What do you do in the Rifle Section?
We shoot 0.22 target rifles at target cards at distances of 25 yards (22.5m). The target may be a card, with 10 target (circular) diagrams, each one being 5cm in diameter or an electronic measuring frame, with a single target area. The bull’s-eye is only 1.2cm across! The bullet holes are 0.55cm wide.
 
What type of rifles do you use?
The rifles are bolt-action small-bore 0.22 rimfire rifles designed exclusively for target shooting. They are simple to operate and will fire only a single shot at a time. The bullets are designed to produce an accurate mark on the target card. The club has a selection of rifles for use. Air rifles and air pistols are available for thosing wishing to participate in these disciplines.
 
Is it loud? Do the rifles recoil a lot?
Both ranges are separated from the clubroom so little noise reaches the clubroom. Ear protectors are mandatory for .22 and encouraged for air.
The rifle’s recoil is not harsh, it is similar to someone giving you a gentle tap on the shoulder. The recoil never produces bruising nor does it give you a sore shoulder.
 
Is it dangerous?
No. New members are given safety instruction and are never left unattended. After approximately 6 months of membership and having demonstrated a responsible attitude, new members are eligible for Full Membership. Statistically, many other sports are more dangerous, including swimming, running, football, rugby and tennis.
 
Do I need a Licence?
No. The Club licence covers all the rifles. You do not require your own licence. However all members who progress to full membership are expected to have either their own FAC or Air Weapons Certificate.
 
Do I need any special equipment?
No. All the equipment is supplied. The rifle, shooting jacket, gloves, ear protectors, scope, ground mat, target cards are provided.
 
Do I need previous experience?
No. We have several members who are experienced in coaching beginners.
 
Do you have junior members?
Yes
 
How often do you need to practice?
As often as possible. Beginners should try to shoot a minimum of 1 card a week in order to improve and learn.
 
Do you have women members?
Yes
 
What matches do you compete in?
We are affiliated to a number of Associations, each of whom provide a range of competitions, including:
 
  • team competitions (both shoulder to shoulder and postal)
  • individual competitions
  • championships
 
A handicap system ensures you will be competing against people of a similar standard.
Postal competitions are shot at our range and either scored in-house or posted to the organising bodies for scoring.