Rimfire Sporter

What is CMP Rimfire Sporter?

CMP Rimfire Sporter is one of the most accessible and fun rifle competitions in the United States. Designed by the Civilian Marksmanship Program (CMP), it’s a match that encourages shooters of all ages and experience levels to compete with affordable, off-the-shelf .22LR rifles.

The goal is simple: test your marksmanship fundamentals in standing, sitting, and prone positions — just like in highpower Service Rifle — but with rimfire rifles that almost anyone can afford.

The Basics of Rimfire Sporter

  • Rifle Type: Any safe .22LR sporter-style rifle weighing under 7.5 pounds with a safe trigger pull of at least 3 pounds. (No heavy benchrest or target rifles.)

  • Classes:

    • O-Class: Open-sight rifles (iron sights, no optics).

    • T-Class: Telescopic-sight rifles (up to 6x magnification).

    • Tactical Rimfire: Scoped rifles with “tactical” features (adjustable stocks, bipods, etc.).

  • Targets: CMP Rimfire Sporter paper bullseye targets.

  • Distances: 50 and 25 yards.

  • Course of Fire: 60 shots total — 20 shots standing, 20 shots sitting or kneeling, and 20 shots prone.

Rules of CMP Rimfire Sporter

  • Magazines: Rifles must use detachable or tubular magazines.

  • Support: Only a standard sling may be used; no rests, bipods, or heavy coats.

  • Time Limits: Some stages are slow fire, others rapid fire (5 shots in 25 or 30 seconds).

  • Scoring: Each ring is worth its value, with a maximum possible score of 600-60X.

Equipment Needed

Required:

  • Rimfire Sporter-legal .22LR rifle under 7.5 lbs.

  • Iron sights or scope (max 6x magnification).

  • At least two magazines.

  • Hearing and eye protection.

Helpful (but optional):

  • Sling (allowed in match rules).

  • Shooting mat 

  • Spotting scope (to check shots).

  • Scorebook/data book (to track progress).

Tips for Success in Rimfire Sporter

  1. Keep It Simple: Choose a lightweight, reliable .22LR sporter rifle you can handle comfortably.

  2. Practice Positions: Dry-fire in standing, sitting, and prone positions to build comfort and stability.

  3. Get Used to Rapid Fire: The 5-shot rapid strings can surprise new shooters — practice fast but smooth reloads.

  4. Know Your Zero: Confirm your sights at 50 and 25 yards before match day.

  5. Focus on Fundamentals: Trigger control and sight alignment matter more than fancy gear.

Why Shoot Rimfire Sporter?

Rimfire Sporter is the perfect entry-level competition — low cost, low recoil, and high fun. It’s ideal for juniors, new shooters, and families who want to enjoy marksmanship together without the expense of centerfire ammo or specialized rifles.

At the same time, it’s challenging enough that experienced shooters will find it rewarding, especially under match pressure.

Creedmoor Sports has all the gear you need for Rimfire Sporter, from slings and shooting mats to spotting scopes and ammo. Whether you’re just starting out or aiming for your first gold medal, we’re here to support your journey.