common experiences are: The mind is thinking about the breath being held for as long as possible and this distracts from other tasks such as aiming. The body experiences discomfort as the diaphragm attempts to push upwards and expel the air from the lungs this causes a straining sensation at the base of the lungs. After the person has released the breath they immediately take another deep breath to help raise the oxygen levels in the blood and the body s whole focus for a few seconds is on breathing. In the next part of the exercise the shooter should breathe all the way out, empty the lungs, and then stay like this for about 20 seconds. The common effects of this are very similar to holding a full breath as done previously The body will try to breathe in thus forcing the person to focus on not breathing this makes it difficult for the mind to focus on anything else Discomfort as the diaphragm tries to draw breath into the lungs As soon as the person is allowed to breathe again the body s main focus is getting air into the lungs and expelling the build up of CO 2 in the blood. The exercise just described shows the physical effects of holding too much or too little breath in the lungs. There is an additional affect which was not shown by the exercise but also impacts the shooter. A simple task can take a person 15 seconds to complete. If the same person is asked to complete the same task but whilst holding their breath they will try to complete the task more quickly and this will likely cause mistakes to be made. When firing a shot the shooter needs to remain focused and relaxed throughout, anything that causes them to rush or lose focus will prevent the shot from being as good as it could be. Lungs half full There are two difficulties with trying to get the lungs half full; one is that the human body does not have a gauge which shows how full the lungs are so there is no easy way to tell if the lungs are 1/3, ½, 3/5 full or any other amount. The other difficulty is that each shot taken should be with the same amount of air in the lungs, and whilst not being able to tell how much air is in the lungs even once, trying to get the same unknown volume of air exactly right for every shot appears to be impossible. Fortunately shooters have a visible indicator to show how full the lungs are and it is a fairly accurate measure. The indicator is the sight picture. Sporting Shooters Association of Australia WA Inc. Scoped Target Rifle Shooting 7

8 When the supported rifle is aiming directly at the target, breathing will have a visible affect on the sight picture. To be able to see the effect of breathing it is important that the shooter is lying comfortably behind the rifle and is naturally pointing at the target. The target should appear in roughly the centre of the foresight or scope without the shooter having to physically strain to hold the rifle in position. As each breath is taken the rifle will pivot around the point at which it is supported by the stand/sandbag, this pivoting can be seen as the sight picture will appear to move up and down in relation to the target. As the lungs fill with air, the butt of the rifle, which is touching the shoulder, will rise as the body rises off the ground. This causes the muzzle to angle down and the sight picture will be aiming low on the target. Likewise as the lungs empty the butt of the rifle will drop causing the rifle to angle upwards and the sight picture will be aiming high on the target. When the sight picture changes with each breath the point at which the target is in the centre of the foresight indicates when the lungs are half full. If the general body position does not move between shots then the shooter has a visual gauge of how full the lungs are for every shot they take. Handy Tips 1. If the target is in the centre of the foresight when the lungs are either full or empty the body position should be moved forward or backward so that the target is in the centre of the foresight or scope midway between full and empty lungs. 2. It s better to fire the shot after breathing all the way in and half way out. If the breath is held whilst breathing in, the body will have less oxygen in the blood and the duration the shooter is able to hold their breath will be reduced. Sporting Shooters Association of Australia WA Inc. Scoped Target Rifle Shooting 8

9 TRIGGER CONTROL The trigger should be squeezed when the shooter is happy that the sight picture is correct and the breath is being held with lungs half full. Squeezing the trigger may only take a couple of seconds but it can have a large affect on where the shot hits the target and is one of the four core skills for rifle shooting. Finger position on the trigger Although it may seem like a very small thing, the position of the index finger on the trigger can make the rifle move and cause a shot to miss as the trigger is squeezed. A finger has a different sensitivity in each location, some parts of it are better at feeling touch than others. The pad of the finger is quite sensitive whereas the area around the first joint is less sensitive. Although it is preferable to have the most sensitive part of the finger in contact with the trigger it will also depend on how stiff the trigger is along with the position of the hand and finger in relation to the rifle and trigger. A very sensitive trigger can be easily squeezed with the tip of a finger, but a stiff trigger will need a greater force to move it and this will be easier if the trigger is closer to the first joint. Types of trigger There are two common types of trigger found on Small-bore target rifles. Single stage the pressure applied to the trigger immediately applied to the firing pin release mechanism Two stage there is slack in the trigger movement where the trigger can be moved a few millimetres (sometimes more) before any pressure is applied to the firing pin mechanism. The trigger can be moved within this first stage without any affect on the firing pin and it is the second stage where the pressure on the trigger is transferred to the firing pin. Modern rifles tend to use two stage triggers with a sophisticated mechanism of interconnected springs to connect the movement of the trigger into the release of the firing pin. These mechanisms are usually mechanical with the multiple spring systems used to translate small forces on the trigger into large forces in the firing pin, and it is possible to adjust the trigger sensitivity to suit the user. In recent years some electrically controlled firing mechanisms have been created, however the overall principle remains the same whichever type is used. Sporting Shooters Association of Australia WA Inc. Scoped Target Rifle Shooting 9

10 The rifles often available to beginners will probably, as previously stated, be older models. These rifles are unlikely to have a hair trigger or match trigger as found on newer rifles, instead the trigger may feel heavy and will require greater force to squeeze than the lighter match trigger. It is important to get used to the type of trigger on the rifle being used because without understanding the different stages of trigger release the shooter will not be able to release the shot at the correct moment. Trigger Control and follow through Trigger control is the end to end process of squeezing the trigger to fire a shot. The different trigger types will each require a different trigger action but whatever the type the action should always be smooth. In this case smooth does not mean slow, it means a single steady squeeze with a finger that is relaxed. The hand on the pistol grip should not be gripping tightly and should not be used to force the rifle to point in the correct direction because accurate shots will be less likely. Handy Tip Try dry firing a few times to get used to the trigger pressure on a rifle before firing live rounds. Cock the rifle and gently squeeze the trigger (insert a plastic dry fire plug to prevent damage to the firing pin). The shooter should be trying to feel if there is one or two in the trigger. New shooters often miss the first stage of a 2 stage trigger because they are not aware of its existence or they are unused to applying such a light pressure with the tip of a finger. Asking a more experienced shooter can help quickly identify the trigger type being used. Once the shot has been fired it is important to keep the trigger squeezed for a short period before releasing it. This is called the follow through. If the trigger is released immediately as the shot is fired then the motion of release could move the rifle a very small amount, this can alter the aim and cause the shot to not hit the centre of the target. A common mistake for beginners is to squeeze the trigger too fast and too hard followed by immediately releasing the trigger which is often accompanied by a movement of the head away from the sights. The trigger does not have to be squeezed very hard, only enough pressure should be applied to fire the shot. The follow through does not require the trigger to be squeezed as far back as it will move, all that is required is to maintain enough pressure so that it stays in the same position for a couple of seconds. If smooth consistent trigger control is applied with a follow through then a common cause of shots going wide can be greatly reduced. Sporting Shooters Association of Australia WA Inc. Scoped Target Rifle Shooting 10

