Gallery Rifle

Gallery Rifle shooting takes place every Monday at our club. This exciting discipline encompasses the shooting styles that were formerly practiced with pistols before the 1997 handgun ban. Competitions are divided into smallbore (.22 caliber) and fullbore (over .22 caliber) categories.

While some precision competitions allow for single-shot weapons, our club members primarily compete in the Phoenix league, which emphasizes rapid-fire shooting. Smallbore competitions typically feature semi-automatic rifles like the popular Ruger 10/22, while fullbore competitions utilize underlever rifles such as those manufactured by Winchester or Marlin. We also have separate competitions for long-barreled revolvers, often featuring models from Taurus.

Phoenix League Competitions

The Phoenix league features three distinct Gallery Rifle competitions, each further categorized by caliber (fullbore and smallbore) and weapon type (smallbore rifle, fullbore rifle, and long-barreled revolver). Phoenix rules permit the use of both open and optical sights, with laser sights that project an image onto the target being the only exception:

Precision & Timed

This dynamic competition consists of three sections, all shot from the standing unsupported position with the weapon at waist height:

1. 25 Metre Rapid Fire: 12 shots fired at a 25-Metre range within a 2-minute time limit, including reloading.
2. 15 Metre Turning Targets: Two strings of six shots fired at turning targets that appear for 2 seconds at 5-second intervals.
3. 10 Metre Double-Taps: Six shots fired at a 10-Metre range, with two shots fired at each 3-second target appearance.

Multiple Target

This challenging competition involves shooting at four different distances, each with six shots fired at turning targets. The shooter must remain standing unsupported with the weapon at waist height.

1. 25 Metre Single Target: Six shots fired at the left-hand target within a 15-second exposure.
2. 20 Metre Split Targets: Three shots fired at each of the two targets within an 8-second exposure.
3. 15 Metre Right Target: Two shots fired at the right-hand target during each of its three 3-second appearances.
4. 10 Metre Split Targets: Three shots fired at each target within an 8-second exposure.

Precision

The Phoenix Precision Rifle competition allows for various distances depending on the target size. At Ross-on-Wye, we shoot at a 25-yard distance. This discipline requires 20 shots to be fired, and unlike the timed disciplines, shooters can take their time to achieve the best possible accuracy.

Muzzle Loading

The popularity of muzzle loading within gun clubs has seen a significant resurgence since the 1997 handgun ban. This is largely due to muzzle loaders now being the only true pistols readily available for shooting enthusiasts in the UK. While single-shot percussion muzzle loaders are common, revolvers reign supreme, particularly among those who previously enjoyed shooting cartridge-based pistols.

Powder, Projectiles, and Percussion

Traditionally, black powder has been the propellant of choice for muzzle loaders. While most shooters still favor this classic option, it's worth noting that the storage and transportation of black powder are subject to strict regulations. Alternatives like Pyrodex are available, though they are generally considered to be even more corrosive than black powder, requiring meticulous cleaning of the firearm after use.

For revolver shooters, there's an additional option: cylinders designed for clean-burning nitrocellulose propellant. However, these cylinders need to be added to your firearms certificate.

Loading a single-shot muzzle-loading pistol involves carefully pouring a measured charge of powder down the muzzle, followed by the projectile, typically wrapped in a lubricated cotton patch to ensure a good grip in rifled barrels. While traditional round balls are often favored for accuracy, conventional bullet shapes can also be used. The projectile is loaded through the same opening from which it will be fired, hence the term "muzzle loader." In percussion guns, a cap is placed on the nipple, and when the trigger is pulled, the hammer strikes the cap, igniting the main charge and propelling the projectile downrange.

Revolver Safety and "Chain Fire"

Muzzle-loading revolvers, while exciting to shoot, require extra precautions. The close proximity of multiple chambers in the cylinder presents a unique risk known as "chain fire." This occurs when sparks from one chamber ignite adjacent chambers simultaneously, resulting in a potentially dangerous situation.

