If you read the page all about Target Rifle shooting (TR), then you will recognize that TR has a special set of rules. F-Class shooting is similar to TR in that the same targets and distances are used but different in that it is shot with the rifle rested and using optical sights (a scope). There are no cartridge restrictions other than that imposed by the range the particular match is shot on. F-Class shoots are ‘deliberate’ which means that each individual shot is scored and displayed to the shooter before the next shot, allowing you to adjust your sights for a ‘perfect’ shot. The targets used are the bulls-eye format (a big black spot on a white background), so they are very easy to see and aim at. For full details of the targets have a look at Target Rifle. With F-Class, the scoring is slightly different from TR in that the V-bull, or Center ring, has a scoring value of 6 points , an extra point compared to Target Rifle. Despite all these technicalities, the important thing about F-Class is that almost any scoped bolt action rifle, of pretty much any caliber, can be used. So dig out your best bolt gun, come along and have a go at one of the many TR and F-Class matches or practices listed in the shooting calendar.
'F' Class RiflesThere are 3 recognized subdivisions of F Class, based upon the rifle used. F(O), F(F), and F(M). The subdivisions are designed to allow members to participate with a reasonable expectation of success and recognition if they shoot well All F Class participants will shoot the same course of fire, alongside each other, using the same scoring system. F(F) is designed to allow Target Rifle shooters to compete in F class with customized TR rifles. F(M) is designed to allow members to participate with factory or standard rifles they may already have. F (O) Class - “Open” Rifles - Any rifle of up to 8mm calibre may be used, but 'rail guns' and similar devices, which provide positive mechanical method(s) for returning to the precise point of aim for the next shot, are not permitted. The rifle may, however, incorporate an integral mechanism for raising and lowering either its butt or fore-end. The maximum calibre limit of 8mm applies only to Connaught Range and Primary Training Centre; calibre limits for events held at other venues may differ, so must be determined and promulgated in advance by the organizers of those events.
- An 'F' Class (O) rifle's overall weight must not exceed 10kg (about 22-lb) including all attachments (such as, but not limited to, its scope sight, sling and bipod, if any). NB: an "attachment" is defined as including any external object (other than the competitor and his apparel) which recoils (or partially recoils) with the rifle, or which is clamped, magnetically or viscously held, or in any other way joined to the rifle for each shot, or which even slightly raises with the rifle when lifting the latter from its rest(s).
- Barrel extensions of any length may be fitted to mount the foresight or act as a counterweight.
- Any safe, mechanically operated trigger may be employed on an 'F' Class rifle.
Caution: Trigger adjustment is best left to a qualified armourer, but trigger safety at all times remains the ultimate responsibility of the competitor. In particular, a safe level of sear engagement must be retained when attempting to minimize trigger "drag".
F (F) Class - “Farquharson” Rifles Meet the above F (O) Class specifications, except that - Only ammunition that completely meets TR specifications (2.23in/5.56mm, max bullet weight 81gr; 3.08in/7.62mm, maximum bullet weight 156gr) may be used,
- The overall weight of the rifle, with all attachments, must not exceed 7.25 kg, or 8.25 kg if a bipod or front rest is attached to the rifle
F(M) – “Mass-Produced” Rifles This class will be restricted to mass-produced rifles of any calibre (see limits in F(O)) that can be purchased readily at many gun shops and that have not been customized to improve ballistic performance. F(M) is for people shooting ‘out-of-the-box’ rifles; Remington, Winchester, Ruger, Savage, Tikka, Browning, Sako or similar, using the original manufacturers parts. Some ‘adjustments’ are permitted, but not the replacement of parts. The rules governing F(M) qualified rifles have been devised to create a low cost class for competitors and in the recognition that the majority of mass-produced rifles are not capable of accuracy equal to the sophisticated F(O) class rifles chambered in custom, wildcat or specialist calibres. - The rifle must be ‘as manufactured’ and available in quantity, as described in the manufacturers catalogue (i.e. mass produced). This excludes specialist TR guns or Bench Rest actions, wildcat calibres and custom built guns. There is no restriction on the type of rifle that can be used; bolt action, falling block, lever action or semi-automatic rifles are acceptable.
- It must have the original manufacturers barrel.
- It must have the original trigger (which can be adjusted or tuned).
- It must have the original stock (which can be reshaped).
- It must have the original chamber (no re-working or improving).
- It can be any calibre (subject to range rules).
- It can be bedded and floated in the original stock.
- The barrel can be re-crowned.
- It can have any type of sight system.
- As in F(O) class, any type of front and rear rests may be used.
- Factory or hand loaded ammunition may be used.
Below you will see a view of several competitors during a precision rifle competition. In the foreground is our very own Keith Cunningham! | 
