ISSF Air Rifle

What is ISSF Air Rifle Competition?

ISSF Air Rifle competition is one of the most precise and disciplined shooting sports in the world. Governed by the International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF), it’s also an Olympic event and a foundation for precision marksmanship at every level.

Competitors fire .177 caliber (4.5mm) air rifles at 10 meters (33 feet), standing and unsupported. The goal is absolute precision — hitting a target that's 0.5mm, over and over again.

The Basics of ISSF Air Rifle

  • Distance: 10 meters (33 feet)

  • Caliber: .177 (4.5mm) pellets

  • Position: Standing only

  • Target: 10-ring bullseye target — the bullseye is just 0.5mm wide

  • Course of Fire: 60 shots in 1 hour and 15 minutes

  • Scoring: Decimal scoring is used at higher levels; 10.9 is a perfect center shot.

ISSF Air Rifle is all about consistency and control. A single flinch, poor follow-through, or rushed shot can drop a competitor from medal contention.

Equipment and Gear

  • Rifle: .177 caliber pre-charged pneumatic (PCP) target rifle (Anschütz, Walther, or Feinwerkbau are common brands).

  • Optics: Aperture sights only — no scopes allowed.

  • Ammunition: Match-grade .177 pellets, carefully sorted for weight and uniformity.

  • Clothing: Specialized shooting jacket, pants, and boots designed to promote stability.

  • Other Gear: Shooting glove, stand for rifle rest, and pellet box.

These rifles are capable of incredible accuracy — many can produce 5-shot groups under 3 millimeters at 10 meters.

Match Format

ISSF Air Rifle matches are shot indoors under tightly controlled conditions. Competitors fire from a standing position only, using no external support other than what the body and gear provide.

After qualification, the top 8 shooters advance to a final where they fire additional shots under increasing pressure, with eliminations after every two shots.

Each tenth of a point matters — the difference between gold and silver can be less than 0.1 points.

Tips for Success in ISSF Air Rifle

  1. Perfect Your Stance: A balanced, repeatable position is key to consistency.

  2. Focus on Trigger Control: Smooth, consistent pressure — no jerking or slapping.

  3. Practice Mental Discipline: The sport is as much psychological as physical.

  4. Track Your Performance: Keep a journal of your position, equipment adjustments, and performance.

Why Shoot ISSF Air Rifle?

ISSF Air Rifle is the foundation of Olympic-style shooting and a gateway to precision marksmanship at its highest level. It teaches focus, patience, and consistency — traits that translate to all other shooting disciplines.

It’s also one of the most accessible rifle competitions. Air rifles can be used safely indoors, ammo is inexpensive, and the sport is open to youth, collegiate, and adult shooters alike.

Creedmoor Sports proudly supports ISSF Air Rifle competitors with quality rifles, pellets, gloves, and accessories to help you perform your best. Whether you’re starting a junior program or training for your next match, we have the precision gear you need.