What is Smallbore Competition?

Smallbore competition is one of the most precise and demanding rifle sports in the world. Governed by the International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF), it is also the format used in the Olympic Games. Competitors fire .22LR rifles at 50 meters in multiple positions, with scores measured down to tenths of a point.

This discipline emphasizes perfection in technique, consistency, and mental focus, making it the pinnacle of precision smallbore shooting.

The Basics of Smallbore

  • Distance: 50 meters or reduced to 50 ft.

  • Caliber: .22LR (standard velocity).

  • Positions: Prone, standing, and kneeling (the “3-Position” event). Some matches are prone-only.

  • Course of Fire: Varies by event. The Olympic standard 3-Position match is 120 shots (40 each in prone, standing, kneeling). Prone-only matches are 60 shots.

  • Targets: Paper bullseye targets with scoring rings. The 10-ring is only 10.4mm (smaller than a dime) at 50 meters.

  • Scoring: Decimal scoring is used at the highest level (10.9 is a perfect center shot).

Rifles and Equipment

  • Rifle: Smallbore target rifle chambered in .22LR. Top choices include Anschütz, Walther, and Feinwerkbau.

  • Optics: Only aperture (iron) sights are allowed — no scopes.

  • Clothing: Specialized shooting jackets, pants, and boots provide stability and support.

  • Sling: Used in prone and kneeling positions for support.

  • Other Gear: Shooting mat, glove, spotting scope, and kneeling roll.

Types of Smallbore Matches

  • 50m Rifle Prone: 60 shots, all fired prone. Known as the “English Match” in some countries.

  • 50m Rifle 3-Position: The Olympic event — 40 shots each from kneeling, prone, and standing.

  • Finals: At high-level events, top shooters advance to a final with elimination scoring, where each shot is scored in decimals.

Tips for Success in Smallbore

  1. Focus on Fundamentals: Sight alignment, trigger control, and follow-through must be perfect.

  2. Position Consistency: Build stable positions with repeatable body alignment.

  3. Dry Fire Training: Practice positions and trigger release without live ammo to refine technique.

  4. Equipment Fit: Make sure your jacket, sling, and rifle adjustments are tailored to you.

  5. Mental Discipline: The sport demands focus over long periods — mental training is as important as physical.

Why Shoot Smallbore?

Smallbore is the gold standard for precision rifle competition. It’s the event where Olympic and World Champions are made, and it’s also widely practiced at clubs and universities worldwide.

Whether you’re a junior shooter looking to learn precision fundamentals or an experienced competitor chasing the X-ring, ISSF Smallbore will sharpen your skills like no other discipline.

Creedmoor Sports carries the gear you need for Smallbore competition — from precision slings and mats to rifles, gloves, and ammo. Get outfitted and take your shooting to the next level.