The Sporting/Hunter discipline aims to get back to the concept of shooting fundamentals using cheaper factory rifles that are commonly available. The other aim is to provide hunters with an avenue to enhance their marksmanship and enable more ethical game killing.
The rules are designed to ensure the intent of using a practical, walk-around hunting rifle is maintained. By not having to purchase specialized equipment to compete in this class, this class may appeal to a wider group of firearms users.
The rules are straightforward and allow for the average hunter or sporting shooter to participate in a competitive environment, or just hone your skills at several distances; 300m, 500m, 600m and beyond.
At the Geelong Rifle Club we have experienced hunters and also those who participate in other shooting disciplines, so if you need advice or assistance in setting up your rifle for hunting purposes or to be more competitive on the range, then we can assist you.
Rules – summary
Any rifle bought as a standard factory-made practical walk around sporting/hunting/varmint rifle and without the features or attachments that would place it in the style of a target, match or service rifle, and which complies with the following conditions (VRA proposed improved guidelines in itallics):
- Rifles must be commercially produced and available complete with repeating rifle. Single shot match actions, or action-only builds are not appropriate for this class.
- Weight: Not greater than 6.5 kg (14.3lbs.), including any telescopic sight, magazine and bipod.
- Actions: may be bedded in the stock.
- Barrels: Rifles may be re-barreled if necessary, but the replacement must not exceed the heavy varmint barrel profile. Barrels are not to exceed 26 ins (66.04 cms) in length.
- Scopes should have a maximum of 30x
- Calibre: Any calibre that does not exceed the calibre and/or energy limit as designated in the Range Standing Orders and/or Police Range Approval.
- Trigger: Any trigger system may be used provided that it is safe. Trigger weight to be no less than 500 grams (1.1 pound).
- Sights: Any, including magnifying or telescopic.
- Ammunition: Either factory or hand loaded is allowed.
- Rests: The front of the rifle may be supported by a hunting bipod (e.g., Harris, or similar). Bipods must be of a folding commercially produced type with a footprint of no more than 300mm wide. The bipod must directly contact the mound with nothing in between the bipod and mound. Bipod should finish in rubber feet or similar; no “ski” or “skid” feet.
- rear bags may be used. Rear bags are to be of a soft, pliable construction on all surfaces (squeeze bag) with no ears. The bag must directly contact the mound or mat, but no other items eg. plates or supports.
- Stock: If the rifle is re-stocked it must be with a commercially produced ans available stock.
- Distances Shot: Same as TR and F Class
Applications to be 2 convertible sighters and 10 shots on standard ICFRA targets. - Scoring as per TR i.e., with 5 and V bulls.
Investment warning – rules under review
The above rules are under review by the National Rifle Association of Australia to better define the discipline and help maintain its integrity and spirit. Shooters need to exercise caution when investing in rifles, optics and equipment intending to compete in the sporter/hunter discipline, as such equipment may fall outside the new rules.
Geelong Rifle Club 