Beginning Rifle
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Contents |
The Fundamentals
Contributers' Note
This section has been provided for the 'Beginning Rifle Shooter'. It provides information in this context - beginning shooters should be aware that much of the general information available regarding rifle shooting techniques are based on shooters already having the 'basics'.
The fundamental concern about handling a firearm is safety. Safety is paramount and of the utmost concern in this sport. In order to be safe with any firearm, the person handling the firearm must do so in a way that is not threatening. A standard way used to remember the basics of firearm safety is implementing the M.A.T. safety concept.
M stands for controlling the muzzle. When handling a firearm, each individual must be aware of the muzzle and keep it point either upwards above the head (when behind a firing line) or in the direction of the targets (when on the firing line).
A stands for action open. When handling a firearm, each individual must ensure that the action or bolt is open. This enables the handler to inspect the chamber. To take this one step further, a chamber flag or cleared barrel indicator (CBI) may be required on ranges to indicate that the firearm is not loaded.
T stands for trigger. When handling a firearm, each individual must not put their finger on the trigger until he/she intends to shoot at the target.
Although many firearms have mechanical safeties as a part of the rifle, many target rifles do not. Using these procedures ensure all guns are handled in a safe manner and prevent incidents from occurring. Remember this; the most significant factor of safety is the person handling the firearm.
'Stance' (Position)
There are three 'positions' for ISSF Rifle events:
- 10 M Rifle is conducted in the Standing position only
- 50 M Rifle has
- Prone event, and
- 3 Position events (prone, standing, kneeling in that order)
- 300 M Rifle has
- Prone event, and
- 3 Position events (prone, standing, kneeling in that order)
Prone Position
Support
In the prone position, the rifle is supported (for a right-handed shooter) by:
- the butt plate against the shoulder, and
- the left arm / sling / hand to handstop
- the forearms must be at 30 degrees or more to the horizontal
Little if any support is provided by the right arm and hand
The Shooting Mat
At an ISSF Championship (World Cups, etc.) and many other competitions shooting mats are supplied (7.4.7.12.4 Shooting Mats The use of private mats is prohibited); but at many clubs, shooters supply their own shooting mats.
There are ISSF specifications for shooting mats - and these differ from the specifications for other rifle organisations!
For ISSF - 6.3.12.2.2 a mat for shooting in the prone and kneeling positions.
- The front portion of the mat must be of a compressible material not more than 50 mm thick, and approximately 50 cm x 75 cm in size and measuring not less than 10 mm when compressed with the measuring device used to measure the thickness of rifle clothing.
- The remainder of the mat must have a maximum thickness of 50 mm and a minimum thickness of 2 mm. The minimum overall size must
be 80 cm x 200 cm. An alternative of two mats is permitted, one thick and one thin, but together they must not exceed the dimensions indicated in this Rule.
- The use of private mats is prohibited;
Cheek Weld
Consistency in sighting begins with proper “cheek weld”, positioning the cheek at the same place along the stock. Besides fore and aft placement of the “weld”, also it determines the height of the eyes in relation to the sights or scope.
Standing Position
Support
Cheek Weld
Kneeling Position
Support
The Kneeling Roll
Cheek Weld
Clothing
Launi Meili's book titled "Rifle: Steps to Success" is a great reference for air rifle shooting clothes and accessories. There are many other books out there, but her book is definately where you get the most bang for the buck. It explains the aspects of the Shooting Jacket as it pertains to the precision category of air rifle shooting.
Clothing used for ISSF rifl events is governed by rules of the sport as they pertain to fit, thichness, flexibility and support.
Rifle Shooting Jacket
Most retailers have sizing charts to assist in measuring individuals for correct sizes and proper fit. The point of the jacket is to provide additional support to the shooter. If the jacket does not fit properly, it hinders the shooter rather than helps.
Rifle Shooting Tousers
Most retailers have sizing charts to assist in measuring individuals for correct sizes and proper fit. The objective of the pants is to provide additional support for the shooter. If the trousers do not fit properly, then the objective is not met and the shooter does not maximize their potential for success.
