Consider a series of groundhog matches (varmints) to attract new members and provide a different form of competition. These can be paper targets, metal targets in the silhouette style, or both. Groundhog matches can be fun, with simple rules and scoring. Groundhog matches are more relaxed than Benchrest matches because you don’t have to bring windflags and load at the range. There are usually three or four rifle categories, so you can choose to compete with a factory gun or a fancy, custom-made gun. In varmint match, many clubs limit the cartridge size or caliber allowed. This is done to protect reactive targets while keeping ammo prices down. Gene F., aka “TenRing”, in our Forum, provides a basic introduction to East-Coast Groundhog matches. Groundhog matches are becoming more popularGroundhog matches, especially on the east coast, are popular in many parts. However, I have found that many “gun guys” who are otherwise well-versed don’t really know much about the competition. I ordered custom bullets a while back from a small Midwest manufacturer. I told him that the bullets were for “groundhog shoots” when he asked. He had never heard of them. I wonder if others are not familiar with this discipline. The popularity of groundhog matches has grown rapidly. Numerous clubs in Pennsylvania, Maryland and Delaware, among other places, host them. Usually, they are open to the public. Most Eastern clubs have between five and twenty cement benches with overhead roofs. There is no central source of match schedules at this time. Post a question in the AccurateShooter Competition Section if you’re interested to find out more about nearby groundhog matches. How Matches are Run — Course of fire and Scoring
There are no national rules for Groundhog Matches. Although each club has its own rules, the basic principles are similar. Paper groundhog targets can be set at different distances. Matches usually have three yardages. Some clubs set their targets at 100, 300, and 400 yards. Some clubs place them at 200, 400, or 300 yards. My club in Shippensburg (PA) has targets at 200, 300, and 500 meters. The goal is to score as many points as possible. The paper targets are marked with concentric scoring rings. The smallest ring usually is worth ten points, while the largest ring is worth only five. The clubs have different rules for the course of fire. Most clubs allow unlimited sighters, and five shots at the record target within a certain time period. Only the five shots that land on the scoring rings count, so a perfect score with three yardages would be 150. Tie-breakers can be determined by the total number of “X” or dead center strikes, or by the smallest group at a farthest range. Types of rifles used at groundhog matches
The same benchrest rigs used at IBS and NBRSA events can be used (though they will be placed in a custom’ class). Equipment classes can vary from club-to-club, but it is common for the hardware to be divided into four or five categories. The typical firearm classes include: factory rifle, deer hunter, light varmint (usually a weight limit of 17 lbs. with scope), and heavy varmint (weight unlimited). Some clubs allow barrel tuning, while others do not. The scope selection is usually limitless, but some clubs restrict the power of rifle scopes for hunters to 20. Factory rifles are usually not altered in any way. Good, Simple Fun Shooting – Why Groundhog Shoots are Popular
Danny Reever, a forum member, explains why groundhog matches are so popular: “We do not have a governing body or have to pay $50 per year to compete in matches. You adapt to the different rules from club-to-club. If you don’t agree with the rules of a club, you can simply choose not to shoot there. It’s not a big deal. There are no National Records or Hall of Fame Points, just individual range records. Hickory Ground Hog Shoot is one of many matches that offer big prizes. If you don’t like competition, many clubs have fun mid-week matches that you can participate in. The same targets are shot, but in a relaxed atmosphere without time limits. The best part of this sport is that you don’t need to shoot perfectly at every yardage. In this sport, it’s not over until the last shot has been fired. Most of the money from the entry fee goes to the club that hosts the event, and a large portion is returned to the shooters in the form of prizes. Junior shooters are often allowed to shoot for free or at a discounted rate. The low entry fee also encourages young men to get involved, who may not have the money or $4000 custom rifles to buy. There aren’t many wind flags that you have to shoot over, or put up and down. It’s better if the range has some flags, but it is still a varmint competition. There are no pits for spotting shots or to slow down the match. You are in the same boat with everyone else if you can’t see through your rifle scope, spotting scope, or other scopes. It’s the only thing that makes it exciting/ frustrating!
