All,
After shooting in a HP/F-Class event this past weekend, a few guys and I came up with this concept.
There is a core group of shooters that are stuck between WFO TAC Precision Rifle matches and F-Class/HP matches.
I believe this concept will bring more shooters on the line and will help funnel shooters into either hardcore HP/F-Class competition or hardcore Tac Precision rifle comps. Either way, it will grow precision rifle shooting.
There are only a handful of facilities in the country that can host a TAC rifle match; however there are many HP ranges that can accommodate the format in this concept.
This concept is designed with the tactical precision rifle and shooter in mind.
The regulations and rules are put in place so that we do not confuse an F-TR rifle or Open rifle with a TAC rig.
There are still details and bugs that need to be worked out. NCPPRC will probably host a few of these to see what type of response we get and go from there.
If any other match directors out there think they would be interested in getting this going on their range. Please PM me, lets put our heads together and see what we can get rolling.
For those with Adobe Acrobat Reader, please down load the document here.
http://ncpprc.com/FPRConcept.pdf
Field Precision Rifle Class (FPR) Limited & Open Overview
F-Precision Rifle Limited Equipment Rules:
• Gas Operated or Bolt Action Scoped Rifle
• Bolt Action Rifles must be repeater type of action. No single shot actions.
• Caliber limited to 308win or 223 (Unmodified)
• 308win bullet weight will be limited to 168gn to 178gn
• 223rem bullet weight will be limited to 92gn maximum.
• Barrels are limited to 26” maximum.
o Length will be measured from recoil lug to front end of muzzle or brake on bolt action rifles.
o Length will be measured from the rear of the barrel nut, float tube, or rail attachment nut to front end of muzzle or brake on semi autos.
• Brakes are allowed. The competitor is responsible for mitigating muzzle blast and debris. (Provisional)
• Rifle weight limit of 17lbs with Bi-Pod attached. (Weight includes any accessories attached to the rifle)
• Bi-pod will have a weight limit of 20oz maximum. All bipods must have folding legs.
F-Precision Rifle Open Equipment Rules:
• Gas Operated or Bolt Action Scoped Rifle
• Bolt Action Rifles must have a repeater action. No single shot actions.
• Caliber Limited to 6mm to 338cal without bullet weight limitation
• Barrels are limited to 28” maximum.
o Length will be measured from recoil lug to the front of the muzzle or brake on bolt action rifles.
o Length will be measured from the rear of the barrel nut, float tube, or rail attachment nut to the front end of the muzzle or brake on semi auto rifles.
• Brakes are allowed. The competitor is responsible for mitigating muzzle blast and debris. (Provisional)
• Rifle weight limit of 18lbs with Bi-Pod attached. (Weight includes any accessories attached to the rifle)
• Bi-pod will have a weight limit of 20oz maximum. All bipods must have folding legs.
Feeding of Rounds:
• All ammo must be fed from a magazine, mag well, or blind magazine.
Optics:
• Optics will be restricted to a magnification of 1X to 25X maximum
Rear Rest for Both Classes:
• Must not weigh more than 2lbs.
• Shooting gloves are permitted.
• Monopods are not permitted.
Courses of Fire:
Mid Range COF
• 15 rounds @ 300 yards with 2 convertible sighters in 15 minutes.
• 15 rounds @ 500 yards with 2 convertible sighters in 15 minutes.
• 15 rounds @ 600 yards with 2 convertible sighters in 15 minutes.
Long Range COF
• 15 rounds @ 800 yards with 2 convertible sighters in 15 minutes.
• 15 rounds @ 900 yards with 2 convertible sighters in 15 minutes.
• 15 rounds @ 1000 yards with 2 convertible sighters in 15 minutes.
Targets:
• We will use the current targets standards as F-Class uses at the given distances.
22. Field Precision RIFLE RULES (Field Precision Rifle)
Conventional Long Range Competition
NOTE: these rules are provided for the conduct of F-Tactical competition either separately or in conjunction with conventional NRA Long Range rifle competition. Scores fired in these competitions using the F-class modified targets will be used for classification. In all cases where specific rules are not given here, the appropriate rules for High Power Rifle competition shall be used.
3. EQUIPMENT AND AMMUNITION
3.4 Field Precision Rifle Rules -
(a) Field Precision Rifle Open (FPR-O) - A rifle restricted to a bore diameter no larger than .338 caliber. (Attention is directed to safety fan limitations of various ranges. Individual ranges may further restrict ammunition). The rifle must be fired off a bipod, rigidly attached to the rifle’s for-end, and/or a sling. Any bipod, meeting the definition of a bipod, may be used but its weight must be included in the rifle’s overall weight. Any safe, manually operated trigger is permitted. Only magnified optic sighting systems are permitted, and will be included in the rifles overall weight.
The provisions of Rules 3.16 and 3.16.1 apply to this definition.
(1) The rifle’s overall weight, including all attachments such as optics and bipod, must not exceed 8.2
kilograms (approximately 18 pounds). An “attachment” also includes any external object, other that the
competitor and apparel, which recoils or partially recoils with the rifle, or which is clamped, held, or joined in any way to the rifle for each shot, or which even slightly raises with the firing of the rifle from the rests).
(2) The width of the rifle’s fore end shall not exceed 76mm (approximately 3 inches).
