F15. PROTESTS. 16

F16. APPEALS 16

F17. BRIBES. 16

F18. DOPING CONTROL 16

F19. PENALTIES. 17

F20. TIES FOR INDIVIDUAL EVENTS. 19

F21. TIES FOR TEAM EVENTS. 20

ANNEX F/A 21

FIRING POINT LAYOUT 21

ANNEX F/B 22

DIMENSIONS OF ICFRA TARGETS. 22

B1. Targets: General 22

B2. The ICFRA International F-Class Target Short Range 22

B3 The ICFRA International F-Class Target (Long Range) 22

Foreword.

1. These rules, promulgated by the Council of the International Confederation of Fullbore Rifle Associations (hereinafter referred to as ICFRA) apply to all F-Class discipline shooting matches taking place under the auspices of the ICFRA Council, including the World F-Class Championships and all other matches sanctioned as international events under the auspices of the ICFRA Council.

2. Amendments. Proposals for amendments MUST, as a very minimum, be authenticated by the National Representative on ICFRA Council and be submitted to the Secretary General for the attention of the F-Class Committee and the ICFRA Rules Review Group.

3. No change may be made to these rules within 1 (one) year of a scheduled F-Class World Championship.

4. Without Prejudice to Para 3 above, these rules will be amended in due course to include provision for F(Farquharson) (F(F)) Class shooting.

ICFRA TECHNICAL RULES OF F-Class RIFLE SHOOTING

F1. DEFINITIONS.

F1.1. These Rules govern the conduct of international F-Class Rifle matches shot under the auspices or control of ICFRA. Specific match conditions for F-Class World Championship Matches are set out in a separate section.

F1.2. The controlling authority and/or host country for any international F-Class team match may adopt these rules for that match.

F1.3. Unless inconsistent with the context, all words and expressions in these rules importing the masculine gender will include the feminine, and words signifying the singular number will include the plural, and vice versa.

F1.4. CRO means the duly appointed Chief Range Officer, who will be in sole charge of the range, its safety and management. On all technical rule issues and protests relating to technical rules on the firing point, he will defer to the Match Referee, if one has been appointed under rule F1.4.2, but he remains responsible for implementing decisions taken by the Referee. His duties may be discharged in his absence by a duly appointed Deputy Chief Range Officer.

F1.4.1. RO means a duly appointed Range Officer and assistant to the CRO. The RO will give immediate rulings on all matters arising on the firing point. If uncertain about a rule interpretation or application, the RO must consult with the CRO or his deputy.

F1.4.2. The Referee means any person as may be appointed under match conditions to receive and act on all protests concerning the application of these Technical Rules and/or Match Conditions. Appointment of a Match Referee is obligatory for international team matches and individual world championships shot under ICFRA Rules; but is optional for national and domestic prize meetings. He will receive representations made during ICFRA matches for future amendments to Match Conditions.

F1.4.3. Match Committee means any committee as may be specified under match conditions to oversee the conduct of a match, including discipline and appeals. In the absence of a separately constituted body, or in the case of a prize meeting conducted under ICFRA Rules, it refers to the disciplinary apparatus of the host country NRA.

F1.4.4. A Match Director may be appointed under match conditions. His function will be to ensure that the host country has set everything in place for the match in accordance with the Rules and Regulations and the specific match conditions. He will act as official liaison between the organisers and the teams and should be readily contactable for the match period. He will be ex officio a member of (and may chair) the Match Committee if one exists.

F1.5. The CRO is responsible to the controlling authority for all aspects of safety for the duration of the event. The CRO may summarily prohibit the use of any rifle, ammunition, equipment or shooting procedure which in his opinion is unsafe or being used in an unsafe combination. It is desirable that suitable technical expertise should be available to the CRO in the event of dispute.

F1.6. Any decision made by the controlling authority or the CRO for reasons of safety or security takes precedence over any other paragraph in these Rules with which it conflicts, as do the legislation and regulations of the host country with regard to the safety, handling, possession, transport, assembly and firing of ammunition and firearms, including those specific to a particular range.

F1.7. It is the personal responsibility of each competitor to ensure that his rifles, ammunition and other equipment comply with the specifications laid out in these rules. He is also responsible for ensuring that his rifles are safe with the ammunition he will use and will not endanger himself or any other person or property. Any organisation conducting a match under these rules may require the competitor indicate in writing that the ammunition has been tested and found safe in the rifle/s to be used, and/or to indemnify ICFRA and the Match organisers against responsibility for any occurrence should his rifle or ammunition fail. Provision may be made, at a major event, for an "Equipment Control" pre-check of all equipment. Any competitor must submit his rifle or ammunition for inspection and testing whenever required.

F1.8. No competitor may use equipment or shooting methods that provide them with an unfair advantage or put any other competitor at an unfair disadvantage.

F1.9. The spirit of the F-Class Rules is to encourage innovation, and Match Referees and Committees will bear this philosophy in mind in ruling on issues not covered by these rules.

F1.10. No competitor will present himself to shoot with his faculties impaired by alcohol or drugs. The Chief Range Officer has the power summarily to prevent any competitor whom he judges for any reason to be in such condition from firing (or continuing to fire).

F1.11. “May”, “Must”, “Shall”, “Should” and “Will”: -In these rules:

F1.11.1. “May” is to be construed as being permissive;

F1.11.2. “Should” is to be construed as being desirable; and

F1.11.3. “Must”, “Shall” and “Will” are to be construed as being mandatory.

F1.12. Units of measurement. Distances may be measured in yards or metres. Where the rules state a range of distances all metric and imperial intermediates are included. Target ring dimensions are measured in millimetres and, although often originally based on metrication of imperial measures, now stand in their own right.

F2. TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION of RIFLES and AMMUNITION

F2.1. Two separate rifle classes are recognized under F-Class rules, Open and Restricted. The differences are in the calibres, rifle maximum weight and rests allowed.

F2.2. An ‘F’ Class Open rifle may be of any calibre up to and including 8mm and the overall weight must not exceed 10kg including all attachments (such as, but not limited to, its sights and bipod, if any). NB: An ‘attachment’ is defined as including any external object (other than the competitor, his sling (if any) and his apparel) which recoils (or partially recoils) with the rifle, or which is clamped, magnetically or viscously held, or in any other way joined to the rifle for each shot, or which even slightly rises with the rifle when vertically lifting the latter from its rest(s).

F2.3. An ‘F’ Class Restricted rifle is limited to .223 Remington or .308 Winchester calibre chambers or their commercial metrification equivalents. Chamber dimensions must conform to SAAMI or CIP dimensions. Ammunition may be commercially made or hand-loaded as defined in Rule F2.23. There is no restriction on bullet weight. The Restricted rifle class is limited to the use of an attached bipod and/or a sling as front supports, optionally together with a rear bag which provides no positive mechanical means of returning the rifle to its precise point of aim for the next shot . The overall weight must not exceed 8.25kg including all attachments (such as, but not limited to, its sights and bipod, if any). NB: An ‘attachment’ is defined as in Rule F2.2. All other Technical Rules apply.

F2.4. If a rifle is used with a separate front rest/bag, the fore-end width may not exceed 76mm.

F2.5. Triggers shall be manually operated: electronic, set or “release” triggers are not permitted.

F2.6. The weight of the trigger pull is unregulated, but must be safe and conform to the requirements of rules F2.5 and F2.7.

F2.7. A trigger shall be deemed “safe” if the sear engages on each occasion when the bolt is slowly and gently closed three times in succession with the barrel pointing upwards. Any failure will lead to the trigger being deemed “unsafe” and the rifle may not be used pending rectification.

