Eurooptic vortex burris nightforce sale




teslong borescope digital camera barrel monitor


As an Amazon Associate, this site earns a commission from Amazon sales.









July 24th, 2024

60-Year-Old Wins 7th O-Class Title at Nat’l Rimfire Sporter Match

cmp rimfire sporter camp perry 2024

Slee Claims Seventh Open Sight-Class Win During 2024 National Rimfire Sporter Match
60-year-old Steven Slee from Michigan scored 580-21X to win the Open Sight O-Class for the second consecutive year at the 2024 National Rimfire Sporter Match at Camp Perry, Ohio. Slee’s 2024 victory is his Seventh O-Class title, starting back in 2009. Slee is also the current record holder in the class and has previously won O-Class at Camp Perry in 2009, 2010, 2016, 2018, 2021 and 2023. Last year, Slee also shot in T-Class and won T-Class by one point over current record holder, Samuel Payne.

The CMP’s 2024 National Rimfire Sporter Match was a big success with over 280 shooters competing on a hot July 13th day. The competition was one of the first events at the annual National Matches, which have been held at the Camp Perry National Guard Training Site since 1907. The National Rimfire Sporter Match is open to both adults and juniors with targets at 25 and 50 yards. There are three classes for .22 LR rifles: Open Sight (O), Telescope Sight (T), and Tactical Unlimited (TU).

2024 Nat’l Rimfire Sporter Match Results | 2024 Rimfire Sporter Match Photos

Along with the major annual Camp Perry event, other Rimfire Sporter matches are held throughout the country in connection with the CMP’s Travel Games.

cmp rimfire sporter camp perry 2019

The CMP Rimfire Sporter discipline is for .22 LR smallbore (rimfire) rifles that weigh 7 1/2 pounds or less. Firing is done at 25 and 50 yards in prone, sitting, and standing positions, in slow and rapid-fire modes. Even with the vast number of competitors, the Rimfire Sport match proceeds efficiently. The CMP now has a special smart-phone App that helps speed up scoring. SEE 2024 Results.

cmp rimfire sporter camp perry competition

Other leading competitors of the 2024 National Rimfire Sporter Match were John Hawes, 40, of Waynesboro, PA, who won the T-Class with a score of 594-34X, and William Dunbar, 17, of Riverside, Iowa, who was the top scorer of the TU Class with 594-35X. Dunbar was just one point shy of the current TU Class record score of 595-37X, set nearly a decade ago, in 2015.

cmp rimfire sporter camp perry 2024

As one of the most popular rifle events offered by the CMP throughout the year, the National Rimfire Sporter Match is a great intro to competitive marksmanship. The match format and convivial atmosphere works for shooters of all ages and all experience.

Learn more about the CMP Rimfire Sporter Rifle competition on the CMP website at thecmp.org/competitions/matches/rimfire-sporter-2. To find an upcoming Rimfire Sporter Match near you CLICK HERE then select Rimfire from the list of upcoming match types.

Permalink Competition, News, Shooting Skills No Comments »
July 21st, 2024

Wind Wisdom — How Terrain and Topography Affect Wind

Steven Blair F-Class Wind Tips

At the request of our Shooters’s Forum members, we’re repeating an excellent article by Steven Blair on wind reading. Steven, a top F-Class shooter, talks about mirage, topography effects, tail winds, and other subtle factors that can cause frustration for shooters. Steve explains that wind effects can be complex — there’s more going on than just velocity and angle. You need to notice things like berm locations and effects of temp changes over the course of the day.

Wind Reading Tips for Competitive Shooters
by Steven Blair, Past California State Long Range F-Open Champion

Assess the Terrain and How the Wind Will Interact with It
Before you begin a match, take a few minutes to look around the range at the terrain, any obstructions, range topography (berms and backstop), and trees, buildings or structures that could affect wind flow over the range. Imagine what might happen if the wind was from the left or right, headwind or tailwind. Depending upon the direction, significant effects may be seen on range. A head or tail wind may ripple across the berms, causing elevation changes, both high and low. A tall side berm, like the east side berm at Ben Avery, may cause turbulence when the wind comes from that direction. Blocking features might shield most of the wind but a break along the range can funnel strong gusts through the gap with no other indications. Take a few notes about the effects of different wind directions and refer to them if the prevailing direction changes. (Tip courtesy Tony Robertson.)