(3) The rifle must be fired in the prone position from the shoulder of the competitor using rifle rests as defined in Rule 3.4.1.
(4) All ammunition must be fed from the magazine, magazine well or blind magazine.
(b) Field Precision Rifle Limited (FPR-L) - A rifle restricted to the chambers of unmodified .308 Winchester/7.62mm NATO or unmodified .223 Remington/5.56mm X 45 NATO cartridge cases. The rifle must be fired off a bipod, rigidly attached to the rifle’s for-end, and/or a sling. Any bipod, meeting the definition of a bipod, may be used but its weight must be included in the rifle’s overall weight. Any safe, manually operated trigger is permitted. Only magnified optic sighting systems are permitted, and will be included in the rifles overall weight.
(1) The rifle’s overall weight, including all attachments such as sights, sling and bipod, must not exceed 7.7 kilograms (approximately 17 pounds). An “attachment” also includes any external object, other
than the competitor and apparel, which recoils or partially recoils with the rifle, or which is clamped, held, or joined in any way to the rifle for each shot, or which even slightly raises with the lifting of the rifle from its rest/firing point.
(2) The rifle must be fired in the prone position from the shoulder of the competitor using rifle as defined in
3.4.1
(3) 308 Winchester/7.62 NATO will have a bullet weight limitation of 168gn to 178gn bullets only.
(4) 223 Remington/5.56x45 NATO will have a bullet weight limitation of 92gns maximum.
(5) All ammunition must have the capability of feeding from the magazine system of the competitors rifle.
3.4.1 Rifle Rests -
Field Precision Rifle Rests - A bipod the only allowed front supports for the F-TR rifle. The rifle may be supported by a bipod and a rear support which provide no positive mechanical method for returning it to its precise point of aim for the prior shot. Subject to:
(1) The bipod and rear support may not be attached to each other.
(2) The use of any form of a table is prohibited. This discipline is a modification of high power prone shooting, not a form of bench rest and should not be construed as such.
Disabled competitors may apply to the NRA Protest Committee for appropriate dispensation.
The intent of this rule is to prevent the use of a table type device.
(3) A bipod is a device with no more than two legs that touch the firing point. It must be rigidly attached to the fore end of the rifle. The bipod must have folding legs, and may be adjustable to compensate
for the uneven surface of the firing point. The maximum weight limit of the bi-pod will be 20oz.
(4) No portion of the rifle’s butt or fore end shall rest directly on the ground or any hard surface. A rear rabbit eared bag, small sandbag or a gloved hand may be used to support the rifle’s butt. Any rear support employed shall not be attached, clamped or held to the rifle in any manner. The rear support may not be fixed to or protrude into the firing point. Mechanically adjustable rear support is not allowed.
(5) Any number or type of objects may be placed beneath the bipod or rear support, to compensate for variations in height or slope of the firing point.
(6) The bipod and rear rest may be adjusted after any shot to compensate for rest movement or settling.
3.4.2 Optics –
Field Precision Rifle optics are restricted to 1X – 25X magnification power ranges only.
4. TARGETS
NOTE: F-Class Target Centers are to be used with MR-63, MR-65, MR-1 and LR targets for all F-Class
shooting. When pasted onto the above mentioned targets the scoring will be conducted as follows: the new X-rings are valued 10-X. The old X-ring becomes the new 10-ring, the old 10-ring becomes the new 9-ring, etc.
4.4 300 Yard Target -
NRA No.MR-63FC - F-Class Target Center based on the MR-63 target for use at 300 yards. To be pasted over the MR-63 target.
Aiming Black (inches) Rings in white (inches)
X ring 1.42”
10 ring 2.85”
9 ring 5.85”
8 ring 8.85”
7 ring 11.85”
6 ring 17.85”
5 ring 23.85”
4.5 500 Yard Target -
NRA No.MR-65FC - F-Class target Center based on the MR-65 target for use at 500 yards. To be pasted over the MR-65 target.
Aiming Black (inches) Rings in white (inches)
X ring 2.50
10 ring 5.00
9 ring 10.00
8 ring 15.00
7 ring 20.00
6 ring 25.00
5 ring 30.00
4.6 600 Yard Targets –
NRA No.MR-1FC - F-Class target Center based on the MR-1 target for use at 600 yards. To be pasted over the MR-1 target.
Aiming Black (inches) Rings in white (inches)
X ring 3.00
10 ring 6.00
9 ring 12.00
8 ring 18.00
7 ring 24.00
6 ring 36.00
5 ring 48.00
4.7 800, 900, and 1000 Yard Target
NRA No LRFC - F-Class Target Center based on the LR target for use at 1000 yards. To be pasted over the LR target.
Aiming Black (inches) Rings in white (inches)
X ring 5.00
10 ring 10.00
9 ring 20.00
8 ring 30.00
7 ring 44.00
6 ring 60.00
5 area 72”x72” Square
5. POSITIONS
5.6.1 FRP Class Prone – FPR Class Prone is fired from the prone position from the shoulder. The rifle may be
supported with a rear and/or front rest or with a bipod and/or sling and rear rest (See Rule 3.4.1).
