Stage designs for tactical rifle 4-gun match

[Cascade Precision]

OK, I have been been given authorization to hold a tactical rifle/4-gun match at my local range. I have some ideas of what I would like to do, and have some questions for those that have done this.

My goal: To incorporate firearms that are not currently used together in local matches. I mean to say, we use AR type rifles, but typically under 200 yards. I am looking for precision to 600 yards, but incorporate pistol and shotgun in the mix.

#1: Is it too much to have precision rifle, close range rifle, shotgun, and pistol in one match (5 stages)? Should I limit this to Precision Rifle, Pistol, Shotgun? I wont be using all 3 on one stage.

#2: I have been considering making a stage where I randomly draw teams. These two man teams will spot hits for each other. One shooter shoots a target while person two spots. Next string, reverse roles, combining scores for them. Anyone tried this and have you had any success?

#3: I am making a hoser pistol stage with a few close range precision shots. I am considering using clay birds at 20-25 yards.

I am going to combine steel and paper targets for precision rifle. Instant feedback, quicker scoring, less down range travel. I want to have 4 shooters at one time per string with a par time (yet to be determined).

#4: How do YOU determine par time on a course of fire? Number of shots, distance? SOme complicated equation? Experience?

I am not overwhelmed, just want to enjoy the match, and have others enjoy as well.

I will post other questions as they come up.

Thanks for any and all suggestions. I do have access to the local high power match guy who has offered any help. Yes, I have taken him up on his help.

Wally

 

[Zak Smith]

Re: Stage designs for tactical rifle 4-gun match

Why reinvent the wheel? What you're describing is a regular 3-Gun match with the addition of a fourth gun. Ditch the idea of random pairing and just use shooters as RO's like all the action sports do. Par time is usually set to emphasize hits in a Virginia-count stage; otherwise USPSA or RM3G-style scoring ("time plus") is the way it's done.

 

[jrswanson1]

Re: Stage designs for tactical rifle 4-gun match

The match director for my 3-gun match occasionally has access to a club with a 500 yard range. It's set up so the close stuff (4 stages) are shot first and then the precision course is started. We usually end up having to use the same rifle for both 10 yards and 500 yards. Those of us who shoot ARs using heavier bullets or are using something bigger than 5.56 do well.

Jim

 

[KeithR41]

Re: Stage designs for tactical rifle 4-gun match

Where is your 600 range in K-Falls. The only one I know about is Sportsman's Park. It only reached 200yds last time I was there.

41

 

[KeithR41]

Re: Stage designs for tactical rifle 4-gun match

#2: I have been considering making a stage where I randomly draw teams. These two man teams will spot hits for each other. One shooter shoots a target while person two spots. Next string, reverse roles, combining scores for them. Anyone tried this and have you had any success?

Additionally, this was tried in a fairly large match this year. I'm not going to mention the name of the match but the stage was not well received by almost all of the shooters.

I know we go to match's to exercise our own skills and equipment. When your score can reflect error's by a random partner, competitors are not going to like it.

Just my suggestion, which we both know is fairly worthless, but I'd ditch the stage.

41

 

[Cascade Precision]

Re: Stage designs for tactical rifle 4-gun match

Thanks Keith. That stage, after much (lets say, just after I wrote it), is gone.
And yes, Keno Sportspark I can get 600 yards for sure, might be able to squeeze 700 if we go up the hill a little. I will be measuring for sure this Sunday.

Cold bore shot, first thing in the AM. Before pistol shooting or anything.

Pistol/rifle stages with target identification (still fine tuning this), hostage targets with clay birds as HIT targets, steel USPSA targets for pistol (all mild steel unfortunately. Have to order some AR500 plate from a vendor here.)

Shotgun stages in the works, but 10 yard rifle targets is going to be interesting. Going to be head shooting them offhand. Last time I did anything like that, most everyone shot INCHES low. Will see how it goes this time.

You interested in shooting Keith? LEO and active military shoot free. Just sayin...

 

[Cascade Precision]

Re: Stage designs for tactical rifle 4-gun match

Match was a blast. 25 shooters showed up. Shot 4 stages and a side match. Pumpkins and Tannerite are and AWESOME combo when combined with either a .223 or a .308 projectile.

Still working on some kinks with scoring long range targets. Need to come up with appropriate penalties to make it worth the shooters time to learn to shoot them.

All in all, great match. Also had 4 local PD SWAT members show up to shoot. (All LEO shoot for free at my matches. Same with active military.)

Thanks to everyone that helped with ideas.

 

[sobrbiker883]

Re: Stage designs for tactical rifle 4-gun match

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: ogreshooter</div><div class="ubbcode-body"> Need to come up with appropriate penalties to make it worth the shooters time to learn to shoot them.
</div></div>

In stages I design, I make the stage rule that "failure to engage the target in order with an aimed shot" zeroes the stage. I hate gamers that want to toss shots to get through the stage fast or get to easy shots faster. Plus at our home range a shot not with a target width or two of the intended target is an ND due to us actually being in a city park...