Precision Rifle

Precision Rifle competitions commenced in Australia in 2017, and the discipline quickly gained popularity, particularly among younger shooters. Clubs were soon established across all states, reflecting strong interest in the practical, field-based nature of the sport.

Precision Rifle closely emulates real-world field and hunting scenarios. Success relies on personal agility, rapid decision-making and the ability to quickly establish stable shooting positions. On many stages, competitors are permitted to use shooting bags to assist with stability, further reinforcing the practical nature of the discipline.

Most competitors use bolt-action rifles chambered in 6mm (.24) or 6.5mm (.26) calibres, with 6mm projectiles now the most common choice. These calibres offer low recoil and minimal muzzle movement, allowing shooters to observe bullet impact and make fast corrections if required.

Many competitors develop advanced reloading skills to maximise accuracy and consistency. Rifles are typically fitted with variable-magnification, first focal plane scopes using milliradian reticles to assist with precise adjustments at distance.

Precision Rifle competitions include two primary divisions:

Production Division

The Production Division places a maximum value limit on both the rifle and optic, making it an accessible entry point into the discipline.

Open Division

Open Division rifles may be customised, provided they remain compliant with Australian firearms legislation.

At any point during a match, officials may require a competitor’s rifle to be checked using a chronograph. If a projectile exceeds 3,200fps (with a 1% allowance for environmental and equipment variation), the competitor will receive an automatic match disqualification.

Additional categories include:

• Ladies Category – open to all female competitors, in addition to their chosen division
• Juniors Category – for competitors under 18 years of age
• Seniors Category – for competitors aged 50 years and over

.22LR Precision Rifle

.22LR events follow the same match structure as centrefire Precision Rifle but offer a lower-cost and highly accessible entry into the discipline. Only Open Division applies for .22LR events.

Military Surplus Rifle

These matches are designed for as-issued service rifles. Rifles must not be fitted with telescopic or target aperture sights, and the use of stripper clips is recommended. This category provides an opportunity for competitors to participate using historically significant firearms.

Where legal and appropriate range and safety requirements are met, handguns, shotguns and black powder firearms may also be incorporated into Precision Rifle events.

All stages must meet strict safety requirements and are validated before competition begins. Stage designs are practical and may include:

• Mid to long-range steel targets
• Multiple target distances
• Unknown target ranges
• Challenging or unconventional shooting positions
• Realistic field-style scenarios

Match Directors are strongly encouraged to test and refine stages to ensure they are achievable while still challenging. While achieving a perfect score on a stage is difficult, it is not impossible for a skilled competitor.

• SSAA Precision Rifle – Rule Book No. 1, Feb 2024
• SSAA Standard Rules No 9.2 Rev Nov 2022