Sport Shooting
Sport shooting is a precision sport where participants test their accuracy with various firearms at designated targets. Events include disciplines like trap, skeet, pistol, and rifle shooting. It’s an Olympic sport that demands focus, steady hands, and excellent hand-eye coordination.
What we offer
SPORT SHOOTING EVENTS
TARGET PRACTICE
SPORT SHOOTING TARGET SHOOTING - ACTIVITY PRACTICE TARGETS
Accepted appropriate dedicated activity: ONLY PRACTICE TARGETS TO BE ENTERED HERE. Strictly only sport shooting activity practice target shooting to better one’s skills. Scores of NHSA Postal Target Shooting must be entered under Scores on a member’s Personal Natshoot Member Profile under Scores.
Confirmation documentation: Only copies of practice targets are acceptable as confirmation documents for entry of shooting practice targets as activities. Members may use any of the NHSA activity practice target or any other target they prefer to practice their shooting skills. At submission, all activity practice targets must please have the Initials and Surname of member on, the date the target was shot on, the calibre and type of firearm used, the name of the shooting range plus stamp if available, but definitely a witness signature which includes the cell phone number of the witness (if you can you may also include a copy of the receipt you received at the range on that day). Correct confirmation documentation is important for appropriate evaluation purposes.
NHSA Postal Targets may not be used as Activity Practice Targets
Members are requested to keep originals of electronically submitted practice targets for at least three months after submission, and to ascertain that they keep documentation which can serve as confirmation that a practice target was shot on a specific range on a specific day for verification purposes by the NHSA office, should that be required (i.e. receipt, range stamp with the date on target, photo of range register of the day, day shooter sticker issued at clubs, etc.).
Note 1: target practice is to be conducted in a formal manner on an accepted shooting range or on an NHSA Exco approved farm range.
Exclusion 1: the shooting of tin cans or box targets behind the dam wall is not perceived to constitute target practice as an appropriate dedicated activity, as only sport shooting on publicly acknowledge ranges or on an Exco approved farm/private ranges are perceived to constitute sport shooting.
EXAMPLES OF CONFIRMATION DOCUMENTS
Example of Practice Target with name and date written on it plus receipt of shooting range
SHOOTING COMPETITIONS
ORGANISED COMPETITION: NON-NHSA
Accepted appropriate dedicated activity: strictly only formally arranged non-NHSA target shooting competitions in which dedicated members participate in, or act as Range Officers, and which competitions are formally arranged by a private organization or business (i.e. Safari Outdoor), or by any association or club.
Confirmation documentation: a results page of the competition proving the reporting member’s participation or Range Officer’s duties performed (without payment); in short any documentary proof of date, time and place, which can prove the reporting member’s participation in the competition, which was entered as an activity.
EXAMPLES OF CONFIRMATION DOCUMENTATION
Score Sheet proving participation in CTSASA Clay Target Shooting Competition.
ORGANISED SHOOTING EVENTS
FORMALLY ORGANISED SPORT SHOOTING EVENT: NON-NHSA
Accepted appropriate dedicated activity: strictly only formally arranged non-NHSA target shooting event in which dedicated members participate in, or act as Range Officers, and which events are formally arranged by a private organization or business (i.e. Safari Outdoor), or by any association or club.
Proving documentation: a results page of the shooting event proving the reporting member’s participation or Range Officer’s duties performed (without payment); in short any documentary proof of date, name and place, which can prove the reporting member’s participation in the event, which was entered as an activity.
Proviso: friends coming together to do sport shooting in which they compete against each other in a friendly manner, is not perceived to constitute a sports shoot meant under this heading, this kind of activity can be entered as a sport shooting target practice.
EXAMPLES OF PROVING DOCUMENTS
Score Sheet of Day’s Clay Target Shooting Event at Wattlesprings
Participation in Long Range Shooting Event at Broederstroom
LONG RANGE SHOOTING
SPORT SHOOTING: LONG DISTANCE GONG SHOOTING / EVENTS / PRACTICE
Accepted appropriate dedicated activity: Strictly only non-NHSA sport shooting long range target shooting. Scores of NHSA Postal Target Shooting must be entered under Scores on a member’s Natshoot Profile Page.
Confirming documentation: Only copies of range registers or of own score sheets or witness counter signed DOPE sheets or any other form of confirmation of participation in the activity are acceptable as activities. Members may use any form of target (usually gongs) as is used on that specific long distance shooting range. At submission, all documents submitted must please have the Initials and Surname of member on, the date the exercise was shot on, the calibre and type of firearm used, the name of the shooting range plus stamp if available, but definitely a witness signature which includes the cell phone number of the witness (if you can you may also include a copy of the receipt you received at the range on that day). Correct confirmation documentation is important for appropriate evaluation purposes.
Members are requested to keep originals of electronically submitted practice targets for at least three months after submission, and to ascertain that they keep documentation which can serve as confirmation that a practice target was shot on a specific range on a specific day for verification purposes by the NHSA office, should that be required (i.e. receipt, range stamp with date on target, photo of range register of the day, day shooter sticker issued at clubs, etc.).
Note 1: target practice is to be conducted in a formal manner on an accepted shooting range or on a NHSA Exco approved farm range.
Exclusion 1: shooting of tin cans or box targets behind the dam wall is not perceived to constitute target practice as an appropriate dedicated activity, as only sport shooting on accepted ranges or on an Exco approved farm/private ranges are perceived to constitute sport shooting.
TACTICAL FIREARM TRAINING
TRAINING COURSE IN THE TACTICAL USE OF FIREARMS
Accepted appropriate dedicated activity: strictly only training in the tactical use of firearms – any course participated in or training to become a trainer in the tactical use of firearms.
Confirming documentation: participation in the accepted activities with name, date, and place.
