I.C.F.R.A.

INTERNATIONAL CONFEDERATION

OF FULLBORE RIFLE ASSOCIATIONS

TECHNICAL RULES & REGULATIONS

for

FULLBORE TARGET RIFLE SHOOTING

2nd Edition 1 September 2006

CONTENTS

ICFRA TECHNICAL RULES OF FULLBORE RIFLE SHOOTING.........................1

T1. EXPLANATORY AND DEFINITIONS. .........................................................1

T2. TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION of RIFLES and AMMUNITION.................3

T3. DRESS AND AIDS TO SHOOTING. ..............................................................4

T4. SQUADDING....................................................................................................6

T5. TARGETS..........................................................................................................6

T6. CONDUCT OF SHOOTING.............................................................................6

T7. SAFETY PRECAUTIONS................................................................................7

T8. RIFLES and AMMUNITION – MISHAPS and TESTING..............................9

T9. SIGHTING SHOTS and CONVERTIBLE SIGHTING SHOTS....................11

T10. REGISTER KEEPING. ...............................................................................11

T11. TARGET IRREGULARITIES. ...................................................................12

T12. MARKING and SCORING.........................................................................12

A. Marking in the Butts ....................................................................................12

B. Scoring on the firing point ...........................................................................13

T13. CONDUCT OF INDIVIDUAL COMPETITIONS.....................................14

A Single String.................................................................................................14

B ‘Bisley Style’ Shooting ................................................................................16

T14. CONDUCT OF TEAM MATCHES............................................................18

T15. PROTESTS..................................................................................................19

T16. APPEALS ....................................................................................................20

T17. BRIBES........................................................................................................20

T18. DOPING CONTROL...................................................................................20

T19. PENALTIES. ...............................................................................................20

T20. TIES FOR INDIVIDUAL EVENTS. ..........................................................23

T21. TIES FOR TEAM EVENTS........................................................................24

ANNEX T/A........................................................................................................25

ICFRA STANDARD TELEPHONE AND RADIO MESSAGES......................25

ANNEX T/B ................................................................................................................26

FIRING POINT LAYOUT..................................................................................26

ANNEX T/C ................................................................................................................27

ICFRA STANDARD SIGNALLING SYSTEM.................................................27

ANNEX T/D................................................................................................................28

DIMENSIONS OF ICFRA TARGETS...............................................................28

D1. Targets: General...........................................................................................28

D2. ICFRA Standard Aiming Marks ..................................................................28

D3. The ICFRA International Match Target (Short Range)...............................28

D4 The ICFRA International Match Target (Long Range) ...............................29

ANNEX T/E.................................................................................................................30

SAFETY GUIDELINES & TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS FOR RIFLES &

AMMUNITION...........................................................................................................30

PREAMBLE........................................................................................................30

E1. Signs of Excessive Pressure.........................................................................30

E3. Hand-loaded Ammunition ...........................................................................30

E4. Rifle Barrel Dimensions & Ammunition Pressures.....................................31

E5. Use of Factory Ammunition ........................................................................31

E6. Use of 5.56mm calibre Rifles and Cartridges..............................................32

INDEX TO RULES – REGULATIONS – CONDITIONS.........................................33

ICFRA TECHNICAL RULES OF FULLBORE RIFLE SHOOTING

T1. EXPLANATORY AND DEFINITIONS.

T1.1. These Rules govern the conduct of international fullbore target rifle (TR) matches shot under the auspices or control of ICFRA, or by adoption by a Member NRA. Separate regulations for the various matches set out the specific conditions under which they are to be shot.

T1.2. 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.

T1.3. 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, or Range Committee, if either has been appointed under rule T1.3.2 or T1.3.3. His duties may be discharged in his absence by a duly appointed Deputy Chief Range Officer.

T1.3.1. 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.

T1.3.2. 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 world championships and other international team matches 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.

T1.3.3. The functions of the Referee may alternatively be discharged by a Range ommittee appointed by the organisers for the purpose. The Committee must include the Chief Range Officer. Appointment of a Range Committee is optional, and may not duplicate the appointment of a Referee. Throughout these Rules reference to the Referee applies equally to the Range Committee by way of alternative.

T1.3.4. 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.

T1.3.5. 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 present on the range for the match period. He will be ex officio a member of (and may chair) the Match Committee if one exists.

T1.4. 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.

T1.5. 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.

