Prone Rifle (LR)

From the early musket to todays .22LR firearms prone shooting has probably been the dominant form of shooting; particularly in the military as lying on the floor offers the most stable position and best chance of a hit; not to mention making you the smallest target for the opposition to have a pop at! Fortunately, we do not at present have active opposition!

Our .22 prone shooting takes place over 25, 50 and 100yds although some clubs who do not have the space to construct 25yd ranges shoot at the shorter distances of 15 or 20yds. The aiming marks on targets for each of the ranges is proportional levelling the difficulty between distances. Shooting at 50 and 100yds are outdoor activities that run largely in the summer months at Queen’s Park. The majority of the indoor competitions use a 25yd ten bull card and score a maximum or “possible” of 100 points.

All our firearms are single shot match style rifles, with those not used for bench shooting having “open” sights, a selection of these are available at Chapel Gate for prone beginners use.

Those beginners shooting prone will also require a spotting scope, sling, shooting mat, shooting jacket and of course ammunition; all of which are available on the range. Failing eyesight is no excuse as single lens shooting glasses can be purchased from various shooting outlets but do get specialist shooting related advice before buying a prescription lens.

As time progresses and skills improve enthusiastic members will consider it appropriate to obtain their own rifle and shooting accessories. Many of our members have their own equipment as it leads to consistency and minimises the adjustment necessary for different shooters. They will be only too happy to discuss the pro and cons of all types of kit.

To purchase a firearm you will first have to obtain a Firearm Certificate which involves a sponsoring club and an application to the police. You must have been a member of the sponsoring club for at least six months before the club can even consider sponsoring you.

Purchasing equipment is not a cheap process, but good second-hand equipment is fairly readily available and it will be a good number of seasons before you reach the point of being better than even a second-hand rifle. At that time you will have a very good idea of type and manufacturer of your preferred equipment.