Steven Blair F-Class Wind Tips

Use a Spotting Scope, Even When Shooting a Scoped Rifle
A good spotting scope can “see” mirage much more clearly than even an expensive rifle scope. Take your spotting scope to the line and position it as sling shooters do, close enough to use without much movement. Focus the scope approximately 1/3 of the way down range or where the most significant wind effects are likely to occur. Take a quick look while waiting for pit service, glance at the flags and compare to your scope sight picture. I often see ambiguous indications at the target through the rifle scope, but see a clear indication of wind direction and speed through the spotting scope at the shorter distance. When shooting the Arizona Palma Championship at Ben Avery last weekend, I was scoring while the wind was coming from the east. Shooters up and down the line were out to the left, losing points. Mirage at the target looked moderate and the flags weren’t indicating strong wind. As I focused the spotting scope back, the mirage suddenly looked like it was flowing twice as fast around 500 yards than it was closer or farther. It wasn’t until I realized that the access road cut through the berm there that I understood what was happening. (Tip courtesy Gary Eliseo.)

Steven Blair F-Class Wind Tips

Don’t Over-React to Something That May Be an Anomaly
On ranges with sizable berms, a headwind or tailwind can cause significant elevation problems. It is generally not possible to see or predict when this will occur. When the conditions exist that cause elevation changes and other competitors are experiencing the same problem, the best strategy is to ignore it. Certainly, avoid shooting when the head or tail wind is gusting, the same as you would in a crosswind. But, if you react to random, range-induced elevation changes, the only likely result is to make it worse. Whether the problem is caused by range or ammunition, maintain your waterline hold until you have evidence that something has fundamentally changed.

Steven Blair F-Class Wind Tips

My .284 Shehane will usually require a click or two down during a string as the barrel warms. That is normal and manageable. But, if your shots are just bouncing up and down in the 10 ring, leave it alone. The same is also true of an occasional gust pushing a shot into the 9 ring. If the conditions have not changed and one shot just went out, it may be the result of a random occurrence that was not predictable. (Tip courtesy “School of Hard Knocks”.)

Adjust Spotting Scope Focus and Magnification as Needed to View Mirage vs. Target Details
In F-Class we only need to see mirage, spotters, and scoring disks. That does not take a lot of magnification. My scope is a Nikon 25-75x82mm ED. It is a superb scope for the money and makes it trivial to see minor variations in mirage. It is good to have the high magnification available, and it can always be reduced if necessary. I use different power settings for different situations.

Steven Blair F-Class Wind TipsSetting Magnification Levels
During a match, in very good viewing conditions, I set my spotting scope at 75X, full power. The mirage is more subtle in the morning and greater magnification is needed.

During a match with heavy mirage I set my spotting scope at about 40X. I have no problem seeing mirage, even at this magnification.

When practicing at 300 yards or closer I set my spotting scope at max power (75X) so I can see the little 6mm holes from my 6BR rifle. I usually need to focus back and forth between shots to see both bullet holes and mirage.

Steven Blair, 2012 California State Long Range F-Open Champion, has been shooting since childhood and competing for over 30 years. Before retiring, Steve spent 16 years in Engineering and IT with General Atomics. He has held Engineering and Marketing positions with several firearms companies and worked on projects from pistols to 155mm howitzers.

Permalink - Articles, Competition, Shooting Skills No Comments »
July 19th, 2024

Electronic Targets for Mid-Range and Long-Range at Camp Perry

camp perry cmp 2024 national matches long range mid-range KTS electronic targets

Good news for shooters — electronic targets will be used at the CMP National Matches at Camp Perry this year. The Civilian Marksmanship Program (CMP) has announced that, for the first time, ALL the National Mid-Range and Long Range events will be fired on outdoor electronic targets! The Mid-Range and Long Range matches, scheduled for August 5-10, 2024, are part of the annual National Matches at Camp Perry, situated near Port Clinton, Ohio.

camp perry cmp 2024 national matches long range mid-range KTS electronic targets

The electronic target system provides monitors at each firing point that instantly display accurate shot scores — this helps competitors quickly assess their shot placement and wind corrections. The use of the targets also eliminates the need for pit duty. That significantly lessens the duration of each match, so shooters can spend less time in the hot summer sun.


In this video, CMP Highpower Manager, Brian Williams demonstrates the accuracy of the KTS electronic targets and explains how the system works.

