Question

[Greg110]

Gentlemen,
I fully realize this is heinous, but I do really have to ask. Why do position and prone shooters need so much gear? Yes, it aids scores, but it also ups the ante considerably for someone entering the sport. Even after you have bought the rifle and sights, you need sling, glove, jacket at a minimum, and probably pants and shoes. What ever happened to "just shoot the rifle"?
Perhaps the NRA needs to look at a class called "Unaided" that limits a shooter to just the currently legal rifles and sight systems.
Just my old, cranky $.02.

 

[Moderator]

Well, if you compare iron sights, and coat and sling with the price of a good scope, front rest, sandbag etc., the cost may actually be less (than shooting from the bench). A spotting scope and stand ARE essential and they can add from $300 to a couple grand.

But many clubs do offer military-class comps at 100-200 yards where you shoot prone or from the bench with "as-issued" sights and rifles. Find yourself a nice Swedish Mauser or K31 Swiss and you can be competitive for $400.00 or less, assuming you can borrow a spotting scope, which I did for a couple years. There is also a military rimfire class in which guys shoot H&Rs, Kimbers, and Rem 40Xs. I finished top three in a few matches shooting my H&R m12, which I purchased, brand new, unissued from the CMP for under $350.00 with good Redfield sights! Below is a similar rifle (no sights). My m12 was a sweet shooter with good ammo. It also liked the super-cheap Winchester Dyna-point ammo.

 

[effendude]

That's why F-class has become so popular with new shooters. Most already have a rifle, scope and sand bag or bi-pod. You just need a spotting scope for scoring and a rug for a mat to lay on and you are good to go. Once you get hooked is when it starts to cost you $$$$. LOL
Scott

 

[HPMike800]

There's no rule that says you have to have it, but, in the end you will get all of it. Why? because it's worth it. Highpower shooting is an interesting and compelling mix of practicle rifleman skills and precision marksmanship.

There are lots of ways to start, the "games" matches, reduced distance courses, f-class midrange etc. Find out what's available in your area. Once you start the gear starts coming along.

 

[watercam]

I scored for a High Master shooter who uses a Carhardt jacket for a shooting coat. At 1000 yds. shooting a Palma rifle in a fish tail wind he was amazing.