Shooting: F/TR
What you need to know about F/TR
Mr. George Farquharson, (which is where the F comes from in F-class) a Canadian Full-Bore shooter, started F-Class as a place for him and his shooting buddies, who didn't have the eyesight to see the 1000-yard target nor the physical stamina to shoot from their elbows in a slung-up prone position. The class has since evolved into a highly competitive game in its own right, and is currently the fastest growing and most popular shooting discipline.
Equipment you need
If you are looking to get into F/TR Class shooting, what is the best route? Although in theory, any 308 rifle can be used, all League Shoots are at distances of 800 - 1,000 yards and to maintain a super-sonic velocity out to 1000 yards, a muzzle velocity (with a 155 grain bullet) in the region of 2,950 fps is required. To achieve these velocities, a barrel length of around 30 inches is desirable.
Currently, the choice of 'off the shelf' factory rifles which meet this spec. is minimal. The new F/TR rifle from Savage is ideal and the cheapest way into the sport with a truly competitive rifle. The other
alternative would be a second-hand Target Rifle, which would simply require a scope and bi-pod and should easily make weight.
Rules
- An F/TR Class rifle must not weigh more than 8.25 kg. (about 18lb. 2 oz.) including scope and bi-pod. Permitted chamberings are 308 Winchester/7.62 Nato and 223 Remington/5.56mm.
- The rifle may only be supported by a simple bi-pod and/or sling.
- A back-bag may be used under the butt.
- There is no restriction on scope-power.
- Factory or hand-loaded ammunition may be used and any bullet-weight is permitted, although the current flavour of the month is the 155 grain bullet but the 185 is also gaining popularity.
So, if you are a new shooter hoping to try F/TR Class shooting, don't get too obsessed with equipment. Come along and shoot with whatever you have. Get a feel for F Class competition and get to know the friendly bunch of guys who make up the F Class League. You will learn far more out on range shooting and chatting with your fellow competitors. No matter how good your equipment, it will not help you read the wind and that is the long-range rifle shooter's biggest challenge.