11 SIGHTS Optical Sights The most important parts of the rifle scope are the lenses. The larger lens is the objective lens. The objective lens is on the end of the scope farthest from the rifle's stock. Its purpose is to transmit light back to the ocular lens, which is the lens closest to your eye. The part of the scope that houses the objective lens is the objective bell, while the section containing the ocular lens is the eyepiece. Most rifle scope lenses are waterproof and fog-proof. Rifle scopes work like telescopes. Light passing through the objective lens focuses on a point inside the scope. The ocular lens magnifies the light from the focal point. When you look through a scope, the image you see is that light. Rifle scopes also have a reticle, also known as a crosshair. The purpose for these markers is to show the shooter exactly where the shot will go once he or she pulls the trigger. Some scopes have multiple settings that allow you to view targets at different magnifications. For example, a scope might allow you to view targets from 3x to 9x your normal vision. That means if you set your scope to 3x magnification, any object you view through the scope will appear three times larger than if you looked at it without the use of the scope. These scopes have a feature called a power ring. Turning the power ring changes the magnification setting on the scope. Most manufacturers set their rifle scopes so that they're focused at 100 metres. That means when aiming at an object 100 metres away, the target should be clear. But switching magnification settings can introduce parallax error. With rifle scopes, parallax error is when the aim on a scope changes if the position of the shooter's eye changes. The rifle can remain perfectly still, but by shifting your position it will look like your aim is off target. Parallax error becomes a problem at high magnifications -- most hunters won't ever have to worry about it. Some manufacturers build rifle scopes with adjustable objective lenses that can correct for parallax error. Rifle scopes also have a few controls that allow you to adjust the scope so that it's in alignment with your rifle. The two controls that affect a scope's sight are the windage adjustment and the elevation adjustment. The windage adjustment tweaks the horizontal settings on a scope, while the elevation adjustment changes the vertical settings. Sporting Shooters Association of Australia WA Inc. Scoped Target Rifle Shooting 11

12 The main body of the rifle scope is the tube. There are two main diameter sizes of tubes for rifle scopes: 1- inch tubes and 30-millimeter tubes. It's important to know the diameter of your scope's tube so that you use the correct mounting rings when you attach the scope to your rifle. Metallic (Iron) Sights Iron sights within SSAA are not often used unless you are involved in hunting or your club hosts an iron sight match. The most common form of target iron sights is the circular sight. SSAA shoot an international NRA match which allows the use of these sights and if your aim is for the Olympics then this is the match for you and the way SSAA can help start you off. Notice the circles of the rear sight, the fore sight and the aiming mark are all kept even around the black circle on the target. This is the perfect firing sight picture for iron sights. We will not spend too much time on these as SSAA primarily uses telescopic sights. Iron Sights, sight picture Typical NRA any sight set up for the Standing Position, most often the iron sights are substituted for telescopic sights. More information on these sights and this style of shooting is available later on in the program. SSAA International NRA competitors use a combination of sights for the competitions at Camp Perry, OHIO USA every two years. Sporting Shooters Association of Australia WA Inc. Scoped Target Rifle Shooting 12

13 HOW TO FIRE THE SHOT 1. Get into the correct shooting position for the conditions at hand, and get comfortable. 2. Get your scope dialled in and on target, and get a good sight picture. 3. Pull the butt of the rifle firmly into the shoulder, and hold it there (finger off trigger). Keep the crosshairs of the scope fixed on that specific point on the target. 4. Get your breathing under control, slow and steady. Breathe in deeply, exhale, letting half out and hold or breathe in deeply, exhale then take a half breath in. Only you can judge which is more comfortable. 5. As you keep your mind and your eye focused through the scope on that specific target point; with the middle of the pad of your index finger placed on the "sweet spot" of the trigger, begin to slowly squeeze the trigger straight back without stopping, in one steady and fluid movement. 6 Concentrate on where the cross-hairs are on the target. The shot should feel good! After some practice you will know if a shot feels good or not. 7. As soon as that shot breaks, continue to keep a rear-ward pressure on the trigger and the same grip on the rifle, and same body position as much as you can through the recoil of the rifle. This is called followthrough. The importance of follow through cannot be under estimated. 8. Keep your grip on the rifle, your head position and cheek-weld on the stock; looking through the scope to see your hit on the target. The goal is repeatable consistency, time after time, shot after shot. 9. Practice perfect trigger control by dry-firing drills, under supervision of the licensed carrier of the firearm, in a low lighted room, with no distractions. Also use a "snap-cap" style dummy round to protect the firing pin as you dry fire! Always ensure your firearm is EMPTY and Pointed in a SAFE Direction. Perform 50 repetitions, practice on your technique. Get a feel for your trigger, and burn that feeling into your mind and muscle memory. Look through the scope and know where the cross-hairs are on the target as the shot breaks. Part of calling the shot is being able to see the hit and admitting to yourself if you flinch, or if you jerk the trigger. You must practice to control your body and resist flinching. You must eliminate any and all movement of the rifle as much as possible. As you gain experience you will notice movement decreasing each time you shoot, you will never get rid of all movement but you can control it. When practicing trigger control, the more times you can honestly call the shots, and it is Reflected on the target paper, the Better marksman you will become! The importance of Trigger Control cannot be overstated. The jerking, slapping, incorrect finger position, any side movement on the trigger will show. Your concentration will be on making your breathing, grip, sight picture, trigger squeeze, and follow through flow in unison". The only way to achieve smaller groups is to Practice; and learning how to call your shots. Sporting Shooters Association of Australia WA Inc. Scoped Target Rifle Shooting 13

14 READING THE WIND This can be a little challenging from time to time. Each Range has its different quirks, some have fully enclosed sheds and others just have a roof. This can be a big difference as you will feel the wind more on the Range that just has the roof and may not even feel the wind at all on the Range that is fully enclosed. This is where wind flags come into play and the better you can read them then the better you will shoot. Of course wind flags aren t the only thing that will help you read the wind, smoke from a small bushfire, trees and heat haze can all help out when it comes to reading the wind. The wind closer to you generally has the most effect on the bullet. So it would seem that the flag/s closest to you are most important. This is normally true but not always. If the wind is coming towards you, the flag farthest away will more often show wind changes first. And of course, differing ranges will have their own little quirks. Remember your rifle is sighted in for one particular condition. Wind changes to that condition will determine where your bullet will go. Say the wind is from 9 o clock. You are getting 10 s on the target and you're feeling good. The wind strength increases. The bullet will go right and often a little low (towards 4 o'clock). So should you: Hold a little left and a little high for that condition and just shoot? Probably not unless you have been confidently and successfully working on the concept of aiming off in your training (ask your coach about that concept) Wait?? Yes briefly - maybe the original condition will come back in a few minutes. Best that you just watch the range conditions and wait for a moment to see what happens. Keep busy with good positive thoughts while you are waiting and watching. Change the sights. Should the change seem to be permanent, then use your training knowledge, adjust your sights and fire a very good shot. This will give you valuable information about the wind change. The condition change I gave is a simple one - just a wind strength increase. However, the wind could have stayed the same velocity but shifted direction a little. More than likely it will do both at the same time! If you have watched and waited, and waited, and waited, then don t be afraid to utilise the sights!!!! Based on your knowledge gained in training, you will be confident to make good sight corrections. Yes there are going to be times when the changes are very quick and you miss it - stay sharp and focused. Anger and frustration only compounds the effects of the elements. Don t fall into the classic trap of not shooting because it s too cold or wet or hot. Shoot in all conditions wind, rain and sun and don t whine about it, that won t help. Trust me. Sporting Shooters Association of Australia WA Inc. Scoped Target Rifle Shooting 14

