High Power Rifle

What are “high Power” rifle matches?

High Power is an old term that designates a centerfire rifle .22 caliber to .33 caliber, as opposed to small bore-rimfire rifles. High Power competition is typically governed by two sanctioning bodies, The National Rifle Association (NRA) and the Civilian Marksmanship Program (CMP). Both organizations run similar matches, with slightly different rules and perspectives. They both feature matches that can be shot in several positions: standing, sitting, and prone. These positional matches are commonly known as “across the course” (XTC) matches. Other matches are prone only and can be fired from 300 yds out to 1000yds.

XTC matches include standing and sitting portions at 200 yds, as well as prone portions at 300 and 600yds. The sitting and prone matches at 200 and 300 yds, respectively, include “rapid fire” portions with 10 shots accurately fired with a magazine change. Each of the rapid fire stages include a time limit (60 and 70 seconds) to test the shooters ability to get off accurate shots under the clock. These matches typically use a rifle capable of a magazine change, whether bolt action or semi auto, and a shooter uses a sling in some portions.

Prone matches are fired from 300yds out to 1000yds, and maybe fired from either a sling, using a bipod, or a rest – depending on rifle division. These matches are all fired slow fire, where each shot is marked and scored before the next shot is fired.

What divisions are in “high power” matches?

High power matches are typically broken down into divisions, which have a place for nearly any rifle (check with your match director first). Rifle divisions in a prone match typically include Prone (sling), F-TR and F-Open. Prone rifles are fired using a sling, F-TR is either a 308 or 223 fired from a bipod, and F-Open is often a 6mm, or 7mm cartridge fired from a front rest. There are other specific rules for each division, which can be found in the NRA and CMP rulebooks (search online). There may be other rifle divisions which can include vintage rifles, service rifles, Palma rifles, or match rifles.

In Missoula, “Shotmarker” electronic targets are utilized which transmit the placement of your shot on the target right to your mobile device on the firing line. Shooters take turns firing their string of fire or scoring for the other shooter(s) on their firing point.

High Power matches are a great way to refine the fundamentals of gun handling, consistent positioning and wind reading. If you have any questions, please contact the HCSA high power director. We often have gear., rifles, and ammo for you to give it a go!