Exclusions 1: presenting or attending of a proficiency training course associated with sport shooting firearms for purposes of attaining competency; or presenting a sport shooting course (i.e. combat type course) for remuneration or as daily work, is not perceived to be relevant entries here.
EXAMPLES OF CONFIRMING DOCUMENTS
SIGHTING IN OF TELESCOPES
SIGHTING OF HUNTING / SPORT SHOOTING RIFLE SCOPE
Accepted appropriate dedicated activity: strictly only sighting of sport shooting rifle or handgun scope – possibly to install new scope or to prepare for competition or ordinary sport shooting.
Confirmation documentation: Receipt of the shooting range, range register inscriptions, practice target with range name, name, and date written on it, with the signature of a witness to verify the target was shot on the day at the place indicated (photo of the target must have a name, date printed on it or must be copied into a Word document with all information of the target practice written on the Word document).
Exclusions 1: the shooting of tin cans or box targets behind the dam wall is not perceived to constitute target practice as an appropriate dedicated activity.
EXAMPLES OF CONFIRMATION DOCUMENTS
RELOADING
RELOADING OF AMMUNITION
Accepted appropriate dedicated activity: strictly only processes of reloading of hunting or sports shooting rounds, for the purpose of hunting or sport shooting (load development thus has been finalised).
Confirmation documentation: documents which clearly show the reloading record. Copies of reloading note books or sheets with reloading record of all components used and number of rounds reloaded per session by member with name and date. Targets and / or Range Register would also be accepted.
Note 1: Just attaching photos of reloading benches and other reloading equipment, or where member is busy with reloading or shooting on a range, are not perceived to be documents proving this activity, unless the date of the specific reloading event is clearly visible on the attached photo(s).
Note 2: A photo of just a rifle on a shooting bench / vehicle, does not constitute sufficient proof of telescope sighting.
PLEASE BE SURE TO BE SAFE AT ALL TIMES WHEN RELOADING – DO NOT LOAD ABOVE MAXIMUM LOAD INDICATIONS IN RELOADING MANUALS – IF YOU ARE UNSURE CONTACT THE OFFICE AND WE SHALL REFER YOU TO AN EXPERT IN THIS FIELD
EXAMPLES OF CONFIRMATION DOCUMENTS
Example of completed NHSA Reloading Record (Log Book) Sheet
Example of Personal Reloading Sheets (01)
Example of Personal Reloading Sheets (02)
Example of Personal Reloading Confirmation DocumentExample of Personal Reloading Confirmation Document
Example of Personal Reloading Confirmation Document
LONG RANGE SHOOTING
SPORT SHOOTING: LONG DISTANCE GONG SHOOTING / EVENTS / PRACTICE
Accepted appropriate dedicated activity: Strictly only non-NHSA sport shooting long range target shooting. Scores of NHSA Postal Target Shooting must be entered under Scores on a member’s Natshoot Profile Page.
Confirming documentation: Only copies of range registers or of own score sheets or witness counter signed DOPE sheets or any other form of confirmation of participation in the activity are acceptable as activities. Members may use any form of target (usually gongs) as is used on that specific long distance shooting range. At submission, all documents submitted must please have the Initials and Surname of member on, the date the exercise was shot on, the calibre and type of firearm used, the name of the shooting range plus stamp if available, but definitely a witness signature which includes the cell phone number of the witness (if you can you may also include a copy of the receipt you received at the range on that day). Correct confirmation documentation is important for appropriate evaluation purposes.
Members are requested to keep originals of electronically submitted practice targets for at least three months after submission, and to ascertain that they keep documentation which can serve as confirmation that a practice target was shot on a specific range on a specific day for verification purposes by the NHSA office, should that be required (i.e. receipt, range stamp with date on target, photo of range register of the day, day shooter sticker issued at clubs, etc.).
Note 1: target practice is to be conducted in a formal manner on an accepted shooting range or on a NHSA Exco approved farm range.
Exclusion 1: shooting of tin cans or box targets behind the dam wall is not perceived to constitute target practice as an appropriate dedicated activity, as only sport shooting on accepted ranges or on an Exco approved farm/private ranges are perceived to constitute sport shooting.
EXPOS
ATTENDING A HUNTING, SPORT SHOOTING OR FIREARM RELATED EXPO OR SHOW
Accepted appropriate dedicated activity: proven attendance of any firearm, hunting and or sport shooting Expo, Fair, or Show.
Confirmation documentation: any documentary confirmation with name, date, and place of the Expo; proving that the reporting member attended that specific Expo or Show.
Note 1: only one day of attendance at the same event entered as an activity under this heading will be taken as an activity towards maintaining dedicated status and compliancy.
Exclusions: attendance of a 4×4 vehicle show, at which hunting vehicles may be exhibited, is not an appropriate dedicated activity to enter under this heading, neither is the attendance of specifically a Bow Hunting Expo or an Expo of Military equipment.
ATTEND MEETINGS
ATTEND A SPORT SHOOTING RELATED MEETING
Accepted appropriate dedicated activity: proven attendance of strictly only sport shooting related meetings of any sport shooting association, club, or formalised group.
Confirmation documentation: documents which show name, date, and place of meeting (i.e. minutes of the meeting on which the reporting member’s name is shown); possibly a cell phone photo of the reporting member attending the meeting with date and time on it; a letter from the chairman of the meeting confirming that the reporting member attended the meeting; or any other innovative way the reporting member can confirm attendance of such meeting.
Exclusions: attending a meeting of hunting friends planning a hunting excursion, is not perceived as an appropriate dedicated activity to enter under this heading.
RANGE OFFICER DUTIES
Range Officer Log-sheet
SPORT SHOOTING EVENTS
FORMALLY ORGANISED SPORT SHOOTING EVENT: NON-NHSA
Accepted appropriate dedicated activity: strictly only formally arranged non-NHSA target shooting event in which dedicated members participate in, or act as Range Officers, and which events are formally arranged by a private organization or business (i.e. Safari Outdoor), or by any association or club.
