Overview

Benchrest rifle shooting is a precision-oriented discipline where competitors aim to place five or ten shots into the smallest possible grouping on paper targets at various distances, including 50 meters, 100, 200, and 300 yards. This sport prioritizes both individual skill and equipment accuracy, with groups measured center-to-center between the two widest shots. The ultimate goal is to achieve near-perfect consistency, with all shots ideally landing in a single hole—a feat that remains unmatched despite decades of attempts.

History and Development

The sport originated in the United States in 1947 and was introduced to Australia in the 1950s, with one of the earliest recorded ranges at Baulkham Hills near Sydney. Since then, Benchrest has flourished across Australia, with competitions held in every state and national championships for various classes. Australian shooters also represent the country in international events, including the Oceania, Pacific Regional, and World Championships.

Classes and Firearms

Benchrest shooting encompasses a variety of classes, each with unique rifle specifications and rules:

• Centrefire Classes: Include Experimental/Unlimited, Heavy Benchrest, Light Benchrest, and Sporter Benchrest. These vary by rifle weight, caliber, and configuration.
• Rimfire Classes: Include .22 Rimfire and Hunter Class, with subdivisions for Light and Heavy rifles.
• Benchrest for Score Class: Involves both centrefire and rimfire rifles.
• Fly Shoot and International Rimfire Benchrest (IRB): Newer subdisciplines with specialized scoring and distances.

Targets, Scoring, and Matches

Competitors aim to shoot the tightest possible groupings or achieve high scores on specially designed targets. Group sizes are aggregated across multiple targets to determine rankings. Benchrest for Score Class events are scored out of 250 points, with precision down to the smallest target dot (“10x”) used to break ties.

Competitions and Legacy

Most matches are conducted at 100 and 200 yards, with strict time limits for each round. Benchrest’s growth has been bolstered by innovative subdisciplines and Australia’s active involvement in the World Benchrest Shooting Federation (WBSF), of which it is a founding member.

Why Benchrest?

The sport’s appeal lies in the combination of mental discipline, technical expertise, and cutting-edge equipment, making it a haven for precision shooting enthusiasts. Benchrest continues to expand in popularity, ensuring its place as one of the premier shooting sports worldwide.