We’ll look at the gear that F-Class competitors use in the F-TR and F-Open Divisions. You’ll see the newest and best stocks, actions and optics on the firing line. This article examines the two F Class divisions. Vince Bottomley, a friend of ours from the UK, wrote a great article for Target Shooter Magazine a while back. Vince Bottomley offers “solid gold” advice to new F-TR and F Open shooters. Vince offers advice on the best cartridges for the first (and hopefully affordable F-Class rifle) a shooter can buy. Vince also reviews different bipod options for F-TR, and discusses various optics (from $300 to $3,000). Here’s a sample of the Target Shooter Magazine Article: Getting Started with F-Class by Vince BottomleyAs the membership secretary of a large shooting club, I am often asked “What is the best way to start in F-Class?”. My club holds an F-Class event every two weeks, with ranges ranging from 300 to 1,000 yards. It’s a very popular event. F-TR or open class?
F-TR Class, which had a shaky beginning in 2004, is now as popular as Open Class. At GBFCA League Shoots and Club Shoots, many shooters start with a 308, using a bipod – or F-TR. The 7mm WSM quickly became the “must-have” cartridge in Open Class. However, due to the WSM’s desire for barrels, another 7mm cartridge was introduced – the Winchester 284 Winchester. This 50-year-old cartridge was revived as the 6.5-284 a decade ago and found favor with F-Class pioneers before the WSM’s potency was discovered. If you’re willing to spend a few barrels a year (the WSM barrel life is approximately 750 rounds), then go with the 7mm WSM. However, if you need a higher round count, opt for the.284 win and learn how to read the wind! [Editor: Over the past couple of years another option has emerged – the 6.5 PRC necked to 7mm. This wildcat 7 -6.5 PRC has a bit more velocity compared to a.284 win or its “improved cousin” the.284 Shehane.
F-Open rifles at the Ben Avery shooting facility in Phoenix, Arizona. Scopes for F Class
If you plan to shoot at 1000 yards, I recommend a scope with 32 power or better yet a variable like the 8-32. The Sightron is the cheapest “usable scope” in this range. It is a great scope at a fraction of the price. In the USA, it costs less than $900. It is also lightweight – only 1.5 lbs. – and has some great reticles, like the LRMOA. Read the full article on Target Shooter Magazine’s website.
