Benchrest rules

Benchrest rules

These rules establish standards and requirements for The Cast Bullet Association, Inc. (CBA)  competition. They will remain in effect until officially superseded or amended.

For a downloadable version of the rules click HERE.

The Cast Bullet Association, Inc.

OFFICIAL RULES FOR COMPETITION

THIRD EDITION

Amended Effective April 1, 2023

 

 

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

                               Section                                                            Page      

                                                           

 1.       TYPES OF COMPETITION   ----------------------------------------------------------           2

 2.       ELIGIBILITY OF COMPETITORS   -------------------------------------------------             3

 3.       COMPETITORS' DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES   -----------------------              4

 4.       AMMUNITION REQUIREMENTS   -------------------------------------------------              4  

 5.       EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS   ---------------------------------------------------              4

 6.        TARGET REQUIREMENTS   ---------------------------------------------------------                   6

 7.        TIME LIMITS  ------------------------------------------------------------------------------             7

 8.        NATIONAL RECORDS   ----------------------------------------------------------------             8

 9.        RANGE STANDARDS   -----------------------------------------------------------------             9

10.       DUTIES OF THE MATCH DIRECTOR   --------------------------------------------              9

11.      COMPETITION REGULATIONS AND RANGE OPERATION   -------------              10

12.       SCORING   ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------            12

13.       DECISION OF TIES   --------------------------------------------------------------------            13

14.       PROTESTS   -------------------------------------------------------------------------------            14

15.       REVISIONS TO RULES FOR COMPETITION   ----------------------------------            15

16.       ADDING A NEW CLASS OF COMPETITION----------------------------------------          15

17        DETERMINING POINTS FOR THE GRAND NATIONAL CHAMPION                      16

18        INDIVIDUAL GROUP RECORDS                ----------------------------------------------------         18                                                                         

 

 

These rules establish standards and requirements for The Cast Bullet Association, Inc. (CBA) competition.  They will remain in effect until officially superseded or amended.

 

 

 

 

Section 1     TYPES OF COMPETITION

 

1.1            Definitions

 

                        (a)        Match - The firing of a single target card.

 

                        (b)        Event - The firing of all programmed score/group matches at one distance.

 

                        (c)        Shoot - The firing of one or more events in a single day.

 

(d)       Tournament - The firing of two Benchrest score or score and group events over a period of two or more successive days.  Standing matches may be included at  the option of the Tournament Director.

 

1.2            Registered Shoot - A series of shoulder-to-shoulder matches covered by an official program approved by the Director of Registered Competition and conducted in full accordance with these rules. Registered Shoots may be conducted any time other than the actual dates of the National Tournament.  At least four CBA member competitors must actually fire in each event.

 

1.3            With the approval of the Match Director, the four required competitors may be any combination of Bench Rest and Military Rifle competitors each competing within the appropriate set of rules.  The results of such a combination shoot should be reported to the Director of Registered Competitions with the Bench Rest and Military Rifle competitors separated by an appropriate heading to clearly identify the two types of competition. If four or more Military Rifle competitors participate in a Bench Rest match, the Military Rifle results are to be sent directly to the Director of Military Shooting.   

 

1.4            Registration and Match Fees – The Match Director will provide a schedule of match dates and other pertinent information for all Registered Shoots and submit an application to the Director of Registered Competition, or designee per rule 10.1.

 

1.5            Regional Championship - A registered shoot or tournament in accordance with 1.2, designated in advance by the Regional Director as the annual Regional championship and so announced in the official journal.

                                                                             

1.6               National Tournament - An annual registered competition sponsored by CBA and designated by the Director of National Competition as the National Tournament. Dates of the annual National Tournament, no compelling reason otherwise, shall be the weekend following Labor Day. Only courses of fire for which CBA National Records are recognized may be fired at a National Tournament. Unclassified entries are not permitted. To be eligible for designation as the Grand National Champion or as the National Champion of an individual class on the permanent record (aka “traveling trophy”) a shooter must shoot in a qualified class of at least ten percent of the total number of shooters entered in the National Tournament (See Note 2 in Section 17.( However, the individual with the most points in each class with at least two shooters will be awarded the national champion trophy for that class whether the class qualified with ten percent or not. The National Tournament Grand Championship Trophy shall be awarded on the basis of Benchrest score or score and group matches totaling at least 80 record shots.  Half of the total number shall be fired at each of two range distances.  At least 40 record shots shall be for score.  (See Section 17 for the procedure for determining the Grand National Champion.)

                   

1.7            Postal Match - An unregistered single match, a series of matches and/or an aggregate whereby the competitor fires on his own local range under the rules of the particular match program and submits his fired target(s) by mail to the Director of Postal Competition for scoring.  Conduct of unregistered matches may follow or vary from these rules at the discretion of the Director of Postal Competition.    

 

1.8            Assisted Shoot - An unregistered shoulder-to-shoulder competition of precision marksmanship sponsored by another organization. Exclusive use of ammunition in accordance with Section 4 is required but conformance with other CBA rules is not mandatory. Publicity and in some cases awards are provided on approval of the President.

 

1.9            Firing Positions

 

(a)        Bench rest - Seated at a shooting bench with the firearm supported by sandbags.

 

(b)        Standing - Erect on both feet with no other portion of the body touching the

ground or any supporting surface. Rifles will be supported by both hands and one shoulder only.  The elbow or upper part of the forward arm may be placed  against the body or rested on the hip.  Shooting coats, palm rests, slings, and hook buttplates are permitted.  Handguns shall be supported by the hands only; the arms may not touch the body.

 

 

Section 2     ELIGIBILTY OF COMPETITORS

 

2.1            Classified Competition - In CBA Registered Shoots, Regional Championships, National Tournaments, and Postal Matches entry is restricted to CBA members, associate members and on a reciprocal basis, members of The National Benchrest Shooters Association and International Benchrest Shooters.