The Long Range series features 10 individual and team events on Camp Perry’s 1,000-yard Viale Range as well as a Mid-Range Match, fired at 600 yards. Only 50 targets will be assembled, meaning the Mid-Range Match will likely sell out — so competitors should sign up as soon as possible. CMP’s National Long Range matches include Match Rifle, Service Rifle, Palma, F-Open, F T/R or AR Tactical categories. The events are open to adult and junior competitors, regardless of experience level. CLICK HERE to learn more the National Mid-Range and Long Range Matches.

long range mid-range electronic targets camp perry summer 2024 national matches

After successfully field testing the electronic target line for Long Range matches at two spring events, the CMP made the decision to utilize the technology at this year’s Nationals. Sara Rozanski, CMP’s Highpower Rifle Coordinator, reports: “Using the targets for Long Range at our Eastern Games in North Carolina in May and again at Camp Perry for a test match in June really encouraged us to make them available for competitors at the National Matches. We received a lot of positive feedback, and we hope bringing the technology to Camp Perry will … enhance the experience of the National Matches for those who attend our Long Range events.”

long range mid-range electronic targets camp perry summer 2024 national matches

The CMP 2024 National Matches (for all divisions — pistol, rimfire, centerfire) run July 11 through August 10, 2024. Find registration links and other info on the CMP website at Thecmp.org/cmp-national-matches.

camp perry cmp 2024 national matches long range mid-range KTS electronic targets

Permalink Competition, News, Shooting Skills No Comments »
July 18th, 2024

ForeArm Bag-Riders and Track Plates Enhance Stability

Whidden Gunworks Track Plate

ARs and Narrow-Forearm Sporters Benefit from Front Bag-Rider Blocks
Whidden Gunworks offers a smart product that will enhance the bench-rested accuracy of any rifle with an accessory rail on the forearm. The Whidden Track Plate fits securely in the forearm accessory rail on prone, cross-the-course, tactical, and Palma rifles. These guns typically have a narrow and/or rounded fore-end so they rock and wobble when used with a front pedestal rest. The TrackPlate cures that. Once installed it provides a rock-solid, 2.9″-wide platform that mates perfectly with a benchrest-type front sandbag. This gives sling-shooters maximum stability when testing loads or zeroing their sights or scope. Plus you can now shoot F-Class competitively with a prone gun. (The 2.9″ width is 100% legal for F-Open).

Whidden Gunworks Track Plate

The Track Plate is light-weight, has catamaran-style runners to aid tracking and prevent rocking, and can be easily stowed in a range bag. The Track Plate fits BOTH Anschutz and American style forends and is made in the USA of machined aluminum. The Track Plate is available from Whidden Gunworks for $58.50.

Plate designer (and 5-Time Nat’l LR Rifle Champion) John Whidden says: “The Plate is great for any rifle with a rail whether it ís smallbore, centerfire, or an air gun. Now you can try F-Class with your favorite prone rifle: the Plate has a perfect low-drag finish for riding a rest or sandbags and is competition legal.”

Bag-Riders for AR-Platform Rifles from EGW
AR owners should check out the 3″-wide Delrin bag-rider from Evolution Gun Works (EGW). There are two versions, one for front Picatinny Rails, and another that mounts via sling swivel studs. These EGW Bag-Riders were developed expressly to fit the fore-ends of ARs. The front bag-riders are contoured to match the handguard profile so they fits securely with no wobble.

EGW AR15 ar bagrider bag-rider front sled

The $49.99 EGW Picatinny Rail front Bag-Rider simply slides on your under-forearm rail and there is a a tension bolt. Attachment is quick and easy. Or, if your AR has no rail get the original $39.99 EGW front Bag-Rider that attaches to a front sling swivel stud anchor. That allows it to mount as easily as a Harris bipod — no rail needed! Just unscrew the swivel stud, put the front bag-rider in place and attach one hex-head machine screw.

EGW AR15 ar bagrider bag-rider front sled

Also with the two front Bag-Riders, EGW offers a Rear Bag-Rider for ARs that attaches via the sling swivel anchor. Overall, it is a slick system. Front and rear bag-riders can be attached in a couple of minutes. The Delrin blocks slide easily in the bags and make the gun ultra-stable. The gun tracks straight back.

