Rules

Most of the rules are consistent throughout the matches.  Other rules will be specific to a given match.  If a match specifies a different rule than seen here, the match rule will always override these general rules.  But the main rule is to be fair to other competitors, and to compete in the spirit of fairness.  In an online postal style match, we’re operating completely on the honor system.

Equipment

• Any centerfire rifle capable of shooting ten rounds in roughly a minute.  Semi-automatic or bolt action rifles are acceptable, though semi-automatic is recommended, unless specified otherwise by the specific match
• Any small bore rifle which shoots a rimfire cartridge of .22 caliber or less, unless specified otherwise by the specific match.
• There are no restrictions on ammunition types.  Any lawful ammunition is allowed.
• Targets for each match can be obtained from either MidwayUSA or National Target Company.  Other targets may be added to matches, but PDFs will generally be provided otherwise.
• Rifles with optical sights are permitted, but will be scored in a different category from open sights, unless the match specifies otherwise.
• Use of a rifle sling is fine in accordance with NRA rules.
• All other equipment and clothing that is permitted in NRA matches is permitted in ours.  General guideline is don’t use anything that gives you an unfair advantage over another competitor, and don’t be afraid to ask.
• You will need a shot timer or kitchen timer to time your strings.

Scoring

Scoring will be done according to NRA rules for scoring bullseye targets.  If a shot comes into contact with a ring, it’s scored based on the value of higher ring.

The shot on the left bulls eye counts as nine, the one on the right counts as a ten.

Hits outside the scoring rings on a target are a miss.  Ricochets do not count, but a bullet which keyholes is not necessary a ricochet.  If you get one of these on your target, photograph or scan it up close, and we can determined whether to count it as a keyhole or a ricochet.  Non visible hits will be counted or rejected at the shooters or match organizer’s discretion, but will likely be counted if it fits with your shooting pattern.  Ties will be decided according to NRA rules.

Eligibility

Any person who is lawfully able to possess a firearm may participate in our matches, whether you’re a blogger, reader or interested shooter.  Junior shooters are also welcome, and can be classified separately at the discretion of the match organizer.

Submissions

You do not have to be on the member list to submit a target, but submitted targets can be e-mailed to gunblogrifles at gmail dot com, and should contain the following:

1. A picture or scan of your target, such that the bullet holes and scoring rings are visible, and it can be verified the proper target was used.
2. Your name or alias.
3. The make, model and type of rifle used (e.g. Armalite M15A4 AR-15), including the caliber.
4. Date the match was shot.
5. Any pictures of yourself shooting are always appreciated to add to our gallery.
6. Your computed score.  The match organizer will contact you in the event he wishes to dispute your scoring.
7. Which stage or position of the match the score reflects

All entries must be submitted by midnight on the day the match closes.  Late entries may be taken at the discretion of the match organizer, but must have been shot during the period the match was in play.

Multiple Entries

Competitors may submit entries in multiple classes, or in the same class, provided a different gun is used.  Multiple entries with the same gun will be considered a repeat, and the highest score taken.  Competitors may use the same gun in two different classes, but not the same gun in the same class.

Matches To Be Shot in Single Session

When entering a match, competitors should have shot the entire match in one session.  You may shoot the match as often as you like, and submit your best score, but competitors can’t shoot the match, say, five times, and submit their best target for each stage of the match.  Competitors may take a reasonable break between stages, but matches should be shot as if you were competing in a live match, or as close as possible.

Competitors With Strange Range Rules

If you would like to compete, but your range has odd rules or limitations, let the match organizer know what they are.  We may be able to accommodate you either in a future match, or by creating a separate category for you in the current one.  Our goal is participating, so we will try to accommodate competitors with odd circumstances, though they may not be able to be included in the rankings for the match, in the interest of fairness.