 

2.2            Unclassified Entries - When firing points are readily available, Match Directors may permit members or non-members paying the required entry fee to fire at a registered shoot as unclassified entries. Ammunition conforming to Section 4 and equipment conforming to Section 5 are not required.  Targets not conforming to Section 6 may be allowed at the option of the Match Director. Unclassified entries are not competitors or eligible for awards. Completion of a technical data form is required.  Targets are scored and scores may be reported to the Director of Registered Competition for publication as unclassified entries.

 

2.3            Physically Handicapped Shooters - Competitors who are unable to fire from prescribed positions or must use special equipment may petition the Board of Directors for exception. Accompanying photographs, medical opinions or other supporting documentation will be considered.  Exceptions granted will be signed by the President and may be requested for inspection by the Match Director at Registered Competition.

 

Section 3     COMPETITORS' DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

 

3.1            Discipline - It is the duty of each competitor to cooperate with Match Officials and to promptly call the attention to proper officials of any infraction of rules of safety or good sportsmanship.  No competitor may fire under an assumed name, nor may he substitute for another in a match, nor register, enter, or fire in the name of another. 

 

3.2            Knowledge of Program - It is the competitors' responsibility to be familiar with the Shoot program.

 

3.3            Technical Data on Competitor's Equipment and Ammunition - shall be supplied on an official form before the competitor fires.

 

3.4            Reporting at the Firing Point - Competitors must report properly equipped to their assigned firing point immediately when called by the Range Officer.

 

3.5            Loading - No competitor will load any firearm except at the firing point and after the Range Officer has given the command "Load".

 

3.6            Cease Firing - All firearms will be unloaded immediately upon the command "Cease Firing".  Actions will remain open.  Bolts will be removed from bolt action rifles.

 

3.7            Checking Scores - Competitors are responsible for checking their own scores.

 

3.8            Assisting with Targets - Competitors will serve as target detail whenever required under the program of an individual Shoot.

 

Section 4     AMMUNITION REQUIREMENTS

 

4.1            Cast Bullet – A projectile made of lead or lead alloy which has received its basic form by being cast of molten metal in a mold rather than being formed in a die.  Except in the Plain Base Bullet class, a gas check having a sidewall height of no more than 0.10” may be attached to the base.  Enlarging or reducing a cast bullet by bumping or swaging is permitted.  Surface treatments of bullets with materials similar to lee Liquid Alox, Molybdenum disulfide (Moly), paper, paint, and Teflon tape are permitted.  Polymer coating by liquid or powder methods is also permitted except in Plain Base Bullet Class.  Metallic coverings such as jackets or plating are not permitted.

 

4.2            Cast Bullet Cartridge - An assembled round consisting of a primed center-fire cartridge case, a propellant charge, and a bullet meeting the requirements of 4.1.

 

                

Section 5     EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS

 

5.1            Rifles - Rifles authorized for use in CBA competitions must be chambered for a center-fire cartridge.  There is no restriction on barrel length except that imposed by law. Any safe trigger may be used. Forearm width (except Unrestricted Rifle) may not exceed three inches.  Weight of the rifle with sights attached is governed by the restrictions of the class in which it is entered.  A rifle may be entered in any class for which it meets the restrictions by designating that class on the Technical Data Form before firing.

 

5.2            Production Rifle - A factory produced rifle manufactured in a quantity of at least 1000 units over any 12 month period. Rifles produced by a manufacturer's custom shop are prohibited. Factory sights and ejector may be removed, but all other parts, including detachable magazines, must be present and functional when the rifle is weighed or fired.  Maximum weight is 12.0 lbs. (5.45 Kg).  Modifications judged to have been made specifically to allow the rifle to meet the weight limit are prohibited. The barrel may be shortened only from the muzzle end to facilitate re-crowning. The barrel's exterior may not be altered from factory specifications. The barrel must be chambered for its original cartridge and the chamber, including the neck, must conform to SAAMI specifications for the cartridge used. Non-SAAMI specification throating is allowed ahead of the chamber neck. Factory stock, action, trigger, and barrel, appropriate to the model, must be used. Factory stock contour may not be altered. Factory parts may be exchanged; however, a rifle reconfigured must duplicate a factory produced model. Except for the stock, action, trigger, and barrel, substitution of custom parts is allowed. Alterations not expressly prohibited by these rules are allowed.  Within the confines of these rules, Match Directors have full authority for determining eligibility of rifles used in Production Class with the sole exception of a rifle used to set a new national record, when the Board of Directors may overrule the decision of a Match Director.  Rifles using an original issue military action and barrel and meeting the Production Class weight limit may be fired in Production Class with no other restrictions.

 

5.3            Heavy Rifle - Any rifle meeting requirements of 5.1 weighing less than 14.0 lbs. (6.35 kg).

 

5.4            Unrestricted Rifle - Any rifle meeting the requirements of 5.1 without restriction as to its weight, stock configuration or guidance means.  The competitor must place the rifle and rifle cradle on the bench by hand. Breech seating is allowed.

 

5.5         Plain Base Bullet Class - Any rifle meeting the requirements of 5.4 (Unrestricted Rifle) may be  used in the Plain Base Bullet (no metallic gas checks) Class. The Plain Base Bullet Class  does not prevent the use of plain base bullets in other classes. Breech seating is allowed.

 

5.6       Hunting Rifle Class – The rifle may be either a, non-custom shop, hunting rifle produced in at least 1,000 units per year, or a surplus military rifle that has been for sale to the public. It must be in original factory condition except for the following allowed changes.  The original trigger may be adjusted.  The stock may be shortened up to 1.5 inches, a recoil pad added, rebedded, and the barrel channel opened to allow the barrel to free float but must retain its factory contour.  Parts may be replaced with equivalent factory parts. The barrel may be shortened up to 1 inch to allow a new crown but must retain its factory contour.  Replacement stocks are allowed on military rifles but the forend must be less than 2 inches wide and have a convex cross section. Additional allowable changes to military rifles that clearly don’t confer advantages to the shooter include replacing safeties, floorplates, trigger guards, and bolt handles, as well as polishing, blueing, installing sight bases and removing stock attachments along with the military stock.  Factory sights may be removed and any scope may be used.  Maximum weight is 9.5 pounds including scope and any removable magazine.  Any changes not specifically allowed above are illegal and will disqualify the firearm.