T1.6. 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. Provision may be made, at a major event, for an "Equipment Control" pre-check of all equipment. At any time during a meeting, a competitor must submit his rifle and/or ammunition for inspection and possible safety testing whenever required. If excess pressure is suspected, ammunition may be test-fired in the specific rifle for which it was loaded.

T1.7. No competitor may use equipment or shooting methods that provides him with an unfair advantage or puts any other competitor at an unfair disadvantage.

T1.8. These Rules are intended broadly to be ‘facilitative’ in nature. In considering rulings, protests or appeals on matters not explicitly or unequivocally covered by the Rules, the various authorities listed under Rule T1.3 will have regard to the spirit of the rules and ‘fair play’.

T1.9. 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).

T1.10. “May”, “Must”, “Shall”, “Should” and “Will”: -In these rules:

T1.10.1. “May” is to be construed as being permissive;

T1.10.2. “Should” is to be construed as being desirable; and

T1.10.3. “Must”, “Shall” and “Will” are to be construed as being mandatory.

T1.11. 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.

T1.12. Alterations to the Rules. Since they are of broad application, proposals for changes to the Technical Rules may be raised at any time. They may only be proposed by an ICFRA Councillor (or a member of the ICFRA Rules Review Group –“IRRG” - acting in IRRG capacity), and must be sent to the Chairman of the TR Committee with a copy to IRRG. Committees will deal with rule changes as they see fit, but if a change in Technical Rules is approved and ratified by ICFRA Council within 12 months before an ICFRA World Championship to which it would potentially apply, the World Championship Committee concerned may resolve not to adopt it for the forthcoming match(es) on receipt of two express exceptions from members of that committee who are, or are likely, to compete.

T2. TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION of RIFLES and AMMUNITION

T2.1. Rifle: May be built around any commercially available manual bolt action which is in safe condition and which will safely fire the specified ammunition.

T2.2. Weight: Maximum 6.5kg as used including all permanent or temporary attachments except the sling.

T2.3. Barrel: Any commercially produced barrel that is manufactured to industry safety standards and is chambered to the specifications laid out in Section E4 in Annex T/E. Sight-radiusincreasing barrel extensions (bloop tubes) and fixed or moveable barrel tuning weights are permitted, provided the rifle remains within the weight limit and the sight radius does not exceed 1.2m. The .223 Remington/5.56x45mm calibre (as described and limited at Section E6 of Annex T/E) is permitted as an alternative to the .308 Win/7.62x51mm NATO calibre in all competitions under ICFRA Rules, with the proviso that a competitor may not change from a rifle of the one calibre to one of the other, at any stage within a match, whether team or individual.

T2.4. Chamber Dimensions: Will be within the tolerances specified at Section E4 of Annex T/E and will in general be safe i.e. not show signs of excessive pressure.

T2.5. Trigger Pull: Pending resolution of this matter, the minimum trigger pull will be according to the host nation's rules. Set, electrical/electronic and “release” triggers are not allowed.

T2.6. Stock and Butt: May be made of any suitable material and shaped so as to be comfortable to the competitor. A thumb hole or pistol grip for the trigger hand is permitted. Adjustable cheek pieces and butt plates without hooks are permitted. The depth of the butt plate curvature will not exceed 20mm at its deepest point. A bipod rest may be fitted to the foreend provided that, if left on whilst shooting, it does not cause the rifle to exceed the maximum allowable weight of 6.5 kg and is not used as a support for the rifle whilst firing.

T2.7. Magazine: In countries where magazines are legal, a magazine - if fitted - will not be used except as a loading platform for single rounds.

T2.8. Muzzle Brakes: Not allowed.

T2.9. Backsight: Any manually adjustable sight, carrying an eyepiece with a fixed or variable aperture. A flexible eyecup may be fitted to the eyepiece.

T2.10. Foresight: Any type subject to T2.11. The foresight tube may be of any length (see also Rule

T2.3). The foresight may be mounted on a barrel extension; and height-adjustable foresight mounts are permitted.

T2.11. Telescopic sights are not allowed. The following sight optics may be used:-

T2.11.1. Lenses - A single lens may be fitted into or onto either the backsight or the foresight, or both.

T2.11.1.1. The foresight lens may be clear or coloured and with a maximum power of 0.5 Dioptres (focal length of 2 metres).

T2.11.1.2. In the place of a backsight lens, a commercially manufactured Variable Dioptre may be used, with a maximum magnification of 1.5x provided always it is not used in conjunction with a foresight lens.

