.22LR (Long Rifle) is one of the most popular and versatile calibers in shooting sports. It offers an affordable and accessible entry point for both new and experienced shooters. The .22LR is often used in various competitions ranging from target shooting to small game hunting. Its low recoil and relatively quiet report make it an excellent choice for teaching fundamentals like marksmanship and gun safety. Whether you're a junior looking to get started or a senior looking to hone your skills, .22LR rifle shooting offers a diverse range of opportunities to enjoy the sport.

Please see the overview of guidelines below. These guidelines are not comprehensive and the clubs instructors always have the final say and will ensure you have the information you need, when you need it.

Guidelines

Safety and Conduct

• Disqualifications: Shooters may be disqualified for unsafe behavior, unsportsmanlike conduct, or violations of range rules. All shotguns must remain unloaded with actions open and empty until the competitor is on the line ready to shoot. Decisions by the range officers are final.

• Safety Glasses: Mandatory for all shooters and spectators.

• Ear Protection: Required for all shooters and spectators.

• Firearm Handling: All shotguns must remain unloaded with actions open and empty until the competitor is on the line ready to shoot. Violation can lead to immediate disqualification. Keep the firearm pointed at the ground until a target is launched and identified. Never point a firearm at birds or aircraft.

• Live Rounds: A live round can only be inserted after the person before you discharges their firearm.

• Safety: Always obey and respect range safety officers. Firearms should only be touched with explicit permission.

• Shooting Line Etiquette: Do not leave the shooting line until the line is called safe. Obey the range commands and make your rifle safe when you're done shooting. No handling of rifles during a "cease fire."

Dress Code

• Wear appropriate attire, ideally a shirt with a 4-H emblem. No vulgar or distasteful clothing. Closed-toe shoes are mandatory.

Age and Classes

• Age Groups: Only members with proper experience and proficiency in other disciplines may shoot shotgun. This is at the sole discretion of the instructors.

Equipment

• Shotgun Specifications: No chamber larger than 12 gauge is allowed (20 Gauge is permitted). No AR or modern sporting type firearms.

• Ammunition and Clays: Reloaded ammunition is not allowed unless approved by the range safety officer. Recommended ammunition is a standard trap load. All members are expected to provide their own ammunition and clay pigeon targets. 

• Accessories: No muzzle brakes or suppressors are permitted.

• Choke Tubes: No changing chokes once the round has begun. Heavy chokes are recommended for experienced shooters.

• Safety: All participants at a shoot, including parents, must wear safety glasses and hearing protection. Members are expected to bring their own glasses and ear protection.

Club Meets

• General: Aim to arrive ahead of the meeting start time for setup. No practicing on ranges before the shoot starts.

• Clean-up: Takes place after the last shot of the meeting.

• Instructions: Listen carefully to range officers for the day's events, rules, and any special instructions.