Proving documentation: a results page of the shooting event proving the reporting member’s participation or Range Officer’s duties performed (without payment); in short any documentary proof of date, name and place, which can prove the reporting member’s participation in the event, which was entered as an activity.
Proviso: friends coming together to do sport shooting in which they compete against each other in a friendly manner, is not perceived to constitute a sports shoot meant under this heading, this kind of activity can be entered as a sport shooting target practice.
ANNUAL NHSA MARKSMAN GRADING SYSTEM
1. PURPOSE
1.1 To introduce a system whereby NHSA members who regularly partake in NHSA in-House Postal Target Shooting Events, can annually be acknowledged for their shooting skills; while at the same time creating incremental quality precision shooting bench marks (Marksman Grading Levels) towards which all members can aspire in the development of their own personal precision shooting skills.
2. RATIONAL
2.1 In the period 01-12-2014 to 30-12-2017, NHSA members entered 75,517 In-House postal target shooting scores on the Scores Pages of their Personal Natshoot Profile Web Pages (on average, more than 2,000 targets per month over a 36-month period).
2.2 Apart from the fact that scores entered for postal target shooting counts as activities towards compliancy for maintenance of dedicated status in the context of number of visits to the shooting range per annum, these remarkable numbers of members’ participation in In-House postal shoots, and the individual shooting skills achievements, are lost in the Association’s and members’ personal archive files. Archived files accessed only by the members themselves when having to show participation when applying for, or renewing firearm licences.
2.3 These facts lead Exco to again institute an annual Marksman Grading System similar to the former Shooters Classification System which existed in the early “paper-bound” working days of postal scores logging under auspices of NSA. So as to, on the one hand, set challenges to our members to enhance their shooting skills by seeking annual personal achievement, and on the other hand, to annually formally acknowledge members’ shooting skills as represented by their entered postal scores on the Scores Page of their Personal Natshoot Profile Web Page.
3. MARKSMAN GRADING BASICS
3.1 Achieving a specific Marksman Grading Level is linked to shooting a specified average, which is calculated against the six highest handgun or rifle scored targets (or shotgun score sheets) a member annually enters in a specific Marksman Grading Category (paragraph 5).
3.2 Marksman Grading Categories are linked to existing NHSA In-House precision postal target shooting exercises for rifles, handguns and shotguns.
4. MARKSMAN GRADING LEVELS
4.1 Marksman Grading Levels are annually calculated against the six highest in-house postal scores relevant to a paragraph 5 specified Marksman Grading Category entered on a member’s Scores Page; with targets shot between 1 December and 30 November the following year, and of which the scores were entered on a member’s Scores Page before 30 November of a specific year.
4.2 Marksman Grading Levels which can be achieved are:
4.2.1 Distinguished Marksman: High Master achieved with an average from 97% to 100%.
4.2.2 Distinguished Marksman: Master achieved with an average from 90% to 96%.
4.2.3 Distinguished Marksman: Expert achieved with an average from 86% to 89%.
4.2.4 Distinguished Marksman: achieved with an average from 80% to 85%.
Note 1: It is not compulsory for members to submit six Grading Category-specific targets per annum if they do not want to (participation in the Marksman Grading System is voluntary).
Note 2: The period 1 December to 30 November the following year coincides with the prescribed period for entering activities to annually maintain dedicated status.
Note 3: Scores for targets shot between 1 December and 30 November for a specific classification year, but of which the scores are entered after 30 November of a classification year, will not be taken into account for a specific year’s Marksman Grading (thus scores of targets shot on, i.e., 15 November 2018, and of which the scores are, i.e., only entered on 12 December 2018, will not be taken into account for Marksman Grading for 2018 or for 2019). The same rule applies for entering activities for maintaining dedicated status – such entries will thus only be acknowledged and not be approved.
Note 4: Semi-auto Rifle and Rapid-Fire Handgun exercises are not included in the Marksman Grading Categories.
Note 5: Achieving a Marksman Grading Level will annually be indicated on a member’s existing Activities & Scores Report as, for instance: 2018: Distinguished NHSA Expert Marksman (Hunting Handguns) – with Expert Marksman indicating the Marksman Grading Level achieved, and the in brackets (Hunting Handguns) indicating that the Grading Category in which the distinction was achieved, was for centre-fire hunting handguns.
5. MARKSMAN GRADING CATEGORIES
5.1 GRADING CATEGORIES - PRECISION RIFLE SHOOTING
Marksman Grading Levels for precision Rifle Shooting can be achieved in the Marksman Grading Categories for Air Rifles, for .22 Rimfire Rifles, and for Centre-Fire Rifles in all calibres.
5.1.1 Grading Category – AIR RIFLES:
Average of the annually entered six highest scored targets for the following existing In-House postal target shooting exercise:
25m Air Rifle Exercise - Exercise Rules
RULES: 25m AIR RIFLE EXERCISE
This exercise is designed to shoot air rifles for the participant to achieve best and most consistent accuracy. The shooter shoots in the traditional manner from the prone position to the bench or with ‘crossed sticks’ or a single support of a similar manner.
FIREARMS PERMITTED: Only Springer, CO2, or PCP Air Rifles in the following Calibres may be used (.177 / 4.5mm ; .20 / 5mm ; .22 / 5,5mm ; .25 / 6,35mm)
SHOOTING DISTANCE: The shooting distance measured from the target to the edge of the firing line closest to the shooter is 25 metres.
COURSE OF FIRE: Strictly two shots on each of the 5 smaller circles on the A4 Target, shot @ 25m on your own time, and scored out of 100 points.
FIRING POSITION: Any shooting position is valid, with the exception that the butt of the gunstock may not be rested or supported on anything else than being in the shoulder.