7. COURSES OF FIRE
Position No. of Shots Type of Fire Distance Target
7.14 Prone 15 or 20 Slow 300 yards MR-63/wMR-63FC
7.15 Prone 15 or 20 Slow 500 yards MR-65/wMR-65FC
7.16 Prone 15 or 20 Slow 600 yards MR-1/wMR-1FC
7.17 Prone 15 or 20 Slow 800, 900 or 1000 yards LR/wLRFC
7.18 F-Tactical Regional Course (90 shots):
Day 1 COF 7.19 Mid Range Prone Course (45 Shots)
Day 2 COF 7.20 Long Range Prone Course (45 Shots)
7.19 F-Tactical Mid-Range Prone Course (45 shots):
Position No. of Shots Type of Fire Distance Target
Prone 15 or 20 Slow 300 yards MR-63/wMR-63FC
Prone 15 or 20 Slow 500 yards MR-65/wMR-65FC
Prone 15 or 20 Slow 600 yards MR-1/wMR-1FC
7.20 F-Tactical Long-Range Prone Course (45 shots)
Position No. of Shots Type of Fire Distance Target
Prone 15 or 20 Slow 800 yards LR/wLRFC
Prone 15 or 20 Slow 900 yards LR/wLRFC
Prone 15 or 20 Slow 1000 yards LR/wLRFC
9.1 Changing Rifle - A competitor may change rifles to another of the same or different caliber only between fired matches or between stages of a multiple stage match even if these stages are included in an aggregate match. A competitor may not change his or her rifle during the firing of a single stage unless it has become disabled and has been so designated by the Chief Range Officer. For the purpose of this rule, the firing of a stage is considered to have started when the competitor has fired his or her first record shot. A claim that a rifle is disabled must be made immediately. All shots fired up to the time that the claim is made will stand as part of the official score. (See Ruled 10.9 and 10.10.)
17. NATIONAL RECORDS
Note: National F-Class High Power Rifle Records are maintained for both the F-Class Open and F-Class TRas defined in Rules 3.4(a) and (b) for scores fired over the following courses for “Open”, “Police”, “Service”, Civilian”, “Women”, “Junior”, “Senior”, and “Grand Senior” categories fired on targets indicated for any sights. The “Service category includes Regular Service, Reserve Components and National Guard. In order for records to be recognized promptly, National Record Reporting forms must be submitted to NRA by the Statistical Officer of the tournament in which they were fired, after being certified by the Jury or Referee. National Record Reporting forms are mailed to sponsors of NRA Registered Tournaments by NRA Headquarters.
Unlimited sighting shots shall be fired and recorded in courses of fire described in Rules 17.5.1(g) and (h).
Two sighters will be optional in course of fire (j), and two sighters shall be fired and recorded in each stage of all other listed courses of fire. Team matches may be fired without sighters.
Range Target Total Shots Course
A 300 yards MR-63/wMR-63FC 15 15 shots slow fire, prone
B 300 yards MR-63/wMR-63FC 20 20 shots slow fire, prone
C 500 yards MR-65/wMR-65FC 15 15 shots slow fire, prone
D 500 yards MR-65/wMR-65FC 20 20 shots slow fire, prone
E 600 yards MR-1/wMR-1FC 15 15 shots slow fire, prone
F 600 yards MR-1/wMR-1FC 20 20 shots slow fire, prone
G 1000 yards LR/wLRFC 15 15 shots slow fire, prone
H 1000 yards LR/wLRFC 20 20 shots slow fire, prone
I F-Tactical Long Range COF (45 rds total)
800 yards
900 yards
1000 yards
LR/wLRFC
LR/wLRFC
LR/wLRFC
15
15
15
15 shots slow fire, prone
15 shots slow fire, prone
15 shots slow fire, prone
J F-Tactical Mid Range COF (45 rds total)
300 yards
500 yards
600 yards
MR-63/wMR-63FC
MR-65/wMR-65FC
MR-1/wMR-1FC
15
15
15
15 shots slow fire, prone
15 shots slow fire, prone
15 shots slow fire, prone
K The current National Championship Aggregate course
L Team Matches – Four man team matches fired over the course described in terms (d), (f), (h), (i) and (j)
19. NATIONAL Field Precision Rifle Open and Limited Classification
19.5.1 Courses of Fire Used for F-Tactical Open and Limited Long Range Prone Classification
800, 900, or 1000 Yards
Target: LR/wLRFC, slow fire, 15 or 20 shots, prone
F-Tactical Long Range Course (45 shots)
800 yds: Target, LR/wLRFC, slow fire, 15 shots, prone
900 yds: Target, LR/wLRFC, slow fire, 15 shots, prone
1000 yds: Target, LR/wLRFC, slow fire, 15 shots, prone
19.5.2 Courses of Fire Used for Mid-Range Field Precision Rifle Open and Limited Classification
300 Yards
Target: MR-63/wMR-63FC, slow fire, 15 or 20 shots, prone
500 Yards
Target: MR-65/wMR-65FC, slow fire, 15 or 20 shots, prone
600 Yards
Target: MR-1/wMR-1FC, slow fire, 15 or 20 shots, prone
19.15 Individual F-Class Averages - Competitors classified or reclassified on the basis of scores fired under the conditions specified in Rule 19.4 reduced to 10 shot averages, those averages leading to classifications as shown in Table III below:
Table III
Individual F-Class
High Master 98.00 and above
Master 96.50 to 97.99
Expert 94.00 to 96.49
Sharpshooter 91.50 to 93.99
Marksman Below 91.50
Field Precision Rifle Class (FPR) Question and Answers
Q. What is the purpose of this?
A. The short and simple answer is to promote the shooting sports and get more shooters on the line. Tactical/Practical precision rifle competition is the fastest growing rifle discipline in this country right now. Our club runs 40 + shooters on average on match days, and an additional 30 + shooters through on our practice day prior to our match. 70 + shooters on a weekend is the norm for us. Why not tap into this core of shooters?