 

5.7     Long Range Handgun – A long range handgun must be designed to be supported by the hands only during non benchrest use and chambered for a center-fire cartridge.  Any safe trigger may be used. Maximum barrel length is 15 inches and maximum weight is 7.0 pounds. (3.18 Kg.) Barrel lengths are measured from breech-face to muzzle except for revolvers where the overall barrel length shall govern. Any sights permitted.

 

5.8       Unrestricted Pistol – Any firearm meeting the requirement of 5.1 without restriction as to its weight or guidance means.  The competitor must place the firearm and cradle on the bench by hand.  Breech seating is allowed.  The firearm may not have a buttstock, only a pistol grip no longer than 6.5” measured from the rear of the trigger guard.  No restriction on weight or length of barrel, other than an unrestricted pistol built on a rifle action must maintain a barrel length of more than 16” and an overall length greater than 26” to adhere to federal law.

 

          5.9      Sights – Any sights without restriction as to material or construction are permitted.

 

          5.10      Rests (Rifle) – In bench rest matches, rifles shall be fired from a sandbag front rest which may be supported on a      pedestal, and a sandbag rear rest supporting the underside of the buttstock. Neither sandbag will be utilized in a manner which will restrain recoil. Bipods of 2 pounds or less will be allowed in place of a front rest, but will not be allowed with any other front bag or support equipment. The bipod weight will not be included in the firearms weight.  Firearms entered in the Plain Based Bullet class, Unrestricted Rifle or Unrestricted Pistol Classes are exempt from these requirements.

 

(a)        Rests – Neither the front nor rear rests shall be attached to the bench, the rifle, to each other, or to anything connecting the rests. Forend stops are permitted. Flat shims to provide correct rear bag height for different ranges and “stabilizer” bases are also allowed. These may not be attached to the rear bag or to the bench.

 

(b)        Sandbags – Shall be of one or more materials which can be easily flexed with the fingers before being filled with a non-metallic material similar to dry sand.

 

(c)        Guiding Means – Any device, addition, contour or dimension on a rifle designed or adapted to co-act with mating or reciprocal features of a rest to guide its return to firing position making it unnecessary to re-aim the rifle optically for each shot is prohibited in all but the Plain Base Bullet, Unrestricted Pistol and Unrestricted Rifle classes.

 

       5.11   Long Range Handgun Rests – handguns shall be fired from a sandbag front rest which may be supported on a pedestal, and a sandbag rear rest supporting the underside of the buttstock.  Hard surface after-market additions to the buttstock are not permitted nor are hard surfaced rear rests.  The use of slings or straps to restrain recoil is not permitted.  This rule requires confirmation to rule 5.10 through sub-item (c) above.

 

       5.12     Wind Flags – Only those flags or other wind indicators approved by the Match Director may be used.  Personal wind flags which do not interfere with other competitors are permissible.  Calibrated wind measuring instruments are prohibited.

 

       5.13   General – All devices which may facilitate shooting and which are not mentioned in these Rules, or are manifestly contrary to the intent of these Rules are prohibited.

 

 

       5.14   Muzzle Brakes - Firearms with muzzle brakes, ported or slotted barrels will not be allowed in CBA registered competitions.

 

 

Section 6     TARGET REQUIREMENTS

 

Only CBA targets described here may be used for classified competition in CBA registered events. 

 

       6.1     Bench rest Target for Score - is decimal with concentric scoring rings proportional to the range.  The radius of each ring is 0.1 mil (one ten-thousandth part of the range) larger than that of the next smaller ring. Diameter of the 10-ring is .75" at 100 yards, and 1.44" at 200 yards.  The .072" X dot applies at both ranges. CBA's Official Score Target consists of one sighter and five record bulls eyes.

 

6.1.2 For all score targets in the National Tournament and all targets submitted for scoring as possible national records, only one shot per bullseye is allowed.  In regional or local matches either one or multiple shots per bullseye are allowed at the discretion of the match director. However, even if multiple shots are fired on each bullseye, a score aggregate must be fired as four separate 5 shot matches and each match must use the proper time required by Article 7.1 and consist of one shot fired on each of the five bullseye during each time period.  If a shooter shoots a score in the first 5 shot match that makes it mathematically possible to break the aggregate score record at that distance or 100/200 yard combined aggregate score record (if both distances are to be shot at the shoot or tournament involved) by firing a record breaking score in the remaining three or seven matches, he may shoot the following matches firing one shot per bullseye on three to seven separate target cards while the other shooters are firing multiple shots per bullseye during the same three to seven remaining time periods.

 

         6.2   Bench rest Target for Group

 

         6.2.1   Bench rest Target for Group - uses the same ring spacing as the score target with 

              an aiming area located above the ring center.  The aiming area is a 100 yd. 10-ring

              inside a square having the same outside dimension as the diameter of the 200 yd.

  10-ring.  The official CBA Group Target consists of a sighter bull below and a record bull  above.

              

6.2.2  Group targets submitted for consideration for National Record status from the National Tournament must include backers.  Regional or local matches are not required to include backers, but if backers were in use they should be included with the targets.  All targets will be examined by three different evaluators.  Those targets that are submitted for measurement without backers will be eligible for National Record status if all three evaluators agree that all holes can be discerned.

 

          6.3  Standing Target for Score - NRA official 100 yd. Small Bore Rifle target TQ-4 (formerly A-15) or A-25.

 

Section 7     TIME LIMITS

 

     7.1       5-shot score and group matches will be fired in 10 minutes elapsed time.

 

     7.2       10-shot group matches will be fired in 15 minutes elapsed time.

 

     7.3       10-shot standing matches will be fired in 15 minutes elapsed time.

 

      7.4      To allow competitors time to clean and/or reload, the range officer shall allow up to seven minutes from the time the target crew clears the range to the start of the next match.  However, if all competitors on the line agree that they are ready to start, the next match may start as soon as the range is clear and the proper commands are given.  When the range officer asks “ready on the left, ready on the right” a competitor who isn’t ready or sees a safety issue has the responsibility to call out “not ready” in a clear loud voice to ask for more time or to ensure safety.