5.1.2 Grading Category - .22 RIMFIRE RIFLES:
Average of the annually entered six highest scored targets in any combination of the following existing In-House postal target shooting exercises:
25m, .22 Rimfire Rifle Exercise - Exercise Rules
25m, .ALL ACTIONS .22LR RIMFIRE RIFLE EXERCISE
FIREARMS PERMITTED: All Standard Rimfire Rifles chambered for the standard .22 Mag, .22 Short, and .22LR Rimfire Calibre (Bolt / Pump / Lever Actions Rifles) (Open metallic sights or scopes are permitted)
SHOOTING DISTANCE: The shooting distance measured from the target to the front edge of the Shooter’s firing line is 25 metres.
COURSE OF FIRE: 5 shots at 25m shot on one A4 target in your own time scored out of 50 points.
FIRING POSITION: Any shooting position is valid; rifles may be rested on a bench, with the exception that rifle rests of which the front and the back are connected by a centre piece, may not be used.
50m, .22 Rimfire Rifle Exercise - Exercise Rules
50m, ALL ACTIONS .22LR RIMFIRE RIFLE EXERCISE
FIREARMS PERMITTED: All Standard Rimfire Rifles chambered for the standard .22 Mag, .22LR and 22 Short Rimfire Calibre (Bolt / Pump / Lever Action) (Open metallic sights or scopes are permitted)
SHOOTING DISTANCE: The shooting distance measured from the target to the front edge of the Shooter’s firing line is 50 metres.
COURSE OF FIRE: 5 shots at 50m shot on one A4 target in your own time scored out of 50 points.
FIRING POSITION: Any shooting position is valid; rifles may be rested on a bench, with the exception that rifle rests of which the front and the back are connected by a centre piece, may not be used.
100m, .22 Rimfire Rifle Exercise - Exercise Rules
100m, ALL ACTIONS .22LR RIMFIRE RIFLE EXERCISE
FIREARMS PERMITTED: All Standard Rimfire Rifles chambered for the standard .22 Short, .22LR and .22Mag Rimfire Calibres (Bolt / Pump / Lever Action) (Open metallic sights or scopes are permitted)
SHOOTING DISTANCE: The shooting distance measured from the target to the front edge of the Shooter’s firing line is 100 metres.
COURSE OF FIRE: 5 shots at 100m shot on one A4 target in your own time scored out of 50 points.
FIRING POSITION: Any shooting position is valid; rifles may be rested on a bench, with the exception that rifle rests of which the front and the back are connected by a centre piece, may not be used.
50m, .22 Rimfire Lever Action Rifle Exercise - Exercise Rules
50m, .22 BOLT / PUMP / LEVER ACTION
This exercise is designed to shoot .22 Rimfire Lever Action Rifles and for the participant to achieve best and most consistent accuracy. The shooter shoots in the traditional manner from the prone position to the bench or with ‘crossed sticks’ or a single support of a similar manner
FIREARMS PERMITTED: All Standard Rimfire Rifles chambered for the standard 22LR and 22 Short Rimfire Calibre (Bolt / Pump / Lever Action) (Open metallic sights or scopes are permitted)
SHOOTING DISTANCE: The shooting distance measured from the target to the front edge of the Shooter’s firing line is 50 metres.
COURSE OF FIRE: 5 shots at 50m shot on one A4 target in your own time scored out of 50 points.
FIRING POSITION: Any shooting position is valid; rifles may be rested on a bench, with the exception that rifle rests of which the front and the back are connected by a centre piece, may not be used.
5.1.3 Grading Category - CENTRE-FIRE RIFLES (all calibres):
100m, Small Calibre Centre-Fire Rifle Exercise - Exercise Rules
100m, SMALL CALIBRE CENTRE-FIRE RIFLE EXERCISE
FIREARMS PERMITTED: All Standard Small-Bore Centre-fire Rifles, in calibres smaller than .22 Hornet, i.e. .17 REM, .17 Hornet & ,204 Ruger calibres
SHOOTING DISTANCE: The shooting distance measured from the target to the front edge of the Shooter’s firing line is 100 metres.
COURSE OF FIRE: 5 shots at 100m shot on one A4 target in your own time scored out of 50 points.
FIRING POSITION: Any shooting position is valid; rifles may be rested on a bench, with the exception that rifle rests of which the front and the back are connected by a centre piece, may not be used.
100m, All Actions Centre-Fire Rifle Exercise - Exercise Rules
100m, ALL ACTIONS CENTRE-FIRE RIFLES EXERCISE
FIREARMS PERMITTED: All Standard Centre-Fire Rifles chambered for calibres up to .50 Cal in any kind of action
SHOOTING DISTANCE: The shooting distance measured from the target to the front edge of the Shooter’s firing line is 100 metres.
COURSE OF FIRE: 5 shots at 100m shot on one A4 target in your own time scored out of 50 points.
FIRING POSITION: Any shooting position is valid; rifles may be rested on a bench, with the exception that rifle rests of which the front and the back are connected by a centre piece, may not be used.
200m, All Actions Centre-Fire Rifle Exercise - Exercise Rules
200m CENTRE-FIRE RIFLE EXERCISE
FIREARMS PERMITTED: All Actions in Standard Centre-Fire Rifles chambered for calibres up to .50 Cal
SHOOTING DISTANCE: The shooting distance measured from the target to the front edge of the Shooter’s firing line is 200 metres.
COURSE OF FIRE: 5 shots at 200m shot on one A4 target in your own time scored out of 50 points.
FIRING POSITION: Any shooting position is valid, rifles may be rested on a bench with the front rested on a bi-pod or similar device, with exception that rifle rests of which the front and the back are connected by a centre piece, may not be used.
300m, All Actions Centre-Fire Rifle Exercise - Exercise Rules
300m, ALL ACTIONS CENTRE-FIRE RIFLE EXERCISE
FIREARMS PERMITTED: All Standard Centre-Fire Rifles chambered for calibres up to .50 Cal any action allowed
SHOOTING DISTANCE: The shooting distance measured from the target to the front edge of the Shooter’s firing line is 300 metres.
