February 16, 2023. The Berger Southwest Nationals, (SWN), are currently underway at Ben Avery outside Phoenix. We’ll be looking at F-Class competition. Most shooters in SWN compete in FTR and FOpen divisions. You’ll find the most recent stocks, actions, optics, and front rests (for F–TR) on the firing line. This article examines the F-Class divisions. Vince Bottomley, our UK friend, wrote an excellent article for Target Shooter Magazine. Vince offers solid-gold advice to F-TR and F/Open shooters. Vince reviews the options and offers suggestions for a shooter looking to purchase a F-Class rifle. Vince also discusses F-TR bipod options and optics options (ranging from $300 to $3000).
As the membership secretary for a large club, one question I am frequently asked is “How do I get started in F Class?” Every few weeks, my club holds an F-Class shoot at ranges between 300 and 1000 yards. It’s very popular. F-TR or Open Class
F-TR Class started off with a rocky start in 2004. Many shooters now choose to start with a 308, shooting from a bi-pod – also known as F-TR. The 7mm WSM quickly became the “must-have” cartridge in Open Class. However, if you want to win, the WSM’s thirst for barrels eventually brought the 284 Winchester 7mm cartridge into play. This 50-year-old classic was revived as the 6.5-284 a decade ago. Indeed, this cartridge was favored by F-Class pioneers long before the WSM’s potency was discovered. The 7mm WSM is a good choice if you don’t mind spending a few barrels per year (barrels last about 750 rounds with WSM). However, if you need a decent round count, you can opt for the.284 W and learn how to read the wind a bit more. The 6.5 PRC necked to 7mm has been a new option in the last few years. This wildcat 7/6.5 PRC offers slightly more velocity than a.284 Win, or its “improved” cousin, the.284 Shehane.
F-Open rifles firing at the Ben Avery Shooting Facility, Phoenix, Arizona. Scopes for F-Class
If you are going to be shooting 1000 yards, I recommend at least 32 power and, preferably, a variable such as the 8-32. The Sightron is the most affordable scope that can be used at this range. It’s a great scope and half the price of the closest competitor. It is lightweight at 1.5 lbs and has some great reticles that the F-Class shooter will love, such as the LRMOA. Read the full article on Target Shooter Magazine Website.
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