 

     7.5       If a match is stopped in the course of fire, two minutes shall be added to the clock when the match is resumed, but may not exceed the original time limit of the match.

 

 

Section 8     NATIONAL RECORDS

 

     8.1       Records - Targets considered for recognition as National Records must be fired in registered shoulder-to-shoulder competition conducted in full compliance with these rules.  National Records must be approved by the Director of Registered Competition before being declared official.

 

     8.2       Courses of Fire for Which National Records Are Recognized

 

                        (a)        Bench rest "Score" for each class --

 

                                    [1]        Aggregate (total score) of four 5 shot matches at 100 yards.

                                    [2]        Aggregate of four 5 shot matches at 200 yards.

[3]        Combined (total) aggregate of four 5 shot matches at 100 yards and            four 5 shot matches at 200 yards.

 

                        (b)        Bench rest "Group" for each class --

 

                                    [1]        5 shots at 100 yards.

                                    [2]        5 shots at 200 yards.

[3]      Aggregate of four 5 shot groups at 100 yards.  (The aggregate is the

average of the four group size measurements rounded to the fourth decimal place.)

                                    [4]        Aggregate of four 5 shot groups at 200 yards.

[5]       Grand Aggregate of paragraphs [3] and [4] above is the average of four group size measurements at 100 yards averaged with one-half the average of the four group measurements at 200 yards, expressed as minutes of angle.

                

                        (c)        Bench rest "Group" for each class--

 

                                    [1]        10 shots at 100 yards.

                                    [2]        10 shots at 200 yards.

                                    [3]        Aggregate of two 10 shot groups at 100 yards.  (The aggregate is the

average of the two group size measurements rounded to the fourth decimal place.)

                                    [4]        Aggregate of two 10 shot groups at 200 yards.

                                    [5]        Grand Aggregate of paragraphs [3] and [4] above is the average of the two group size measurements at 100 yards averaged with one-half the average of the two group   measurements at 200 yards, expressed as minutes of angle.

 

                        (d)       Standing "Score" for Rifles--

 

                                    [1]        10 shots at 100 yards.

                                    [2]        Aggregate (total) of four 10 shot matches at 100 yards.

 

                        (e)        Standing "Score" for Handguns--

 

                                    [1]        10 shots at 100 yards.

                                    [2]        Aggregate (total) of four 10 shot matches at 100 yards.

 

     8.3       Co-held Records - National records may be held by more than one competitor when equal scores or groups are fired on the same date or when the record is unbeatable (200-20X at 100 yards.)  Otherwise, the score or group fired at the earliest date will be listed as the National Record.

 

Section 9     RANGE STANDARDS

 

9.1            Distances - Standard range distances for competition are 100 yards and 200 yards.  Tolerance on the distance from the firing line to the target face is plus or minus 1% of the nominal range.  When group targets are fired at 100 meters or 200 meters the group measurements may be multiplied by 0.9144 for direct comparison with those fired at 100 and 200 yards.

 

 9.2      Firing Points - Registered shoots shall be conducted from a range equipped with at least   four firing points and matching target frames permitting at least four competitors to fire from adjacent positions on a single relay.

 

 

Section 10     DUTIES OF THE MATCH DIRECTOR

 

The Match Director of each CBA registered competition will conduct all matches in full accordance with these Rules including:

 

10.1          Registration - The application for the planned competition is submitted to the Director of Registered Competition preferably two months in advance of the scheduled date.  If fewer than four competitors actually fire in all scheduled events, registration is automatically canceled.  Unclassified entries are not competitors and may not be included in the minimum of four who must actually fire.

 

10.2          Entry Fees – The Match Director will establish a fee for the Registered Shoot to cover all costs:  targets, target crews, statistical office staff, range officer, program announcements, advertising, signs, club fees, CBA fees, prizes, trophies, and all other expenses.  Prizes may be solicited in the name of CBA only for the annual National Tournament by the Director of National Competition or his designee(s).  The sponsoring organization assumes responsibility for any profit or loss. Competitions must be planned to be self-supporting. 

 

10.2.1       CBA Fees – As of July 2022, the CBA Fee shall be $8.00 per match.  This fee may be paid on a match-by-match basis or if the Match Director schedules all matches at the beginning of their season it may be aid at time of scheduling with the CBA.  For example:  this could be 6 months of a single match per month or 6 x $8.00 equaling $48 for the season.

 

10.2.1.1    This fee shall be re-examined at the annual board meeting to assure that it covers all expenses of the CBA for publication and support of necessary events.

 

10.3          Publicity - Appropriate announcement of competitions will be published in the official journal when approved by the Director of Registered Competition.  Information must be received at least two months in advance of the shoot date.

 

10.4          CBA Forms - Have membership applications, technical data sheets and score report forms available at the shoot.

 

10.5          Scoring Devices - The statistical officer is properly equipped with a set of plugs for score targets and a reticle rule for group targets. 

 

10.6          Entrant’s Membership Status - Each entrant's membership card will be inspected to ascertain the person's eligibility to compete.  A completed membership application with annual dues may be accepted from non-members in lieu of a card.  Receipt of such application and dues will be noted by the Match Director on that competitor's Technical Data Form.

 

10.7          Weighing - A suitably accurate scale is on hand to check the weight of all firearms during the registration procedure and the weight properly recorded on the technical data form.

 

10.8          Technical Data Record - A completed technical data form describing the equipment and ammunition used in the matches will be obtained from each competitor.  The Match Director or his designee(s) will review forms for completeness and readability while the competitors are still on the premises. 

 

10.9          Announcing Matches - The chief range officer orally describes each match for the information of competitors prior to the commencement of firing the match.

 

10.10        Passage of Time - Range officers will announce when there is one minute of time remaining in the match.

 

10.11        Inspecting Ammunition - At the discretion of the Match Director, ammunition may be checked during the course of the program for compliance with Section 4.

 

10.12        Reporting Scores/Groups and Aggregates - Scores/Groups, aggregates and grand aggregates are recorded and reported in an organized fashion for publication in the official journal. Applicable technical data will be suitably tabulated for concurrent inclusion.

