Full Bore Target Rifle shooting explained
The South Australian Rifle Association controls the sport of Long Range Target Shooting within South Australia. The traditional discipline of Full Bore shooting is complimented with the more recent addition of F-Class and Service events. There are 36 affiliated clubs operating from 29 rifle ranges all around the state and Broken Hill offering easy access to our great sport.
Full Bore target rifle evolved from the traditional Service Rifle (.303") style of shooting and today is now governed by the International Confederation of Full Bore Rifle Associations (ICFRA).
Competitions are conducted over ranges from 300 yards/metres to 1000 yards/metres using 5.56mm (.223") or 7.62mm (.308") specialised single shot bolt-action rifles with peep sights. Projectile weights are limited to either 80 grain for 5.56mm or 155 grain for the 7.62 mm rifle.
It is a competitive discipline where precision engineered target rifles, high quality ammunition, and skilful shooters come together to produce a display of skill and determination. Today, as factory ammunition is no longer the standard requirement, some of the skills needed to perform well are related to the effective loading of your own ammunition and the tuning of your rifle to shoot. This has brought new challenges to the target rifle shooter.
Full-bore Target Rifle shooting became popular in the mid-19th century, where it was closely associated with patriotism and The Queen's Prize. Today entry is open to all club shooters to compete all over Australia for each States Queens Prize shoot and also the National Queens Prize. Winning a badge in these competitions are regarded as reaching a pinnacle of achievement in the sport.
Some of the traditions remain, but today's target rifle is at the forefront of precision technology and today's successful shooter maintains their physical well-being, alertness and most importantly, mental control in peak condition.
At the Whyalla rifle club the ranges shot are from 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900 yards and at each range the target dimensions change but always have the same value. Modern target rifles are extremely accurate, and have 'iron' aperture sights which are fully adjustable for elevation and windage.
If you think you would like the challenge that this sport provides, then by all means make contact with our secretary, club captain or any member. Your most welcome to come along to the range and be introduced to the sport, learn basic safety and have a trial shoot without any commitment.