The Disciplines of shooting
The Classes of shooting as a sports discipline are surprising different with varying skill sets required and focused on for each area of expertise.
Below is a basic description to help explain some of the differences between the 3 major schools of long distance competitive shooting.
Target Rifle:
Target Rifle is a traditional long-range rifle shooting discipline that emphasizes marksmanship fundamentals and precision shooting techniques.
Shooters in Target Rifle competitions typically use bolt-action rifles chambered in calibers such as .308 Winchester or 6mm BR, with iron sights rather than telescopic sights.
Target Rifle competitions often feature prone shooting positions, with shooters employing specialized shooting jackets and slings to enhance stability and support.
Unlike F-Class and Production Class, which allow for more flexibility in rifle configuration and equipment, Target Rifle competitions prioritize skill and technique over specialized equipment, making it a challenging discipline that rewards mastery of the fundamentals.
F-Class:
F-Class is a long-range rifle shooting discipline where competitors shoot at targets placed at distances of up to 1000 yards.
Participants in F-Class typically shoot from a prone position using specialized rifles equipped with high-powered telescopic sights.
F-Class rifles are often chambered in larger calibers such as .308 Winchester and 6.5 Creedmoor, which offer excellent long-range performance.
Competitors are divided into two categories: F-Open and F-TR. F-Open allows the use of almost any caliber and rifle configuration, while F-TR restricts rifles to .223 Remington or .308 Winchester calibers and mandates the use of bipods or sandbags for support.
F-Class competitions emphasize precision and accuracy, with shooters aiming to achieve the highest scores by consistently hitting the center of the target.
Production Class:
Production Class is a long-range rifle shooting discipline that focuses on affordability and accessibility, allowing competitors to participate with relatively inexpensive rifles.
In Production Class, shooters use factory-produced rifles with minimal modifications, adhering to strict equipment limitations to level the playing field and keep costs down.
The rifles used in Production Class competitions are typically chambered in common calibers such as .223 Remington or .308 Winchester and may have restrictions on modifications such as trigger upgrades and aftermarket stocks.
Unlike F-Class, Production Class competitions may have stricter rules regarding the use of telescopic sights and other accessories, aiming to maintain the spirit of affordability and accessibility.