 

10.13        Documentation of Record Breaking - Targets and any companion moving backers that evidence the possible breaking of an officially recognized national record will be carefully segregated and preserved for formal submission to the Director of Registered Competition.      

 

Section 11 COMPETITION REGULATIONS AND RANGE OPERATION

 

11.1          Actions Open - The action of uncased firearms must remain open at all times except when in use on the firing line. Cartridges shall be loaded one at a time by hand. Feeding from a magazine is not allowed.

 

11.2          Rifles Unloaded - Rifles will not be loaded until the competitor has taken position at the firing point and the command "LOAD" has been given.

 

11.3          Bench Assignment - The method of bench selection shall be determined by the match director. However, if requested by one or more competitors, then bench assignment shall be by drawing or by bench rotation at the option of the Match Director.  Drawing shall be by individual competitors and may begin when a minimum of four competitors are present.  Bench rotation shall be conducted by each competitor moving a pre-determined number of benches to the right and shall take place at or near the mid-point of the program. 

 

11.4          Coaching - is permitted as long as it does not distract other competitors.

 

11.5          Use of Two Firearms

 

(a)        Events - A competitor may fire one firearm in one event (see 1.1b) and a different firearm in another provided the competitor registers twice and pays the regular entry fee for one firearm and a nominal fee (minimum $1) set by the Match Director for the second firearm.  Separate competitor numbers will be assigned for each registration.  Grand Aggregates are recorded only when the two firearms are of the same class with one fired for score and the other for group.

 

(b)      Classes - When more than one relay has been scheduled, a competitor may fire a firearm of one class in one relay and a second of another class in another relay.  The competitor registers twice and pays twice the regular entry fee.  Separate competitor numbers will be assigned for each registration.  Grand aggregates are recorded.

 11.6          Changing Rifles - No competitor will change his rifle during the firing of any match or aggregate unless it has become disabled and has been so declared by the Range Officer or Match Director.

 

11.7          Disabled Rifle - is any firearm which cannot be safely aimed or fired, e.g., has suffered the loss of iron or scope sight rendering it impossible to properly aim at the target, has stock splits, or cannot be fired because of mechanical failure. Sight malfunction is at the call of the competitor. Once declared defective, the sight cannot be used from that point forward in the match

                

11.7.1       Sights Improperly Adjusted – Sights improperly adjusted so the bullet impact is not centered on the target do not constitute a disabled rifle.

 

11.7.2       Firearm Repair Procedure – A firearm once declared disabled by the Range Officer shall not be used again at that competition until the defect has been corrected and the rifle has been ruled as safe by the Range Officer.

 

11.8          Procedure in Case of Disabled Firearm

 

11.8.1       Competitor Duty -- If a firearm becomes disabled, the competitor will call the Range Officer and state the condition. The competitor will state their plan to repair the firearm or use a replacement firearm or sight.

 

11.8.2       Range Officer Duty -- The Range Officer, satisfied the rifle is disabled, will permit the competitor to use another firearm of the same class, replace the sight, or allow no more than five minutes to repair the problem.

 

11.8.3       Shots Fired at Time of Declaration – All record shots fired up until the time the Range Officer is called will stand as part of the official score.

 

11.8.4       Additional Time Definition – Additional time may be allowed equal to the time lost because of the disabled firearm or sight. The additional time shall be two minutes per missing shot plus five minutes for sighting the replacement firearm.

 

11.9          Misplaced Sighting Shot - When the first sighting shot ON ANY TARGET CARD hits outside or touches the defined sighting target boundary the competitor will inform the Range Officer of the location of such shot. The Range Officer will record the value and location of the bullet hole for the information of the statistical officer. No claim for negating a misplaced sighting shot will be allowed after the competitor has fired more than one shot. 

 

11.10        Incomplete Matches           

 

(a)        Not Completed By All Competitors - When a match is not completed by all competitors in accordance with the shoot's program, the match may be rescheduled or cancelled.  Any match which has been completed by all competitors will not be re-fired.  Only scores/groups of a match which has been completed will be included in an aggregate.

 

(b)        Inclement Weather - When rain or other weather conditions result in warpage, stretching or other damage to target cards and the match is stopped, it is the decision of the Match Director whether to scrap the fired targets and reschedule the match or to hold all fired for scoring or measuring when conditions permit firing to be resumed.

 

11.11        Refusal To Obey - No person will refuse to obey instructions of the Range Officer or of any other official when the instructions are given in the proper conduct of his office. 

 

11.12        Evasion of Rules - No competitor will evade, attempt to evade or be an accessory to the evasion of any of the conditions of a match as prescribed in the program or in these Rules.  Refusal of a competitor or match official to give testimony regarding facts known to him concerning violations or attempted violations of these Rules will constitute being an accessory to the violation or attempted violation.

 

11.13        Disqualification - The Range Officer, the Match Director or the Director of Competition upon proper presentation of evidence may disqualify any competitor or order his expulsion from the range for violation of these Rules or for other conduct they consider discreditable or unsafe.  Such unsafe conduct shall include, but not be limited to, failure to promptly obey range commands, pointing of a firearm muzzle in an unsafe direction or manner, rough or careless treatment of firearms, ammunition or components thereof, or evidence of intoxication or mental disorientation from any cause.

 

11.14        Suspension – For violation of these rules, or for preforming any act which gives unfair advantage or unearned credit relative to other competitors whether committed before, during, or after a match, any member may be, suspended or expelled from the Cast Bullet Association or subject to other sanctions as determined by the Board of Directors upon presentation of evidence and conduct of a hearing by the Board.

 

11.15        General - Adherence to the spirit of these Rules is essential. Nothing is allowable in local or regional registered shoots that would make a score or small group easier to achieve.

 

Section 12     SCORING

 

12.1          How to Score - First examine the target and count the hits to determine whether there are excess hits, misses, or hits of uncertain value that will require gauging.

 

12.2          Scoring Of Ring Targets

 

(a)        Location of bullet hole - A bullet hole, the leading edge of which breaks, touches, or is visibly tangent to the X-dot or any scoring ring is given the higher value, including key holed or tipped shots.  All X's must be scored.