15 Wind Velocity Observation < 5 Kph Hardly felt on face 5 8 Kph Wind lightly felt on face 8 13 Kph Tree leaves in constant motion Kph Wind raises dust and loose paper Kph Small trees sway in the wind Kph Large trees sway in the wind Table 1 Observation method of wind velocity In time you will figure out how much movement is required to keep the shot centre. It is not a good idea to aim off but if you do then further to that it is not a good idea to aim outside the ten ring, however, I have been guilty of the above and sometimes it is fine but other times you could pay dearly. Factors That Affect Shot Placement a) Mechanical accuracy of the firearm. This refers to the accuracy of the firearm and ammunition. A top of the line Rifle will only shoot as good as the ammunition being used and the shooter behind it. b) Mechanical accuracy of the ammunition. This refers to changes in cartridge case, primer, load and projectile mass. Zeroing a Rifle for one type of ammunition (brand, batch, weight of projectile etc.) does not mean that it is zeroed for another type. When ammunition is changed then re-zeroing is usually needed. c) The shooters stability. Knowledge, strength and fitness all play a role in stability. You do not need to be a Body Builder to have strength either, just a few simple exercises will give you what you need to reduce the tremor. If your mind is not on the shot then the shot will be bad and the fitter you are the better at breathing you will be after some practice. The fitter you are the less your heartbeat is, a marathon runner will quite often have a resting heartbeat of 40bpm where the average is around 75bpm. This will have an effect on stability but it s not all there is to it. Temperature and humidity. Air density affects a number of factors including burn speed of the propellant, trajectory of the projectile, expansion or contraction of Rifle components, velocity and mirage. While mirage can be useful in predicting wind, it can also give you a false picture. Rain, hail & snow will affect visibility, your Rifle and/or ammunition may also become wet which can affect chamber pressure. The higher the temperature, the higher the shot will go. Sporting Shooters Association of Australia WA Inc. Scoped Target Rifle Shooting 15

16 SCOPED 3 POSITIONAL, FIELD RIFLE, NRA & AIR RIFLE Scoped 3 Positional Inception: 1970 A precision match which is a bit more target orientated and more testing of the shooter s ability. It contains 3 positions, Prone, Offhand and Sitting/Kneeling. OFFICIAL NATIONAL RULEBOOK #7 Revised Safety: In the interests of safety, all competitors must keep their bodies behind the firing line at all times while shooting is in progress and be subject to the Range Officer's commands. Allowance shall be made for fingers around the posts etc., extending no more than 100mm immediately in front of the posts Course of Fire for 3P Rifles: Shall be 60 rounds for a full match and run in the following order: RIMFIRE CENTREFIRE rounds 100m rounds 100m rounds Sitting or 100m Time allowed to complete each 20 shot position is 30 minutes. Single or magazine loading shall apply. No more than 5 rounds of ammunition are to be loaded into a magazine, if used. One magazine only may be used and must be the magazine submitted with the rifle for weigh in certification. At no time are more than 5 rounds to be loaded into the rifle Definition of Shooting Positions: In describing these positions it is assumed that the competitor is right handed or if left handed, then the reverse applies Prone: The competitor may lie on the surface of the shooting station or use a mat as defined in Section 4.2. The body shall extend on the shooting station with the head towards the target. The rifle shall be supported by both hands and one shoulder only. The cheek may be placed against the rifle in the sighting position. The rifle must not touch or rest against any other point or object. Both forearms and sleeves of the shooter's jacket must be clearly and visibly raised from the surface of the shooting station forward of the elbow. The competitor s forearm may not form an angle of less than 30 degrees from the station on which the elbow rests Standing is defined as: standing erect on both feet without support of any kind for either the rifle or the competitor, with no part of the body or limbs to touch the ground or any other object, except the soles of the boots/shoes Sitting: The competitor can sit on the surface of the shooting station or on a mat as defined in Section 4.2. and is defined as: sitting with no part of the body or limbs to touch any support or object. Sporting Shooters Association of Australia WA Inc. Scoped Target Rifle Shooting 16

17 Kneeling is defined as: kneeling so that the competitor touches the ground only with the sole of the left boot/shoe and the lower part of the right leg, including foot and knee, the buttocks resting on the right foot or heel and the left elbow on the left knee. No other part of the body or limbs is to touch any support or object except that a kneeling roll may be used under the right instep Rifle Butt Position: In all positions the rifle butt is to be held in contact with the shoulder, being defined as that area above the biceps muscle to the collar bone Firing Line: In the interests of safety, all competitors will keep their bodies behind the firing line at all times while shooting is in progress and be subject to the Range Officer's commands. Sporting Shooters Association of Australia WA Inc. Scoped Target Rifle Shooting 17

18 Prone The torso of the shooter should be lying at an angle of degrees from the line of fire. Lying at an angle makes it easier to hold the rifle and it is also easier to position the eye behind the rear sight. Breathing is easier and tension in the neck is reduced. It can sometimes be beneficial to lean the body slightly to the left side as this will improve the range of motion the chest can have whilst breathing. However, doing this will increase the load in the left arm and it will tire more quickly. The left leg of the shooter should extend straight out in line with the body. The foot can point to the left or right, or it can be vertical and resting on the toes. The leg should be relaxed and have no muscle tension. The right leg position can vary depending on the shooter s preference; it can be extended straight or bent at the knee with the knee drawn up towards the torso. If the leg is straight is should be angled to the right with the foot pointing outwards, away from the body. The angle provides lateral stability to the position and can prevent the shooter from rolling to the left or right. Sporting Shooters Association of Australia WA Inc. Scoped Target Rifle Shooting 18

19 More common is for the right leg to be bent at the knee with the knee drawn up towards the torso. The position of the knee and degree of bend is different for each person, but if raised too high the position can become uncomfortable after a short period of time. There are two main positions for the upper body; the high and the low positions. Each has pros and cons and the reader should try both to find which suits them best. Handy tip Wrist watches and belts should be removed prior to shooting. The sling will press against the wrist and if the shooter is wearing a watch the watch could be caught beneath the sling and this is not very comfortable. Likewise lying on a belt buckle can be uncomfortable and cause a distraction to the shooter. The high position Elbows are positioned close to the body, the hand under the rifle stock is relatively close to the body and the chest is raised up off the ground. Sporting Shooters Association of Australia WA Inc. Scoped Target Rifle Shooting 19

20 Advantages of the high position: Breathing is easy as the chest is not on the ground. The eye is looking straight out from the head which reduces the strain on the eye when focusing on the sight picture. Disadvantages of the high position: A lot of pressure is placed on the elbows because they are supporting the weight of the chest, the head and the rifle. The low position The left elbow is placed further forward of the body and the left hand should be further forwards on the stock than for the high position. Moving the left arm forwards will lower the rifle and the chest will be closer to the ground, but the angle between the forearm and the ground must be more than 30 degrees. The right elbow will extend away from the body and be less vertical then in the high position. Advantages of the low position: The low position can be more stable than the high position and the pressure on the elbows is reduced because more of the weight of the chest is supported by the ground and not through the arms. Disadvantages of the low position: The head must be angled down to get the eye behind the rear sight and this angles the eye upwards making it work a little harder to focus on the sights. It can also be more difficult to keep the sling in position high on the upper arm because of the angle of the arm. Whichever position is used the shooter should be both comfortable and stable. Trying to force a position to match one of the photos in this book may cause the position to be incorrect and can even be uncomfortable. Remember, each shooter has a different shape and size and the position they adopt must be the right one for them. Sporting Shooters Association of Australia WA Inc. Scoped Target Rifle Shooting 20

