Digital Clock / Timer in String Shooting at FNC / FCWC

[Laurie]

A friend says all 'electronic devices' are banned from the firing point in national / international matches. That's obviously a bit sweeping as if taken literally, 99% of shooters would have to leave their wristwatches behind the firing line, and 50% plus their earmuffs!

Looking at ICFRA's F-Class rules,

F2.5 bans electronic or 'set' trigger mechanisms. ............... and .............

F3.3. Personal wind indicating or measuring devices of any description are forbidden on the firing
point or visible from the firing point. “Wind Correction Tables” in printed form, or as “slide
rules” are permitted. National or Team flags, flown at the back of the Team Area are not
considered a contravention of this rule.

I don't see anything else banned, electronic or otherwise, but as ICFRA says, the 'host nation' may place additional rules onto competitors in line with prevailing national practices.

We Brits are (mostly) unaccustomed to string shooting, but it's obvious that a close watch on remaining match time is essential. Do US shooters use / are permitted to use count-down type electronic timers. I have an older Sinclair model, a bit like the bench-rest shooting model below

http://www.sinclairintl.com/shooting-accessories/benchrest-equipment/digital-hygrometer-thermometer-prod36702.aspx

but as a timer only - no thermometer / hygrometer function. It has nice large, clear figures, you set it for the allowed shooting time, and it beeps when it counts down to 00.00 mins/seconds.

Is it match-legal?

 

[Steve Blair]

Yes, they are used by almost all competitors. Most of the time, we complete strings well before time. Some matches require long waits for more favorable conditions and timers are invaluable for time budgeting.

 

[Laurie]

Thanks Steve - I couldn't imagine that you'd not be allowed to use them.

 

[Lbart]

Laurie,
Take a look at ICFRA Rule F12.10 which prohibits communication between the pits and the firing line except by the RO's and PO's. Cell phones must be switched off by all personnel in the pits and within 20 meters of the firing line.

Also since I believe you are shooting in the FCN's look at USA NRA rule 3.22 Electronic Devices - "Electronic devices such as radios, tape recorders, or any other type of sound production, or communication systems are prohibited forward of the ready line, including the pits, except those necessary for range control."

These are the items prohibited. Also look at ICFRA Fullbore rule T 6.10 which covers these items in their matches.

All of you competitors...if you are shooting in the FCN's or the World's leave your cell phones in your vehicle. I know, I know you have to be in communication all the time, but you will have to live without it. You might come to like it. I actually enjoy not hearing the "news" or watching TV when I go to a match for a week or two.

See you in Raton,
Larry Bartholome

 

[Laurie]

Larry,

many thanks for that. It all makes sense. (I've no problems living without a 'mobile', anyway!) Yes, I look forward to finally meeting you in eight or so weeks.

Laurie

 

[Medic505]

Larry,

As I read 3.22, My digital camera that records video and audio would also be illegal. True?

Thanks, Dean