There is a big core of shooters that are in between hardcore tac rifle competition and tradition HP and F-Class competition. We can use this venue as a funnel point to gather shooters and let them decide where they would like to take their shooting careers. There will be a portion that says “you know, I really dig F-Class, I am going to shoot F-TR or F-Open. The others will say, “now that I have had more time behind my rifle at distance, I am ready and comfortable to get into tac precision matches where they run and gun”.
Our practice sessions every month is like a mini F-Class match. It consist of 10 minutes of live fire at each distance. Everything is shot from prone at slow fire. Each round is pulled and mark just like in HP. Last month we had 40 guys come out, a lot of them I never see at our tac matches ever. Why not give these guys a place to compete, have fun, and in turn raise support and funds for the HP and F-Class programs out there?
Q. Why not just shoot F-TR or F-Open?
A. Let’s talk about the equipment involved, and the difference between an F-TR/Open and a tactical/practical field rifle.
1. F-Open basically employs a benchrest gun that is shot from a benchrest type of front rest off the ground.
2. F-TR basically employs a Palma rifle with a high powered scope on top.
3. Could a person come out and shoot their tactical/practical rifle in an F-Class match now? Sure, however they have a snowballs chance in hell with being competitive. My 260rem tac rifle vs. a true F-Open rig is like putting a NASCAR up against a Formula 1 car.
There is huge difference in equipment used between F-TR/Open and a tactical/practical rifles. Why not get more shooters on the line by creating a venue where those with tactical/practical rifles can compete in their own arena.
Think about the average cost of an F-TR/Open rifle + the accessories and reloading hardware. Yes, I know there is the Savage FTR 308win for around 1100.00, but reality is the majority of FT-R rigs are custom built. We won’t even bother discussing what a F-Open rig cost with all the bells and whistles.
Below are the reasons I believe why the tac/practical precision rifle discipline has grown the way it has the last several years:
• Lower start up cost.
• Factory ammo and rifles can be used, yet still be competitive.
• High CDI (chicks dig it) factor. It is the IN thing right now.
Q. Why limit it to 168gn to 178gn bullets only.
A. There is already a venue for the 155s, it is in F-TR. Let’s face it, the 155gn Scenar pushed to 2950 or 3000 FPS + puts the 175gn and 178gn bullets to shame at 800 yards and beyond.
One of the main reasons of the FPR class is to allow those that shoot factory Federal Gold 175s to come out and have a good time, and yet still be competitive. And yes, 168s make it out to 1K if pushed correctly. However I expect the majority of shooters will push 175gn SMKs or 178gn AMAXs. This levels the playing field for the FPR Limited class.
Q. What’s up with the 2lb weight limit on the rear rest?
A. I weighed all the bean bags I have used for tac rifle competitions, and the heaviest one is 1lbs 14oz. No one carries a 6lb bunny ear support around in tac rifle matches. I am trying to stay as true to the tactical precision rifle theme as possible.
Q. Why is there a weight limit on bi-pods? Why do their legs have to fold?
A. Simple. It is to keep guys from using those “sled” type of bi-pods. The traditional Harris 6”-9” or 9”-13” is the industry standard in the tac precision rifle game. Once again, just trying to stay as true as possible to the tac precision rifle theme.
Q. How did you come up with a 17.0lb right weight limit for FPR-Limited, and 18lbs for FPR-Open?
A. I weighed my 260rem by KMW. It has a Krieger #10 MTU, McMillan A5 stock (regular fill) and a 5-25X Premier scope. My mount and base are by Badger Ordnance, and made of steel. With my Harris 6-9 w/Pod-Lok, TAB sling, and Eagle stock pack, the rifle came in right under 17lbs.
For FPR-Open, I took into consideration of the extra 2” of barrel allowed.
Not too many rifles weighing in more than 18lbs in the tac precision rifle game.
Q. Why a 26” and 28” barrel length limitation?
A. Again, trying to keep things as close as possible with the tac precision rifle theme.
Q. Will a 175gn make it out to 1K using such short barrels?
A. Sure will. Our group has a guy running 175s with 18.5” barrel out to 1K in the warmer months.
Q. What’s up with feeding from the magazine, mag well or blind magazine only rule?
A. Again, we are staying true to the tac rifle game as much as possible. This rule keeps that “gamer” from loading rounds out long to cram more powder in to gain a lil bit of an edge. If a shooter has to single load due to his round not fitting into a magazine, it turns his rifle into a single shot. We don’t ever run single shots in tac precision rifle comps.
Q. Why limit the power range from 1X to 25X only for this class?
A. Again, staying true to the tac precision game. It would be safe to say that 99% of tac rifle shooters, do not run above 25X.