Traditionally, shooters would seal the front of the cylinder with grease or tallow to prevent chain fires. However, this practice can create a mess on indoor ranges, so alternative methods are often employed. At Ross-on-Wye, we recommend using thick lubricated felt wads to seal each chamber after the powder and before the ball is loaded. These wads effectively prevent chain fires while keeping the range clean.

Competitive Shooting with Muzzle Loaders

At Ross-on-Wye, muzzle loaders are welcome in several exciting competitions:

• Precision Pistol or Revolver: Shot at 20 yards with iron sights, this competition challenges shooters to fire 12 shots in 30 minutes, with the best 10 shots counting towards their score.
• Bow Street Runner: This dynamic competition involves shooting at three different distances (25, 15, and 10 Metres) with varying time limits and target presentations, including turning targets and double-taps.
• Cavalry Officer: Similar to the Bow Street Runner, this competition features four strings of six shots at different distances, with varying time limits and target presentations, including multiple targets.

These competitions offer a blend of precision, speed, and historical flair, allowing muzzle loading enthusiasts to test their skills and enjoy the unique challenges of this discipline.

Prone Shooting

.22 Smallbore Section

Our Smallbore Rifle section meets every Thursday evening throughout the year. From October to the end of April, sessions begin at 7:00 PM, while from May to September, they start at 7:30 PM.

The primary focus is on prone shooting at 25 yards. During the winter season, we offer a variety of team and individual competitions for shooters of all skill levels. We also participate in a wide range of leagues, providing ample opportunities to test your marksmanship against others.

In the summer, we take advantage of the warmer weather by shooting both indoors at 25 yards and outdoors at a range located about 30 minutes from Ross-on-Wye. This outdoor range offers distances of 50 Metres and 100 yards, allowing for greater challenges and variety in your shooting experience. Competition shooting is available at both indoor and outdoor ranges.

Benchrest Section

In 2013, we introduced a Benchrest section, catering to those who prefer a more relaxed shooting style. Benchrest shooting involves firing .22 match rifles from a stable platform, using either iron sights or telescopic sights. This discipline is gaining popularity, particularly among experienced shooters who appreciate the precision and focus it demands.

Benchrest sessions take place on Wednesday evenings at 7:00 PM, typically twice a month. Check the club notice board for specific dates.

Whether you're a seasoned competitor or new to prone shooting, our club offers a welcoming environment and plenty of opportunities to hone your skills and enjoy the camaraderie of fellow shooting enthusiasts.

Air Weapons

Air rifle and pistol shooting offer an excellent introduction to the world of competitive and recreational shooting. Whether you're a complete beginner or a seasoned shooter, air weapons provide a safe and accessible way to develop your skills and enjoy the thrill of target shooting.

Equipment and Coaching

Our club provides both air rifles and pistols for those new to the sport. We cater to both right and left-handed shooters, ensuring everyone feels comfortable on the firing point. While we encourage members to eventually invest in their own equipment, our shared resources make it easy to get started without a significant upfront investment.

From your first visit, we prioritize safety and provide comprehensive coaching to build your confidence and ensure a positive experience. Our experienced coaches tailor their approach to your individual needs and skill level, guiding you from beginner to advanced techniques. We even offer training for those aspiring to compete at the county, national, and even international levels, including preparation for junior national training squads.

We are immensely proud of our members' achievements, including a bronze medal in air rifle at the 2012 Paralympics, demonstrating the potential for success within our supportive and inclusive environment.

Competition and Rules

All our air weapons are .177 caliber and use wad cutter pellets for competitions. Both rifle and pistol competitions adhere to the rules set by the National Smallbore Rifle Association (NSRA) or International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF). County-level competitions may have additional specific rules.

Our indoor range features electronic target changers at a 10-Metre distance, providing a modern and efficient shooting experience. We also incorporate timed and turning target competitions for added variety and challenge. While we don't currently cater to field target shooters, we encourage those interested in this discipline to contact a club specializing in those activities.

Welcoming Juniors and Disabled Shooters

We warmly welcome both junior and disabled shooters. For juniors, we ask that a parent or guardian accompany them at all times. While we have CRB-checked personnel, they may not be available on every occasion, and we prioritize the safety and well-being of all our younger members.