F2.8. Any Range Officer may at his absolute discretion, or on instruction from the Chief Range Officer, test any trigger prior to a shoot.

F2.9. Any sights may be used (including telescopic sights).

F2.10. Barrel extensions of any length may be fitted to mount a foresight or act as counterweight, but will be weighed as part of the rifle and will conform to all safety requirements of the host country.

F2.11. Magazine: In countries where magazines are legal, a magazine - if fitted - will not be used except as a loading platform for single rounds.

F2.12. Muzzle compensators or muzzle brakes are not permitted.

F2.13. Sound moderators are not permitted.

F2.14. The F-Open rifle may be supported by front and rear rests, or on bags (front and rear), which provide no positive mechanical method for returning the rifle to its point of aim for the previous shot. The area of contact between the front bag and the rifle fore-end shall not exceed 76mm x 76mm. No more than two rests may be used to support the rifle. If two rests are employed, they may not be attached to each other.

F2.14.1. The F-Restricted rifle may be supported by an attached bipod and rear bag and/or a sling, which provide no positive mechanical method for returning the rifle to its point of aim for the previous shot. No more than two supports may be used to support the rifle. If two supports are employed, they may not be attached to each other.

F2.15. The F-Open front rest may be employed for either the rifle’s fore-end or for the shooter’s forward hand. If attached, clamped or held onto the rifle in any way, a front rest must be included in the rifle’s overall weight.

F2.16. The rifle or the front and rear rests may, however, incorporate an integral mechanism for raising and lowering either its butt or fore-end provided that it does not contravene rule F2.2 above. The front rest may also be adjustable laterally.

F2.17. A sling may be used in addition to any of the support systems mentioned above.

F2.18. No portion of the rifle’s butt or pistol grip shall rest on the ground or on any hard surface. Any rear rest employed shall not be attached, clamped or held onto the rifle in any way.

F2.19. The contents of front and rear bags shall be a dry, finely (< 5 mm) divided substance such as, but not limited to sand, gravel, or grain, packed loosely enough so that the bag shall be visibly deformable by pressure of the range officer’s fingers.

F2.20. Any number and type of object(s) (of any material) may be placed beneath each rest to compensate for variations in the height, slope or surface of the firing point, also beneath and around any rear sandbag or beanbag to reduce its rolling, but such objects may not touch the rifle fore-end or butt.

F2.21. The F-Open rest(s) or base(s) for each front rest may have up to three “feet”. Each such “foot” may terminate in a spike, which may be pressed into the ground by up to 50mm (about 2”) provided this causes no significant permanent harm or indentation to the firing point.

F2.21.1. The F-Restricted bipod may have up to two “feet”. Each such “foot” may terminate in a spike, which may be pressed into the ground by up to 50mm (about 2”) provided this causes no significant permanent harm or indentation to the firing point.

F2.22. Rests may be adjusted after any shot, in order to change the point of aim and/or to compensate for the rifle’s recoil having caused such things as rest movement and/or sandbag/beanbag settling.

F2.23. Ammunition may be commercial or handloaded but loaded in a manner consistent with the ammunition industry’s accepted standards; must be safe to fire in the rifle for which it is intended and must meet in all respects the limitations of any range regulations (e.g. calibre, velocity, muzzle energy etc.).

F2.24. A host nation may on application permit such modification to the rifle, clothing or equipment of a physically disabled competitor as may assist him to compete on equal terms with other competitors. See also Rule F6.1.

F3. DRESS AND AIDS TO SHOOTING.

F3.1. Equipment boxes/bags may be taken onto the firing point provided they do not inconvenience other competitors and are not placed so as to shield the competitor, or his rifle, from wind or rain or sun. The maximum permitted height of such shooting box/bag is 300mm.

F3.2. Personal wind indicating or measuring devices of any description are forbidden on 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.

F3.3. Any person within the butts, or close enough to the firing range to risk damage to their hearing, must use adequate ear protection (such as ear defenders or ear plugs) at all times when shooting is taking place.

F4. SQUADDING

F4.1. Squadding will be done by random or pseudo-random process within a structure designed to equalise, so far as is possible, the variable effects of time of day and position on the range over all competitors and within an individual’s schedule for the match or series of matches as the case may be. The same considerations apply to the squadding of teams.

F4.2. Competitors in individual competitions may be squadded to shoot singly, or in groups of two or three occupying one target simultaneously according to the standing practice of the host country, unless match conditions state otherwise. (See Section F13).

F4.3. It is permissible to use a “seeded” squadding for the final of a major championship shot in stages either for presentational purposes or to ensure leading contenders are together and are subject to similar weather while not being at an advantage over others. Any seeded squadding method must be pre-approved by the Match Committee.

F5. TARGETS

F5.1. Targets will be as specified in the conditions of competition. World Records may only be set on the targets specified for the World Championships.

F5.2. Specifications for the ICFRA International F-Class Target (IIFT) are laid out at ANNEX B. This will be used for all team and individual world championships, and other international team matches shot under ICFRA Rules at 700m or more.

F5.3. [Temporary Provision] An F-Class Short Range Target will be specified if, as and when, major F-Class Matches are formally extended to include ranges of less than 700m. See also Annex B, B2.1.

F6. CONDUCT OF SHOOTING.

F6.1. The prone or supine position may be used with the barrel protruding over the front of the mound, unless special provisions exist in the match conditions for disabled competitors and range safety regulations so permit.

F6.2. A competitor may not screen himself or his rifle from the sun or weather while shooting, nor allow anyone else to do so. See also Rule F14.18 in respect of Team Matches.

F6.3. When on the firing point a competitor must comply with all orders given by the CRO or by any assistant acting under his orders.

F6.4. No competitor may move himself or his equipment forward onto the firing point until authorised to do so by the CRO. In all competitions the CRO will allow a minimum of five minutes between calling competitors forward and giving the order to commence firing.

F6.5. Firing may be suspended temporarily by order of the Chief Range Officer, if in his opinion the weather makes such suspension desirable; or for safety reasons. (Shooting MUST be suspended in the case of lightning). Firing will be resumed as soon as possible, at the CRO’s discretion. Rule F6.6. applies.

F6.6. If a competitor’s firing, through no fault of his own, has been interrupted in the opinion of the CRO for five minutes or more, the competitor may, after notifying the register keeper, fire one optional non-convertible sighting shot before resuming.

F6.7. The CRO may, if desirable, transfer a competitor to another target in the same detail, either before he begins to shoot or if the target breaks down. If the competitor has fired one or more shots (whether sighting or to count), he will be entitled to an optional, non-convertible sighter before resuming exactly where he left off. Squads shooting ‘single string’ may be redistributed to other targets at the RO’s discretion.

F6.8. In individual competitions, competitors whilst on the firing point, may spot for each other but must NOT give or willingly receive any information or advice in the nature of coaching. It is NOT regarded as coaching to assist a competitor to obtain his first hit on the target, nor to spot for a strike for a shot following a ‘miss’ though NO advice may be given thereafter.

F6.9. The following only are allowed both within the Competitors’ Area and or on the firing points (see Annex A):

F6.9.1. Staff on range duty,

F6.9.2. Competitors required for firing or otherwise taking part in the competition,

F6.9.3. Persons authorised to assist in the conduct of the competition,

F6.9.4. Officially accredited team members and reserves in accordance with the conditions of the match being shot,

The following are allowed within the Competitors’ Area but are not allowed onto the firing point without the prior permission of the CRO:

F6.9.5. VIPs and others with ‘Field of Play’ accreditation, escorted on behalf of the CRO.