After shooting in a HP/F-Class event this past weekend, a few guys and I came up with this concept.
There is a core group of shooters that are stuck between WFO TAC Precision Rifle matches and F-Class/HP matches.
I believe this concept will bring more shooters on the line and will help funnel shooters into either hardcore HP/F-Class competition or hardcore Tac Precision rifle comps. Either way, it will grow precision rifle shooting.
There are only a handful of facilities in the country that can host a TAC rifle match; however there are many HP ranges that can accommodate the format in this concept.
This concept is designed with the tactical precision rifle and shooter in mind.
The regulations and rules are put in place so that we do not confuse an F-TR rifle or Open rifle with a TAC rig.
There are still details and bugs that need to be worked out. NCPPRC will probably host a few of these to see what type of response we get and go from there.
If any other match directors out there think they would be interested in getting this going on their range. Please PM me, lets put our heads together and see what we can get rolling.
For those with Adobe Acrobat Reader, please down load the document here.
http://ncpprc.com/FPRConcept.pdf
Field Precision Rifle Class (FPR) Limited & Open Overview
F-Precision Rifle Limited Equipment Rules:
• Gas Operated or Bolt Action Scoped Rifle
• Bolt Action Rifles must be repeater type of action. No single shot actions.
• Caliber limited to 308win or 223 (Unmodified)
• 308win bullet weight will be limited to 168gn to 178gn
• 223rem bullet weight will be limited to 92gn maximum.
• Barrels are limited to 26” maximum.
o Length will be measured from recoil lug to front end of muzzle or brake on bolt action rifles.
o Length will be measured from the rear of the barrel nut, float tube, or rail attachment nut to front end of muzzle or brake on semi autos.
• Brakes are allowed. The competitor is responsible for mitigating muzzle blast and debris. (Provisional)
• Rifle weight limit of 17lbs with Bi-Pod attached. (Weight includes any accessories attached to the rifle)
• Bi-pod will have a weight limit of 20oz maximum. All bipods must have folding legs.
F-Precision Rifle Open Equipment Rules:
• Gas Operated or Bolt Action Scoped Rifle
• Bolt Action Rifles must have a repeater action. No single shot actions.
• Caliber Limited to 6mm to 338cal without bullet weight limitation
• Barrels are limited to 28” maximum.
o Length will be measured from recoil lug to the front of the muzzle or brake on bolt action rifles.
o Length will be measured from the rear of the barrel nut, float tube, or rail attachment nut to the front end of the muzzle or brake on semi auto rifles.
• Brakes are allowed. The competitor is responsible for mitigating muzzle blast and debris. (Provisional)
• Rifle weight limit of 18lbs with Bi-Pod attached. (Weight includes any accessories attached to the rifle)
• Bi-pod will have a weight limit of 20oz maximum. All bipods must have folding legs.
Feeding of Rounds:
• All ammo must be fed from a magazine, mag well, or blind magazine.
Optics:
• Optics will be restricted to a magnification of 1X to 25X maximum
Rear Rest for Both Classes:
• Must not weigh more than 2lbs.
• Shooting gloves are permitted.
• Monopods are not permitted.
Courses of Fire:
Mid Range COF
• 15 rounds @ 300 yards with 2 convertible sighters in 15 minutes.
• 15 rounds @ 500 yards with 2 convertible sighters in 15 minutes.
• 15 rounds @ 600 yards with 2 convertible sighters in 15 minutes.
Long Range COF
• 15 rounds @ 800 yards with 2 convertible sighters in 15 minutes.
• 15 rounds @ 900 yards with 2 convertible sighters in 15 minutes.
• 15 rounds @ 1000 yards with 2 convertible sighters in 15 minutes.
Targets:
• We will use the current targets standards as F-Class uses at the given distances.
22. Field Precision RIFLE RULES (Field Precision Rifle)
Conventional Long Range Competition
NOTE: these rules are provided for the conduct of F-Tactical competition either separately or in conjunction with conventional NRA Long Range rifle competition. Scores fired in these competitions using the F-class modified targets will be used for classification. In all cases where specific rules are not given here, the appropriate rules for High Power Rifle competition shall be used.
3. EQUIPMENT AND AMMUNITION
3.4 Field Precision Rifle Rules -
(a) Field Precision Rifle Open (FPR-O) - A rifle restricted to a bore diameter no larger than .338 caliber. (Attention is directed to safety fan limitations of various ranges. Individual ranges may further restrict ammunition). The rifle must be fired off a bipod, rigidly attached to the rifle’s for-end, and/or a sling. Any bipod, meeting the definition of a bipod, may be used but its weight must be included in the rifle’s overall weight. Any safe, manually operated trigger is permitted. Only magnified optic sighting systems are permitted, and will be included in the rifles overall weight.
The provisions of Rules 3.16 and 3.16.1 apply to this definition.
(1) The rifle’s overall weight, including all attachments such as optics and bipod, must not exceed 8.2
kilograms (approximately 18 pounds). An “attachment” also includes any external object, other that the
competitor and apparel, which recoils or partially recoils with the rifle, or which is clamped, held, or joined in any way to the rifle for each shot, or which even slightly raises with the firing of the rifle from the rests).
(2) The width of the rifle’s fore end shall not exceed 76mm (approximately 3 inches).
