Service Rifle Competition

What is Service Rifle Competition?

Service Rifle competition is one of the oldest and most respected shooting disciplines in the United States. Sanctioned by both the Civilian Marksmanship Program (CMP) and the National Rifle Association (NRA), these matches test accuracy, consistency, and endurance using rifles modeled after current or historic U.S. military service rifles.

Unlike some modern precision disciplines, Service Rifle emphasizes marksmanship fundamentals: standing, sitting, and prone shooting at distances from 200 to 600 yards. The challenge is shooting accurately under time limits and with limited support, just as soldiers once trained.

The Basics of Service Rifle

  • Rifles Used: Historically the M1 Garand, M14/M1A, and M16/AR-15. Today the AR-15 in .223/5.56 is the most common competition rifle.

  • Distances: 200 yards, 300 yards, and 600 yards.

  • Targets: Standard NRA/CMP bullseye paper targets.

  • Positions: Offhand (standing), sitting/kneeling, and prone.

  • Course of Fire: Usually 50 or 80 shots total, broken into stages with time limits.

Rules of Service Rifle

  • Rifles must conform to CMP/NRA rules. For the AR-15, that means a 20-inch barrel, fixed stock dimensions, iron sights or a scope no greater than 4.5x magnification, and trigger pull weight of at least 4.5 pounds.

  • Shooting coats, slings, and shooting mats are allowed.

  • Time limits apply. Rapid-fire strings (sitting or prone) require 10 shots in 60 or 70 seconds, with a magazine change. Slow-fire strings (standing or prone at 600) allow more time.

  • Scoring is by rings. A perfect shot earns 10 points, and the “X-ring” is used for tie-breaking.

Equipment Needed

Required:

  • Service Rifle legal AR-15, M1A, or M1 Garand

  • Iron sights or scope (max 4.5x)

  • Sling

  • Hearing and eye protection

Commonly Allowed & Helpful:

  • Shooting coat: Provides support in standing and sitting.

  • Shooting mat: Comfort and stability for prone.

  • Glove: For sling use and better position control.

  • Scorebook/data book: Track wind calls and zeros.

  • Spotting scope: Helpful for checking shots at 200/300.

Tips for Success in Service Rifle

  1. Master the Positions: Standing, sitting, and prone each require unique techniques. Dry fire at home to build muscle memory.

  2. Focus on Natural Point of Aim: Don’t fight the rifle. Align your body so the rifle points naturally at the target.

  3. Control Your Breathing: Break shots at natural respiratory pauses.

  4. Learn to Use the Sling: Proper sling use is essential for stability in sitting and prone.

  5. Take Notes: Keep a data book with zeros for each distance, wind calls, and lessons learned.

  6. Train Under Time Pressure: Practice rapid-fire magazine changes and building your position quickly.

Why Shoot Service Rifle?

Service Rifle competition is a direct connection to America’s military marksmanship tradition. It teaches the fundamentals of rifle shooting better than almost any other discipline, while building mental toughness and consistency under pressure.

It’s also a deeply social sport — many shooters compete for decades, passing on knowledge to new generations. Whether you’re shooting an AR-15, M1A, or M1 Garand, you’ll be part of one of the most historic and respected rifle sports in the country.

Creedmoor Sports is proud to support Service Rifle competitors. From barrels, ammo, and M1A parts to coats, slings, and mats, we carry the gear you need to step on the firing line with confidence.