Air rifle shooting is a popular sport that tests accuracy, concentration, and control. Using .177 caliber air rifles, shooters aim to hit targets set at various distances. While the sport is accessible for beginners, it also offers a high level of competition for those looking to advance. Whether you're shooting for fun, competition, or as part of a team, safety and precision are paramount.

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. Decisions by the range officers are final.

• Safety Glasses: Wearing safety glasses is mandatory for all shooters and spectators.

• Muzzle Direction: Always keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction, typically downrange.

• 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."

• Scoring: Shooters must know how to score a target and are responsible for scoring their own target unless otherwise instructed.

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

• Shooters are categorized into Junior (Under 14) and Senior (15-19) based on age as of January 1 of the current year.

• Distances: Junior shooters will typically shoot at targets 10 meters away, while senior shooters may shoot at longer distances.

Equipment

• Air Rifles: Must meet club-specific requirements; .177 caliber air rifles are used. Rifles may not be "Military style"; specific model recommendations will be provided by the club to members seeking to obtain their own rifles.

• Ammunition: Lead pellets approved by the club.

• Accessories: Slings, and other support equipment must be approved by range officials and should comply with 4-H guidelines.

• Safety: All participants at a shoot, including parents, must wear safety glasses. The club can provide some glasses, but members are expected to bring their own after becoming experienced with air rifle.

Club Meets

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

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