NRA Launches “ARC Across America National Challenge” Event

As the United States approaches its historic 250th Anniversary (July 4, 2026), the National Rifle Association invites Americans to celebrate freedom by competing in the NRA America’s Rifle Challenge (ARC). The expanded 2026 ARC Across America National Challenge is a nationwide competitive shooting event. From Memorial Day through Labor Day, gun owners across the country can compete in ARC matches at participating clubs and ranges with opportunities to win prizes from ARC partners and sponsors.

To learn more about participating in NRA America’s Rifle Challenge events, visit ARC.NRA.org.

The heart of the program is the ARC Level 1 format, the foundation of the USA250 national event and the entry point for gun owners of all experience levels.

Built around practical rifle skills across four stages of fire, the Level 1 course challenges participants to demonstrate accuracy, control, and safe firearms handling.

Every ARC match is more than a competition — it’s a training opportunity. Each run on the course helps shooters grow more capable with their rifles. Participants can:

— Develop new rifle skills through structured competition
— Challenge friends and family in a fun and exciting environment
— Compete multiple times in a “Re-entry Match” format, allowing competitors to improve their score.

And, at the end of each ARC match, participants can see where they rank nationally across the country with other ARC competitors. And Veterans can meet other former service members.

How Clubs Can Host ARC Matches

The NRA’s goal is to have more than 250 clubs and ranges host ARC matches between Memorial Day and Labor Day. The program was built so clubs can run an organized, safe, and engaging event without requiring complex stages or extensive infrastructure. Clubs interested in hosting NRA America’s Rifle Challenge events can sign up on the ARC.NRA.org website.

ARC Competition Format Options
Clubs can host ARC matches using one of two range configurations:

Full Level 1 Course Format – designed for ranges with 100-yard capability
Reduced Course Format – designed for ranges with 25-yard capability

Note: Both formats provide the same structured experience and competitive opportunity, ensuring that nearly any club can participate regardless of range size.

The NRA America’s Rifle Challenge (ARC) is a national rifle competition program designed to help firearm owners develop safe gun-handling skills, practical marksmanship, and confidence through structured competition. ARC events are hosted by local clubs and ranges across the country and welcome participants of all experience levels. Clubs willing to host an event will join a growing network of ranges across the country helping bring this celebration to life.