F6.9.6. Officially accredited Media Representatives, who will be subject to rule F6.10 and all appropriate safety limitations.

F6.10. No person is allowed to make any noise or disturbance likely to affect a competitor. The RO may have any person infringing this regulation removed from the vicinity of the firing point.

F6.11. “Retirement”. A competitor ‘retires’ when he voluntarily ceases to fire before being required to do so by the rules or conditions of the competition. When a competitor retires he will not be allowed to resume firing at that distance but will be allowed to count the score that he has actually made. Retirement at one distance of the competition does not debar a competitor from firing at any subsequent distance(s). The competitor must notify the RO of his intention, and must hand in his scorecard suitably endorsed. Unless retiring due to some unforeseen emergency, the competitor must discharge his register keeping duties.

F7. SAFETY PRECAUTIONS.

F7.1. Competitors MUST ensure the safety of their Rifle and ammunition. The CRO or his staff must investigate the cause of difficult extraction, blown primers, blow-back, case separation or splitting or any other signs of excess pressure.

F7.2. A competitor MUST:-

F7.2.1. stop firing immediately if he suspects that the ammunition he is using is producing dangerous pressures in his firearm.

F7.2.2. draw the attention of the Range Officer to the continued use of apparently dangerous ammunition by any competitor including himself. The cumulative effect of cartridges producing excessive pressures can lead to firearm failure even in cases where one or more rounds have been discharged without apparent damage or danger.

F7.3. At all times, the RO MUST, if he sees or has brought to his attention a competitor having difficulty because his ammunition is producing signs of excessive pressure or for any other reason, order the firer to cease firing temporarily and immediately report the matter to the Chief Range Officer and to the Match Referee (if one has been appointed). The CRO, or the RO at his direction, will:-

F7.3.1. Ensure that the competitor does not inconvenience others, by making him wait until others on his target (if any) have completed their shoots;

F7.3.2. Examine the competitor’s fired cartridge cases for signs of high pressures. If the case show the signs of excessive pressure detailed in Annex C, the CRO must not allow the competitor to fire again unless he changes his ammunition. This does not preclude the CRO authorising completion of the shoot with safe equipment or ammunition. Changes of rifle are also governed by Rule F8.1.

F7.4. All rifles, whether in bags/cases or not, must at all times and in all places on the range be carried in “safe condition”. Dependent on the host country regulations, this can either be with bolt removed or by displaying an ‘Empty Chamber Indicator (“ECI”, often a breech flag) inserted (or both). An ECI MUST be of sufficient length to penetrate at least 20mm into the chamber and of overall length appropriate to the action.

F7.5. No rifle may be loaded or fired until the CRO has given the order “LOAD and CARRY ON”. Any RO may give an order to cease firing at any time for any safety-related reason. If a competitor observes a safety hazard which has not been noted by the range staff, he is to unload and immediately warn the RO and competitors in his vicinity.

F7.6. Neither aiming nor dry firing an unloaded rifle is allowed except when in the firing position on the firing point, and then only if it would be in all respects safe actually to fire and provided it causes no delay.

F7.7. A competitor who, whilst on the firing point, accidentally discharges his rifle will not be allowed to repeat his shot and the shot will be recorded as a miss. He may be considered to have acted in a dangerous manner under rule F19.5.4 if applicable.

F7.8. Any competitor acting in a dangerous manner will be forbidden to fire until the CRO is satisfied that he will no longer act in a dangerous manner.

F7.9. The rifle of every competitor must be inspected by the competitor’s register keeper immediately after firing at every distance to establish that the breech and barrel are clear and a breech flag has been inserted, or the bolt has been removed from the rifle. A competitor who fails to present his rifle for inspection whether called on to do so or not, may be considered as “acting in a way that might prove dangerous”.

F7.10. If a live round is jammed in a rifle chamber, but the bolt can be removed, the competitor must leave the rifle pointed towards the butts and call for the RO to arrange for the removal of the cartridge. Under no circumstances should an attempt be made to remove the round with a cleaning rod. After removal of the cartridge, the competitor will be permitted to continue his shoot. If the action locks on a live round and the bolt cannot be removed, the rifle must be left on the firing point, pointed towards the targets, until the range is clear. An armourer must then be called to make the rifle safe. A cartridge extractor, cleaning rod or other means may be used to extract a spent cartridge case, with minimum disturbance to neighbouring competitors.

F7.11. In the event of more than one failure under rule F7.1 or a need repeatedly to artificially extract spent cases, the Range Officer must consider the possibility of the use of unsafe ammunition as provided for under Rules F7.2. and F7.3.

F7.12. If a misfire occurs, the competitor should be aware of the possible danger of a hang-fire. The RO must be called immediately, whilst the rifle remains pointed towards the targets. After waiting at least 30 seconds, the competitor may then turn the rifle on its side, so that the loading port faces the ground, and open the bolt. The competitor must ensure that his fingers and all other parts of his body are not behind the bolt. It is the responsibility of the RO to ensure that no one is standing behind, should the bolt be blown out. On no account must a round that has misfired be reloaded into the rifle.

F8. RIFLES and AMMUNITION – MISHAPS and TESTING.

F8.1. Unless otherwise stipulated by a specific match condition, a competitor may change his rifle between distances. In respect of changes between shots within a shoot:-

F8.1.1. In individual matches, he will only be permitted to switch rifles during firing should the first rifle become unsafe or unserviceable and only if the RO verifies this to be so. Deteriorating grouping ability of the rifle due to barrel fouling or any other non visible cause will not be considered a malfunction.

F8.1.2. In team matches, a team member may change his rifle at any time.

In neither case is an extra sighter permitted.

F8.2. A shot has not been fired until the striker has functioned and the bullet has left the barrel. If a bullet exits the muzzle, it will, for scoring purposes, be considered as a shot properly fired, unless the shot has been discharged deliberately for safety reasons at the request of the RO or other Range official.

F8.3. The CRO or RO, if satisfied that it can be done with safety, may permit a competitor to leave the firing point to rectify a mishap to his rifle, or to change his ammunition in accordance with rule F7.3.2 and complete his shoot within the period of his detail or time allocation but without any extra sighting shots.

F8.4. A competitor who suffers a malfunction to his rifle which cannot be rectified on or behind the firing point may, if timings and target availability permit, be re-squadded. This is at the absolute discretion of the CRO. The competitor’s score to date will stand, and he will be permitted one optional non convertible sighter.

F8.5. A RO may at his sole discretion (or in accordance with the CRO’s direction) test any trigger of any competitor immediately prior to him shooting under rule F2.6. or following a rectification under rule F8.3 above.

F8.6. Before testing, both the competitor and the RO must check to see that the rifle is unloaded.

F8.7. All trigger tests are to be made by a RO or, under his supervision, by the competitor or some other person delegated by the RO or requested by the competitor. The format of the test is given at rule F2.7.

F9. SIGHTING SHOTS and CONVERTIBLE SIGHTING SHOTS.

F9.1. A competitor who cannot tell the position of a sighting shot, owing to the display of two (or more) spotting discs, may elect to accept the one of higher value or, alternatively, may request permission from the RO to repeat the shot, which remains convertible. If he does so, the RO will declare the previous shots on the target null and void. If any other shot is known to be a shot out of turn by another competitor squadded on the same target, that competitor will have no relief, and the value will be as in Rule F11.3.

F9.2. After a competitor has fired his second (or only) sighting shot, he may elect to count the sole sighting shot, or the second sighting shot, or both when there have been two, in his score. He must declare his intention to his register keeper BEFORE any further shot is fired by him. In the absence of such declaration, he will be deemed NOT to have converted his sighting shots. The register keeper is to acknowledge any conversions.

