Introduction
This is shot with purpose built 0.22” rimfire calibre Match rifles; these are larger than 0.22” sporting rifles or air-rifles, and are more accurate. Traditional models have a wooden stock, but newer models have an aluminium skeleton stock. Most rifles are bolt-actions (Anschütz {shown above}, Feinwerkbau, and Walther are leading brands), but some are Martini lever-actions (notably BSA); both types are single shot – loaded one bullet at a time. Most are aimed with telescopic sights although rifles set up for Prone rifle shooting using aperture sights can also be used.
There are different rules for shooting Benchrest, some allow the rifle to be supported at the front and rear but at Pinhoe we use NSRA rules for competitions which state shooters fire from a bench in a sitting position the front of the stock on a rest but with the rifle butt located in the shoulder and the stock supported by the shooters hands.
At Pinhoe, Benchrest is shot indoors from a distance of 25 yds. Each paper target has ten aiming spots which are divided into concentric scoring rings, the smallest of which (the bullseye) counts as 10 points.
One shot is fired at each spot for a maximum score of 100 points. Bullet holes and scoring rings are not visible to the naked eye but are visible through the telescopic sights so shooters can see their shots.
Smallbore Benchrest is also shot at 50 metres and 100 yards on some outdoor ranges. Here larger targets with larger scoring rings are used. When shooting outdoors one must compensate for the effects of crosswinds on their shots for an extra challenge !
For those that experience difficulties obtaining a Fire Arms Certificate or just prefer not to use a rimfire rifle, there are .177 caliber air rifles available manufactured by companies such as Air Arms (shown above), Anschütz, Steyr and Walther. For competitions following NSRA rules they are scored using .22 gauges and can be used up to 50 Meters accurately.
Competitions and Matches
Our Benchrest members shoot a wide range of Winter and Summer Leagues at both a Club, County and National Level. Our members also enter matches and competitions which are held throughout the year both individually and as part of a team.
We shoot competitions following the NSRA Rules and Regulations. If you wish to shoot Benchrest, you may find the Clarification of the Rules for Benchrest Shooting (NSRA Rules and Regulations 8.16) document of interest.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, many shooters wear glasses or contact lenses. So long as your vision is OK with glasses/contacts this will be fine. Telescopes are used to “spot” shots.
No, 0.22” calibre ammunition is very low powered. Unlike a shotgun or large-calibre rifle, the recoil is very gentle and little more than a slight wobble.
No, the rifle is supported by a combination of bones, shooting jacket, and shooting sling, not muscles. Pinhoe’s best prone shooter is a slight 8st woman. Any healthy adult will be strong enough, as will most teenagers (14+).
Yes, many of our members had no prior experience. Pinhoe has qualified instructors who can teach beginners, even absolute novices. Everyone has to start somewhere!
No, we don’t expect beginners to have their own kit, so Pinhoe has a selection of rifles and jackets to fit all sizes, plus slings, gloves, and telescopes for beginners to borrow free of charge.
Yes, but only if you want to buy your own rifle; a Police-issued Firearms Certificate (FAC) would be required then. You would not need an FAC to use club rifles.
No, not really. Pinhoe offers beginners three trial sessions for £30 (ammo included). Normal adult membership is £240 p.a. (2023 pricing). Ammunition is extra, but a box of 50 cartridges costs from £3.50. Beginners can use club equipment until they want to buy their own; much of which can be bought second-hand.