(3) The rifle must be fired in the prone position from the shoulder of the competitor using rifle rests as defined in Rule 3.4.1.
(4) All ammunition must be fed from the magazine, magazine well or blind magazine.
(b) Field Precision Rifle Limited (FPR-L) - A rifle restricted to the chambers of unmodified .308 Winchester/7.62mm NATO or unmodified .223 Remington/5.56mm X 45 NATO cartridge cases. The rifle must be fired off a bipod, rigidly attached to the rifle’s for-end, and/or a sling. Any bipod, meeting the definition of a bipod, may be used but its weight must be included in the rifle’s overall weight. Any safe, manually operated trigger is permitted. Only magnified optic sighting systems are permitted, and will be included in the rifles overall weight.
(1) The rifle’s overall weight, including all attachments such as sights, sling and bipod, must not exceed 7.7 kilograms (approximately 17 pounds). An “attachment” also includes any external object, other
than the competitor and apparel, which recoils or partially recoils with the rifle, or which is clamped, held, or joined in any way to the rifle for each shot, or which even slightly raises with the lifting of the rifle from its rest/firing point.
(2) The rifle must be fired in the prone position from the shoulder of the competitor using rifle as defined in
3.4.1
(3) 308 Winchester/7.62 NATO will have a bullet weight limitation of 168gn to 178gn bullets only.
(4) 223 Remington/5.56x45 NATO will have a bullet weight limitation of 92gns maximum.
(5) All ammunition must have the capability of feeding from the magazine system of the competitors rifle.
3.4.1 Rifle Rests -
Field Precision Rifle Rests - A bipod the only allowed front supports for the F-TR rifle. The rifle may be supported by a bipod and a rear support which provide no positive mechanical method for returning it to its precise point of aim for the prior shot. Subject to:
(1) The bipod and rear support may not be attached to each other.
(2) The use of any form of a table is prohibited. This discipline is a modification of high power prone shooting, not a form of bench rest and should not be construed as such.
Disabled competitors may apply to the NRA Protest Committee for appropriate dispensation.
The intent of this rule is to prevent the use of a table type device.
(3) A bipod is a device with no more than two legs that touch the firing point. It must be rigidly attached to the fore end of the rifle. The bipod must have folding legs, and may be adjustable to compensate
for the uneven surface of the firing point. The maximum weight limit of the bi-pod will be 20oz.
(4) No portion of the rifle’s butt or fore end shall rest directly on the ground or any hard surface. A rear rabbit eared bag, small sandbag or a gloved hand may be used to support the rifle’s butt. Any rear support employed shall not be attached, clamped or held to the rifle in any manner. The rear support may not be fixed to or protrude into the firing point. Mechanically adjustable rear support is not allowed.
(5) Any number or type of objects may be placed beneath the bipod or rear support, to compensate for variations in height or slope of the firing point.
(6) The bipod and rear rest may be adjusted after any shot to compensate for rest movement or settling.
3.4.2 Optics –
Field Precision Rifle optics are restricted to 1X – 25X magnification power ranges only.
4. TARGETS
NOTE: F-Class Target Centers are to be used with MR-63, MR-65, MR-1 and LR targets for all F-Class
shooting. When pasted onto the above mentioned targets the scoring will be conducted as follows: the new X-rings are valued 10-X. The old X-ring becomes the new 10-ring, the old 10-ring becomes the new 9-ring, etc.
4.4 300 Yard Target -
NRA No.MR-63FC - F-Class Target Center based on the MR-63 target for use at 300 yards. To be pasted over the MR-63 target.
Aiming Black (inches) Rings in white (inches)
X ring 1.42”
10 ring 2.85”
9 ring 5.85”
8 ring 8.85”
7 ring 11.85”
6 ring 17.85”
5 ring 23.85”
4.5 500 Yard Target -
NRA No.MR-65FC - F-Class target Center based on the MR-65 target for use at 500 yards. To be pasted over the MR-65 target.
Aiming Black (inches) Rings in white (inches)
X ring 2.50
10 ring 5.00
9 ring 10.00
8 ring 15.00
7 ring 20.00
6 ring 25.00
5 ring 30.00
4.6 600 Yard Targets –
NRA No.MR-1FC - F-Class target Center based on the MR-1 target for use at 600 yards. To be pasted over the MR-1 target.
Aiming Black (inches) Rings in white (inches)
X ring 3.00
10 ring 6.00
9 ring 12.00
8 ring 18.00
7 ring 24.00
6 ring 36.00
5 ring 48.00
4.7 800, 900, and 1000 Yard Target
NRA No LRFC - F-Class Target Center based on the LR target for use at 1000 yards. To be pasted over the LR target.
Aiming Black (inches) Rings in white (inches)
X ring 5.00
10 ring 10.00
9 ring 20.00
8 ring 30.00
7 ring 44.00
6 ring 60.00
5 area 72”x72” Square
5. POSITIONS
5.6.1 FRP Class Prone – FPR Class Prone is fired from the prone position from the shoulder. The rifle may be
supported with a rear and/or front rest or with a bipod and/or sling and rear rest (See Rule 3.4.1).
