There’s something pure about .22 rimfire match shooting — it’s accessible, technical, and deeply rewarding. From local club events to national championships, .22 matches sharpen fundamentals, reward consistency, and build a strong community of precision shooters.
This guide explores the key aspects of the sport — from match formats and gear considerations to safety, practice routines, and match-day preparation.
1. Why .22 Rimfire Match Shooting?
Accessibility
Ammunition and rifles chambered in .22 LR are cost-effective compared to centerfire options. That means more range time, more practice, and lower barriers to entry.
Skill Development
Because .22 shooting emphasizes the fundamentals — position, sight picture, trigger control, and follow-through — improvement is often quick and measurable.
Variety
Rimfire competitions include multiple disciplines, such as prone, three-position, benchrest, silhouette, and practical courses like NRL22. There’s a match type for every interest and skill level.
2. Common Match Formats
Each discipline has its own rules and scoring systems. Always read the event’s official match program before competing.
Bullseye / Smallbore Precision
A traditional slow-fire event at 25 or 50 meters. Precision, breathing, and trigger control are critical.
Prone and Three-Position Smallbore
Competitors fire from prone, kneeling, and standing positions. Stability and consistency across all three positions are key.
Benchrest Rimfire
Fired from a supported rest. The emphasis is on rifle and ammunition accuracy and reading environmental changes.
Silhouette
Shooters engage metal animal-shaped targets at set distances. It tests range estimation, holdover, and wind-reading skills.
NRL22 and Practical Rimfire
Dynamic matches involving timed stages, positional shooting, and target transitions. These simulate field-style challenges and demand both precision and speed.
3. Equipment Essentials
While fundamentals matter most, reliable gear supports consistent performance.
Rifle
A quality .22 LR rifle with a good barrel and crisp trigger is the foundation. Both bolt-action and single-shot rifles are common; semi-automatics are used in some match types but not all.
Sights and Optics
Precision matches often use aperture (peep) sights. NRL22 and similar matches typically allow scopes — usually low- to mid-power variables.
Ammunition
Match-grade ammunition offers tighter groups. Test several lots to see which performs best in your rifle, and buy in bulk once you find a good match.
Support Gear
Use quality rests, slings, mats, and bags appropriate to your discipline. Comfortable, consistent support translates to accuracy.
Safety Equipment
Always bring reliable eye and ear protection. A stable case or rack keeps rifles secure during transport and on the firing line.
4. Safety and Range Etiquette
Safety underpins everything in shooting sports. Following these rules keeps everyone protected and maintains the sport’s reputation.
- Treat every firearm as if it is loaded.
- Keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction at all times.
- Keep your finger off the trigger until ready to fire.
- Load only when instructed and on the firing line.
- Obey all range commands and ceasefire orders immediately.
- Be respectful of other shooters — minimize distractions and noise.
- Ensure all shooters and spectators have eye and ear protection.
5. Training and Practice Strategies
Improvement in match shooting comes from structured, consistent practice.
Focus on Fundamentals
Position, sight alignment, breathing, and trigger control form the foundation. Refine one element at a time.
Dry Practice
Rehearse positions and trigger presses without live fire. This builds muscle memory safely and effectively.
Purposeful Live-Fire Sessions
Plan each session around specific goals — zeroing, grouping, position endurance, or timed strings. Track results carefully.
Keep Records
Maintain a shooting log that includes ammunition lot numbers, weather, group sizes, and sight adjustments. Over time, patterns will guide your improvements.
Mental Training
Learn to manage pressure. Visualization, breathing exercises, and shot routines build focus during competition.
6. Match-Day Preparation
Preparation reduces stress and helps you focus on performance.
Checklist:
- Confirm match time, range address, and local regulations.
- Pack rifle, ammunition, magazines, tools, and cleaning gear.
- Bring safety gear, shooting mat, optics, and water.
- Arrive early to check in and attend the safety briefing.
- Review the course of fire and time limits.
- Verify zero with a short warm-up session.
During the match, stay calm, hydrated, and focused. Treat every shot as its own challenge.
7. Joining the Community
Rimfire competition thrives on community. Most shooters are eager to help newcomers.
- Join a local shooting club that hosts rimfire matches.
- Volunteer at matches to learn how events operate.
- Take certified safety or marksmanship clinics.
- Participate regularly to gain experience and confidence.
8. Sportsmanship and the Spirit of Competition
Good sportsmanship is the foundation of every successful match. Respect your fellow competitors, range officials, and the rules. Celebrate others’ achievements, share advice, and contribute to a positive environment.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a newcomer learning the fundamentals or an experienced shooter seeking precision, .22 rimfire match shooting offers challenge, camaraderie, and measurable progress.
It’s a discipline that rewards patience, control, and consistency — the same traits that define great marksmen. Focus on safety, build skills deliberately, and enjoy the journey of continual improvement.