F T/R Competition Like to try it out

[jambau]

I'd like to get into f-class but don't have the gun for it yet. However, my Tikka T3 in 7mm-08 can hold 1.5" at 200yds. with my handloads. I thought about starting with that to see how I like it. I'm afraid the rate of fire is too quick and will heat up the barrel too much and I'll start spraying bullets all over the place. I don't want to embarrass myself. Can anyone tell me what the course of fire is like. Would I just be wasting my time?

Tikka09

 

[memilanuk]

Re: Like to try it out

The course of fire is typically something like 2 sighter shots plus 15 or 20 shots for record with a time allowance of one minute per shot i.e. 17 or 22 minutes total. Expect to repeat this three times throughout the day, with about an hour or two between each stage.

Some smaller local clubs may have 200yd matches, but the official targets start at 300yd. Mid-range matches may run at 300, 500 or 600yds, with 600 being the most common in my neck of the woods.

Another variation that we have locally but may be harder to find elsewhere is 'Fullbore', where two people pair up on a target alternating firing. These matches tend to have different yardages (like 300/500/600 stages all in one match, vs. three stages all @ 600) and with the alternating firing, your barrel stays cooler.

I'd say find a match, and get out and shoot. It'd be nice if the gun held a little tighter, but it should hold well enough to put you in the 10 ring if you get the wind call right. When just starting out, that should be enough to whet your appetite and let you get a feel for the sport. If you later feel that its something you want to actively pursue, you can commit the time/money as needed to chase your goals. In the mean time, get out and shoot and have a good time!

 

[calling4life]

Re: Like to try it out

That is just fine, start shooting and you'll figure out what you need/want as you advance. You may be laying next to someone who's scope is worth more then your vehicle, then on the other side is a guy using a front rest that you need an engineering degree to figure out.

I am basic in my setup, harris bipod upfront, my fist for my back rest, midway usa pro shooting mat($50 on sale), and I use federal gold medal ammunition.

We have people that miss the targets completely, to guys shooting perfect 200's(20 shots at 10 points ea.).

But, you will grow, learn, and find that your "competition," is incredibly helpful in assisting that, it is well worth the entry fee.

 

[jambau]

Re: Like to try it out

As a correction to my original post: I innitially stated that my Tikka 7mm-08 could hold 1.5" at 200yds. The other day (a calm day) I managed to fire 7 out of 9 three shot groups at 200yds that measured less than 1 inch. The best was .560 center to center. However, as you know, when it's breezy it's a different ball game and I average about 1.5". This is why I'm so interested in getting into a match. I'd like to learn how to shoot closer to .560 on those breezy days too.

Thanks for the support,

Tikka09

 

[calling4life]

Re: Like to try it out

Set up prone and shoot 20 rounds, that will give you an idea of where you'll be at for fclass. No three round groups here.

If you're shooting off a bench now, and not used to prone, you're in for a surprise, but luckily this game makes for a quick learning curve. I'm still getting my arse kicked at 600, but shot a 195-7x at 300 last match. For a factory Savage, bipod up front, no rear bags, and factory ammo, I am mighty proud of that.

I went from a joke a couple months ago, never really having shot prone, to a score like that at 300. Now, to figure out what needs to be done about my 600yd scores... If you have the opportunity to shoot at 1000 as well, I can only imagine how fast your skills as a shooter will grow.

Good skill to you, have fun, and talk to the competitors around you, they can help to shorten your learning curve.
I've found that most will let you get behind their equipment as well, so, you can check out the feel of different stocks, clarity of different scopes etc...

 

[jambau]

Re: Like to try it out

calling4life,


I have never fired from prone. Only benched or seated off a bipod. Next trip to the range this is all I'm going to do. I was just testing this on the living room floor and I can tell you that the stock is definately not going to work from that position. Also, it puts my head in a position where I'm looking through the scope over the top of my glasses. Not good. And I need a bag/rest for under the stock. Well, at least I've learned that much already.

Thanks,

Tikka09

 

[Cigarcop]

Re: Like to try it out

Once you start shooting prone you'll hate shooting off a bench...Shooting from a bench is for Puzzies!!