CMP Games Matches Overview
The Civilian Marksmanship Program (CMP) Games Matches celebrate America’s marksmanship heritage. These events feature historic and service-style rifles, emphasizing safety, sportsmanship, and fun over pure competition. CMP Games are designed to be friendly and accessible — whether you’re a seasoned shooter or new to competition.
Here’s a breakdown of the most popular CMP Games matches:
Garand Match
The most iconic CMP match honors the legendary M1 Garand, the rifle that helped win World War II. Shooters fire from prone, sitting, and standing positions at 200 yards using vintage or CMP-issued Garands. It’s a test of accuracy, tradition, and classic rifle handling.
Springfield Match
The 1903 and 1903A3 Springfield rifles are stars of this event. Shooters use bolt-action rifles that saw service through both World Wars. The course of fire is similar to the Garand Match, and precision bolt manipulation adds an extra challenge.
Vintage Military Rifle Match
This match is for shooters who love historic firearms from around the world. Rifles like the Mauser, Mosin-Nagant, Enfield, Arisaka, or Carcano compete side-by-side under the same course of fire as the Garand and Springfield matches. It’s a great way to honor global military history.
Modern Military Rifle Match
A modern twist on the vintage format, this event welcomes AR-15s, M1As, and other post-1950 military rifles in standard-issue configurations. It bridges the gap between Service Rifle and Vintage Military, offering familiar handling with a classic course of fire.
Carbine Match
The M1 Carbine Match is a fast-paced and enjoyable competition using the light, handy carbine that served paratroopers and support troops in WWII and Korea. Targets are set at 100 yards, and rapid-fire stages make it both fun and challenging.
Rimfire Sporter Match
A favorite among new shooters, the Rimfire Sporter match uses affordable .22LR rifles. Fired at 25 and 50 yards, competitors shoot from prone, sitting, and standing positions. It’s designed for accessibility — no fancy equipment required.
Vintage Sniper Team Match
This is one of the most exciting CMP Games events. Two-person teams share a Vintage Sniper rifle (M1903A4, M1C, M1D, or other approved rifles) and alternate as shooter and spotter. Targets are steel silhouettes fired at 300 and 600 yards, emphasizing teamwork, wind reading, and communication.
John C. Garand Unlimited Match
A newer addition, this match allows shooters to use modified Garands with custom components, expanding accessibility for aging shooters while keeping the spirit of the Garand alive.
The Spirit of the Games
CMP Games Matches aren’t just competitions — they’re celebrations of marksmanship, camaraderie, and American firearms history. The atmosphere is welcoming, educational, and designed to encourage participation at all experience levels.
Creedmoor Sports proudly supports CMP competitors with the gear you need to succeed — from shooting mats, slings, and coats to spotting scopes and ammunition. Whether you’re shooting an M1 Garand or a modern AR-15, we’re here to help you chase precision and preserve tradition.