Cost
$120
Class Duration
5 hours

The Precision Rifle Basics course is for students who are interested in learning the fundamentals of precision marksmanship using a rifle. This class is often helpful for people just starting out and want to develop good habits and make better use of their range time and spend less on ammo to gain the same level of performance. We spend time discussing the correct operation of a long distance rifle scope, how to stabilize the rifle in multiple postures, and the basic skills needed use your rifle to its mechanical limits.

If you've ever struggled to zero your rifle optic at longer distances, adjust for bullet drop at multiple distances, or just shoot a small group on paper, this class will help establish positive habits for developing the necessary skills and knowledge.

In this class, we discuss the theory behind precision rifle marksmanship. We will talk about the science of ballistics and predicting the flight of a bullet. Students will get a chance to establish good shooting postures that work for their body. This class will involve students primarily shooting in the prone position, but we will provide a chance to shoot in kneeling and off-hand positions. The shooting component of the class starts at 25 yards and goes out to 200 yard targets.

Lessons Covered

  • Firearms safety
  • Fundamental concepts in precision marksmanship
  • Introduction to ballistics
  • Shooting postures and stability
  • Rifle fitting
  • Long-distance rifle scope setup and use
  • Types of ammunition and the importance of consistency
  • How to employ marksmanship principles for repeatability
  • How to zero the rifle scope for long-distance marksmanshihp

Required Equipment

Students are expected to bring the following equipment. Anything else will be provided by the instructor. Students are expected to provide their own firearm and ammunition.

  • Payment for outstanding class fees (if applicable)
  • A notebook and pen
  • A bolt-action rifle with scope appropriate for long range*
  • 80 rounds new, factory match grade ammunition**
  • A shooting mat or pad (cheap yoga mats work great)
  • A sandbag or bipod tall enough to support the front of the rifle
  • A "rear squeeze bag" or sock full of BBs to support the buttstock
  • Eye protection
  • Hearing protection
  • Appropriate clothing for an outdoor class
  • Plenty of water
  • Snacks and/or lunch

*Students are permitted to bring other types of rifles. We prefer bolt-action rifles given the cost-for-performance value is much easier to access for most people. Semiautomatic / gas operated rifles tend to create more challenges to student success and enjoyment.

**Reloads are not permitted in this class due to safety/liability concerns. Ammunition must be factory-made new manufacture. Non-match grade ammunition can make this class less enjoyable and harder to achieve positive results.

Optional, Helpful Items

  • If your rifle's stock does not have a built-in cheek riser, consider purchasing an add-on cheek pad that can lift your eye line up to the level of the scope while resting on the cheek pad.
  • A spotting scope or binoculars
  • A hat and sunscreen
  • Additional ammunition in case the class has extra time