T2.11.2. Filters - There is no restriction on the use or number of optically flat (plano) coloured, neutral density or polarising filters, which may be fitted into or onto the sights.

T2.11.3. Spectacles - In addition to the permitted sight lenses, the competitor may wear spectacles or contact lenses.

T2.12. The vision of the target from the non-aiming eye may be restricted or blocked by use of a blinder fitted to the rifle or sight, or by the competitor wearing an eyepatch.

T2.13. Levels: A spirit level or other levelling device may be mounted on the rifle.

T2.14. Glare Tubes - Glare tubes of any length or diameter may be fitted to either or both foresight and backsight to protect elements and lenses from direct sunlight or rain.

T2.15. Offset sights or non-magnifying periscopic devices at the backsight may be fitted to permit the competitor to shoot from the shoulder opposite to his shooting eye. Rules T2.11 – T2.11.3 apply.

T2.16. Ammunition may be commercially purchased or handloaded. The latter must be loaded in a manner that is consistent with the ammunition industry’s accepted standards of safety. The general considerations laid out at Annex T/E must be borne in mind at all times. The ICFRA specification for .308Win/7.62 NATO ammunition is:

T2.16.1. Bullet: Any bullets commercially available in sufficient quantities to be available to any shooter wishing to use them, with a maximum nominal weight of 155 grains. No single bullet may exceed 156 grains. The maximum bullet diameter is 0.3085 inches (7.836 mm).

T2.16.2. Cartridge Case: The case may be of any commercial manufacture, but dimensions must comply with SAAMI/CIP specifications.

T2.16.3. Propellant: Any commercial propellant and load suitable for the calibre and known to be safe in the rifle for which it was developed.

T2.16.4. Primer: Any commercially available primer which is compatible and safe to use with the chosen propellant and case.

T2.17. .223 Remington/5.56mm: The maximum bullet weight will be 81 grains and all the principles of safety applicable to 7.62mm will apply.

T2.18. 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 T6.1.

T3. DRESS AND AIDS TO SHOOTING.

T3.1. Shooting jacket: Any suitable jacket/coat may be worn, provided it gives no support to the forearm. Flexible padding may be attached to protect the shoulder, upper sling arm and elbows. A device may be fitted to the upper sleeve to prevent the sling slipping down the arm or rotating about the upper arm. Internal or external elbow pads may be worn.

T3.2. A flexible padded glove or mitt may be worn (with or without a stitched-in or separate soft lining), provided it gives no artificial support. In addition, a lightweight glove, with (or without) one or more fingers cut off, may be worn on the trigger operating hand to protect against cold or sun/windburn.

T3.3. The competitor may wear wet weather clothing. It is permitted to place the rifle butt under a lightweight cape or poncho when in the aim.

T3.4. Telescopes or binoculars for spotting purposes are allowed, together with stands. When acting as a register keeper, use of a spotting telescope or sufficiently powerful binoculars is compulsory – see Rule T10.2.

T3.5. A sling may be attached to the rifle for assistance in steadying the rifle. The sling must be attached to the rifle at one or two points, and it must not exceed 50mm in width. The sling may be placed round one arm and/or wrist but not round, any other part of the competitor’s body. The sling may not be used or configured in such a manner that it becomes a prop between the inside of the support elbow and the rifle stock.

T3.6. A hand stop is permitted.

T3.7. A barrel mirage band is permitted and black or coloured adhesive tape may be applied to the top surface of the barrel. A flexible or rigid cover may be used to prevent dust or rain from getting into the action, provided it does not cause the rifle to exceed the weight limit (Rule 2.2)

T3.8. The butt plate of the rifle must be placed against the shoulder or upper arm and all parts of the rifle and sling and of the arms below the elbow, including clothing, must be visibly clear of the ground and of all other objects. It is not permitted to rest the rifle's pistol grip on the inside of the elbow or upper arm or on the sling.

T3.9. 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.

T3.10. A competitor may lie on a groundsheet or shooting mat provided that it is laid flat on the ground. The legs of a spotting telescope stand must be alongside, in front of, or on top of the mat; but not underneath it. A folded soft rifle bag or soft pad may be used for the advanced knee in the “Estonian” position or elsewhere under the shooter's body to make the prone position more comfortable without providing artificial support.

T3.11. Headgear: A shooting hat or cap with or without side-flaps may be worn. It may cover and touch either any part of the rifle or any part of the spotting telescope, or both.

