A Thrilling Display of Marksmanship
The 2024 Nova Scotia Rifle Association (NSRA) Open Precision Rifle Match, held at Bull Meadow Range Complex near Halifax, proved to be an exhilarating event that showcased the province’s top marksmen. The competition, which took place on Saturday, September 28, 2024, drew participants from various clubs across Nova Scotia, with Metro Rifle & Pistol Club making a particularly strong showing.
Challenging Conditions and Impressive Performances
Competitors faced formidable challenges, including targets positioned over half a kilometre away, just waiting to ‘pop’ over a crest for a few seconds, and unpredictable wind conditions. Despite these obstacles, several shooters demonstrated exceptional skill and composure.
Our own ‘Gary the Great’ burrowed in the grass on the ridge like a Saskatchewan prairie dog! His ‘Cadex’, one of the finest rifles known to man, at the ready, waiting…
Dead Eye Joe, with his trusty ‘laser’, dialed in just at a little over 2 MOA for the 500m shot. His laser and a razor sharp focus, in anticipation of what’s to come…
Lars, the backbone of the Canadian Forces Shooting Team, a direct descendent of Mars himself, behind his smoke pole firing a honkin’ big .168 grain pill! Anxiously awaiting the fog to lift to send a single round to its mark…
Chris King, described as a seasoned hunter, achieved a remarkable “possible” at 500 meters (all 5 shots in the bull), earning him an on-the-spot medal for his outstanding performance.
Gary, narrowly missed a silver medal due to a single shot affected by what observers called “freak winds”.
Me… I was loading bullets in the parking lot!
Diverse Challenges and Equipment
The match featured a variety of challenges, including a target at 800m, shooting the first shot (“cold bore”) with no sighter at 500m, and moving targets at extreme distances, which tested the limits of even the most experienced shooters:
▪ 2 misses on a moving target (friggin’ freak wind change!) cost Joe a bronze medal.
▪ I had a jam after the first round on a stage, that was costly!!!
Metro Club’s Strong Showing
With big Mike’s coaching, the Metro Rifle & Pistol Club had an impressive outing, securing 4th, 5th, and 6th places in the open class. In the “Classic” .308 Winchester category, Metro Club members claimed 4th and 11th positions, demonstrating the club’s depth of talent. Smoking results!!!
Camaraderie and Celebration
Following the intense competition, participants gathered for a well-deserved celebration, enjoying steaks and beverages while recounting the day’s events. What a great start to the long weekend!
The 2024 NSRA Open Precision Rifle Match not only showcased individual marksmanship but also highlighted the growing popularity and competitiveness of precision rifle shooting in Nova Scotia.
Mike Kelly
MRPC President
Photos:
Courtesy of Mike Holland and Mike Kelly