21 Natural Alignment Natural alignment is the direction in which the rifle is aiming when the shooter is in the prone position and their body is completely relaxed. This is simple to describe but difficult to achieve in practice. When looking through the sights the natural instinct is to note where the rifle is pointing and then, using the muscles in the arms and shoulders, adjust the aim so that it points at the centre of the target. This use of muscles can be almost sub conscious and is one of the leading causes of poor group size for shooters who have started to shoot using a jacket and sling. It has the additional side Effect of making the arms tired after a prolonged period of shooting. For a position to be truly naturally aligned, the body must support the rifle so that it points at the centre of the target without any muscular effort. The following exercise will demonstrate the impact of body position on the natural aim of the rifle and should only ever be done before loading the rifle 1. Get into a comfortable prone position with an empty rifle 2. Aim at the target as though about to fire a shot 3. Close eyes and take a couple of breaths 4. Open eyes and do not move the rifle 5. Notice where the rifle is aiming in relation to the target - for example, the aim could be high and right or a little low but in the middle (referring to the left/right alignment) If the rifle is not aiming at the centre of the target after the eyes were closed then the prone position is not naturally aligned. To achieve a natural alignment the alignment of the body should be adjusted, tested (as described above) and adjusted again if necessary until the rifle naturally points at the centre of the target. Adjusting body position It only takes a tiny movement in the rifle position to make a very large change in the position that the bullet strikes the target. Sporting Shooters Association of Australia WA Inc. Scoped Target Rifle Shooting 21

22 Adjusting the alignment of the body is usually achieved by moving the hips, and rotating the body position around the left elbow, which should remain stationary. The reason for keeping the left elbow in the same position is it provides a pivot point for adjusting the aim up or down as well as left or right, whilst also providing a point of reference to gauge how much adjustment has been made. Pivoting the body around the left elbow moves the sight picture in the opposite direction to the direction the body moves. For example, if the natural alignment of the body is aiming to the left of the target the shooter should move their body to the left which will move the rifle aiming line to the right. Likewise, if the natural aim is too low, the body should be moved backwards and this has the effect of pivoting the front of the rifle upwards and thus raising the aim upwards too. The legs should always be moved in the same direction as the hips by enough distance to keep the position correct. When the movement has finished the shooter should have the same shape of position but be pointing in a new direction. Over time the amount the body should be moved to adjust the aim will become more obvious to the shooter and experience will enable them to adjust very small amounts to bring the natural alignment onto the target. At the early stages of learning a shooter could spend a very long time adjusting their position and not fire any shots a balance must be found between adjusting position and practicing shooting remembering that shooting live rounds also practices the other skills such as breathing, aiming and trigger control. Sporting Shooters Association of Australia WA Inc. Scoped Target Rifle Shooting 22

23 Standing 1. Stand with your left foot adjacent to the firing line. Your left shoulder should be pointed towards your target and your right foot placed to maintain this about shoulder width apart, you can widen your stance to achieve better balance. You may angle your foot slightly to achieve a more comfortable position. 2. Bring your rifle to your shoulder and pick up your target through your scope as if you are preparing to take a shot, close your eyes for 5 seconds then open them again, your cross hairs should still be pointed (or wobbling) at the middle of the target. If you have a big wobble, the centre point should be the X ring. If your centre is to the right then shift your right foot forward slightly, if your centre is to the left then move your right foot backwards slightly then repeat until you centre on the X ring. 3. Practice dry firing about 5 shots. 4. Once you re happy with your position try and keep your mind clear and wait for the commence fire command. 5. When shifting from your left target to your right target you will need to confirm your position as you will be centred to the left of the X ring. Move your left foot forward about 3 inches and your right foot backwards about 3 inches; this should line you up with the right target X ring. 6. Repeat step 2. Only dry fire one or two shots. Troubleshooting: Backwards or forwards sway when positioning: This is a balancing issue and usually happens because your feet are on too much of an angle or you are not bringing the rifle to your eye properly. For those with a larger midsection, you will have to lean backwards a bit to balance yourselves properly. Keep your head straight and bring the rifle to your eye, by moving your head to the scope you are shifting your balance forward and creating a sway, this means you have to use your midsection to counter which will create a bigger wobble. For Centrefire competition, this match is now further away than the Rapid Fire match and you may need to adjust your scope for the increase in distance. Sporting Shooters Association of Australia WA Inc. Scoped Target Rifle Shooting 23

24 Sitting / Kneeling NRA Kneeling Position SSAA Sitting Position SSAA Kneeling Position This can be a difficult position to get into for some people; the above pictures show the ideal position. 1. Sit in front of the firing line slightly angled so that your right shoulder is pointed towards the target. Place your rifle so that the mid section of the stock forward of the trigger guard is resting along your elbow joint and your left hand is holding on to your right wrist. Place your elbows on your knees and adjust height so that you are comfortable and looking through the scope directly at the target. For left and right movement, shuffle your feet to the left or right and for height, shuffle your feet forward or backwards. I you are uncomfortable or can t get into that position then you can modify by either a) crossing your ankles so that your knees are pushing against your elbows or b) sit in a cross legged variation e.g. one knee up or both crossed. 2. As if you are preparing to take a shot, close your eyes for 5 seconds then open them again, your cross hairs should still be pointed at the middle of the target. If you have a big wobble, the centre point should be the X ring; however, you should not have a huge wobble. If your centre is to the right then shift your feet slightly to the left, if your centre is to the left then move your feet slightly to the right. Repeat until you centre on the X ring. 3. Practice dry firing about 5 shots. 4. Once you re happy with your position try and keep your mind clear and wait for the commence fire command. 5. When shifting targets you will need to confirm your position as you will be centred either to the left of the X ring if you move left or high if you move downwards. Move your feet to adjust position. It really depends on where you start. Repeat step 2. Only dry fire one or two shots. Sporting Shooters Association of Australia WA Inc. Scoped Target Rifle Shooting 24