 

(b)        Gauging - In case of doubt whether a bullet hole touches a dot or ring, the statistical officer will use a plug of the proper caliber to aid in making his scoring determination.

 

                        (c)        Hits outside the scoring rings are scored as zeros.

 

12.3          Measuring Group Targets - The group size is the distance between the centers of the two most distant bullet holes measured to the nearest one-thousandth of an inch.  The Sweany Reticle Rule is the preferred measuring device. The record target must have the required number of hits above the center of the target card. Insufficient hits as determined by the moving backer disqualify the target.  Excess hits do not disqualify the target but all hits on the upper half of the target are included in measuring the group

 

12.4          Excess Hits (Score)

 

(a)        On Own Target - A competitor firing more than the required number of shots on his own target card will be scored with the required number of hits of lowest value.

 

(b)        Misplaced Shot on Own Target - If a competitor fires more than the required number of shots on a bull but the total number of shots for the target is correct, the misplaced shots will be scored on the correct bull minus a penalty point for each misplaced shot.

 

12.5          Cross fires - No competitor will deliberately fire on another's target. It is the responsibility of each competitor to report immediately to the Range Officer any cross firing.  Crossfires will be scored according to the following rules:

 

(a)        When Shooting For Score - The competitor firing the cross fired shot will receive the hit of lowest value on the corresponding bull minus a penalty point. This applies whether or not the hit can be identified.  The competitor on whose target was cross-fired will receive the highest value for that bull.

 

(b)        When Shooting For Group - If the cross-fired hit can be identified, it will not be included in the group measurement of the competitor receiving it. The competitor firing the crossfire will be penalized by adding to his group measurement .500 inch for 100 yard matches or 1.000 inch for 200 yard matches. If the cross-fired shot cannot be identified, the competitor receiving it has the option of accepting the group or re-firing.

 

12.6          Early or Late Shots - If a competitor in a score match fires before the signal to Commence Firing or after the signal to Cease Firing, the shots of highest value on that target card, equal in number to those fired in error, will be scored as misses.  In group matches, early or late shots will be scored as misses and disqualify the target.

 

12.7          All Shots Count - All shots fired by a competitor will be counted in his score or group even though the firearm may be accidentally discharged.

 

12.8          Retention of Record Targets - Match Directors and statistical officers shall retain possession of record targets until all scores/groups are determined, compared, and aggregates tallied.  Competitors shall not remove fired targets from the "wailing wall" until permission is granted by the statistical officer or Match Director.  After grand aggregate scores/groups are determined:

                

(a)        All winning targets will be retained carefully at least 15 days for comparison with existing officially recognized National Records.

 

(a)     Other fired targets will be released immediately to competitors desiring them.

(b)     Individual targets or sets of targets which support scores/groups appearing to break official national records must be submitted by the Match Director to the Director of Registered Competition for scoring confirmation and decision on official recognition. Such record targets so recognized are retained in CBA archives. Record targets submitted to the Director of Registered Competition for appraisal as to the breaking of an officially recognized national record must be accompanied by the associated completed technical data form.

 

Section 13     DECISION OF TIES

 

13.1          Score Targets - Tie scores will be broken (in order) by:

 

(a)        If an individual distance (100 yd or 200 yd) aggregate, the highest score on the fourth target; if still tied, the highest score on the third target; if still tied, the highest score on the second target; if still tied go to (c).

 

(b)        If a grand aggregate, by the higher score at the longer range; if still tied then the highest score on the fourth target at the longer range; if still tied, the highest score on the third target at the longer range; if still tied, the highest score on the second target at the longer range; if still tied, the highest score on the fourth target at the shorter range; if still tied, the highest score on the third target at the shorter range; if still tied, the highest score on the second target at the shorter range; if still tied go to (c).

 

(c)        The X count being equal, the greater number of 10’s; if still tied, the greater number of 9’s, etc.

 

(d)       If still tied, by scoring from the last numbered bull backward until a higher value on comparably numbered bull determines the winner.

 

 

       Group Targets - Ties in group matches (competitors having groups of identical size) will be broken by the relative position of the competitors in match aggregate; that is, the competitor with the smaller aggregate group measurement wins the individual match.  Ties in a group aggregate will be broken by comparing the relative sizes of the tied competitors' groups.  The smallest individual group wins the aggregate.

 

Section 14     PROTESTS

 

14.1          Competitors in registered competitions may protest:

 

                        (a)        Evaluation of targets fired by himself or other competitors.

                        (b)        Conditions under which another competitor has been allowed to fire.

                        (c)        Equipment another competitor has been allowed to use.

                        (d)       Any injustice which he feels has been done to him.

 

14.2          How To Protest - A protest must be identified immediately upon occurrence of the protested incident.  The protesting competitor will:

 

(a)        State the complaint orally to the Range Officer or Statistical Officer.  If not satisfied with his decision, then:

 

(b)        State the complaint orally to the Match Director.  If not satisfied with his decision, then:

 

(c)        File a formal written protest to the Director of Registered Competition stating all the facts in the case.  Such written protest must be filed within 7 days after occurrence of the protested incident. The Director of Registered Competition will then forward the protest with a complete statement of known facts to the Board of Directors which will render the final decision.

 

14.3          Protest Fees

 

(a)        A fee of $2 is charged for re-evaluating a target or for simple visual inspection of equipment not requiring disassembly or special tools.  If the protest is sustained the fee will be refunded to the protesting competitor. If the protest is not sustained the fee will be added to the general revenue of the shoot.

 

(b)        A fee of $20 will be charged for processing any protest involving disassembly of equipment or special tools.  Disassembly will not take place until after the last match of the shoot in which the protested equipment is used.  If the protest is sustained the fee will be refunded to the protesting competitor.  If the protest is not sustained the fee is paid to the competitor whose equipment was protested.  A competitor whose equipment is protested has the option of refusing inspection.  By doing so, he disqualifies himself from all matches in which the equipment was used.

