Big Game Shooting

The Big Game Rifle discipline is all about skill, respect, and authenticity. Shooters compete using classic rifles originally designed for hunting large and dangerous animals across Africa, India, and America. Every event is designed to reflect how these firearms were meant to be used - standing, unsupported, and in realistic field conditions.

Competitors can use single-shot, bolt-action, pump-action, lever-action, and double rifles, with calibres ranging from the humble .22LR through to the mighty .700 Nitro Express.

Big Game Rifle shooting brings history to life. It’s about handling iconic firearms, mastering recoil and accuracy, and enjoying the company of others who share the same deep appreciation for classic rifles and responsible hunting traditions.

The events test everything from precision and control to confidence under pressure - with categories designed for shooters of all experience levels.

BGR National Rules No 5 rev 2024

SSAA official practice targets

SSAA Standard Rules No 9.2 Rev Nov 2022

SSAA Guidelines for Use of Black Powder

Discipline posters 2019 Big Game Rifle

2025 Big Game National Championships

National Championship 2023

2020 Big Game Rifle Sydney Group One Championships

Big Game Rifle national championships 2019

2017 SSAA NSW Big Game Rifle State Championships

2017 SSAA National Big Game Rifle Championships

2016 International Big Game Rifle Competition

SSAA National Big Game Rifle Postal Championships

SSAA National Big Game Rifle Championships

2014 Jenny Cole Memorial Shoot

National Championship 2024

National Championship 2022

2019 SSAA NSW Big Game Rifle State Titles

2018 Big Game Rifle National Championships

Big Game Rifle Queensland Championships Wrap

2016 Jenny Cole Memorial Shoot

SSAA Big Game Rifle National Championships

SSAA National Big Game Rifle Championships

SSAA Queensland State Big Game Rifle Championships

5th Biennial International Big Game Rifle Match

SSAA NSW 2026 Big Game Rifle State Titles

You don’t need to own a century-old rifle to get started. Many clubs have members willing to share advice (and sometimes even rifles) with newcomers. The best way to begin is to visit a Big Game Rifle event at your local SSAA range, watch a few matches, and talk to competitors.

Most shooters are more than happy to help new participants learn the ropes, from firearm setup and safety to understanding course formats and scoring.