Permalink Competition, Gear Review, Shooting Skills No Comments »
July 17th, 2024

USPSA Multi-Gun Championship This Week in Minnesota

USPSA 3-gun multigun championship brochure

The premier Multi-Gun event in the USA kicks off this week in Minnesota. The 2024 USPSA Multi-Gun National Championship runs July 19 – July 21, 2024 at the Forest Lake Sportsmen’s Club in Forest Lake, Minnesota. This event attracts top Multi-Gun competitors from across the nation vying to be crowned the USPSA National Champion. While most competitors are men, there are also talented lady shooters.

USPSA 3-gun multigun championship brochure
USPSA 2020 Ladies Champion Dakota Overland. See Shooting Sports USA story.

The USPSA has a great online Guide to the Multi-Gun Championship. This zoomable, 50-page “Match Book” has diagrams of all 12 stages, plus interviews with leading shooters. In addition, you’ll find a map of the Forest Lake facility on page 13 of the online Match Book.

VIEW 2024 Multi-Gun Championship Match Book »

Here is the description and diagram of one of this year’s most challenging 3-Gun stages:

USPSA 3-gun multigun championship brochure

Here is a report from last year’s 2023 USPSA Multi-Gun Championship. The full report is found on pages 39-44 of the USPSA Championship Online Guide:

USPSA 3-gun multigun championship brochure

The diagram below shows the overall range layout at the Forest Lake facility. Click Image to Zoom.

USPSA 3-gun multigun championship brochure

Permalink Competition, Handguns, News, Tactical No Comments »
July 16th, 2024

Competition History — The NRA Perpetual Trophies

Leech Cup Wimbledon Trophy Cup NRA SSUSA.org
Stunners in silver. Above are the NRA Leech Cup (left) and Wimbledon Cup (right).

CLICK HERE for 2024 NRA National Matches Program PDF »

The 2024 NRA National Matches at Camp Atterbury, Indiana commence next week on July 22, 2024, and then run through August 19, 2024. Top rifle competitors will be looking to have their names associated with famous NRA perpetual trophies. This article covers the history of notable trophies including the Leech Cup, the Wimbledon Cup, and the Palma Team Trophy.

Shooting Sports USA has a fascinating article about the Perpetual Trophies awarded in national-level NRA matches. The story recounts the history behind the elaborate trophies, some from the 1870s. SSUSA’s Jennifer Pearsall writes: “The pieces of wood, stone and precious metal … are more than just instant recognition of achievement. They are the link of the American shooter’s present to his or her patriotic past. As you read this legacy of the NRA ranges, their founders, and the long list of cups, bowls, and plaques, realize that the history of competitive shooting is undeniably a significant part of the foundation of this country”. Read Full Trophy Story HERE.

The NRA was co-founded by Col. William Church and Gen. George Wood Wingate (ranked Captain at the time). Both Church and Wingate hoped to improved the marksmanship skills of American soldiers. One of the newly-formed NRA’s first actions was to issue: “An Act to Establish a Rifle Range and Promote Skill in Marksmanship”. That led to the opening of the famed Creedmoor Range, with a special inaugural match in June of 1873.

Many of the awards presented in the first NRA matches were cash or firearms. Some of these firearms were heavily embellished works of art. In the very first match, a member of the 22nd New York Regiment took home a gold-mounted Winchester Model 1866 valued at $100 — big money for the time.

Leech Cup Wimbledon Trophy Cup NRA SSUSA.org
In the 1870s shooting competitions were social as well as sporting events. Ladies and gentlemen came to watch and cheer the winners. This illustration, originally from Harpers Weekly, portrays the shooters and the viewing gallery at the 1876 Grand Centennial Championship—the “Palma” Match.

The Leech Cup — A Gift from Ireland
The Leech Cup was created for the first meeting of the American and Irish shooting teams. The elaborate cup was presented by Major Arthur Leech, captain of the the Irish team, to the Amateur Rifle Club of New York. This masterpiece of Irish silversmithing was later given to the NRA in 1901 by the New York Club. Today, the Leech Cup is the oldest trophy offered in overall NRA competitive target shooting, awarded through the National High Power Long Range Championships.

