Air Rifle Shooting Competition Rules: What You Need to Know

Are you interested in taking your air rifle shooting skills to the next level by participating in competitions? Airgun competitions offer an exciting opportunity to challenge yourself, socialise with fellow enthusiasts, and potentially win awards or prizes. 

However, before you dive into the competitive world of air rifle shooting, it’s crucial to understand the rules and regulations that govern these events.

We explore the various types of air rifle shooting competitions, the rules you need to follow, and the essential equipment required to compete successfully.

What Types of Air Rifle Shooting Competitions Are There?

The world of air rifle shooting competitions is diverse, catering to different skill levels, interests, and shooting styles. Here are some of the most popular types of competitions you might encounter:

Bell Target Competitions

Bell target competitions are team-based events where shooters aim to hit a steel bell target placed at a short range, typically 6 or 7 yards. These competitions are ideal for beginners, as they don’t require scopes, and both spring-powered and pre-charged pneumatic (PCP) air rifles can be used. 

The rules for bell target competitions may vary from club to club, but they generally involve teams of 8 shooters using .177 calibre air rifles.

Paper Target Competitions

In paper target shooting competitions, shooters aim at traditional bull’s-eye targets made of paper. These competitions can take place indoors or outdoors, and the target sizes, distances, and number of shots allowed may vary depending on the specific event. 

Common distances for paper target competitions include 10 metres and 25 metres, and both air rifles and air pistols in .177 or .22 calibre may be used.

Field Target Competitions

Field target competitions are unique outdoor events that challenge shooters’ adaptability and marksmanship. These competitions take place in open fields or wooded areas, with metal “knock-down” targets shaped like animals or simple shapes set up at varying distances and heights, typically ranging from 8 to 55 yards.

 Shooters are not informed of the target distances, requiring them to estimate range, account for windage and elevation, and use telescopic sights for accurate shooting.

Hunter Field Target (HFT) Competitions

Hunter Field Target (HFT) competitions are a variation of traditional field target competitions, designed specifically for hunters and those interested in hunting-style shooting. HFT events typically feature 30 targets set at distances ranging from 8 to 45 yards, with the exact distances unknown to competitors. 

Unlike standard field target competitions, many HFT targets are shot from the prone position, and shooters are typically not allowed to adjust their scopes during the competition.

Essential Air Rifle Shooting Competition Rules

While the specific rules may vary depending on the type of competition and the organising body, there are some general rules and guidelines that apply to most air rifle shooting competitions:

Air Rifle Specifications

• Competitions may specify the calibre of air rifles allowed. 
• There may be restrictions on the maximum muzzle energy or velocity permitted for air rifles.
• The use of specific types of air rifles, such as PCP or spring-powered, may be required or prohibited in certain competitions.

Ammunition

• Only lead pellets or specific types of ammunition may be allowed in some competitions.
• The use of specialised competition-grade pellets may be required or recommended.

Safety Regulations

• Strict safety protocols must be followed at all times, including keeping the muzzle pointed in a safe direction and handling air rifles responsibly.
• Shooters may be required to wear appropriate eye and ear protection.
• Alcohol and drug use are strictly prohibited during competitions.

Shooting Positions

• Competitions may specify the shooting positions allowed, such as standing, prone, or kneeling.
• In some cases, shooters may be required to use specific types of shooting rests or supports.

Scoring and Time Limits

• The scoring system and target values will be clearly defined in the competition rules.
• Time limits may be imposed for each shot or round, depending on the competition format.

Equipment Restrictions

• The use of specific types of scopes, sights, or other accessories may be restricted or prohibited in certain competitions.
• Shooters may be required to have their air rifles and equipment inspected before the competition.

Conduct and Sportsmanship

• Shooters are expected to conduct themselves in a respectful and sportsmanlike manner at all times.
• Any unsportsmanlike behaviour or cheating may result in disqualification or other penalties.

The Wolfman: Your Source for Top-Quality Air Rifles and Shooting Supplies

At The Wolfman, we understand the importance of having the right equipment for air rifle shooting competitions. That’s why we offer a wide range of high-quality air rifles, air pistols, and shooting supplies from trusted brands. 

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced competitor, our knowledgeable team can help you find the perfect air rifle and accessories to meet your needs and ensure compliance with competition rules.

Browse our extensive selection of air rifles, pellets, scopes, and other shooting essentials online today. Don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions or need assistance in preparing for your next air rifle shooting competition.