 

 

Section 15     REVISIONS TO RULES FOR COMPETITION

 

15.1     Members suggesting a change to the rules must submit a notice of the proposed change in writing to the Secretary.  If the proposed change is essentially the same as an issue that has been approved or disapproved by board vote within the past three years, the proposal is ineligible to be considered by the Board and the Secretary will notify the proposer that the proposed rule change must be delayed until three years since the last board vote. If the proposal is eligible for consideration by the Board, The Secretary will send a summary of the proposed changed to the Editor for inclusion in the next issue of the Fouling Shot.  Members will have thirty days after the notice is published to comment to board members.  After the thirty-day comment period, the Board of Directors may choose to discuss and vote on the change by email or wait until the next annual meeting.  The Board of Directors may make minor amendments either by email or during the Annual Meeting to proposed rule changes to avoid the necessity of having to make minor changes and present them the following year. The Secretary will then send the changes to the Editor for publishing in the official journal.

 

 

Section 16   ADDING A NEW CLASS OF COMPETITION

 

16.1     Proposing a New Class – The first step in establishing a new class is to propose a trial period to assess interest in the class. Proposals to allow a trial period will follow the same procedure as for any other rule change as outlined in Section 15 and must include a clearly written set of rules.  If approved, the trial period will last three years. A series of postal matches, specifically for the proposed class, should be offered to allow an estimate of the potential future participation. The member, or members, proposing the new class will be completely responsible for advertising, promoting, scoring the targets, and reporting for the postal matches during the trial period.  The Director of Postal Competition will offer advice and support but his/her responsibility should be minimized.

 

      The practice of having a “Probationary Period” will be discontinued except for Unrestricted Pistol and Hunting Rifle that are now being evaluated under the old, unwritten procedure.

 

16.2    Trial Period Entries -- Entries conforming to the proposed rules of an approved trial class may also shoot in registered matches.  Trial class entries are not competitors or eligible for awards.  Targets are scored, recorded and reported to the Director of Registered Competition.  At the end of the approved trial period, the proposer, with assistance from the Director of Registered Competition, will tabulate the number of entries and shooters that have fired in registered and postal matches for the Board’s evaluation.

 

16.3     At the annual meeting marking the end of the approved trial period, the Board shall vote on the question of making the class official.  To help the board decide if approval of the proposed class is in the best interests of the association, the proposer will furnish the Board a summary of participation in the postal and registered matches during the trial period.  A non-binding guideline of a minimum of 50 individual entries in postal and registered matches, over the three years, by at least 15 different shooters is suggested as the minimum level of participation for approval of a new class.

 

  16.4     Once the class is official, scores and groups fired in the first National Tournament that attracts competitors in the new class will establish the first set of national records.

 

            The first set of national records for the two proposed classes already in probationary status under the old procedure (i.e. Unrestricted Pistol and Hunting Rifle) will be determined by the scores and groups in the first National Tournament during their respective probationary periods.

 

            New records after the first official year will be established by the same procedure as other classes.

 

 

Section 17   DETERMINING POINTS FOR THE GRAND NATIONAL CHAMPION AND AWARDING OF MEDALS AT THE NATIONAL TOURNAMENT

 

This section defines the calculation procedure for determining the Grand National Champion.

 

Data Terms

 

1.    QC = A Qualified Class.  A QC must contain a minimum of 10% of total entries (See Note 1 at end of this section for detailed instructions for calculating.)

2.    TN  = Total Number of qualified entries = total of entries in all classes (QC.)

3.    N  = Number of entries in a particular qualified class (QC).

4.    TP  = Total number of points available = number of QC x 6 (based on a 3-2-1 system)

5.    PPC = Points Per Class = N/TN x TP.  (PPC should be carried out to two places past the decimal point.)

6.    PL = Total Number of Places available = number of QC x 3 (due to rounding in step 7, the total places determined later may occasionally not add to this exact figure).

7.    PLPC = Places Per Class = N/TN/100 x PL. (Round to whole numbers.)

Calculations

 

1.    PPC are proportioned to PLPC.

A.   Maximum points for First Place in any class are 3. For a small class (QC), First Place may be less than 3 and would be the calculated PPC when that number is less than 3.

B.   If enough points remain, points for Second Place would be 2 except for a very large QC which could use a higher figure like 2.5. If less than 2 remains the points for Second Place would be that figure.

C.   Points for Third Place and any additional places will be evenly spread to use up the PPC.

D.   The match director shall determine this distribution of points for each place before firing commences.  But must follow the procedure as outlined above and achieve a reasonably smooth declining set of values for the places in each class.

2.    Points will be awarded for all 100 yard aggregates (5 shot groups, 10 shot groups & score), all 200 yard aggregates and all grand aggregates spread as calculated above.

3.    Each Class Winner will be the competitor totaling the most points. In case of a tie, the competitor with the most grand aggregate points will be the winner. If still tied, then the 200 yard points will be used and then 100 yard points. If still tied, the winner will be the one with the most 10 shot group points, then 5 shot group points if still tied. The last criteria is the score points. If still tied, at the choice of the tied competitors, a one shot shoot-off or a coin flip will be used.

4.    The Class Winner with the most total points will be the Grand National Champion. In case of a tie, the champion of the class with the most entries will be declared the Grand National Champion. If the tied classes have the same number of entries, at the choice of the tied competitors, a one shot shoot-off or a coin flip will determine the winner.

 

 

Note 1: Medals at the National Tournament will be awarded to competitors in each Qualified Class for the same number of places as receive points towards the Grand Champions (See example below.) First place will be Gold, second place will be silver, and third place and below will be bronze. A gold metal will also be awarded for the small group (both 5 and 10 shot) in each Qualified Class at both 100 yards and 200 yards.

 

Note 2: A qualified class (QC) must have ten percent of the total number of entries in the national tournament.  However, the calculated number must be rounded off to the nearest whole number for making the decision.

 

Example 1:  For 44 entries the calculated number would be 4.4.  This would be rounded to 4 and four shooters would make a qualified class (QC).

 

Example 2:  For 45 shooters the calculated number of 4.5 should be rounded to 5 and five shooters would be needed to make a qualified class.

 

Example 3:  Procedure for calculating points for determining the CBA grand champion.