Michelle Gallagher with Leech Cup in 2013.
Leech Cup Wimbledon Trophy Cup NRA SSUSA.org

The Wimbledon Cup
The Wimbledon Trophy was a gift from the NRA of Great Britain. It was given, as a gesture of sportsmanship, after the the U.S. Team was denied the ability to compete in England’s Elcho Shield match, then limited to Britain, Scotland, and Ireland. To maintain friendly competitive relations, the British presented the Americans with a large, engraved, lion-footed tankard trophy to be awarded each year to the Champion U.S. long-distance rifleman.

Wimbledon Trophy Cup NRA SSUSA.org

Palma Trophy Facts Team Match National Camp Perry Tiffany'sThe Palma Team Trophy
Originally named the Centennial Trophy, in honor of the Centennial celebration of the independence of the United States of America, the Palma Trophy was commissioned from Tiffany’s at a cost of $1,500. The trophy was a full-sized replica of a Roman Legion standard, executed in bronze with silver and gold inlay. On the banner of the standard was the legend, “In the name of the United States of America to the Riflemen of the world”. Above the banner was an eagle, bearing in its talons a wreath of palm leaves and a plaque on which was the single word, “PALMA”, the Latin word for palm tree, which was used by the Romans to signify victory, or the ultimate in excellence.

Because the word Palma was so easily seen, the trophy soon became known as the “Palma Trophy”, and by 1878 was referred to officially by that name. The original seven and one-half foot trophy is now lost, having not been seen since at least 1954. Serving in its place is a copy which was commissioned by Dr. Herbert M. Aitken of Eau Claire, WI. The copy was made from the original Tiffany blue-prints at a cost of $32,500. Dr. Aitken has given this copy of the Palma Trophy to the NRA for use in the Palma Match. The trophy is retained by the winning team until the next Palma Match.

In 2008, the Palma Trophy was returned to the NRA, and it was decided that the trophy, once refurbished, will travel to the host nation for the match every four years, then returned to the NRA for safekeeping.

The first competition for the Palma Team was a challenge match for which the British Commonwealth nations were invited. The match was fired in 1876 at the old Creedmoor Range on Long Island as part of the Centennial celebration of the United States. Teams representing Scotland, Ireland, Canada, Australia, and the United States took part. The match is currently fired on a four-year interval.

Permalink - Articles, Competition 1 Comment »
July 14th, 2024

Sunday GunDay: Rimfire Sporter Competition at Camp Perry

cmp rimfire sporter camp perry 2019

The CMP’s 2024 National Rimfire Sporter Match took place yesterday, July 13th, 2024 on the Viale Range at Camp Perry. Hundreds of participants took part in this major summer rimfire competition. Click HERE for 2024 Match Photos. One of the most popular events at Camp Perry, the Rimfire Sporter Match attracts hundreds of shooters from 8 to 80 years, novices as well as experienced competitors. It is a great event for shooters who want to have fun without spending a small fortune on rifle, optics, gear and ammo. Along with the major annual Camp Perry event, other Rimfire Sporter matches are held throughout the country in connection with the CMP’s Travel Games.

cmp rimfire sporter camp perry 2019

The CMP Rimfire Sporter discipline is for .22 LR smallbore (rimfire) rifles that weigh 7 1/2 pounds or less. Firing is done at 25 and 50 yards in prone, sitting, and standing positions, in slow and rapid-fire modes. Even with the vast number of competitors, the Rimfire Sport match proceeds efficiently. The CMP now has a special smart-phone App that helps speed up scoring. SEE 2024 Results.

cmp rimfire sporter camp perry competition
cmp rimfire sporter camp perry competition

Each summer, the major National Rimfire Sporter Match attracts hundreds of shooters to the shore of Lake Erie at Camp Perry. This year’s Rimfire Sporter Match at Camp Perry was held on Saturday, July 13, 2024. The CMP National Rimfire Sporter Rifle Match offers shooters a recreation-oriented competition where they use affordable, smallbore sporter rifles with either scopes or iron sights. All you need are a .22 LR rifle, sling, and ammo. Competitors will need a total of 60 rounds to fire the Rimfire Sporter Match plus any sighters or range alibis.

FREE GUIDE: 48-Page CMP Guide to Rimfire Sporter Shooting »

cmp rimfire sporter camp perry 2019

Three Classes for Rimfire Sporter
Rimfire Sporter competitors can fire in three different rifle classes. The O-Class rifles must have open sights. T-Class rifles have 6-power max scopes or receiver sights. The third class is TU Rimfire Class (Tactical and Unlimited). Competitors may enter in Single or Double Entry options and then select the rifle class(es) in which they will fire. Firing is done at 25 and 50 yards in prone, sitting and standing positions, in slow and rapid-fire modes. For each Class, awards are offered to High Juniors, High Seniors, and High Women as well as Overall Winners.

