First Varmint Rifle Competition

In spite of the windy conditions on Sunday, our first BMRPA Varmint Rifle Competition was a success. Sixteen shooters signed up and we had enough competitors for all 3 classes.

The wind was a real challenge. 10 to 15 mph was predicted but, judging by bullet deflection, it was a heck of a lot faster. Add to that the compound shifting over the burms. In the words of one of our competitors, “It was a humbling experience.” The targets appeared to be something new to our group, as well. There are 10 varmint silhouettes of various sizes, each having a small white circle within the shape. A hit in that circle is worth 10 more points than a body hit. At 200 yards, some of those circles are mighty small.

Top scores and winners:

Factory class: Despite the wind conditions, Richard Schatz shot an impressive 305 out of 400 with his .223 taking 1st place, Chris Brown came in 2nd with his .220 Swift at 245 and Jay McNamara shot 3rd with his .270, scoring 180.

Custom class: It was Richard Schatz in 1st with 205 using a 6 Dasher, Chris Strand, 2nd, shooting a .308 for 175 and Brent Lipelt, in 3rd, scoring 155 with a 6 Dasher.

AR class: There were only 2 shooters. Myriam Vennie took 1st with 85 and Steve Langlie, 2nd with 70. Both were shooting .223 cal.

The full tally is here: June 24, 2012 Varmint Rifle Competition Results

A few minor issues were found that we will correct for the next shoot. We found that, sometimes, a shooter would align on the wrong target after recoil. That resulted in an occasional cross shoot. At the next shoot, we’ll remind the shooters to verify their target number and we will provide numbers on the back boards to help. We will also give a 2 minute warning before cease fire. The windy conditions were something I should have considered. As a result, there will be a sight-in time anytime before 9:30 a.m. That will give shooters time to zero for conditions and allow time to set the match targets before the start of the match.

Yup, we’re going to schedule another match. Everyone enjoyed the challenge and opportunity to compete so much that I was asked to set up another match. I’ve put in a request to Tom Thompson to schedule a match for the 21st of July. As soon as I get word from Tom, I’ll let you all know via the web site.

I want to thank all who participated for their patience and their help in making the match a success. It was good to see everyone enjoy themselves.



Gary Vennie