7. COURSES OF FIRE
Position No. of Shots Type of Fire Distance Target
7.14 Prone 15 or 20 Slow 300 yards MR-63/wMR-63FC
7.15 Prone 15 or 20 Slow 500 yards MR-65/wMR-65FC
7.16 Prone 15 or 20 Slow 600 yards MR-1/wMR-1FC
7.17 Prone 15 or 20 Slow 800, 900 or 1000 yards LR/wLRFC
7.18 F-Tactical Regional Course (90 shots):
Day 1 COF 7.19 Mid Range Prone Course (45 Shots)
Day 2 COF 7.20 Long Range Prone Course (45 Shots)
7.19 F-Tactical Mid-Range Prone Course (45 shots):
Position No. of Shots Type of Fire Distance Target
Prone 15 or 20 Slow 300 yards MR-63/wMR-63FC
Prone 15 or 20 Slow 500 yards MR-65/wMR-65FC
Prone 15 or 20 Slow 600 yards MR-1/wMR-1FC
7.20 F-Tactical Long-Range Prone Course (45 shots)
Position No. of Shots Type of Fire Distance Target
Prone 15 or 20 Slow 800 yards LR/wLRFC
Prone 15 or 20 Slow 900 yards LR/wLRFC
Prone 15 or 20 Slow 1000 yards LR/wLRFC
9.1 Changing Rifle - A competitor may change rifles to another of the same or different caliber only between fired matches or between stages of a multiple stage match even if these stages are included in an aggregate match. A competitor may not change his or her rifle during the firing of a single stage unless it has become disabled and has been so designated by the Chief Range Officer. For the purpose of this rule, the firing of a stage is considered to have started when the competitor has fired his or her first record shot. A claim that a rifle is disabled must be made immediately. All shots fired up to the time that the claim is made will stand as part of the official score. (See Ruled 10.9 and 10.10.)
17. NATIONAL RECORDS
Note: National F-Class High Power Rifle Records are maintained for both the F-Class Open and F-Class TRas defined in Rules 3.4(a) and (b) for scores fired over the following courses for “Open”, “Police”, “Service”, Civilian”, “Women”, “Junior”, “Senior”, and “Grand Senior” categories fired on targets indicated for any sights. The “Service category includes Regular Service, Reserve Components and National Guard. In order for records to be recognized promptly, National Record Reporting forms must be submitted to NRA by the Statistical Officer of the tournament in which they were fired, after being certified by the Jury or Referee. National Record Reporting forms are mailed to sponsors of NRA Registered Tournaments by NRA Headquarters.
Unlimited sighting shots shall be fired and recorded in courses of fire described in Rules 17.5.1(g) and (h).
Two sighters will be optional in course of fire (j), and two sighters shall be fired and recorded in each stage of all other listed courses of fire. Team matches may be fired without sighters.
Range Target Total Shots Course
A 300 yards MR-63/wMR-63FC 15 15 shots slow fire, prone
B 300 yards MR-63/wMR-63FC 20 20 shots slow fire, prone
C 500 yards MR-65/wMR-65FC 15 15 shots slow fire, prone
D 500 yards MR-65/wMR-65FC 20 20 shots slow fire, prone
E 600 yards MR-1/wMR-1FC 15 15 shots slow fire, prone
F 600 yards MR-1/wMR-1FC 20 20 shots slow fire, prone
G 1000 yards LR/wLRFC 15 15 shots slow fire, prone
H 1000 yards LR/wLRFC 20 20 shots slow fire, prone
I F-Tactical Long Range COF (45 rds total)
800 yards
900 yards
1000 yards
LR/wLRFC
LR/wLRFC
LR/wLRFC
15
15
15
15 shots slow fire, prone
15 shots slow fire, prone
15 shots slow fire, prone
J F-Tactical Mid Range COF (45 rds total)
300 yards
500 yards
600 yards
MR-63/wMR-63FC
MR-65/wMR-65FC
MR-1/wMR-1FC
15
15
15
15 shots slow fire, prone
15 shots slow fire, prone
15 shots slow fire, prone
K The current National Championship Aggregate course
L Team Matches – Four man team matches fired over the course described in terms (d), (f), (h), (i) and (j)
19. NATIONAL Field Precision Rifle Open and Limited Classification
19.5.1 Courses of Fire Used for F-Tactical Open and Limited Long Range Prone Classification
800, 900, or 1000 Yards
Target: LR/wLRFC, slow fire, 15 or 20 shots, prone
F-Tactical Long Range Course (45 shots)
800 yds: Target, LR/wLRFC, slow fire, 15 shots, prone
900 yds: Target, LR/wLRFC, slow fire, 15 shots, prone
1000 yds: Target, LR/wLRFC, slow fire, 15 shots, prone
19.5.2 Courses of Fire Used for Mid-Range Field Precision Rifle Open and Limited Classification
300 Yards
Target: MR-63/wMR-63FC, slow fire, 15 or 20 shots, prone
500 Yards
Target: MR-65/wMR-65FC, slow fire, 15 or 20 shots, prone
600 Yards
Target: MR-1/wMR-1FC, slow fire, 15 or 20 shots, prone
19.15 Individual F-Class Averages - Competitors classified or reclassified on the basis of scores fired under the conditions specified in Rule 19.4 reduced to 10 shot averages, those averages leading to classifications as shown in Table III below:
Table III
Individual F-Class
High Master 98.00 and above
Master 96.50 to 97.99
Expert 94.00 to 96.49
Sharpshooter 91.50 to 93.99
Marksman Below 91.50
Field Precision Rifle Class (FPR) Question and Answers
Q. What is the purpose of this?
A. The short and simple answer is to promote the shooting sports and get more shooters on the line. Tactical/Practical precision rifle competition is the fastest growing rifle discipline in this country right now. Our club runs 40 + shooters on average on match days, and an additional 30 + shooters through on our practice day prior to our match. 70 + shooters on a weekend is the norm for us. Why not tap into this core of shooters?