T3.12. Windflags will be to host country specification, and should be of the form of a triangular pennant (which may be truncated at the fly); of one or two primary colours; and of size and height dictated by local topography and prevailing conditions. Ideally red should be avoidedif possible, if flags are likely to be viewed against a backdrop of green vegetation.

T3.13. 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. A single team flag, flown at the back of the Team Area is not considered a contravention of this rule.

T3.14. The CRO may require a competitor whose equipment or dress is thought to provide an unfair advantage to modify them to suit or withdraw from the match.

T3.15. 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.

T3.16. The interests of disabled competitors in respect of equipment and aids to shooting are covered at Rule T2.18; and in respect of shooting position at T6.1.

T4. SQUADDING

T4.1. 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.

T4.2. 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 hostcountry, unless match conditions state otherwise.

T4.3. It is permissible to use a “seeded” squadding for the final of a major competitin shot in stages (see Rule T20.1.3), either for presentational purposes or to ensure leading contendersare 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.

T5. TARGETS

T5.1. Targets will be as specified in the conditions of competition. World and Commonwealth Records may only be set on the targets specified for the World Championships or Commonwealth Games as the case may be.

T5.2. Specifications for the ICFRA International Match Target (IIMT) are laid out at Annex T/D. When introduced, these will be used for all team and individual world championships, and other international team matches shot under ICFRA Rules. Member nations may, and are encouraged to, adopt the standard aiming mark dimensions for use at national and domestic events: but the size of scoring rings within them is for local determination.

T6. CONDUCT OF SHOOTING.

T6.1. In fullbore Target Rifle events the prone position only must be used, unless special provisions exist in the match conditions for disabled competitors and range safety regulations so permit.

T6.2. Both elbows must be behind, but (taking into account the condition of the firing point) as close as possible to the line or row of number markers defining the forward edge of the firing point. The muzzle of the rifle MUST protrude over the forward edge as defined, and must be well forward of the ears of neighbouring competitors.

T6.3. A competitor may not screen himself or his rifle from the sun or weather while shooting, nor allow anyone else to do so, except as provided for in Rules T3.3, T3.7, T3.9 and T3.11.

T6.4. When on the firing point a competitor must comply with all orders given by the CRO or by any assistant acting under his orders.

T6.5. 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.

T6.6. 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 T6.7 applies.

T6.7. 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 extra sighting shot before resuming. The extra sighting shot, if fired, may not be converted.

T6.8. 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 been obliged to move to a new firing point, he will be entitled to a single convertible sighting shot if the breakdown occurs after he has fired one or more shots at the original target. If he is directed to fire at an adjacent or nearby target without moving he may fire an optional nonconvertible sighter.

T6.9. 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, though NO advice may be given thereafter.

T6.10. The following only are allowed both within the Competitors’ Area and on the firing points (See Annex T/B.):

T6.10.1. Staff on range duty,

T6.10.2. Competitors required for firing or otherwise taking part in the competition,

T6.10.3. Persons authorised to assist in the conduct of the competition,

T6.10.4. 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:

T6.10.5. VIPs and others with ‘Field of Play’ accreditation, escorted on behalf of the CRO,

T6.10.6. Officially accredited Media, who will be subject to rule T6.11, and all appropriate safety limitations.

T6.11. 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.

T6.12. “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.

T7. SAFETY PRECAUTIONS.

T7.1. An incorrectly dimensioned chamber or incorrectly loaded ammunition, or incorrectly sized or trimmed cases can cause excessive pressure. 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. Further guidance is given at Section E1 of T/E.

T7.2. A competitor MUST:-

T7.2.1. stop firing immediately if he suspects that the ammunition he is using is producing dangerous pressures in his rifle.

T7.2.2. draw the attention of the Range Officer to the continued use of apparentlydangerous ammunition. The cumulative effect of cartridges producing excessive pressures can lead to rifle failure even in cases where one or more rounds havebeen discharged without apparent damage or danger.

T7.3. 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 (as set out in Section E1 of Annex T/E) 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:-

T7.3.1. ensure that the competitor does not inconvenience others, by making him wait until others on his target (if any) have completed their shoots.

T7.3.2. examine the competitor’s fired cartridge cases for signs of high pressures. If the cases show the signs of excessive pressure detailed in Section E1 of Annex T/E, 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 T8.1.

T7.4. 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 with a full length breech flag inserted, which is of sufficient length to penetrate at least 20mm into the chamber and of overall length appropriate to the action.