COURSE OF FIRE: 5 shots at 300m shot on one A4 target in your own time scored out of 50 points.
FIRING POSITION: Any shooting position is valid; rifles may be rested on a bench, with the exception that rifle rests of which the front and the back are connected by a centre piece, may not be used.
50m, Pistol Calibre Lever Action Rifle Exercise - Exercise Rules
50m, PISTOL CALIBRE CENTRE-FIRE LEVER ACTION RIFLE EXERCISE
This exercise is designed to shoot centre-fire pistol calibre Lever Action Rifles and for the participant to achieve best and most consistent accuracy. The shooter shoots in the traditional manner from the prone position to the bench or with ‘crossed sticks’ or a single support of a similar manner
FIREARMS ALLOWED: All Typical Centre-fire Pistol Calibre Lever Action Rifles
SHOOTING DISTANCE: The shooting distance measured from the target to the front edge of the Shooter’s firing line is 50 metres.
COURSE OF FIRE: 5 shots at 50m shot on one A4 target in your own time scored out of 50 points.
FIRING POSITION: Any shooting position is valid; rifles may be rested on a bench, with the exception that rifle rests of which the front and the back are connected by a centre piece, may not be used.
50m, Rifle Calibre Lever Action Rifle Exercise - Exercise Rules
50m, RIFLE CALIBRE CENTRE-FIRE LEVER ACTION RIFLE EXERCISE
This exercise is designed to shoot centre-fire calibre Lever Action Rifles and for the participant to achieve best and most consistent accuracy. The shooter shoots in the traditional manner from the prone position to the bench or with ‘crossed sticks’ or a single support of a similar manner
FIREARMS ALLOWED: Only Center-Fire Rifle Calibre Lever Action Rifles
SHOOTING DISTANCE: The shooting distance measured from the target to the edge of the firing line closest to the shooter is 50 metres.
COURSE OF FIRE: 5 shots at 50m shot on one A4 target in your own time scored out of 50 points.
FIRING POSITION: Any shooting position is valid; rifles may be rested on a bench, with the exception that rifle rests of which the front and the back are connected by a centre piece, may not be used.
50m, USA Medium-Bore Rifle Exercise - Exercise Rules
50m MEDIUM BORE USA RIMMED CALIBRES LEVER ACTION RIFLES EXERCISE
FIREARMS ALLOWED – MEDIUM BORE USA RIMMED CALIBRE RIFLES: Members may participate in this exercise with lever actions and with falling block single shot rifles.
Only rimmed straight taper or rimmed bottleneck cartridges with a minimum calibre of ,300 and maximum calibre of ,360 and with minimum case length of 2.00” (inches) or larger, may be used. Suggested cartridges include: .30-30 Win. / .30-40 / .32-40 / and .32 Win. Spl.
Only cast lead bullets, with or without gas checks, may be used;
Either smokeless or black powder cartridge loads may be used;
Optical or metallic sights may be used.
SHOOTING DISTANCE: The shooting distance measured from the target to the edge of the firing line closest to the shooter is 50 metres.
COURSE OF FIRE: 5 shots at 50m shot on an A4 Target in your own time, and scored out of 50 points.
FIRING POSITION: Free style (out of hand) standing, kneeling, sitting or prone position with no additional support whatsoever (i.e. bag or bi-pod) for rifle. Shooter`s elbows may rest on ground, on knees or on bench-top
50m, Western Big-Bore Rife Exercise - Exercise Rules
50m CENTRE-FIRE WESTERN MEDIUM & BIG-BORE RIFLE EXERCISE
This exercise is designed to shoot historically correct rifles with the correct vintage cartridge styles at representative ranges suitable to the rifles design, sights and ammunition capabilities. Being vintage style ammunition, it requires the shooter’s skill to reload custom prepared ammunition with hand cast lead bullets and custom loads to achieve best and most consistent accuracy. The shooter shoots in the traditional manner with ‘crossed sticks’ or a single support of a similar manner
FIREARMS ALLOWED: Members may participate in the Classic Western/Big Bore rimmed cartridge exercise with lever action rifles (or falling block single shot rifles).
Only rimmed straight taper cartridges with a minimum bore of 0.375 or greater and with cartridge case of min. 2.00” (inches) or larger, may be used in the following calibres: .375 win / .38-55 / .40-65 / .405Win / /45-70 / all Sharps .380+ / Martini-Henry / .444 Marlin.
Only cast lead bullets, with or without gas checks, may be used;
Either smokeless or black powder cartridge loads may be used;
Optical or metallic open sights may be used
SHOOTING DISTANCE: The shooting distance measured from the target to the edge of the firing line closest to the shooter is 50 metres.
COURSE OF FIRE: 5 shots at 50m shot on an A4 Target in your own time, and scored out of 50 points.
FIRING POSITION: Any shooting position is valid; rifles may be rested on a bench, with the exception that rifle rests of which the front and the back are connected by a centre piece, may not be used.
5.2 GRADING CATEGORIES - PRECISION HANDGUN SHOOTING
Marksman Grading Levels in precision Handgun Shooting can be achieved in the Marksman Grading Categories for Air Pistols, for .22 Rimfire Handguns, for Centre-Fire Handguns, and for Hunting Handguns.
5.2.1 Grading Category – AIR PISTOLS:
Average of the annually entered six highest scored targets for the following existing In-House postal target shooting exercise:
10m Air Pistol Exercise - Exercise Rules
10m AIR PISTOL EXERCISE
This exercise is designed to shoot air pistols for the participant to achieve best and most consistent accuracy. The shooter shoots in the traditional manner from the prone position to the bench or with ‘crossed sticks’ or a single support of a similar manner
FIREARMS PERMITTED: Only Springer, CO2, or PCP Air Pistols in the following Calibres may be used (.177 / 4.5mm ; .20 / 5mm ; .22 / 5,58mm ; .25 / 6,35mm)
SHOOTING DISTANCE: The shooting distance measured from the target to the edge of the firing line closest to the shooter is 10 meters.