Camp Perry Rimfire Sporter match
Camp Perry Rimfire Sporter match

Rifles used during the competition may be manually operated or semi-automatic, shot hand-held with sling allowed. Competitors will complete slow fire prone, rapid fire prone, slow fire sitting or kneeling, rapid fire sitting or kneeling, slow fire standing and rapid fire standing shot sequences. Firing is done at 25 and 50 yards on a target with a 1.78″ ten-ring. The target is simple enough for a beginner to hit, yet challenging enough. See explanation of course of fire below. Competitors must supply their own quality ammunition for this match. For more info about the Rimfire Sporter Match, CLICK HERE.

Rimfire Sporter Match CMP Camp Perry

The CMP Rimfire Sporter Rifle Match is an inexpensive, fun-oriented competition using .22 caliber sporter rifles (plinking and small game rifles). To compete, all you need is a basic rifle, safety gear, and ammunition. No fancy, high-dollar rifles are required. Many junior and senior clubs make the National Rimfire Sporter Match an annual tradition — bringing together marksmen of all ages. SEE 2024 CMP Games Rules PDF.

National Rimfire Sporter Match Camp Perry 2016

If there is a single CMP event at Camp Perry every summer that offers the highest level of shooter satisfaction, the most diverse group of competitors, and the lowest cost of entry, that would have to be the annual Rimfire Sporter Match. Shooters run a huge range of ages from young juniors to seniors in their 70s and 80s. And persons with disabilities can compete as well, with Adaptive Shooting Programs for physically-challenged competitors.

National Rimfire Sporter Match Camp Perry 2016

Each year, the Rimfire Sporter Match attracts hundreds of shooters to the shore of Lake Erie at Camp Perry. The CMP National Rimfire Sporter Rifle Match offers shooters a recreation-oriented competition where they use affordable, smallbore sporter rifles with either scopes or iron sights. All you need are a .22 LR rifle, sling, and ammo.

National Rimfire Sporter Match Camp Perry 2016
Rifles may be manually operated or semi-automatic, in three classes: the standard “O Class” for open-sighted rifles, “T-Class” for telescope-sighted rifles, and the “TU Class” for Tactical and unlimited rifles.

National Rimfire Sporter Match Camp Perry 2016

Rimfire Sporter Equipment

cmp rimfire sporter camp perry competition

Rimfire Sporter Course of Fire

Competitors will complete slow fire prone, rapid fire prone, slow fire sitting or kneeling, rapid fire sitting or kneeling, slow fire standing, and rapid fire standing shot sequences. To learn more about the National Rimfire Sporter Match, CLICK HERE.

National Rimfire Sporter Match Camp Perry 2024

National Rimfire Sporter Match Camp Perry 2024

Rimfire Sporter Match Basics
The CMP Rimfire Sporter Rifle Match is an inexpensive, fun-oriented competition using .22 caliber sporter rifles (plinking and small game rifles) commonly owned by most gun enthusiasts. To compete, all you need is a basic rifle, safety gear, and ammunition. No fancy, high-dollar rifles are required.

Rimfire Sporter Guide ShootingThe event is shot with standard sporter-type, rimfire rifles weighing no more than 7 ½ lbs, with sights and sling. Rifles may be manually-operated or semi-automatic. Shooters with manually-operated actions are given extra time in the rapid-fire stage to compensate for the difference.

There are three classes of competition — the standard “O Class” for open-sighted rifles, “T-Class” for telescope-sighted and rear aperture-sighted rifles and “Tactical Rimfire” class, which is a .22 caliber A4 or AR15 style rifle. Firing for all classes is done at 25 and 50 yards on a target with a 1.78″ ten-ring and an 18″ outer one-ring. Even new shooters can get hits on this target, but it’s still tough enough that a perfect 600×600 score has only been accomplished once as far as we know (Go to 2024 Results).

The Civilian Marksmanship Program (CMP) has a CMP Guide to Rimfire Sporter Shooting. This FREE, 48-page digital publication covers equipment, positions, course of fire, rules, scoring and much more. You’ll find helpful “how-to” sections on aiming, sight picture, hold control, and trigger control. Reading these instructional sections can benefit any prone or three-position competitive shooter.