T7.5. 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.

T7.6. Practices in relation to the loading of rifles should be as safe as is practicable and enforceable. It is the responsibility of the shooter (when on the firing point) to load his rifle in such a way that it points towards the stop butt, both in terms of elevation and direction, at all relevant times. ROs should be alert for excessive angles of elevation or depression, and may require a competitor to modify his procedure where and when appropriate. In certain countries, and even on specific shooting ranges, local conditions may dictate or relax particular safety measures with regard to rifle loading procedures. In all such cases these local rules will take precedence over the generalities above. Where overseas visitors are expected at a prize meeting or ICFRA match, the requirements of the host nation in respect of loading procedures must be included in the pre-meeting, or pre-match, documentation as the case may be.

T7.7. 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.

T7.8. 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 T19.5.4 if applicable.

T7.9. 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.

T7.10. 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”.

T7.11. Each range should be equipped with one or more cartridge removal tools. 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.

T7.12. In the event of more than one failure under rule T7.11 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 T7.2 and T7.3.

T7.13. If a misfire occurs, the competitor should be aware of the possible danger of a hangfire. 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.T8. RIFLES and AMMUNITION – MISHAPS and TESTING.

Note: Rules T8.5 to T8.13 do not apply where ‘unlimited’ triggers are in use

T8.1. 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:-

T8.1.1. 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.

T8.1.2. In team matches, a team member may change his rifle at any time. In either case, additional sighting shots will not be permitted. Rule T2.3 regarding rifles of different calibres applies.

T8.2. 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.

T8.3. 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 rifle in accordance with rules

T7.3.2 or T8.1, and complete his shoot within the period of his detail or time allocation but without any extra sighting shots.

T8.4. 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 resquadded. This is at the absolute discretion of the CRO.

T8.5. 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, or following a shoot before the scorecard has been accepted. This is NOT limited to those scoring the highest possible score (HPS).

T8.6. A competitor making the highest possible score at any distance must (unless the requirement has been waived by the CRO) immediately submit his rifle to the RO for a trigger test, before his scorecard will be accepted.

T8.7. For tie-shoots, the final stage of major individual matches and team matches, all triggers will normally be tested immediately before shooting commences. Rule T8.5 will also apply regardless of any tests prior to the shoot.

T8.8. Before testing, both the competitor and the RO must check to see that the rifle is unloaded.

T8.9. 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.

T8.10. Triggers must not be adjusted on the firing point without the express approval of a RO.

T8.11. Triggers will be tested, in all cases, with the barrel vertical and the weight suspended from the centre point of the trigger finger piece. A maximum of five attempts may be made to lift the weight. The weight must come not less than 50mm clear of the surface from which it has been lifted.

T8.12. If a rifle fails to pass the test after shooting and the competitor desires a re-test, the RO will retain it in his possession and re-test it on the firing point after not less than five or more than ten minutes, and if it then passes the test at the first attempt, the score will be allowed. If the matter becomes the subject of protest, then the protest is to be settled at the earliest possible moment.

T8.13. If a trigger fails the test, five penalty points will be deducted from the competitor’s score and the RO will amend the scorecard accordingly.

T8.14. The RO or another range official who has been delegated by the CRO is authorised to check that the ammunition used by a competitor is within the specification for the match (or that he is using the ammunition provided, when issue ammunition is in use). One round from those that the competitor is about to fire may be taken for subsequent examination. The host country is to provide a person with the suitable expertise to ensure that checks are done to collected ammunition in the shortest possible time.

The following rules apply only where a competitor is using issued ammunition provided by the host country:-

T8.15. Issued ammunition must NOT be tampered with in any way. Use of bullet lubricants is permitted.

T8.16. Competitors are not permitted to bring any other live ammunition to the firing point, except that provided for the competition.

T8.17. A competitor or team official acting on behalf of a team is responsible for ensuring, before leaving the vicinity of the ammunition point, that he has been given the correct number of rounds.

T8.18. All ammunition issued is strictly for use on the firing point and in the competition for which it is issued, and competitors may not under any circumstances take away any unexpended rounds or empty cases.

T8.19. The ROs must ensure that competitors put their empty cases in the container provided.

T8.20. Unused rounds from any converted sighting shots must be handed in to the CRO or his assistant with the scorecard, or the score will be disallowed.

T8.21. A RO will authorise the issue of an additional round or rounds where application of the rules necessitates this course of action, or where a round of ammunition is damaged or deformed.