F9.3. The sighting shot in a tie shoot is convertible.

F9.4. Except as provided at F9.1 above or F11.1 below, all extra sighting shots provided for in these rules are optional and non convertible. Unless a competitor declares before shooting his shot, that he is taking a permitted extra sighter, he will be deemed to have fired ‘on score’.

F10. REGISTER KEEPING.

F10.1. In individual competitions, competitors squadded in pairs or threes will exchange scorecards and each will register keep for the competitor firing immediately after him. In the case of a competitor firing by himself despite pairs or threes being in use, the RO must detail a register keeper. Arrangements for competitors shooting in single string will be in accordance with Rule F13.6.

F10.2. Every register keeper must use either the telescopic sight of his rifle (if appropriate) or a spotting telescope or binoculars powerful enough to clearly see the lines dividing the scoring areas on the target.

F10.3. For each shot, the register keeper must first confirm that the spotting disc agrees with the value signalled. He must then call out the result, loudly and clearly, giving the target number, (or the competitors name), followed by the shot number, the colloquial name for the scoring zone, and the points value. e.g. “Mr. Smith, third to count, bull(seye), five”, or the equivalent in the local vernacular. If the spotting disc disagrees unmistakably with the value signalled, the competitor or the register keeper must at once inform the RO who will ascertain the value of the shot.

F10.4. If the competitor decides to convert one or both sighting shots, the value/s must be struck through with a diagonal line and transferred to the boxes for the first, or first and second, counting shot(s) as the case may be. Any scoring spaces left blank, crossed through or written "C" will count zero: only the shots recorded in the scoring boxes will be counted. Examples are:-

F10.5. The competitor must pay attention to the scores called out by the register keeper and immediately bring any error to the attention of the register keeper.

F10.6. On completion of the shoot, the register keeper must record and call out the total score for that distance, including the number of V-Bulls. A decimal point must be used to separate the score and the number of Vs (e.g. 34.4). At the final distance of a match, he must also enter and call out the total score and total number of Vs. He must then sign the scorecard and complete any other required details.

F10.7. Before handing the card to the competitor for checking and signature, the register keeper must visually confirm that the competitor’s rifle is safe. The bolt must be removed to allow the register keeper to look down the barrel. Once this is done, the competitor must either leave the bolt out, or replace it with a breech flag inserted into the chamber, according to the local rules. The register keeper will then certify the rifle as safe in the space provided on the competitor’s scorecard. The competitor must check and initial his card as having been correctly filled in (see Rule F10.10). It is the responsibility of the competitor to hand his card to the RO or to some other person detailed by the RO immediately on completion of his shoot. If a competitor leaves the firing point with an “unsafe” rifle, both he and his register keeper are liable to be penalised.

F10.8. Any alteration of a score must be initialled by the register keeper. The RO must verify all such alterations with the register keeper. No erasure is permitted on any score card. Errors must be corrected by striking them out, writing in the correct values, with the scorer initialling the changes.

F10.9. Where a target with a bullseye value of 10 (or 6) is in use, a miss must be entered on the scorecard as the letter “M”. This is to avoid the danger of a 0 being fraudulently altered to a 10 (or a 6, as the case may be).

F10.10. Any objections to the score entered on the competitor’s scorecard must be made by the competitor on the firing point at the time. No competitor has the right to object at any subsequent time.

F10.11. The register keeper is responsible for ensuring that all scores are completed in ink. Pencil is not allowed, except in cases of inclement weather.

F11. TARGET IRREGULARITIES.

F11.1. If at the moment at which a competitor fires, his target is moved in such a manner as to falsify the result of his shot and this can be evidenced to the satisfaction of the RO, he will cancel this shot and order the competitor to fire another in place of it. A high strike on the target will not, of itself, be evidence that the target moved. If the shot concerned is a sighter, it remains convertible.

F11.2. In all competitions, a competitor who fires at the wrong target will be credited with a miss for each shot so fired.

F11.3. A competitor who fires out of his proper turn at his own target will have one point deducted from the value of the shot, so long as this does not create a negative score for that shot. A V-bull or bull will be scored as an inner. This applies both to counting and sighting shots. If in the circumstances of his shot out of turn two (or more) shots strike the target the value credited to him will be one point deducted from the shot of highest value unless the competitor, whose proper turn it was to shoot, has also fired during the same exposure. The deduction will then be from the shot of second highest value.

F11.4. Should a target mechanism fail, the CRO may, at his discretion, move the Competitor(s) concerned to another target, if one is available, (under the provisions of Rule F6.8) or to another detail or squad as the case may be. Scores up to the point of the target failure will stand. Should this occur during string shooting and no spare target is available, the squad members still to shoot will be temporarily split up and assigned to other squads.

F12. MARKING and SCORING.

A. Marking in the Butts

F12.1. The system of signalling commonly employed in the host country may be used.

F12.2. A shot on the non-scoring area will be signalled as for a miss and by a spotting disc, if possible. If the shot is on the target but a spotting disc cannot be inserted it is permissible for the butts to inform the RO of its position and for the competitor to be informed thereof.

F12.3. A spotting disc that has been hit must be patched before it is re-used.

F12.4. A shot that misses the target will be signalled by the removal of the value panel and the target sent up “clear”(i.e. previous spotting disc removed and hole patched):

F12.4.1. if the marker lowers the target, being sure (whether or not correctly) that a shot has been fired at his target, or

F12.4.2. after a radio or telephone message calling for the target and spotting disc to be examined. The Butt Officer should, if possible, supervise “examinations”)

F12.5. A ricochet will be signalled as a miss. No spotting disc will be shown. A shot will not be deemed as a ricochet unless it gives evidence, by throwing sand or dirt against the target or into the gallery, that it has previously struck the ground. An elongated hole is not, by itself, evidence of a ricochet. In all cases where a ricochet is suspected, the butt officer is to be called to adjudicate. In the event of an elongated hole the point closest to the centre of the target will determine the point of impact for scoring and marking purposes.

F12.6. If, on lowering the target, two (or more) shot holes are apparent, that having the higher value will be signalled but all shots will be shown by spotting discs.

F12.7. When a shot touches the line between two divisions of the target, the competitor will be credited with the higher value. In case of doubt a gauge of 7.82mm diameter (=0.308 inches) will be used (regardless of the actual calibre in use) to determine the value of the shot. The ruling by a butt officer will be final.

F12.8. A competitor may challenge the signalled value of a shot, whether for a hit, a further hit or for higher value, by so indicating to the RO (See also F12.16 and F12.17). On a challenge being received the target is to be lowered. The butt officer’s disc/flag will be shown above the mantlet by the marker. The butt officer (whose decision is final) will then personally examine the target, gauging the shot hole if necessary, after which:

F12.8.1. If a challenge for a hit, the shot (if found) or a miss will be signalled.

F12.8.2. If a challenge for a further hit, the original spotting disc will be removed and any further shot found will be marked and signalled. If no additional shot is found the target will be sent up clear.

F12.8.3. If a challenge for a higher value, or a report that the spotting disc disagrees with the signalled value, the correct value will be signalled whether it has been altered or not.

The outcome will also be communicated to the RO who will relay it to the shooter.

F12.9. Messages between firing point and butts should be in accordance with national practice.

F12.10. The only means of communication between the butts and the firing point is to be that formally used by the range and butts officers. No person in the butts is to use any other means of communication that could be contacted by any person in sight of the firing point. In particular, mobile/cell phones must be switched off by all personnel in the butts and those within 20m of the firing point.