COURSE OF FIRE: Two shots per small target printed on one A4 page shot at 10m with score counting out of 100points
FIRING POSITION: Standing position, Air Pistol held in one or both hands, with all portions of the shooter`s clothing, body and firearm clear of artificial support.
5.2.2 Grading Category - .22 RIMFIRE HANDGUNS:
Average of the annually entered six highest scored targets (pistols & revolvers) in any combination of the following existing In-House postal target shooting exercises:
5m, .22 Rimfire Derringer & Vest Gun Exercise - Exercise Rules
5m, .22 RIMFIRE DERRINGER & VEST-GUN EXERCISE
A .22 Rimfire Derringer & Vest-Gun is a handgun of which the barrel is not longer than 3 inches and of which the whole frame, sights and grip, fits into a rectangle of 130mm x 100mm.
The Rimfire Derringer & Vest-Gun must fit into the box described on the page you can Download HERE
FIREARMS PERMITTED: .22 Rimfire Derringers and .22 Rimfire calibre Vest-Guns (.22S, .22LR, .22Mag) and .22wmr calibre revolvers (all types of sight configuration allowed)
SHOOTING DISTANCE: The shooting distance measured from the target to the front edge of the Shooter’s firing line is 5 metres.
COURSE OF FIRE: Total of 5 shots at 5m – shot on your own time, on one target and scored out of 50 points.
FIRING POSITION: Standing position, Derringer or Vest-Gun held in one or both hands, with all portions of the shooter`s clothing, body and firearm clear of artificial support.
5m, .22 Rimfire Snubby /Pocket Pistol Exercise - Exercise Rules
5m, .22 RIMFIRE "SNUBBY" & POCKET PISTOL EXERCISE
.22 RIMFIRE “SNUBBY” & POCKET PISTOL: All Calibres of .22 Rimfire Semi-Auto Pistols and Revolvers of which the barrel is not longer than 100mm and the grip below the trigger guard is not longer than 90mm (5mm variance on all sides allowed).
The Rimfire Snubby / Pocket Pistol must fit the boxes described on the page you can Download HERE
FIREARMS PERMITTED: Only .22S, .22LR, and .22Mag calibres allowed in Rimfire Semi-Auto Pistols OR Singe/Double Action Revolvers conforming to the definition of “Snubby” & Pocket Pistol – only fixed metallic sights allowed
SHOOTING DISTANCE: The shooting distance measured from the target to the front edge of the Shooter’s firing line is 5 metres.
COURSE OF FIRE: Total of 5 shots at 5m – shot on your own time, on one target and scored out of 50 points.
FIRING POSITION: Standing position, Rimfire “Snubby” or Pocket Pistol held in one or both hands, with all portions of the shooter`s clothing, body and firearm clear of artificial support.
8m, .22 Rimfire Box-Gun Exercise - Exercise Rules
8m, .22 RIMFIRE BOX-GUN EXERCISE
RIMFIRE BOX-GUN: A .22 Rimfire Box-Gun is a Rimfire handgun of which the whole frame, sights and grip, fits into a rectangle of 210mm [L] x 160mm [H].
The Box-Gun must fit into the box described on the page you can Download HERE
FIREARMS PERMITTED: Only handguns in calibres from .22S, .22LR and .22Mag, which fit in the prescribed Rectangle (all types of sight configuration allowed)
SHOOTING DISTANCE: The shooting distance measured from the target to the front edge of the Shooter’s firing line is 8 metres.
COURSE OF FIRE: Total of 5 shots at 8m – shot on your own time, on one target and scored out of 50 points.
FIRING POSITION: Standing position, Box-Gun held in one or both hands, with all portions of the shooter`s clothing, body and firearm clear of artificial support.
10m, .22 Rimfire Handgun Exercise - Exercise Rules
10m, .22 RIMFIRE HANDGUN EXERCISE
FIREARMS PERMITTED: Only .22 Rimfire Handguns in calibres .22S, .22LR & 22Mag. (all types of sight configuration allowed)
SHOOTING DISTANCE: The shooting distance measured from the target to the front edge of the Shooter’s firing line is 10 metres.
COURSE OF FIRE: 5 shots at 10m shot on the relevant Target, in your own time scored out of 50 points.
FIRING POSITION: Standing position, handgun held in one or both hands, with all portions of the shooter`s clothing, body and firearm clear of artificial support.
5.2.3 Grading Category - CENTRE-FIRE HANDGUNS:
Average of the annually entered six highest scored targets (pistols & revolvers) in any combination of the following existing In-House postal target shooting exercises
5m, Derringer & Vest Gun Exercise - Exercise Rules
5m CENTRE-FIRE DERRINGER & VEST-GUN EXERCISE
VEST-GUN: A Centre-Fire Derringer & Vest-Gun is a centre-fire handgun of which the barrel is not longer than 3 inches and of which the whole frame, sights and grip, fits into a rectangle of 130mm x 100mm.
The Derringer & Vest-Gun must fit into the box described on the page you can Download HERE
FIREARMS PERMITTED: Only Centre-Fire Derringers and Centre-Fire Vest-Guns in calibres from .25 up to 7,65mm (.32) (all types of sight configuration allowed)
SHOOTING DISTANCE: The shooting distance measured from the target to the front edge of the Shooter’s firing line is 5 metres.
COURSE OF FIRE: Total of 5 shots at 5m – shot on your own time, on one target and scored out of 50 points.
FIRING POSITION: Standing position, Derringer or Vest-Gun held in one or both hands, with all portions of the shooter`s clothing, body and firearm clear of artificial support.