T9. SIGHTING SHOTS and CONVERTIBLE SIGHTING SHOTS.

T9.1. Sighting shots will be fired in accordance with the conditions of the match. The ICFRA standard will be two convertible sighting shots at every distance of the match, both for individual and team competitions.

T9.2. 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 T11.3.

T9.3. After a competitor has fired his second (or only, if match conditions specify one) 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.

T9.4. The sighting shot in a tie shoot is convertible.

T9.5. An extra sighting shot allowed following the move of the competitor to another target (Rule

T6.8), or under the provisions of T9.2 above may be converted.

T9.6. An optional extra sighting shot allowed following a suspension in shooting (rule T6.7), change of fire to an adjacent or nearby target without change of firing point (rule T6.8), or under the provisions of Rule T12.13 may NOT be converted.

T10. REGISTER KEEPING.

T10.1. 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 T13.6.

T10.2. Every register keeper must use a spotting telescope or binoculars powerful enough to clearly see the lines dividing the scoring areas on the target.

T10.3. 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. Cheshire, 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.

T10.4. 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:-

V V V V 5 5 4 V V 5 4 5 48.4

4 V V 5 V 5 4 V V 5 4 5 48.4

V 4 V V 5 5 4 V V 5 4 5 48.4

T10.5. 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.

T10.6. 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.

T10.7. 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 from the breech end. 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 T10.10). 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.

T10.8. 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.

T10.9. Where a target with a bullseye value of 10 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.

T10.10. 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.

T10.11. The register keeper is responsible for ensuring that all scores are completed in ink. Pencil is not allowed, except in cases of inclement weather.

T11. TARGET IRREGULARITIES.

T11.1. 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.

T11.2. In all competitions, a competitor who fires at the wrong target will be credited with a miss for each shot so fired.

T11.3. 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 Vbull 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.

T11.4. 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 T6.8) 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.

T12. MARKING and SCORING.

A. Marking in the Butts

T12.1. The butts will be under the control of a Chief Butts Officer, assisted by an appropriate number of butt officers, in radio or telephone contact with the ROs. Their responsibility will be to ensure rapid and accurate marking and to resolve marking queries and challenges. Each target must have one or more markers.

T12.2. Each shot will be separately signalled. The value of the shot will be indicated and its actual position shown by a spotting disc.

ICFRA TR Rules 2006 Edition Created on 25/11/2006 5:53 PM T13

T12.3. The system of signalling commonly employed in the host country may be used. Where no system is already established in host country rules, or a country changes to ICFRA standard, one of the systems at Annex T/C is to be applied.

T12.4. 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.

T12.5. A spotting disc that has been hit must be patched before it is re-used.

T12.6. 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):

T12.6.1. if the marker lowers the target, being sure (whether or not correctly) that a shot has been fired at his target, or

T12.6.2. after a radio or telephone message calling for the target to be examined.

T12.7. 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.

T12.8. If, on lowering the target, two (or more) shot holes are apparent, that having the highest value will be signalled but all shots will be shown by spotting discs.

T12.9. When a shot touches the line between two divisions of the target, the competitor will becredited with the higher value. In case of doubt a gauge of 7.82mm diameter (=0.308 inches) will be used to determine the value of the shot. The ruling by a butt officer will be final.

T12.10. A competitor may challenge the signalled value of a shot, either for a hit or for higher value, by so indicating to the RO (See also T12.17). 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:

T12.10.1. If a challenge for a hit, the shot (if found) or a miss will be signalled.

T12.10.2. 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.

T12.11. Messages between firing point and butts should be in accordance with national practice. Where no standing practice exists, or following review, the system of abbreviated messages laid out at Annex T/A sets the ICFRA standard.

T12.12. 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

T12.13. If the target shows two (or more) spotting discs the shot having the highest 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 T9.2 applies. 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.

T12.14. 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.

T12.15. 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.

T12.16. 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.

T12.17. 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.

T12.18. 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 further shot is found he will be credited with a miss and will score zero.

T12.19. 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 the preceding one by means of ICFRA Message 8 or its equivalent.

T12.20. 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.

T12.21. 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.

T12.22. 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.

T12.23. In all competitions all targets will remain showing until the completion of all shooting at that range. ICFRA Message 11 or its equivalent should then be given.

T12.24. 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.

T12.25. All messages and results to and from the butts will be confirmed by radio or telephone.

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