25 Field Rifle Inception: 1970 Field Rifle is a match designed around the most commonly utilised hunting positions simulated under rifle range conditions. OFFICIAL NATIONAL RULEBOOK #7 Revised Safety: In the interests of safety, all competitors must keep their bodies behind the firing line at all times while shooting is in progress and be subject to the Range Officer's commands. Allowance shall be made for fingers around the posts etc., extending no more than 100mm immediately in front of the posts. SECTION 5: COURSE OF FIRE FOR CENTREFIRE FIELD RIFLES Shall be 42 rounds, fired in the following order for a full match. 5.1 Rapid Fire: 12 rounds rapid fire in 4 bursts of 3 shots in each burst, to be fired from the standing unsupported position at a distance of 25 metres. Time allowed to fire each burst of 3 shots is to be 15 seconds and no more than 3 rounds of ammunition are to be loaded into a magazine at any time. 5.2 Standing: 10 rounds slow fire, from the standing unsupported position at a distance of 50 metres. 5.3 Standing Post Rest: 10 rounds slow fire, from the standing with a post rest position at 100 metres / yards 5.4 Sitting or Kneeling Post Rest: 10 rounds slow fire, from the sitting or kneeling with a post rest position at 200 metres / yards. 5.5 Single or Magazine loading shall apply in any position. Except as required under Section 5.1, no more than 5 rounds of ammunition are to be loaded into a magazine at any one time, if used. One magazine only may be used and must be the magazine submitted with the rifle for weigh in certification. At no time are more than 5 rounds to be loaded into the rifle. 5.6 Time allowed to fire 10 rounds in the last three positions shall be 15 minutes from the time the "Commence Fire" command has been given by the Range Officer. A 2 minute warning call should be given by the Range Officer at the 13 minute mark of each of the slow fire positions. 5.7 A half match can be conducted (usually for training purposes) with the timing and amount of shots for each position being halved. The target distance is the same as for a full match and competitors will be ineligible for any medal awards. Sporting Shooters Association of Australia WA Inc. Scoped Target Rifle Shooting 25

26 SECTION 6: COURSE OF FIRE FOR RIMFIRE FIELD RIFLES 6.1 Course of Fire for.22lr Rimfire Field Rifles For a full match of Rimfire Field Rifle, the number of rounds, the timing and the positions will be the same as for Centrefire Field Rifles, but the rapid fire and slow fire standing unsupported positions will both be fired at 25 metres. Both post rest positions will be fired at 50 metres. 6.2 Course of Fire for Magnum Rimfire Field Rifles For a full match of Magnum Rimfire Field Rifle, the number of rounds, the timing and the positions will be the same as for Centrefire Field Rifles, but the rapid fire and slow fire standing unsupported positions will both be fired at 25 metres. Standing post rest position will be fired at 50 metres, and sitting post rest position will be fired at 100 metres. SECTION 7: DEFINITION OF SHOOTING POSITIONS In describing these positions it is assumed that the competitor is right handed, or if left handed, then the reverse applies. 7.1 Standing is defined as: standing erect on both feet without support of any kind for either the rifle or the competitor, with no part of the body or limbs to touch the ground or any other object, except the soles of the boots/shoes. 7.2 Standing Post Rest is defined as: standing erect on both feet and placing the left hand or rifle, or both, against a post erected for this purpose, while holding the fore-end of the rifle with the left hand, or resting the fore-end of the rifle on the left wrist or forearm. 7.3 Sitting or Kneeling Post Rest shall be the same as standing post rest, except that the competitor must either sit or kneel down. The manner of sitting or kneeling is left to the competitor's own choice. The competitor will place the left hand or rifle, or both, against the post, and hold the foreend of the rifle in the same manner as described for the standing post rest position. 7.4 Safety: In the interests of safety, all competitors must keep their bodies behind the firing line at all times while shooting is in progress and be subject to the Range Officer's commands. Allowance shall be made for fingers around the posts etc., extending no more than 100mm immediately in front of the posts. 7.5 Rifle Butt Position: In all positions shot, the rifle butt is to be held in contact with the shoulder, being defined as that area above the biceps muscle to the collar bone. Sporting Shooters Association of Australia WA Inc. Scoped Target Rifle Shooting 26

27 Rapid Fire 8.8 Rapid Fire starting position and procedure: Before each burst of rapid fire, the Range Officer shall make certain that each competitor loads 3 rounds into their magazine (if a magazine rifle), that the breech is open, and that the muzzle of the rifle is pointed up range. The rifle is to be held in both hands, with the butt stock at waist level and visible below the elbow. 8.9 Rapid Fire timing and commands: The Range Officer will then ask "Is any shooter not ready?" and if there is no reply within 3 seconds, will then give the command, "COMMENCE FIRE". The command is to be given with a one second delay between the words. The commencement of the timing (shooting) is to be taken from the word "FIRE" and checked with a stop watch for the expiration of 15 seconds. The rifle must remain in the start position and the bolt is not to be closed until the word FIRE. The "CEASE FIRE" command is to be given in a similar manner with the word "CEASE" to start at the 14 second mark, and the word "FIRE" to be given exactly on the 15 second mark. The word "FIRE" being the operative word in each command. This procedure shall be repeated until the 12 rounds have been fired, whereupon the magazines and chambers of all competitors' rifles shall be checked by the Range Officer to ensure that they are empty before the competitors leave the firing line. The first thing to remember is to be ready to go before you re called to the line. Your first shot from each burst is going to be the longest shot to take, practice this shot a number of times. 1. Stand with your left foot adjacent to the firing line. Your left shoulder should be pointed towards your target and your right foot placed to maintain this about shoulder width apart, you can widen your stance to achieve better balance. You may angle your foot slightly to achieve a more comfortable position. 2. Bring your rifle to your shoulder and pick up your target through your scope as if you are preparing to take a shot, close your eyes for 5 seconds then open them again, your cross hairs should still be pointed (or wobbling) at the middle of the target. If you have a big wobble, the centre point should be the X ring. If your centre is to the right then shift your right foot forward slightly, if your centre is to the left then move your right foot backwards slightly then repeat until you centre on the X ring. 3. Stand in the ready position and practice dry fire your entire first shot i.e. close the bolt, take aim, fire the shot and follow through. This should take around 7 seconds. Your second and third shots should take 4 seconds each equalling the 15 seconds. If you take longer on the first then you will have less time on the other two. If you can get the first shot off in less than 7 seconds then do so but make sure you get a rhythm and stick with it as much as possible. Certain factors such as wind and rain can have an effect on your rhythm and you will just have to adjust to this but don t panic and rush the shot. 4. Once you re happy with your first shot, after about 4 cycles, then practice dry fire the entire three once or twice. By the time you have done this, the Range Captain should have just about finished Sporting Shooters Association of Australia WA Inc. Scoped Target Rifle Shooting 27

28 the commands. With practice you will have a practice dry fire rhythm and a competition rhythm. At any point if you are not ready then say so when the Range Captain asks. 5. When shifting from your left target to your right target you will need to confirm your position as you will be centred to the left of the X ring. Move your left foot forward about 3 inches and your right foot backwards about 3 inches; this should line you up with the right target X ring. 6. Repeat step 2. There is no need to practice dry fire again. Troubleshooting: Backwards or forwards sway when positioning: This is a balancing issue and usually happens because your feet are on too much of an angle or you are not bringing the rifle to your eye properly. For those with a larger midsection, you will have to lean backwards a bit to balance yourselves properly. Keep your head straight and bring the rifle to your eye, by moving your head to the scope you are shifting your balance forward and creating a sway, this means you have to use your midsection to counter which will create a bigger wobble. Sporting Shooters Association of Australia WA Inc. Scoped Target Rifle Shooting 28