5m, Centre-Fire Snubby/Pocket Pistol Exercise - Exercise Rules
5 SHOT CENTRE-FIRE "SNUBBY" / POCKET PISTOL EXERCISE
CENTRE-FIRE “SNUBBY” & POCKET PISTOL: All Centre-Fire Calibres Semi-Auto Pistol of which the barrel is not longer than 100mm and the grip below the trigger guard is not longer than 80mm OR all Centre-Fire Single/Double Action Revolvers of which the barrel is not longer than 90mm and the grip below the trigger guard is not longer than 80mm.
The Snubby / Pocket Pistol must fit the boxes described on the page you can Download HERE
FIREARMS PERMITTED: All Calibres of Centre-Fire Semi-Auto Pistols AND all Calibres of Singe/Double Action Centre-Fire Revolvers conforming to the definition of “Snubby” & Pocket Pistol – only fixed metallic sights allowed
SHOOTING DISTANCE: The shooting distance measured from the target to the front edge of the Shooter’s firing line is 5 metres.
COURSE OF FIRE: Total of 5 shots at 5m – shot on your own time, on one target and scored out of 50 points.
FIRING POSITION: Standing position, “Snubby” or Pocket Pistol held in one or both hands, with all portions of the shooter`s clothing, body and firearm clear of artificial support.
7m, Centre-Fire Carry Gun Exercise - Exercise Rules
7m CENTRE-FIRE CARRY GUN EXERCISE
CARRY GUN: Centre-Fire Handguns of calibre 7,65mm and larger, fitting in a Box [rectangle] of 190mm [L] x 140mm [H] (all types of sight configuration allowed)
The Carry Gun must fit the Box described on the page you can Download HERE
SHOOTING DISTANCE: The shooting distance measured from the target to the front edge of the Shooter’s firing line is 7 metres.
COURSE OF FIRE: Total of 5 shots at 7m – shot on your own time, on one target and scored out of 50 points.
FIRING POSITION: Standing position, Carry Gun held in one or both hands, with all portions of the shooter`s clothing, body and firearm clear of artificial support.
7m, Historic Pistol Exercise - Exercise Rules
7m, HISTORIC CENTRE-FIRE REVOLVER / PISTOL EXERCISE
FIREARMS PERMITTED:
Revolvers issued and used in the Anglo-Boer War, the Great War (WW I) and WWII (pre-1950 Production) in the following calibres, i.e.: 38 Smith and Wesson, Colt 38 police, Webley 38, .45 ACP Smith & Wesson, Webley 455 (no barrel length restrictions – only iron open sights allowed).
Semi-Auto Pistols issued and used in the Anglo-Boer War, the Great War (WW I) and WWII (pre-1950 Production) in the following calibres, i.e.: 9mmP, 9mmS, .45 ACP (no barrel length restrictions – only iron open sights allowed).
SHOOTING DISTANCE: The shooting distance measured from the target to the front edge of the Shooter’s firing line is 7 metres.
COURSE OF FIRE: Total of 5 shots at 5m – shot on your own time, on one target and scored out of 50 points.
FIRING POSITION: Standing position, revolver held in one or both hands, with all portions of the shooter`s clothing, body and firearm clear of artificial support.
8m, Centre-Fire Box-Gun Exercise - Exercise Rules
8m, CENTRE-FIRE BOX-GUN EXERCISE
CENTRE-FIRE BOX-GUN: A Centre-Fire Box-Gun is a centre-fire handgun of which the whole frame, sights and grip, fits into a rectangle of 210mm [L] x 160mm [H] (5mm variance on both sides allowed).
The Centre-Fire Box-Gun must fit into the box described on the page you can Download HERE
FIREARMS PERMITTED: All Calibre Centre-Fire Handguns up to .50 Cal, which fit in the prescribed Rectangle (all types of sight configuration allowed)
SHOOTING DISTANCE: The shooting distance measured from the target to the front edge of the Shooter’s firing line is 8 metres.
COURSE OF FIRE: Total of 5 shots at 8m – shot on your own time, on one target and scored out of 50 points.
FIRING POSITION: Standing position, Box-Gun held in one or both hands, with all portions of the shooter`s clothing, body and firearm clear of artificial support
10m, Centre-Fire Handgun Exercise - Exercise Rules
10m CENTER-FIRE HANDGUN EXERCISE
FIREARMS PERMITTED: Only Centre-Fire Handguns in Calibres up to .50 Cal (all types of sight configuration allowed)
SHOOTING DISTANCE: The shooting distance measured from the target to the front edge of the Shooter’s firing line is 10 metres.
COURSES OF FIRE: 5 shots at 10m shot on the relevant A4 Handgun Target, in your own time scored out of 50 points.
FIRING POSITION: Standing position, handgun held in one or both hands, with all portions of the shooter`s clothing, body and firearm clear of artificial support.
5.2.4 Grading Category - HUNTING HANDGUNS:
Average of the annually entered six highest scored targets (purpose built hunting handguns, revolvers and allowed pistols) of the following existing In-House postal target shooting exercise:
20m, Hunting Handgun (Pistol) Exercise - Exercise Rules
20m, CENTRE-FIRE HUNTING HANDGUN EXERCISE
FIREARMS PERMITTED: All purpose built Centre-Fire Hunting Handguns in typical Centre-Fire Rifle Calibres (i.e. Thompson Contender) – OR minimum 4 inch barrelled Centre-Fire Revolvers in calibres from .38 Spec and larger (Only Pistol allowed: Desert Eagle in .44 Mag cal and larger) (al types of sight configurations allowed)
SHOOTING DISTANCE: The shooting distance measured from the target to the edge of the firing line closest to the shooter is 20 meters.
COURSES OF FIRE: 5 shots at 20m shot on one A4 target in your own time scored out of 50 points.
