Editor’s note: The CMP National Matches are less than one month away at Camp Perry. This article outlines key points for rifle competitions at major matches. You want to be a “positive competitor” who is well-versed in the rules of the match and has a good attitude. Don’t be “That Guy” on the Firing line By SFC Norman Anderson USAMU Service Rifle team memberYou know this guy. He’s still talking to the coffee jug as the preparation period begins. His magazines aren’t even loaded when the command, “STAND”, is given. And finally, he doesn’t know the rules, when he gets into an argument with the block officer when his target is marked “9 and no”. This guy may be the star of the “after-match” activities, but he’s the bad apple in the firing line. Let’s review how to avoid being “that guy”. Although High Power Shooting is a hobby sport for many, everyone is passionate about performance. To achieve your best performance every day, you must conduct yourself like a professional. As a competitor you have the responsibility to know and follow the rules and procedures of the course of fire. This will not only help you become a better competitor but will also allow you to solve problems with other targets. What does this all mean? I’ll explain…
Know the direction of fire. It may seem easy, since we all fire matches, but there’s more to it than that. How many people, for example, in the pits do not know what’s happening on the firing lines? This can lead to targets being pulled too early during rapid fire or a missed shot during slow fire. In such cases, the outcome is the same: delays in the match, and upset competitors. It is important to stay on top of the events throughout the day in order to avoid being “that guy”. When you’re at the range, make sure that you are there to shoot the match. Be sure to know the course of fire at any firearms competition.
Know the Rules
Let’s talk about rules. You’ve probably heard it before, but the rulebook is really your best friend. Here’s why. I can almost guarantee that the majority of competitors know the rules because they are familiar with the old “this how we do it in the house” adage. Funny thing is that the same orange CMP rulebooks and green NRA rulebooks are used all over the United States to govern High Power matches. * It is important that all shooters are familiar with the rules in their original form, not “how they’re applied at home”. This ensures consistency and continuity of matches, from local club competitions to state tournaments and National Championships. Knowledge is power, whether it’s about scoring targets that are in dispute, what to do if there’s a malfunction or how to file a correct protest. These rules are there for a good reason, and it is in everyone’s best interest to know and follow them. Maintain Humility and Compassion — Show Good Sportsmanship
Bearing is an important aspect of competition that you cannot ignore. As I said earlier, you need to be prepared for both the good and bad. We’ve all seen “that guy” (or “that guy’s” gear) fly off the firing line out of disgust. We must all maintain our dignity and composure in any situation. It’s only a game. If it was easy, attendance would have been much higher. To avoid ruining the fun for everyone around you, sportsmanship is required. Smiling is free and has never been harmful. Turn that frown upside-down and keep marching. Better days will come. Like a Boy Scout, always be prepared
Last but not least, I’d like to talk about preparedness. It is not enough to have your magazines loaded and your rifle set to zero. It means knowing what to expect, being prepared for the outcome (good or not), and knowing what to expect. You will not be happy with the results if you only shoot 10 shots while standing at your next LEG match. You must be mentally and physically prepared, not only for the stage but also for the next shot. Prepare yourself physically (equipment-ready) to give yourself peace of Mind. By being mentally prepared, you will be less distracted and more likely to maintain your focus for every shot. Conclusion — Competitors who are well-informed make for better matches
These efforts result in a shooter who is ready for success at the range but also, and perhaps more important, a shot who understands what it means to compete. When you have a match full of competitors that know and follow the rules, and the proper match procedures, everything runs smoothly. Everyone shoots well and everyone has a good time. Isn’t this what it’s really all about? * Since this article was written, the CMP has separated its rules into several Rulebooks. These can be downloaded on the CMP.org/rulebooks website: The CMP Games Rifle and Pistol Competition Rules, 2024 (11th Edition). CMP sanctioned matches include Special M9 and M16 EIC Matches and Service Pistol and Rimfire Sporter. The CMP Highpower Competition Rules, 2024 (27th Edition). for CMP-sponsored and sanctioned matches for Highpower Rifle events in National Trophy Matches, Excellence-In-Competition (EIC) Matches, CMP Cup Matches and other CMP-sanctioned competitions. The CMP Smallbore Rifle Competition Rules, 2024 (6th Edition). CMP’s rules for Smallbore Rifle matches in National Trophy Matches (National Trophy Matches), CMP Cup Matches (CMP Cup Matches) and other CMP sanctioned competitions. The CMP Pistol Competition Rules, 2024 (27th Edition). for CMP-sponsored and sanctioned Pistol Matches in the National Matches, National Trophy Matches, Excellence-In-Competition (EIC) Matches, and other CMP-sanctioned competitions. This article was originally published in the CMP First Shot Online Magazine by SFC Norman Anderson.