B. Scoring on the firing point

F12.11. If the target shows two (or more) spotting discs the shot having the higher value will be signalled and credited to the competitor who has fired at the target in proper turn. If the shot in question is a sighter, Rule F9.1 applies.

F12.12. If it is a shot to count the competitor will be entitled to an optional, non-convertible sighting shot. In either case, if taken the shot is to be fired at once and MUST be nominated to the register keeper and any other competitors on the target before being fired.

F12.13. If the spotting disc disagrees unmistakably with the value signalled, the competitor or register keeper must at once inform the RO who will ascertain the value of the shot. No more shots are to be fired at that target until the value has been ascertained.

F12.14. Any competitor, register keeper or person on the firing point aware of such an unmistakable disagreement in the value of a spotting disc is required to call it to the attention of the RO, whether it be a shot fired by him, or by anyone else.

F12.15. If the target is not lowered after a shot is fired at it, the competitor, his register keeper, or the next competitor to fire must ask the RO to have the target marked.

F12.16. The signalled value of a shot (or a miss if so signalled or notified) may be challenged once only before any other shot is fired at the same target. The competitor must notify the register keeper he intends to challenge, and the register keeper must initial any consequent change in value recorded on the scorecard. An unsuccessful challenge may become liable for a ‘Fee under Rule F12.20.

F12.17. If a competitor believes that the shot marked on the target was not that which he fired he may repudiate the shot marked and call for the target to be examined for a further hit (ICFRA Message 6 or equivalent). He will not be credited with the value of the shot so repudiated, and will be credited with the value of any further shot found. If no shot is found he will be credited with a miss and will score zero.

F12.18. If there is any uncertainty as to the true value of a shot, the RO will communicate with the butt officer by radio or telephone to confirm the true value, and the competitor will be credited with the true value. Where a spotting disc appears not to have moved, a competitor or register keeper may check that this reflects the arrival of a shot extremely close to its predecessor by means of ICFRA Message 8 or its equivalent.

F12.19. If the circumstances are such that the signalled value of a shot cannot be verified at once, or without considerable delay, the competitor will, unless the RO decides otherwise, be credited with the signalled value.

F12.20. It is the prerogative of the organisers to decide whether there should be a challenge fee and, if so, the amount. No fee is payable if the challenge is upheld.

F12.21. No competitor may, under any circumstances, knowingly claim or accept points which he has not made, or connive at any such conduct by another competitor.

F12.22. The CRO or a RO may not go to the butts to inspect a target or allow an assistant or any competitor to do so.

F12.23. All messages and results to and from the butts will be confirmed by radio or telephone.

F13. CONDUCT OF INDIVIDUAL COMPETITIONS

F13.1. Two styles of conduct of individual competition are recognised, defined as follows.

F13.1.1. Single string. In this, the competitor fires his sighters and counting shots in a string subject only to an overall time limit determined by the number of shots and the distance. How long he takes over each individual shot is a matter for him. The competitor acts as check scorer (Rule F13.16) for his successor and register keeper for the next competitor thereafter.

F13.1.2. ‘Bisley’ style. In this two or three competitors are detailed to fire at the same target. They fire in rotation (or alternately, as the case may be) starting with the right hand competitor, and register keep for one another.

F13.2. At a Championship Meeting shot under ICFRA Rules, if both Target Rifle and F-Class Rifle are being shot concurrently, then the style of shooting shall be the same for both disciplines, but with separate and distinct provision for squads and targets.

A. Single String

F13.3. In line with the general principles of squadding outlined at Rule F4.1. Organisers should allocate competitors to squads of no less than 5. Each squad should have one experienced competitor allocated to it to act a ‘squad leader’. Where target and entry numbers imply squads of 10 or more, consideration should be given to the creation of two (or more) ‘sub-squads’ in order to allow respite for competitors.

F13.4. Squads should be allocated positions on the range which move between distances in a predetermined pattern designed so far as possible to equalise the effects of any favourable or unfavourable range configurations or times of day.

F13.5. At each change of distance (or on completion of a match if the next match is to be at the same distance) the competitors will rotate in otherwise unaltered order such that the first man at the previous distance shoots last at the next, with the remaining squad members moving accordingly. If sub-squads are in use, they will rotate within themselves, and when one full rotation is complete (in the smaller if of unequal size) the sub-squads themselves will swap order of firing.

F13.6. While a competitor is firing, his successor should get down onto the firing point without disturbing the competitor and prepare to fire in his turn so that shooting is more-or-less continuous. Squads will arrange among themselves the accommodation of left handed competitors.

F13.7. As soon as a competitor completes his string he should quit the firing point as rapidly and unobtrusively as possible and immediately settle his scorecard with the register keeper. As soon as the scoring process is complete, the check scorer will swap with the register keeper to allow the new competitor to commence on the register keeper’s command. The competitor who has just left the firing point will relieve the (now) temporary check scorer as soon as practicable. The last to shoot will check score for the first and register keep for the second; and the last-but-one competitor will register keep for the first.

F13.8. Prior to the commencement of firing, when instructed by the RO to move forward onto the firing point, the first competitor will be given a preparation time of 5 minutes. On command of the RO, the targets will be exposed to allow sight setting and dry-firing.

F13.9. At the end of the preparation period, the targets will be lowered. Timing for the first competitors will commence from the moment they are re-elevated. If the first competitor is not present at the commencement of firing the second competitor will fire (after due allowance to prepare). Any late competitor will explain his reasons for absence to the CRO and a five point penalty will be imposed unless the CRO rules that the absence arose for reasons beyond the competitor’s control. He will be accommodated as ruled by the squad leader on receiving authority from the CRO.

F13.10. Timing for the second and subsequent shooters shall start on the instruction of the register keeper (having come forward from check-scoring and a sufficient pause having been given to allow the previous shooter rapidly to clear the firing point.)

F13.11. Should a squad member be absent, the RO must be informed. Squads may then be reorganised by the RO to even out the number of competitors per squad.

F13.12. The time allowed for the string is the number of sighting and scoring shots to be fired times 1 minute – e.g. 17 minutes for 2 sighters and 15 shots to count (or as the number of shots may dictate). The register keeper for the relevant shooter shall also act as timekeeper. The register keeper must position himself immediately to the rear of his competitor. He must be equipped with a telescope or strong binoculars and a watch on which he can accurately time the competitor.

F13.13. Unless there is a target/marker problem (which must be brought to the attention of the RO immediately it happens/starts), timing must be strictly enforced. If the marking on a target is particularly slow, despite a message to the butts, the RO will decide, after observing the target, whether (and if so, how much) extra time will be allowed.

F13.14. The register keeper (whose timing is authoritative in the event of a dispute) must warn the competitor when he has three minutes left. At the end of the period of 3 minutes from the warning (even if the warning was given ‘late’), any unfired shots will be fired and penalised at the rate of 2 points per shot.

F13.15. If the time taken is more than that allocated, the scorecard must be countersigned by the RO, who must annotate the reason/s for extra time being allowed, or amend the card according to the penalty ruling.

F13.16. The check-scorer will stand further back, alongside the scoreboard, which must face away from the firing point, for the benefit of the RO and spectators. He must also use a telescope or strong binoculars to verify shot values. Upon confirming the shot value, the check-scorer will repeat the register keeper’s call and enter the value on the board.

F13.17. As soon as the competitor finishes, the register keeper and check-scorer will confirm the score, including V-Bull count, and both will sign the competitor's scorecard. The register keeper will also enter the time taken.