29 Standing Again, be ready to go before you re called to the line. 1. As for Rapid Fire, stand with your left foot adjacent to the firing line. Your left shoulder should be pointed towards your target and your right foot placed to maintain this about shoulder width apart, you can widen your stance to achieve better balance. You may angle your foot slightly to achieve a more comfortable position. 2. Bring your rifle to your shoulder and pick up your target through your scope as if you are preparing to take a shot, close your eyes for 5 seconds then open them again, your cross hairs should still be pointed (or wobbling) at the middle of the target. If you have a big wobble, the centre point should be the X ring. If your centre is to the right then shift your right foot forward slightly, if your centre is to the left then move your right foot backwards slightly then repeat until you centre on the X ring. 3. Practice dry firing about 5 shots. 4. Once you re happy with your position try and keep your mind clear and wait for the commence fire command. 5. When shifting from your left target to your right target you will need to confirm your position as you will be centred to the left of the X ring. Move your left foot forward about 3 inches and your right foot backwards about 3 inches; this should line you up with the right target X ring. 6. Repeat step 2. Only dry fire one or two shots. Troubleshooting: Backwards or forwards sway when positioning: This is a balancing issue and usually happens because your feet are on too much of an angle or you are not bringing the rifle to your eye properly. For those with a larger midsection, you will have to lean backwards a bit to balance yourselves properly. Keep your head straight and bring the rifle to your eye, by moving your head to the scope you are shifting your balance forward and creating a sway, this means you have to use your midsection to counter which will create a bigger wobble. For Centrefire competition, this match is now further away than the Rapid Fire match and you may need to adjust your scope for the increase in distance. Sporting Shooters Association of Australia WA Inc. Scoped Target Rifle Shooting 29

30 Standing Post Rest Again, be ready to go before you re called to the line. This is a bit trickier as you can shoot on either side of the pole regardless of whether you are left or right handed. The following is for shooting on the left of the pole for right handed shooters. Once you have mastered this then you may be able to get greater stability by using your left thumb to hold the rifle up on the other side of the post. 1. Stand in front of the pole with the centre of the target card i.e. the vertical red line that separates the two targets should be directly behind the pole. Stretch your left arm out so that the tip of your middle finger just touches the post. Your feet should be a bit more than shoulder width apart 2. Move directly to the left of the pole so that your right shoulder is pointed at the left hand target. Flatten your left hand out and lean into the post, this is the basic position and lean for this match. 3. Bring your rifle to your shoulder and lay the fore end of the stock along your forearm, pick up your target through your scope as if you are preparing to take a shot, close your eyes for 5 seconds then open them again, your cross hairs should still be pointed at the middle of the target. If you have a big wobble, the centre point should be the X ring; however, you should not have a huge wobble. If your centre is to the right then shift your right foot slightly further to the right, if your centre is to the left then move your left foot slightly further to the left. Repeat until you centre on the X ring. 4. Practice dry firing about 5 shots. 5. Once you re happy with your position try and keep your mind clear and wait for the commence fire command. 6. When shifting from your left target to your right target you will need to confirm your position as you will be centred to the left of the X ring. Move both feet to the left about 6 inches, this should line you up with the right hand target X ring. 7. Repeat step 2. Only dry fire one or two shots. Troubleshooting: High or low shots: You should not be stretching any part of your body, ensure you are standing comfortably. A high shot could indicate that your left hand is too high on the post; this is because you are relaxing as soon as you have pulled the trigger. Always remember that the target is further away now and you may not have adjusted your scope. Wind can also play a factor here. Sporting Shooters Association of Australia WA Inc. Scoped Target Rifle Shooting 30

31 Sitting Post Rest Again, be ready to go before you re called to the line. This is the most stable position 1. Sit in front of the pole with your left hand resting on the pole at shoulder height and your right shoulder pointed at the target. Ideally you want your left elbow resting on your left knee and your right elbow resting on your right knee; however, some of us are larger than others and are unable to do this so just sit with your legs crossed. 2. Bring your rifle to your shoulder and lay the fore end of the stock along your left forearm, pick up your target through your scope as if you are preparing to take a shot, close your eyes for 5 seconds then open them again, your cross hairs should still be pointed at the middle of the target. If you have a big wobble, the centre point should be the X ring; however, you should not have a huge wobble. If your centre is to the right then shift your bottom slightly to the right, if your centre is to the left then move your bottom slightly to the left. Repeat until you centre on the X ring. 3. Practice dry firing about 5 shots. 4. Once you re happy with your position try and keep your mind clear and wait for the commence fire command. 5. When shifting from your left target to your right target you will need to confirm your position as you will be centred to the left of the X ring. Move your bottom to the left about 4 inches; this should line you up with the right hand target X ring. 6. Repeat step 2. Only dry fire one or two shots. Troubleshooting: High or low shots: You should be sitting comfortably. A high shot could indicate that your left hand is too high on the post; this is because you are relaxing as soon as you have pulled the trigger. Again, wind can also play a factor here. If you re having trouble with your legs just find the most comfortable position to sit in without crossing the firing line. Sporting Shooters Association of Australia WA Inc. Scoped Target Rifle Shooting 31

32 RANGE COMMANDS Every range has its own local rules, however, the following must be read out by the Range Captain before every match competition and every competitor must pay attention to it. Some ranges have additional rules added to the beginning of the following but they cannot change it. Scoped 3 Positional Commands 1. You are shooting from the: Rimfire Centrefire a) Prone 50m 100m b) Standing Unsupported 50m 100m c) Sitting or Kneeling Unsupported 50m 100m 2. You will have 30 minutes to fire 20 shots, 5 shots on each target. 3. Magazine or single loading is permitted. When you are given the command to load you may load 5 rounds into your magazine. (You may have no more than 5 rounds in your rifle or magazine at any one time.) 4. On the 25 and 28 minute mark, I will give you a warning to indicate that you have 5 and 2 minutes respectively to complete the course of fire. 5. Any shooter who fires before the command Commence Fire or after the Cease Fire command shall have the highest scoring shot taken from their score in this position for each infringement. 6. If you have any cross fires, misfires or any malfunction of your firearm, please attract the attention of a Range Officer. Once you have completed shooting have a Range Officer clear your Rifle before leaving the firing line. 7. Is any shooter not ready? (wait 3 seconds) 8. You may load and commence (one second delay) fire (timing starts on fire ). 9. (On the 25 th minute) 5 minutes remaining. 10. (On the 28 th minute) 2 minutes remaining. 11. (After 30 minutes) Cease fire. 12. Sporting Shooters Association of Australia WA Inc. Scoped Target Rifle Shooting 32

33 Field Rifle Rapid Fire Commands 1. You are shooting Rapid Fire from the Standing Unsupported Position at 25 metres (both Rimfire and Centrefire). 2. You require 12 rounds which are to be fired in 4 bursts of 3 shots, 6 shots on your left-hand target and 6 shots on your right-hand target. 3. You will have 15 seconds for each burst of 3 shots. 4. I will tell you to load 3 rounds into your Rifle. You may only have 3 rounds in your Rifle or Magazine at any one time. 5. I will then say, Actions open, butts at waist level and visible below the elbow. 6. I will then ask, Is any Shooter not ready? (If any shooter is not ready the Range Captain will wait 3 seconds and ask, Is any Shooter not ready? again) 7. After 3 seconds I will give the commands Commence and 1 second later fire. You must remain in the ready position until the fire command is given. 8. After 14 seconds I will say Cease and on the 15 th second I will say Fire. 9. Any shooter who fires before the command Commence Fire or after the command Cease Fire shall have the highest scoring shot taken from their score in this position for each infringement. 10. If you have any cross fires, misfires or any malfunction of your firearm, please attract the attention of a Range Officer. Once you have completed shooting have a Range Officer clear your Rifle before leaving the firing line. FOR EACH BURST OF FIRE 1. Load 3 rounds into your magazine and put your magazine into your Rifle. 2. Actions open, Butts at waist level and visible below the elbow. 3. Is any Shooter not ready? (Wait 3 seconds) 4. Commence (1 second delay) Fire (Timer starts on FIRE ). 5. (On the 14 th second) Cease (1 second delay) Fire. Sporting Shooters Association of Australia WA Inc. Scoped Target Rifle Shooting 33

