Field target

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Field Target is a precision shooting sport that simulates hunting small game. The sport involves shooting at life-sized replicas of game animals made out of metal and painted to look realistic. These targets are placed at various distances and angles in natural terrain, and they have a "kill zone" – a small hole or area that triggers the target to fall when hit accurately. Field Target competitions are held outdoors, and participants use air rifles or air pistols with telescopic sights to aim and hit the targets from various positions, including standing, kneeling, or prone.

History

Field Target shooting originated in the United Kingdom in the early 1980s as a method for hunters to practice their shooting skills in the off-season. The sport quickly grew in popularity and spread to other countries, evolving into a highly competitive sport with standardized rules and classes of competition. Today, Field Target is governed by national and international bodies, such as the World Field Target Federation (WFTF), which oversees international competitions, including the World Field Target Championships.

Equipment

The primary equipment used in Field Target shooting includes:

• Air Rifles/Pistols: Competitors use high-precision air rifles or pistols, typically powered by compressed air or CO2. The rifles are equipped with adjustable stocks, match-grade barrels, and fine-tuned triggers for enhanced accuracy.
• Scopes: High-quality telescopic sights are essential for Field Target shooting. These scopes allow shooters to accurately aim at the small kill zones of the targets at varying distances.
• Pellets: The choice of pellets is crucial for achieving high accuracy. Shooters often select heavy, high-quality pellets that perform consistently in various weather conditions.

Competition

Field Target competitions are divided into several classes based on the type of equipment used, such as PCP (Pre-Charged Pneumatic) and spring-powered air rifles. Competitors are also categorized by skill level, from novice to expert, to ensure fair competition.

A typical Field Target course consists of 25 to 50 targets, set at distances ranging from 10 to 50 meters. The targets have varying sizes of kill zones, usually between 15mm and 45mm in diameter. Shooters are given a set amount of time to complete the course, and points are awarded for each target knocked down. The shooter with the highest score at the end of the competition wins.

Techniques

Successful Field Target shooting requires a combination of skills, including:

• Rangefinding: Accurately estimating the distance to the target is crucial for adjusting the aim and scope settings.
• Wind Reading: Shooters must be able to read wind speed and direction to adjust their aim accordingly.
• Stable Positioning: Achieving a stable shooting position, whether standing, kneeling, or prone, is essential for accuracy.

Popularity and Growth

Field Target has grown significantly in popularity since its inception, with national and international competitions attracting shooters from around the world. The sport's emphasis on skill, precision, and outdoor activity contributes to its appeal among shooting enthusiasts of all ages.

See Also

• Air gun
• Shooting sports
• Metal silhouette shooting