F13.18. If, from observation of the scoreboards, a RO finds that one target is lagging behind the others in his section, he may temporarily reallocate one or more competitor/s to a faster group in order to save time. Any competitor thus moved will normally revert to his own squad at the next distance.

B. ‘Bisley Style’ Shooting

F13.19. Competitors will be squadded either two or three to a target. As the shooting space is generally fairly narrow, when squadding is in threes, left-handed competitors will be squadded together to the right of each butt or on a separate butt.

F13.20. Squadding will be in accordance with section F4.

F13.21. When called forward by the RO, competitors on each target will position themselves on the firing point, in relation to the target number marker as specified in local regulations.

F13.22. ROs will then check for any target on which there is only a single competitor and rectify the situation by moving one or more competitors. Only in exceptional circumstances may a competitor fire on his own, in which event the RO must detail a register keeper to keep score. Every reasonable effort should be made to avoid creating a trio, when pairs squadding is in use.

F13.23. The CRO will allow a minimum of five minutes preparation time before the “commence firing” order. One or more targets may be previously exposed for sighting and dry-firing purposes in accordance with local practice.

F13.24. A competitor who arrives during or after that preparation period, forfeits his right to shoot and may only be permitted to shoot if it does not inconvenience the other competitors on his target, and on penalty of 1 point deducted from his final score. No competitor is to be allowed to get down to shoot after the first shot has been fired on the target in question. The CRO (or his Deputy) alone has the absolute discretion to allow a competitor who has missed his detail to shoot in another; and will bear in mind the undesirability of allocating a detail or range position which might be thought to be more favourable to the competitor. A five point penalty will be imposed unless the CRO rules that the absence arose for reasons beyond the competitor’s control.

F13.25. The time allowance, per shot, is 45 seconds. Timing starts when the target has come to rest at the top of its travel, or the point at which any query as to the shot value, protest or challenge has been disposed of by the RO.

F13.26. If the targets have been pre-exposed, to allow sight adjustments, etc., timing for the first shot will be from the order to commence firing. If the targets have not been pre-exposed, timing will commence when the competitors on the target signify that they are ready.

F13.27. A competitor, timed by a RO and found to have taken too long, will be given one warning. Thereafter, he will forfeit two points for the first shot which the RO has personally timed and found to have exceeded the time limit. For each subsequent shot outside the time limit he will forfeit the value of the shot in question. These penalties apply only within the distance being shot, and are not ‘carried forward’ to subsequent shoots. In the case of a localised disturbance such as a whirlwind or dust storm, a RO may use his discretion in allowing shooters a short relief from the 45/60 second time limit.

F13.28. Competitors on each target will act as register keepers for one another. In each case, a competitor will score for the competitor who fires immediately after him. This means that, with threes, the left and middle competitors will pass their scorecards to the right and the competitor on the right will pass his to the competitor on the left. If there are two competitors, they will just exchange scorecards.

F13.29. Competitors on a target will fire single shots alternately, or in rotation, starting with the competitor on the right.

F13.30. A competitor who misses the target with four consecutive shots (whether including sighting shots or not) must stop firing until the others on the target have finished. He may then complete his shoot, but will not be allowed an extra sighting shot. The detail will not be extended to facilitate this, however.

F13.31. Competitors must remain in position until all on their target have completed the shoot. They may then retire from the firing point, after completing their register keeping duties and rifle safety checks, provided they do not disturb competitors who are still firing on adjacent targets.

F14. CONDUCT OF TEAM MATCHES

F14.1. Target positions for teams will be drawn by lot. For international matches involving more than one distance, teams should be moved at subsequent distances on a predetermined plan so as to minimise the effect of weather or favoured locations on the range. When squadding team matches, a team should not be squadded ‘astride’ a line of flags, thus preventing firers and coaches from being deployed to optimum effect, unless this is absolutely unavoidable.

F14.2. If at all possible, in matches where each team has multiple targets, at least one vacant lowered target should separate the team sets.

F14.3. No one may be a member of more than one team in the same competition.

F14.4. Every team captain must, if called on to do so by the Organisers, furnish evidence that he has been appointed by competent authority.

F14.5. Subject always to match conditions, each team will be permitted the following non-shooting officials: captain, adjutant, chief coach/co-ordinator and one coach for each target allocated to the team: these are all members of the team. All members of the team may coach, spot or plot for each other. Any function discharged by the captain may be discharged on his behalf by the adjutant or chief coach.

F14.6. Subject always to match conditions, up to one reserve per target may be appointed. Reserves may carry out any function proper to a member of the team save that they will only fire if called upon under the rules.

F14.7. There is no limit to the number of team members on the firing point at one time, provided there is no interference with safe range operation, or with any member of another team, or the register keepers.

F14.8. No other person is allowed to give advice to the competitors on the firing point.

F14.9. Each captain is to allocate the members of his team to the targets allotted to it. He may at any time order a member to suspend his firing and another to start: such member will not be entitled to any extra sighting shot before resuming. Without prejudice to the normal orderly conduct of shooting, any member of the team may direct any shot at any target belonging to the team provided always that the captain or a coach must ensure that the register keepers are informed before any change of target or order of firing is made. A member will be credited with a miss if he fires at a wrong target or a target which has not been nominated, even if this target is one allotted to his team.

F14.10. At each distance of a match:

F14.10.1. There will be a time limit for the whole team and each captain is responsible that all members of his team complete their firing at that distance within the time allowed.

F14.10.2. At the expiration of the time allowed all firing at that distance will cease, whether the team has completed its firing or not.

F14.10.3. The RO will report to the CRO if there has been any exceptional delay not occasioned by any act or neglect of a member of the team. The CRO may extend the time allowed.

F14.10.4. The captain or adjutant is responsible for calling the attention of the RO to any such delay immediately it occurs.

F14.11. No radio devices may be used between coaches/team officials, but a communication system using wires is permitted providing it is restricted to those on the firing point. No one in the communications loop may sit that far behind the shooters and coaches that he can receive outside advice, in contravention of Rule F14.8.

F14.12. A member of a team may change his rifle at any time but as a consequence may not fire any extra sighting shots. – See Rule F8.1.2.

F14.13. Should a member of a team be prevented from continuing to fire by any cause both imperative and unforeseen his place may, with the prior approval of the RO, be taken by a reserve to fire in the place of the retiring member and to take up the firing at the stage when such member retired. He will not be entitled to any extra sighting shots. The RO will notify the CRO of the substitution. Any such incapacitated shooter who is replaced may not participate in the match again as a shooter on the same day as his withdrawal. If he is restored to the team, the reserve who replaced him will revert to reserve status.

F14.14. The disciplinary rules applicable to individual matches also apply, where appropriate, to team matches. Misconduct or failure to comply with the rules by any team member may lead to the disallowance of his score, or his personal disqualification, or disqualification for the whole team. If disqualified on a personal basis, a team shooter may NOT be replaced during the match in question.

F14.15. In the event that register keepers are not provided by the organisers, each team must be prepared to provide register keepers to be exchanged between adjacent pairs or threes of teams as may be directed by the RO. Register keeping may be done by volunteers who are not team members. The safety check of a competitor’s rifle on completion of his shoot is to be conducted by the competitor’s coach or a team member nominated by the captain for the purpose; and the check is to be carried out before the competitor removes his rifle from the firing point.

F14.16. In team events, it is the responsibility of the team captain to ensure that score registers are correct in every respect and to sign them accordingly.

F14.17. In team matches a total time per team allowed for each distance shall be based on the number of shots to be fired at a target times 1 minute and 15 seconds.