National Rimfire Sporter Match Camp Perry 2016
cmp rimfire sporter camp perry 2019

Permalink - Videos, Competition, Shooting Skills 1 Comment »
July 10th, 2024

Fitness Training and Cardio Conditioning for Competitive Shooters

fitness cardio training

In the archives of The First Shot (the CMP’s Online Magazine), SGT Walter E. Craig of the USAMU discusses physical conditioning for competitive shooters, particularly High Power competitors. Fitness training is an important subject that, curiously, is rarely featured in the shooting sports media. We seem to focus on hardware, or esoteric details of cartridge reloading. Yet physical fitness also matters, particularly for High Power shooters. In his article, Craig advocates: 1) weight training to strengthen the Skeletal Muscle System; 2) exercises to build endurance and stamina; and 3) cardiovascular conditioning programs to allow the shooter to remain relaxed with a controlled heart beat.

SGT Craig explains: “An individual would not enter a long distance race without first spending many hours conditioning his/her body. One should apply the same conditioning philosophy to [shooting]. Physical conditioning to improve shooting skills will result in better shooting performance[.] The objective of an individual physical training program is to condition the muscles, heart, and lungs thereby increasing the shooter’s capability of controlling the body and rifle for sustained periods.”


CLICK HERE to READ FULL FITNESS TRAINING ARTICLE »

In addition to weight training and cardio workouts (which can be done in a gym), SGT Craig advocates “some kind of holding drill… to develop the muscles necessary for holding a rifle for extended periods.”

For those with range access, Craig recommends a blind standing exercise: “This exercise consists of dry-firing one round, then live-firing one round, at a 200-yard standard SR target. For those who have access only to a 100-yard range, reduced targets will work as well. Begin the exercise with a timer set for 50 minutes. Dry-fire one round, then fire one live round and without looking at the actual impact, plot a call in a data book. Continue the dry fire/live fire sequence for 20 rounds, plotting after each round. After firing is complete, compare the data book to the target. If your zero and position are solid, the plots should resemble the target. As the training days add up and your zero is refined, the groups will shrink and move to the center.”

Brandon Green
Fitness training and holding drills help position shooters reach their full potential. Here is 6-Time U.S. National Long Range Champion John Whidden.

Training for Older Shooters
Tom Alves has written an excellent article A Suggested Training Approach for Older Shooters. This article discusses appropriate low-impact training methods for older shooters. Tom explains: “Many of the articles you will read in books about position shooting and the one mentioned above are directed more toward the younger generation of shooters in their 20s. If you look down the line at a typical high power match these days you are likely to see quite a few folks who are in their middle 30s and up. Many people in that age range have had broken bones and wear and tear on their joints so a training program needs to take that into account. For instance, while jogging for an extended period for heart and lung conditioning may be the recommended approach for younger folks, it may be totally inappropriate for older people.”

READ FULL ARTICLE by Tom Alves

Permalink - Articles, Competition, Shooting Skills No Comments »
July 8th, 2024

CMP 2024 National Matches Begin This Week at Camp Perry

Camp Perry 2024 registration matches rimfire centerfire longrange smallbore air rifle

The 2024 CMP National Matches at Camp Perry officially commence Thursday, July 11, 2024. The summer schedule concludes Saturday, August 10 with the Palma Match and awards. Click the links below to register for events at the 2024 National Matches. View other event info on the CMP website.

CLICK HERE for CMP Camp Perry National Matches INFO PAGE »

High Power Rifle Registration Page

Smallbore Prone & 3P Rifle Registration Page

Rimfire Sporter Registration Page
Airgun Registration Page

Pistol Registration Page

Nat’l Matches Info Page

2024 CMP Nat’l Matches Program | 2024 Nat’l Matches Calendar

SEE the full 2024 National Matches schedule and other event info on the CMP website.

Camp perry cmp 2024

The National Matches is comprised of the CMP National Trophy Pistol and Rifle Matches, National Games Matches, National Smallbore Matches, National Air Gun Championships, and the National Mid-Range and Long Range Matches. Along with the competitions, the National Matches includes a variety of training clinics for all experience levels. The CMP will also run a sales center where accessories and ammo can be purchased. CLICK HERE to review the 2024 National Matches schedule and event info on the CMP website.