34 Field Rifle Slow Fire Commands 1. You are shooting from the: Rimfire Centrefire Magnum a) Standing Unsupported 25m 50m 25m b) Standing Post Rest 50m 100m 50m c) Sitting or Kneeling Post Rest 50m 200m 100m 2. You will have 15 minutes to fire 10 shots, 5 shots on your left-hand target and 5 shots on your righthand target. 3. Magazine or single loading is permitted. When you are given the command to load you may load 5 rounds into your magazine. (You may have no more than 5 rounds in your rifle or magazine at any one time.) 4. On the 13 minute mark, I will give you a warning to indicate that you have 2 minutes left to complete the course of fire. 5. Any shooter who fires before the command Commence Fire or after the Cease Fire command shall have the highest scoring shot taken from their score in this position for each infringement. 6. If you have any cross fires, misfires or any malfunction of your firearm, please attract the attention of a Range Officer. Once you have completed shooting have a Range Officer clear your Rifle before leaving the firing line. 7. Is any shooter not ready? (wait 3 seconds) 8. You may load and commence (one second delay) fire (timing starts on fire ). 9. (On the 13 th minute) 2 minutes remaining. (On the 15 th minute) Cease fire. Sporting Shooters Association of Australia WA Inc. Scoped Target Rifle Shooting 34

35 10m Scoped Air Rifle This sub-discipline is a cross between SSAA Scoped 3 Positional and the NRA Positional Matches. There are two types of matches in Air Rifle: a) 10m Scoped 3 Positional b) 10m Precision It is better to just read the rulebook as safety and handling are universal across the board within SSAA. The main differences apart from the obvious Rifle are that you are allowed to wear shooting pants as well as the boots and jacket but also you re allowed to use a single point sling in all positions (even standing). The targets are standard SSAA Scoped 3 Positional & Field Rifle targets scaled down to 10m. All Air Rifle Competitions are scoped. The.177 Air Rifle is the only type permissible under SSAA rules. There are two classes that may be contested and they depend on the type of Air Rifle used not skill level. The manually charged or compression charged, the difference is one has a charged air cylinder attached to the Rifle and each time it charges with an exact amount of air and the other one depends on you to charge it by either pumping the side lever or break barrel, this sometimes doesn t allow a precise measurement of air in but they are very good entry level Air Rifles. Some side activated Rifles are precise but in the end the more you spend, the more precise you will get. Steyr Air Rifle (note the air cylinder under the barrel Sporting Shooters Association of Australia WA Inc. Scoped Target Rifle Shooting 35

36 Section 2: Rifle Specifications 2.1 Any Air Rifle of compressed air, gas, pump or spring type is permitted. There are no restrictions on the overall length, height or weight of the air rifle. Only air rifles of.177 (4.5 millimeters) may be used. If the rifle is operated by compressed air the rifle must have its own self-contained air cylinder as part of the rifle and cannot be operated in the competition when attached to an external air supply. 2.2 Any Sight may be used throughout the shooting of any one competition, and the making of sight adjustments during a competition will be permitted. 2.3 Butt plates: The Butt plate is that part of the stock of the rifle that would normally come in contact with the shoulder. Adjustable butt plates are allowed and may be adjusted during the course of the competition. Butt hooks are permitted. 2.4 Accessories: Adjustable cheek pieces are permitted. Palm rests are permitted. Rifles fitted with adjustable cheek pieces may be used and may be adjusted during the match. A hand-stop is permitted. 2.5 Slings: A rifle sling may be used in connection with the rifle and one arm only as an auxiliary to steady the rifle. Single point slings are permitted. No part of the sling under tension may touch the rifle stock except at the sling swivel and or the hand-stop. Loose excess sling material not involved in supporting the rifle may make incidental contact with the stock if not arranged to cause artificial support. The sling shall not be wider than 40 mm at any point except the buckles or such devices as are used to regulate its length. A sling may be fastened to the stock at one or two points. If attached at two points the fore-end attachment must be forward of the front of the action and the rear attachment must be a minimum of 100mm behind the centre point of the face of the trigger blade. Triggers with adjustable blades are to be measured from the rear most position. A sling may be adjusted and or removed from a rifle during the course of the match. 2.6 Trigger guard: A rifle must be equipped with an effective trigger guard. Lack of an effective trigger guard constitutes an unsafe rifle. 2.7 Weights: No weights, attachments or devices shall be added to, adjusted, or removed from the rifle, or sling, for the purpose of changing the weight or balance of the rifle after commencement of the competition. e.g. "heavy" slings, muzzle weights etc. 2.8 One rifle only shall be used throughout the shooting of any one competition, except where the Range Officer can verify that, through no fault of the shooter a breakage or failure of some part of a rifle, which has not been due to negligence or faulty practices, prevents a competitor from completing the course of fire in the scheduled position. In which case the Range Officer shall note the time remaining for that competitor and he/she shall be allowed to use another rifle, provided it complies with these rules in all aspects, and resume shooting as soon as possible or after his/her detail has completed firing. No sighting shots are to be allowed. It is required that the Range Sporting Shooters Association of Australia WA Inc. Scoped Target Rifle Shooting 36

37 Officer check the rifle for compliance as soon as time permits, but prior to the completion of scoring. 2.9 No extra shooting time: Under no circumstances is a competitor to be given extra shooting time over that outlined in the rules Ammunition: Air gun pellets of any shape made of lead or similar soft material are permitted. Section 3: Equipment and Mode of Dress for Competitors 3.1 Spotting Scopes to see where shots strike the target will be permitted for a competitor's own use. Coaching is not permitted, see Rule Shooting Mats: The use of shooting mats shall be permitted. The front portion of the mat may be of a compressible material not more than 50 mm thick and 500mm x 750mm in size. The remainder of the mat can have a maximum overall size of 800mm in width x 2m in length. Folding of the mat is permitted for use in the sitting position provided that the mat does not form more than 3 layers and that the folded mat does not exceed 50mm before compression (compressible by body weight). The mat cannot be folded in such a manner as to provide greater support or stability than would be afforded by a flat mat. An alternative of two mats is permitted, one thick and one thin, but together they must not exceed the dimensions as indicated above. The use of moulded sitting supports is not permitted. No kneeling cushions or seats of any kind will be permitted, with the exception of Rule, 3.6 (kneeling roll) and Rule 3.10 (disabled shooters). 3.3 Shooting gloves may be worn. 3.4 Shooting Coats: A coat constructed of cloth, canvas, nylon, leather or any combination of these materials is permitted. The coats may be lined or unlined and the lining may be smooth or quilted. There may be elbow pads, a shoulder pad and a sling pad made of non-slip material. They may have a fastening seam (buttons or zippers etc.) in the front which may be closed partially or completely undone for various positions. The use of hooks, buttons or straps on the coat to attach or position a sling is permitted. The coat must not have devices which are used, or constructed in such a way as to tie, fasten or hold the shooter into any shooting position. They must not restrict the normal movement of the shooter in using any or all of his/her shooting positions for the event being contested. 3.5 Shooting Trousers: Trousers constructed of cloth, canvas, nylon, leather or any combination of these materials is permitted. The trousers may be lined or unlined and the lining may be smooth or quilted. Normal street wear trousers or jeans may be also be worn. This does not prevent the shooter using ordinary trousers in any postion. Anti-abrasive pads (attached to the outside) will be permitted on the knees and seats of the trousers, provided they do not extend more than halfway around the garment at that point. They must not restrict normal movement of the shooter in using all of his/her positions for the event being contested. Sporting Shooters Association of Australia WA Inc. Scoped Target Rifle Shooting 37

