Re: F-T/R Bullet Weight Cap (proposed), discussion.
I've seen factory gun formulas come and go here over the past decade. In practice, I don't think they are really workable. I also doubt that A) factory guns are truly generic, and believe that B) shooters are the key factor, regardless of what they are shooting.
I honesty believe that of all the makers, Savage has the best commitment to competitive shooters, and that the idea of a bank of factory rifles could be made to work if the liability issues could be resolved. Good luck with that.
I like the idea of fostering beginners. After considering it for many years and seeing proposals, I just don't think that anyone has (or will) come up with the magic plan.
Tactical addressed the question of numbers at events, and I replied thus:
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Greg Langelius *</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I think one improves the numbers of shooters at the higher levels of competition by investing more recruiting effort at the less stressful end of the competitive spectrum. I believe, personally, that it's more than just an option. One cannot expect participation gains at the top levels without investing one's own time into some sort of tangible grassroots outreach. If we don't, who will? Looking around, I don't see that person anywhere but in a mirror.
That's what STP is doing (and rather successfully, I'll venture), with the FV program our local club runs.
It pits the new shooter against an MOA-consistent to F Class target at a more reasonably acessible local range. It stresses an informal manner that follows a similar course of fire, and allows for an ensemble approach to aid and assist the shooter toward success in a many practical ways as possible. No, repeat no, awards are given; just scores posted where the shooters can find them ASAP afterward online (on this forum under the FV250 label).
The shooter is nurtured into a more enjoyable involvement to competitive shooting, but with the emphasis on gradual improvement rather than vying for top status. They learn at their own pace, with readily available assistance, and 'go for it' whenever they're ready, no peer pressure, and with the full support of their fellow participants.
Success is measured in repeat participation, improving performance, better cognizance of the tasks and routines involved, and some growing insurgence toward simalar programs at neighboring clubs.
I think it's working.
BTW, it's the <span style="font-style: italic"><span style="font-weight: bold">only</span></span> competitive program our Club runs on a frequent and regular basis. An average good turnout probably runs around a dozen shooters; but perhaps twice as many have appeared on occasion, with women and teens often prominent in the pack. Not at all oddly, the skill sets run the full gamut, and nobody feels either unwelcome or outclassed. The program runs twice each month when the snow isn't obviating a seasonal break. For a local club program, I think it gets full marks.</div></div>
Greg