F14.18. Rule F6.1 (position of the shooter on the firing point) applies. If sitting, coaches may have their feet (and spotting telescope tripod legs) forward of the line/markers indicating the front of the firing point, provided they are well behind the rifle muzzles on either side. Incidental shielding of firers by coaches and plotters is not in contravention of the prohibitions against ‘sheltering’ in F6.2, but artefacts (e.g. umbrellas) may NOT be brought to the firing point for that purpose. Provided always that for Team Matches ONLY, and subject to UNANIMOUS agreement of all the Captains and the Referee, shade may be provided under conditions of extreme heat.

F15. PROTESTS.

F15.1. Any claim or complaint by a competitor or team arising on the firing point must be made at once by way of protest to the RO. If his decision is disputed, or if the protest is not resolved on the spot, the matter must immediately be referred to the CRO, who (in accordance with rule F1.5) will consult the Match Referee if one has been appointed.

F15.2. ROs will deal with all minor infractions of the rules. For violations potentially meriting disallowance of score or disqualification, the RO will summon the CRO and Referee (if any). The CRO or Referee may impose any penalty up to and including disallowance of score, and will report any offence potentially meriting disqualification to the Match Committee, while taking any appropriate interim action, which could include ordering the firing of provisional shots. If provisional shots are ordered, the RO is to be clearly briefed as to the ruling and must annotate full details on the competitor’s scorecard, identifying the provisional shots.

F15.3. The CRO has absolute discretion to deal with all matters involving safety or security in accordance with Rule F1.5.

F15.4. The ruling by the CRO/Referee as to outcomes on the range will be final. In the event that a ruling cannot be given on the spot or immediately on completion of the competitor's shoot, the circumstances must be put in writing by the competitor or team captain concerned and handed to the CRO or the secretarial office within 30 minutes of the end of the match, for subsequent resolution by the Match Committee. The Match Committee will also rule on the admissibility of any associated provisional shots fired in accordance with Rule F15.2. Appeals will only be allowed in respect of penalties imposed (see Rule F16.1.).

F15.5. Protests not directly related to occurrences on the firing point, must be made, in writing, to the secretarial office, for resolution by the Match Committee or Organisers, as appropriate.

F16. APPEALS

F16.1. An appeal against disallowance of score or any other penalty (or lack thereof) imposed by the CRO/Referee will be referred to the Match Committee. Such appeals must be made in writing within 30 minutes of the end of the relevant match and may be made by the competitor in person or a team official. Any appeal fee as set by host country regulations must accompany the appeal. The fee must be returned if the appeal is upheld.

F16.2. The organisers of any matches held under ICFRA Rules must use their best endeavours to ensure the prompt resolution of protests and appeals, consistent always with the principles of fair hearing under “due process.”

F17. BRIBES.

F17.1. The offer of any money or a bribe of any kind to any match official, register keeper, butt marker (or anyone in a position to affect either true marking or scoring) or other competitor is strictly forbidden.

F17.2. Any person knowing of any such offer, or of any attempt to defraud the host country or an official or any competitor, must report the same without delay in writing to the CRO, who will arrange for the matter to be dealt with by the appropriate authority. Failure so to do leaves the individual open to sanction under rule F19.5.9.

F18. DOPING CONTROL

F18.1. The ICFRA procedures and policy in respect of Anti Doping are laid out in a separate rules document. No competitor may take, use, advocate the use of, have in his possession, or attempt to have in his possession, substances referred to on the prohibited drug list of ICFRA except in accordance with a Therapeutic Usage Exemption Certificate granted in accordance with ICFRA Policy.

F18.2. Any competitor must, if requested by an official designated by the host country for the purpose of doping control, submit to a drug control test. Failure to do so will be taken as if a positive result had been obtained and dealt with accordingly.

F18.3. The identification of a forbidden substance and/or one of its metabolites, or the presence of specified amounts of endogenous substances subject to quantitative analysis, in a body fluid will constitute an offence and the offender may be subject to disciplinary action.

F18.4. Any person assisting or inciting others in the contravention of these regulations will be considered as having committed an offence against these rules, and may be subject to disciplinary action.

WARNING.

F18.5. It could be highly dangerous for a competitor to give up or reduce a therapeutic drug regularly taken. No competitor should take this course of action without medical advice.

F18.6. Many of these prohibited drugs appear either alone or as mixtures in medications under a commercial title. It is advisable that, should there by any doubt, expert advice be sought by the competitor before taking any medication.

F19. PENALTIES.

F19.1. There are five levels of penalty:

F19.1.1. Discretionary penalties for minor offences.

F19.1.2. Deduction of points

F19.1.3. Disallowance of score

F19.1.4. Disqualification from further participation in the meeting

F19.1.5. Suspension, which carries with it a period of suspension beyond the meeting, and which is reportable to ICFRA.

F19.2. Discretionary Penalties. For any minor or technical infringement, which does not expose anyone to danger, or give the offender any material benefit or advantage over other competitors and for which no penalty is specifically laid down in these rules, the Match Committee has full discretion to impose what it considers an appropriate penalty.

F19.3. Deductions of points. Various rules dictate that points should be deducted for specific offences. These include firing on the wrong target, or out of turn, exceeding the time limit, etc. Details are given in the respective rules, and they are automatic.

F19.4. Disallowance of Score. The following offences may lead to the disallowance of a competitor’s score by the CRO (or Referee if appointed). If the score is disallowed, the competitor concerned will have the right of appeal under Rule F16.1. to the Match Committee, whose decision shall be final.

F19.4.1. Failure to hand in his scorecard.

F19.4.2. Refusal to obey valid instructions given by a RO, whether for safety purposes or for the due carrying out of these rules.

F19.4.3. Failure to comply with the specific conditions laid down for a particular match or the general regulations for the conduct of the meeting.

F19.4.4. Use of a rifle that does not comply with the requirements set out in these Rules.

F19.4.5. Use of rifle attachments, shooting aids, or other equipment which, although not specifically prohibited by the Rules, are considered by the Referee (CRO if no Referee appointed) to give the user an unfair advantage over other competitors.

F19.4.6. After completing a shoot, leaving the firing point with an “unsafe” rifle (bolt still in or no breech flag). In this event the penalty may apply to both the competitor and his register keeper.

F19.4.7. When coaching is not allowed, giving or requesting any advice in the nature of coaching whilst on the firing point in contravention of rule F6.8.

F19.4.8. Persistent infringement, despite earlier warnings and deduction of points, of the 45 second shot time limit.

F19.4.9. In an individual match, changing rifles during the firing at any one distance, without satisfying the RO that the first rifle is unserviceable.

F19.4.10. Unfairly screening himself or his rifle, or allowing anyone else to do so.

F19.5. In each of these cases, the CRO or Referee will have the authority to impose a lesser penalty should he consider that there are mitigating circumstances.

F19.6. Disqualification. Any competitor will, on the occurrence of any of the following offences being proved to the satisfaction of the Match Committee, be excluded from all further competitions during the meeting and shall forfeit all entrance fees and any prizes won subsequent to the offence. The imposition of such a penalty by the Match Committee shall automatically be reported by the Chairman of the Match Committee to the Chairman of the disciplinary body of the host country, which may at its discretion consider imposing the penalty of “Suspension” (Rule F19.7) following a further hearing. In any event the competitor concerned has the right of appeal to the disciplinary body of the host country, which will adopt due process and whose decision shall be final:

F19.6.1. Discharging a firearm anywhere in the range area or camp, other than on a shooting range that is under control of a RO.

F19.6.2. Being found with a loaded rifle except at his proper firing point during a match or practice.