CMP 2024 National Matches Calendar

The 2024 CMP National Matches at Camp Perry Run Thursday, July 11, 2024 through Saturday, August 10, 2024. Here is the full CMP schedule (CLICK to ZOOM to see details in online spreadsheet):

nra civilian marksmanship program cmp 2024 national matches high power smallbore match calendar schedule spreadsheet

NOTE: This CMP Calendar is hosted online in spreadsheet format. This allows you to increase display size, and also to search for specific words. CLICK HERE to view full spreadsheet calendar.

civilian marksmanship program cmp 2024 national matches high power garand smallbore match calendar schedule spreadsheet

Permalink Competition, News, Shooting Skills 1 Comment »
July 6th, 2024

Saturday Movies: PRS/NRL Shooting Skills and Rifle Accuracy

PRS 6mm GT 6GT george Gardner Dave Preston Long Range Precision Shooters

Are you looking to get started in tactical/practical competitions? Or perhaps you already have have some PRS/NRL experience but want to upgrade your equipment and enhance your match results. Here are eight videos that can help you improve your game. These videos feature top PRS/NRL competitors and knowledgeable manufacturers’ representatives. You’ll find other related videos on the Long Range Precision Shooters YouTube channel.

How Accurate Are the Top PRS Shooters?

In this video, MDT put three top centerfire PRS shooters to the test, running them through some of the most difficult stages. The goal? To showcase the level of accuracy and precision these top shooters can achieve. From shooting off barricades to hitting targets from rooftops and rocks, these shooters demonstrate why they are considered among the best in the world. Top-tier modern PRS/NRL rifles when shot prone from a bipod at 100 yards can do 1/3-MOA or better for three shots.

Building a Custom PRS/NRL Rig

Action, trigger, barrel, chassis, rails, and optics — this video from Burris covers all the key components of the modern PRS/NRL rifle. This video discusses the pros/cons of various configurations and the explains what to look for in a PRS/NRL riflescope.

PRS Tactical Division Explained

In this video MDT Shooter Matt Stiner explains the basics of competition in the PRS Tactical division. The video covers rifle, cartridge choice, optics, and key accessories. He also explains how to set up your PRS Tactical rig for best results. In addition Matt talks about bullet and brass options.

Shooting a PRS Match for the First Time

Here’s an amusing video from the land Down-Under — Australia. The video covers a club PRS match, showing various shooting positions. Around the world, the PRS discipline is growing rapidly, particularly with younger marksmen under 35. The matches are fun and fast-paced and the sport is much more dynamic and physically challenging than benchrest or F-Class competition.

Building Your Rig — Gear and Cartridge Selection for PRS/NRL

Part of a Firearms Depot PRS mini-series, this video covers gear and cartridge. Host Adam delves into the core elements that craft a winning setup. The video covers factors to consider when choosing a cartridge. The video also discusses chassis and barrel selection. Along with the gear talk, the video covers factors to consider when selecting a smith to help with chambering and rifle building.

Road to the PRS

This video from Kestrel offers good advice on getting started in PRS/NRL shooting. Experts demonstrate multiple shooting positions and offer advice on shooting from barricades. Topics covered include rate of fire, scope use, and equipment selection.

Savage 110 Elite Precision — Good Production Class Choice

This Alabama Arsenal video shows the Savage 110 Elite Precision on PRS Match stages using bags, tripods, and bipods, firing from stone barriers, field frames, and wood platform supports. If you are in the market for a PRS rifle, this video, which now has 355,000 views, is well worth watching. It covers specific features including trigger, chassis, magazines, and Atlas attachment. NOTE: The price limit for Production Class has risen significantly over the years, with a current MSRP max of $3000 for the rifle and $2500 for the optic.

savage elite precision ultralite custom 6mm creedmoor 25 caliber hunter match

PRS on a Budget — Converting a Basic Rifle for PRS Use

Top of the line rifles for competition are exceedingly expensive, but there is another option if you have a rifle in the safe that doesn’t get much use. Top F-Class shooter and wind coach Keith Glasscock notes: “I converted my .223 Remington varmint rifle into a Tactical class/PRS training rifle to save costs on ammunition and barrels so I can get better, faster.” Keith shows a very logical way to get started in the PRS/NRL game.

Permalink - Articles, - Videos, Competition, Tactical No Comments »