Rifle shooting was a very popular spectator sport in the 19th Century. Thousands of spectators came to watch long-range rifle matches held on “Creed’s Moor”, a range built by the NRA with funds from the New York state legislature. The first International Creedmoor match took place in 1874, when a group of Americans responded to a “Challenge to the Riflemen of America” from the Irish rifle team, considered the world’s best. The match was shot at 800, 900 and 1000 yards and was decided on the very last shot. After an Irish cross-fire near the end of the match, American John Bodine shot a final bullseye to win the international challenge cup. The U.S. team used a combination of breech-loading Remington Rolling Blocks and Sharps rifles. The Irish team used Rigby muzzle-loading rifles.

Click Here for Creedmoor Match History | Click Here to view 12’x6′ 1874 Match Target

The NMLRA’s long-range match allows both muzzle-loading rifles as well as black powder cartridge rifles. So, there on the line beside the Whitworths and Gibbs, you’ll find Remington Rolling Blocks and legendary Sharps rifles. This show airs multiple times this Wednesday, July 8, on the Outdoor Channel. Check local listings for channel(s). Shooting USA’s Wednesday broadcast schedule is:

Eastern Time 4:30 PM, 8:30 PM, 12:00 Midnight
Central Time 3:30 PM, 7:30 PM, 11:00 PM
Mountain Time 2:30 PM, 6:30 PM, 10:00 PM
Pacific Time 1:30 PM, 5:30 PM, 9:00 PM

BPCR bullet moulds from Old West Bullet Moulds, Fruita, Colorado.