FIRING POSITION: Any shooting position is allowed – use of shooting sticks is allowed – or shooting from a bench over a rest.
5.3 GRADING CATEGORY - SHOTGUN SHOOTING (CLAY TARGET SHOOTING)
Marksman Grading Levels in Shotgun Shooting can be achieved in the Marksman Grading Category for Clay Target Shooting.
5.3.1 Grading Category – CLAY TARGET SHOOTING:
Average of the annually entered six highest scored score sheets in any combination of the following existing In-House postal target shooting exercises:
CLAY TARGET SHOOTING Categories
Compak (per round of 25 clays)
SHOTGUN CLAY TARGET SHOOTING EXERCISES
FIREARMS ALLOWED: All double barrelled shotguns in bores (calibres) from 410, 12Ga, 16Ga, 18Ga, and 20Ga.
Semi-automatic and pump action shotguns allowed if ranges allow them – Single barrelled shotguns specific for ATA Trap are allowed where ranges allow such shotguns
COURSES OF FIRE
COMPAK – Any Compak range set-up consisting of one round of, or multiples of rounds of, 25 clays.
SKEET (NSSA Skeet)
All variants of Skeet consisting of one round of, or multiples of rounds of, 25 clays.
ATA & Olympic TRAP
All forms of Trap disciplines consisting of one round of, or multiples of rounds of, 25 clays.
DTL Trap
Consisting of one round of, or multiples of rounds of, 25 clays counting 75 points.
SPORTING CLAYS (FITASC Sporting, English Sporting & English Doubles)
All variants of Sporting Clays consisting of one round of, or multiples of rounds of, 25 clays.
UNIVERSAL TRENCH: All forms of Trench disciplines consisting of one round of, or multiples of rounds of, 25 clays.
FIRING POSITION: It is NHSA policy that participants conform to standard acceptable shotgunning stances and that shotguns will be handled with the utmost of care and safety in mind – conform to range set standards at all times (eye and ear protection is mandatory).
TARGETS: A normal round of any of the above mentioned clay target shooting disciplines, consisting of a combination of normal clays, midi clays, mini clays, super mini clays, battue clays, or rabbit clays (thrown with a hand trap or with an electric operated trap machine).
Skeet, (NSSA Skeet) (per round of 25 clays);
Sporting Clays (FITASC Sporting, English Sporting & English Doubles) (per round of 25 clays);
Trap (ATA Trap or DTL Trap & Olympic Trap) (per round of 25 clays), and;
Universal Trench (all formats of trench) (per round of 25 clays).
6. PROCEDURES FOR ANNUAL MARKSMAN GRADING
6.1 It is not compulsory for members to submit six Grading Category-specific targets per annum if they do not want to (participation in the Marksman Grading System is voluntary). But if a member should enter six targets in one Grading Category, s/he will automatically be evaluated for qualification in one or other Marksman Grading Category, if s/he should qualify.
6.2 The NHSA Marksman Grading System will annually be calculated against scores entered for postal targets shot from 1 December to 30 November the following year to coincide with the prescribed period for entering activities to annually maintain dedicated status (the first NHSA Marksman Grading will be done on 1 December 2018 against a member’s scores entered per paragraph 5 mentioned Grading Category for postal target scores shot between 1 December 2017 and 30 November 2018).
6.3 Only postal scores entered on or before 30 November annually for targets shot in the specific grading year (1 December to 30 November), will be taken into account for that year’s Marksman Grading. Thus scores of targets shot on, i.e., 15 November 2018, and of which the scores are only entered on 12 December 2018, will not be taken into account for Marksman Grading for 2018 or for 2019 because these were not shot in the year for which the targets for the 2019 grading will be calculated.
6.4 A member’s Marksman Grading starts afresh every year without taking the Marksman Grading Level of the previous year into account. A member can thus on 1 December 2018 achieve a Marksman Grading Level of, i.e. Distinguished NHSA Master Marksman (.22 Rimfire Rifles), and on 1 December 2019 only achieve a Marksman Grading of, i.e. Distinguished NHSA Marksman (.22 Rimfire Rifles).
6.5 A member’s evaluation to achieve a Marksman Grading Level in a specific Grading Category in a specific grading year, will only be initiated once s/he had entered a minimum of six target scores for a specific paragraph 5 mentioned Grading Category.
6.6 The six targets for which the highest scores were achieved in a specific Marksman Grading Category in a specific year, could all have been shot on one day.
6.7 A member may annually enter target scores in as many Marksman Grading Categories as s/he wishes.
6.8 A member may annually enter as many target scores in a specific Marksman Grading Category as s/he wishes.
6.9 A certificate indicating the Marksman Grading Level per Marksman Grading Category the member had achieved in a specific year, will on 1 December annually, be available for download on his/her Natshoot Profile Pages under the left-side menu heading, My NHSA Documents.
6.10 Achieving a Marksman Grading Level will annually be indicated on a member’s existing Activities & Scores Report as, for instance: 2018: Distinguished NHSA Expert Marksman (Hunting Handguns) – with Expert Marksman indicating the Marksman Grading Level achieved, and the in brackets (Hunting Handguns) indicating that the Grading Category in which the distinction was achieved, was for centre-fire hunting handguns.
6.11 Members may, from 1 December each year and not later than 15 January the following year in which the Marksman Grading Level was achieved, order Marksman Grading Level cloth badges from the office, indicating the specific Distinguished Marksman Grading Level the member had achieved in a specific year. No order for these cloth badges will be accepted later than 15 January per annum (for the previous year), so as to ascertain the best possible price for making the quality badges NHSA requires. Orders for badges are to be placed with the Natshoot Shop.
SPORT SHOOTING FAQS
The National Hunting and Shooting Association (NHSA) has its activities focused on assisting the busy but enthusiastic hunter and/or sport shooter who cannot always participate in the usual structured activities.
The how to of Sport Shooting.