There is a big core of shooters that are in between hardcore tac rifle competition and tradition HP and F-Class competition. We can use this venue as a funnel point to gather shooters and let them decide where they would like to take their shooting careers. There will be a portion that says “you know, I really dig F-Class, I am going to shoot F-TR or F-Open. The others will say, “now that I have had more time behind my rifle at distance, I am ready and comfortable to get into tac precision matches where they run and gun”.
Our practice sessions every month is like a mini F-Class match. It consist of 10 minutes of live fire at each distance. Everything is shot from prone at slow fire. Each round is pulled and mark just like in HP. Last month we had 40 guys come out, a lot of them I never see at our tac matches ever. Why not give these guys a place to compete, have fun, and in turn raise support and funds for the HP and F-Class programs out there?
Q. Why not just shoot F-TR or F-Open?
A. Let’s talk about the equipment involved, and the difference between an F-TR/Open and a tactical/practical field rifle.
1. F-Open basically employs a benchrest gun that is shot from a benchrest type of front rest off the ground.
2. F-TR basically employs a Palma rifle with a high powered scope on top.
3. Could a person come out and shoot their tactical/practical rifle in an F-Class match now? Sure, however they have a snowballs chance in hell with being competitive. My 260rem tac rifle vs. a true F-Open rig is like putting a NASCAR up against a Formula 1 car.
There is huge difference in equipment used between F-TR/Open and a tactical/practical rifles. Why not get more shooters on the line by creating a venue where those with tactical/practical rifles can compete in their own arena.
Think about the average cost of an F-TR/Open rifle + the accessories and reloading hardware. Yes, I know there is the Savage FTR 308win for around 1100.00, but reality is the majority of FT-R rigs are custom built. We won’t even bother discussing what a F-Open rig cost with all the bells and whistles.
Below are the reasons I believe why the tac/practical precision rifle discipline has grown the way it has the last several years:
• Lower start up cost.
• Factory ammo and rifles can be used, yet still be competitive.
• High CDI (chicks dig it) factor. It is the IN thing right now.
Q. Why limit it to 168gn to 178gn bullets only.
A. There is already a venue for the 155s, it is in F-TR. Let’s face it, the 155gn Scenar pushed to 2950 or 3000 FPS + puts the 175gn and 178gn bullets to shame at 800 yards and beyond.
One of the main reasons of the FPR class is to allow those that shoot factory Federal Gold 175s to come out and have a good time, and yet still be competitive. And yes, 168s make it out to 1K if pushed correctly. However I expect the majority of shooters will push 175gn SMKs or 178gn AMAXs. This levels the playing field for the FPR Limited class.
Q. What’s up with the 2lb weight limit on the rear rest?
A. I weighed all the bean bags I have used for tac rifle competitions, and the heaviest one is 1lbs 14oz. No one carries a 6lb bunny ear support around in tac rifle matches. I am trying to stay as true to the tactical precision rifle theme as possible.
Q. Why is there a weight limit on bi-pods? Why do their legs have to fold?
A. Simple. It is to keep guys from using those “sled” type of bi-pods. The traditional Harris 6”-9” or 9”-13” is the industry standard in the tac precision rifle game. Once again, just trying to stay as true as possible to the tac precision rifle theme.
Q. How did you come up with a 17.0lb right weight limit for FPR-Limited, and 18lbs for FPR-Open?
A. I weighed my 260rem by KMW. It has a Krieger #10 MTU, McMillan A5 stock (regular fill) and a 5-25X Premier scope. My mount and base are by Badger Ordnance, and made of steel. With my Harris 6-9 w/Pod-Lok, TAB sling, and Eagle stock pack, the rifle came in right under 17lbs.
For FPR-Open, I took into consideration of the extra 2” of barrel allowed.
Not too many rifles weighing in more than 18lbs in the tac precision rifle game.
Q. Why a 26” and 28” barrel length limitation?
A. Again, trying to keep things as close as possible with the tac precision rifle theme.
Q. Will a 175gn make it out to 1K using such short barrels?
A. Sure will. Our group has a guy running 175s with 18.5” barrel out to 1K in the warmer months.
Q. What’s up with feeding from the magazine, mag well or blind magazine only rule?
A. Again, we are staying true to the tac rifle game as much as possible. This rule keeps that “gamer” from loading rounds out long to cram more powder in to gain a lil bit of an edge. If a shooter has to single load due to his round not fitting into a magazine, it turns his rifle into a single shot. We don’t ever run single shots in tac precision rifle comps.
Q. Why limit the power range from 1X to 25X only for this class?
A. Again, staying true to the tac precision game. It would be safe to say that 99% of tac rifle shooters, do not run above 25X.