 

Assume:  43 entries with 14, 12, 9, 4, and 3 in the various classes.

 

Check for qualified classes. (Ten percent of total entries required.)

 

Ten percent of 43 is 4.3. Round to 4.  So all classes except the one with only three entries would be qualified as a class.  Number of qualified classes (QC) = 4

 

TN (total number of qualified entries) = 14 + 12 + 9 + 4 = 39.

 

TP (Total number of points) = Total number of qualified classes (QC) x 6 (based on 3, 2, 1.) = 24

 

Find the number of points for each class (PPC)

 

Class     N           TN      TP       PPC  

 

     1.      14    /    39   x   24   =  8.61

     2.      12    /    39   x   24   =  7.38

     3.       9    /     39   x   24   =  5.54

     4.       4    /     39   x   24   =  2.47

 

 

Find number of places for each class ((PLPC) = N/TN x PL

 

Class   N       TN        PL        PLPC    Rounded PLPC

 

HVY     14  /   39   x    12    =    4.31    >>   4

PRO      12  /   39   x    12   =    3.69     >>   4

HR          9  /  39   x     12   =    2.76     >>    3

PBB        4  /   39   x     12   =    1.23    >>    1  

 

Distribute points for places within classes

 

Places

 

Class     PPC         First    Second    Third     Fourth

 

HVY       8.61          3.00      2.50        2.00      1.11

PRO        7.38          3.00      2.25        1.50      0.63

HR          5.54          3.00      2.00         0.54       --

PBB        2.47          2.47        --            --          --

 

 

 

Section 18 Individual Group Records

 

A category of Individual Group Records shall be established to encourage CBA members to attempt record group targets when there is not a group match available.  Such record shall not affect the National Records requiring a registered CBA Group Match being shot “shoulder to shoulder” with a minimum of four competitors present.   National Records shall continue to be set only in registered group matches and at the National Match.

 

18.1    Individual Group Records shall be fired in a registered CBA Match.  Although this match may be a match for “Score Only”, allowing that the times for score and 5 shot group targets are the same, the CBA Match Director may allow the shooter to post a group target, including a backer system, on the range to be fired along with the score targets.  Targets shall be CBA official approved targets.  Such shooter shall obey all rules and regulations of the match being held.

 

                a.     Since 10 shot groups take an additional 5 minutes to fire, the CBA Match Director should make an allowance for this when allowing a competitor to fire for group.

 

18.2       CBA Match Directors are highly encouraged to allow individual CBA members to attempt to set such records, providing all requirements are met. The backer system used can be a range owned system or an individual’s own system, provided it meets the needs to record the necessary shots for the time period being fired. 

 

                 a.      CBA Match Director may charge an appropriate fee for such targets based on the fees charges for the Score Match (example only: $8 for a 4 target match or $2 per target, group shooter shoots 2 targets equals $4 fee)

                 b.     Only CBA members may request this provision from the CBA Match Director, all targets of non-members shall be refused.

 

 18.3      Targets will be considered for an Individual Record only after the target and backer are signed and dated by both the CBA member shooter and the CBA Match Director of the registered match at which it was fired.

 

a.       No other marks are to be placed on the target or backer, any such marks may disqualify the target.

b.      Signed, dated target(s), backer(s) and data sheet shall be physically mailed, within 30 days, to the current CBA Director of Competitions, or his designated scorer, for measurement.  Shooters status in the CBA shall be confirmed before acceptance for measurement.  After target is measured and checked the shooter will receive notification if it is a record or not.

c.     If determined that such a target is a record, the shooter will receive a special certificate designed to express his accomplishment.  

 

d.  It shall be announced in the official publication of the CBA, the Fowling Shot. Whenever possible a photograph, or scan, of said target shall also appear.   The shooter should also be encouraged to write an article for the Fowling Shot explaining his target etc.

 

e. No Individual Group Target(s) shall be accepted for this achievement without meeting the conditions stated.  Targets sent in without both signatures shall not be accepted, targets shot outside of a registered match and non-member targets shall not be accepted.

 

  18.4    Individual Group Records (I.G.R.) shall be established for all classifications currently presented by the CBA.  Records shall be for both 5 shot groups and 10 shot groups, 100 and 200 yards. Such records shall begin at a measurement set 15% below the National Record. (Example:  5 shots N.R (PBB). at 100 yards = .190, Beginning I.G.R. equals .190 x .150 = .029 + .190 = .219 beginning record) There will be times when the Individual Group Record may exceed the National Record, but it will not be considered as such due to the conditions it was achieved.

 

  18.5    The following are the beginning values of the Individual Records, by category, as of the date of the passing of this Rule.

 

Individual 5 Shot Group Records

PBB

LRH

PRO

HVY

UnR

UnP

HTN

100 yards

0.219

0.480

0.282

0.177

0.128

0.251

0.543

200 yards

0.578

1.355

0.925

0.371

0.499

0.530

1.319

Individual 10 Shot Group Records

PBB

LRH

PRO

HVY

UnR

UnP

HTN

100 yards

0.460

1.132

0.661

0.452

0.345

0.422

0.882

 

200 yards

1.193

2.537

1.521

0.888

1.019

1.160

1.970

 

 

 

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Amended effective:

Jan. 1, 1989; Jan. 1, 1990; Mar. 1. 1992; Jan. 1, 1993; July 1, 1993; Jan. 1, 1995; Jan. 1, 1996; Jan. 1, 1998; Jan. 1, 1999; Jan. 1, 2000; Jan. 1, 2001; Jan. 1, 2002; Jan. 1, 2003; Jan. 1, 2004; Jan. 1, 2005; Jan. 1, 2006; Jan. 1, 2007; Jan. 1, 2008; Mar. 1, 2009; Jan. 1, 2010; Jan 1, 2011; Jan 1,2012; Feb. 9, 2013; Sep, 29; 2013; Jan 1, 2014; May 8, 2015; Mar 22, 2016; Mar 27, 2016; Apr 8, 2016; Feb. 5 2018; August 1,2019; March 24, 2020; April 8, 2021; May 20, 2021; April 1, 2023;