38 3.6 Kneeling roll: A cylindrical shaped roll is allowed for shooting in the kneeling position. The dimensions are a maximum of 25 cm long and 18 cm in diameter. It must be made of soft and flexible material. Binding or other devices to shape the roll are not permitted. The Kneeling roll may be placed under the inside of the instep in the regular kneeling position. 3.7 Boots/Shoes shall be without steel bars, wide soles, or other stiffening devices in the upper except for steel toe protection. The boot shall not be longer than or higher than one and one third times the length of the shooters bare foot and no wider than half of the length of the shooters bare foot. THREE POSITIONAL COMMANDS 1. You are shooting from the: Prone 10m Standing 10m Kneeling 10m 2. You will have: 2.1 (20 shot detail) - 30 minutes to fire 20 shots, 10 shots on each target, two shots per aiming mark. 2.2 (10 shot detail) - 15 minutes to fire 10 shots, two shots on each aiming mark. 3. It will be single loading only. 4. I will give you a warning to indicate, that you have 2 minutes respectively to complete the course of fire. 5. Any shooter who fires before the command commence fire or after the cease fire command, shall have the highest scoring shot taken from their score in this position for each infringement. 6. If you have any crossfires, misfires, or any malfunction of your firearm please attract the attention of the Range Officer. Once you have completed shooting have the Range Officer clear your rifle before leaving the firing line. 7. Is any shooter not ready? (3 seconds delay) 8. You may load and commence (one second delay) fire. Sporting Shooters Association of Australia WA Inc. Scoped Target Rifle Shooting 38

39 NRA Small-Bore 3 x 40 Any Sight The NRA any sight match was added to the Scoped 3 positional & Field Rifle discipline around 2006 as the disciplines International match. A squad is chosen after qualifying at each year s National Championships to represent SSAA and Australia at International Competitions in New Zealand and the USA. The Pacific Regional Championships are contested every 2 years and are usually held in Tokoroa, New Zealand; however, it is occasionally contested in Queensland. The NRA hold their National Matches at Camp Perry in Ohio, USA every year, however, due to the Pacific Regional s, Australia send a team every other year so that Australia competes at an international event every year. To qualify for selection you must compete in the 5 gun competition at the National Championships (Field Rifle and 3 P in both R/F and C/F plus the NRA any sight match) and place in the top 4 for the National Matches at Camp Perry and the top 6 for the Pacific Regional Championships. The NRA match consists of a 120 shot 3 position match (Prone, Standing & Kneeling). There is no sitting option in this match. You fire 20 shots prone in 20mins, change your target and immediately fire another 20 shots in 20mins. The second detail (Relay as it s known in the NRA match) then shoots their Prone. The same format is used for standing except you get 40mins for 20shots and 30mins for 20 shots in kneeling. The NRA rulebook is used for this event as there are a few differences. While you can still use your field rifle to compete, there is no weight limit on the rifle, a sling is not allowed for the standing position and shooting pants are permitted. These are just some of the differences, for the full rundown you can get the NRA rulebook at the following URL. Sporting Shooters Association of Australia WA Inc. Scoped Target Rifle Shooting 39

40 Small-Bore Target Rifle The diagram and descriptions below give some basic information about the different parts of a small-bore target rifle. Definitions 1. Stock: The body of the rifle. Historically this is made from a single, solid piece of wood (walnut or ash), but modern rifles can have laminated wood or Aluminium stocks and can be made up of multiple sections. This is the part of the rifle that the shooter will have contact with whilst holding the rifle. 2. Butt: This part of the stock sits against the shooter s shoulder when the rifle is held. 3. Cheek piece: The cheek of the shooter will be placed on/against this whilst firing and it provides a platform to help align the eye with the sights. 4. Pistol grip: The firing hand of the shooter lightly grips the pistol grip and provides the correct position for the trigger finger. 5. Trigger guard: This is a protective guard that is fitted to the stock and prevents the trigger from being knocked or damaged accidentally when the rifle is being moved. 6. Trigger: The trigger is the device that translates the motion of the finger into the firing of the rifle and is fixed to the underside of the action. 7. Action: a metal housing that is fixed into the stock that connects the trigger, bolt and barrel together. 8. Breech: This is an opening in the top of the action where the ammunition is loaded into the rifle and is the entry point to the chamber. 9. Bolt: The bolt is used to push the round fully into the chamber, provides a seal around the end of the chamber during firing and it also holds the firing pin. When the round had been fired the bolt is used to extract the empty ammunition case from the chamber and eject it from the rifle. 10. Chamber: The ammunition will be sealed into the chamber prior to firing. The chamber also contains the force of the explosion used to propel the bullet through the barrel. 11. Rear sight: This is used in conjunction with the foresight to aim the rifle at the target and is positioned on top of the action about 3 inches in front of the eye that is used for aiming. 12. Barrel: The metal tube that connects into the action and sits on top of the stock. The inside of the tube has a spiral twist cut into it which makes the bullet spin as it flies through the air. 13. Foresight: The foresight is fitted to the muzzle end of the barrel and is lined up with the rear sight and the target to accurately aim the rifle. 14. Muzzle: The end of the barrel where the bullet will emerge when the rifle is fired. Sporting Shooters Association of Australia WA Inc. Scoped Target Rifle Shooting 40

41 New Rifles The basic elements of modern small-bore target rifles are the same as for older models. All rifles include a Barrel, stock, breech, sights etc, but there are 2 main differences between new and old models: The look of the rifles can be very different the newer model rifles appear to be complex structures and some might say even go as far as saying they look more exciting Almost everything on a newer model will be adjustable the wooden single piece rifle will be a one size fits all piece of kit, with perhaps some adjustment possible to the butt plates or cheek piece. The newer rifles can be adjusted in many ways, often to within millimetre accuracy. For a new shooter there is no benefit to be gained from using a new rifle instead of an older rifle. At this stage the kit has less bearing on the quality of the shooting than the ability of the shooter. Competitions are attended by people with rifles that are many years old and these people can be equally likely to win as those who have the newest, shiniest rifles. Sporting Shooters Association of Australia WA Inc. Scoped Target Rifle Shooting 41