F19.6.3. Loading or firing a shot when the danger sign is up or before the order to commence fire has been given; or intentionally firing a shot out of turn or at the wrong target, or at any object other than his proper target.

F19.6.4. Accidentally discharging his rifle on the range, in a direction other than towards the stop-butt.

F19.6.5. Acting in any other way that might prove dangerous, either on the range or elsewhere in the range area.

F19.6.6. Knowingly shooting for a team for which he is not eligible.

F19.6.7. False entry, Viz. Shooting under a false name or that of another competitor or using a register scorecard other than one issued to him or knowingly shooting in a competition for which he is ineligible.

F19.6.8. Contrary to the provisions of these rules, deliberately modifying his rifle or applying his shooting aids in such a way as to obtain an unfair advantage.

F19.6.9. Offering, or accepting, a bribe of any kind to overlook a breach of the rules, or to falsify a scorecard, etc. Also, knowing of such a bribe, offer, or of any attempt to defraud the organisers or any competitor, failing to report it without delay to the Match Committee.

F19.6.10. Deliberately altering his scorecard or otherwise knowingly claiming or accepting points that he has not scored, or conniving at such conduct by another competitor. This includes deliberate failure to draw the RO’s attention to a spotting disc which unmistakably disagrees with the score indicated.

F19.6.11. Theft of equipment belonging to the association or another competitor, or any other criminal activity.

F19.6.12. Conduct that the Organising Committee may consider to be discreditable or detrimental to the Host Association or ICFRA.

F19.6.13. Violation of the requirements of the host country in respect of security or Firearms legislation.

F19.6.14. Having been reported to the Organising Committee as still being under suspension by another ICFRA member Association.

F19.7. Suspension. Following a report of disqualification to the disciplinary body of the host nation by the Match Committee under Rule F19.5., the disciplinary body shall convene to consider whether a period of suspension from all fullbore TR and F-Class activities should additionally be imposed. If a period of suspension is in contemplation a proper hearing of the competitor’s representations must be undertaken. All instances of suspension must be reported in writing, with full details, to the Secretary General of ICFRA, who will advise all member associations. All ICFRA member countries must observe the suspension period. If the activity was of a criminal nature, the police must also be informed.

F19.8. Offences against Rules F18.1 to F18.4 will be considered under the ICFRA Anti Doping Rules.

F20. TIES FOR INDIVIDUAL EVENTS.

F20.1. Ties in individual matches will be shot off under the following circumstances:-

F20.1.1. For a trophy,

F20.1.2. For a top-three medal where these are of distinctive metal/colour

F20.1.3. (Subject to match conditions) for the lowest qualifying places in the subsequent stage of a match shot in stages. A Match shot in stages is one so defined in Match Conditions. Each Stage is distinctly defined; and a specified number of shooters (which may be “all” but typically is a reduced number based on scores) will qualify to shoot in the next, or final, Stage.

F20.2. A tie occurs when two or more individuals make the same total score and total V-Bulls.

F20.3. It is the responsibility of the competitor to ascertain whether he is likely to be required for a tie shoot, and the time and place where it will be conducted. Any competitor who fails to attend the tie shoot will be awarded the lowest place being contested.

F20.4. Tie shoots will comprise one convertible sighter and 5 shots to count at the longest distance of the match. If a tie for one of the awards still remains unresolved, those competitors still tying will fire shot for shot sudden death (with “V” counting higher than bull 5) until the tie is broken.

F20.4.1. Numbers permitting, each contestant will fire on a separate target. Adjacent targets will be used and exactly the right number will be exposed and remain exposed until the whole tie shoot is complete.

F20.4.2. Unless firing in pairs, each contestant must have a register keeper, who will position himself behind his competitor, at the rear of the firing point.

F20.4.3. The time limit per shot will be 45 seconds from the time the target reaches the top of its travel or immediately following the resolution of any dispute as to the value of the shot indicated.

F20.5. Immediately the place(s) subject to the tie shoot have been resolved, the tie shoot will be stopped and the order of merit of all other participants in the tie shoot will be decided by count out.

F20.5.1. By the total score in the tie shoot including V-Bulls;

F20.5.2. If still a tie, by counting out on the tie shoot;

F20.5.3. If still a tie, by counting out on the original match score under F20.6. below.

F20.6. Counting out: All other Ties will be counted out as follows.

F20.6.1. (For competitions conducted in one or more stages) By the aggregate of the scores in each successive stage, commencing with the last.

F20.6.2. If still a tie by range totals in order of distance, commencing with the longest. If any distance has been shot more than once, all scores at that distance will be added together.

F20.6.3. If still a tie, by the value of each shot at the longest distance of the match, in the reverse order of their firing.

F20.6.4. If still a tie, by the value of each shot at the next-to-longest distance, in the reverse order of their firing and so on, until the tie is broken.

F20.6.5. In steps F20.6.3. and F20.6.4., a V-Bull will be deemed to be of higher value than a bull 5.

F20.7. Where a tie shoot is not specified, and application of the tie-breaking steps does not resolve a tie, prize money will be equally divided.

F21. TIES FOR TEAM EVENTS.

F21.1. All team ties will be counted out by range totals in order of distance, commencing with the longest. If any distance has been shot more than once, all scores at that distance will be added together.

F21.2. If still a tie, by value of the aggregate of the shots (by shot number) of all the firers in the team at the longest distance, in reverse order of firing, until the tie is broken. If still necessary thereafter, by the application of the same principle to the next-longest distance and so on.

ANNEX F/A

FIRING POINT LAYOUT

A1. The Firing Point in respect of Team Matches and World Championship Individual Events shall be defined by the line or line of markers defining the front of the firing point and a ‘whitewash’ line 4 metres behind it denoting the rear of the firing point. The Competitors’ Area lies between that line, and a line a further 6 metres to the rear. The whole is the “Field of Play” and is the Team Area for Team Matches. These dimensions may be sensibly adjusted if natural features such as ditches so suggest, and those features may substitute for lines. Lines should also define the extent of a ‘Team Area’ to the left and right

A2. Access to the ‘Field of Play’ shall be controlled in accordance with Rule F6.9.

ANNEX F/B

DIMENSIONS OF ICFRA TARGETS.

B1. Targets: General

B1.1. Form. All targets will consist of a circular black aiming mark centred on a white or off-white background. A supplementary circular white aiming mark may (for domestic purposes only) be provided within, or coincident with, the V Bull Ring.

B1.2. Frame Sizes. The standard dimensions are (height x width):

300yds/m: 1.2 x 1.2 metres (4 x 4 foot)

500-700yds: 1.8 x 1.8 metres (6 x 6 foot)

Long Range: The target frame shall not be less than 1.8m square. Target widths of 2.4m or 3.0m (or their imperial equivalents) are permissible.

B1.3. Target numbering. Each target must be clearly numbered. These numbers must be of such size that they are clearly visible, to the naked eye, at the furthest distance to be shot on the targets in question. Corresponding number markers (pegs) will be placed on the forward edge of each firing point.

B2. The ICFRA International F-Class Target Short Range

B2.1 Details Reserved: In default, a 1/2 minute V-bull within the ICFRA International Match Target for short range, with the original v-bull counting bull-5 and so on is acceptable.

B3 The ICFRA International F-Class Target (Long Range)

In mm - Targets printed in Imperial Units are acceptable

Distance700m – 1000 ydsBlack1118 (44”)V-Bull128 (5”) white ringBull 254 (10”)Inner508 (20”)Magpie815 (32”)Outer1118 (44”)HitROTThe bull will count 5 points unless the conditions of the match specify otherwise.