The Victorian Rifle Association, established in 1860, is a sports club located in Greater Bendigo City, Victoria, Australia. It is dedicated to the sport of Fullbore target shooting, which was originally designed to promote skill development and knowledge of shooting in general.
Participants of the Victorian Rifle Association include men and women of all ages and backgrounds. The sport welcomes both purpose-built target rifles, scoped rifles, free class rifles, and match rifles. Competitions are held at various levels, ranging from Saturday afternoon club shoots to local prize meetings, state “Queens” competitions, and even overseas events. Team competitions are also organised for club pennant teams, district, state, and national teams.
The most popular calibre used in Fullbore target shooting is . 308 (7. 62 mm). Skilled shooters using this calibre are capable of achieving group sizes of less than 2 minutes of angle over distances between 300 and 1000 yards.
However, the 5. 56 mm calibre is also competitive and preferred by some shooters. In addition to mastering the technical aspects of shooting, such as rifle handling and marksmanship fundamentals, shooters must also develop mental discipline and the ability to “read” the effects of wind and light, especially at longer distances.
Safety is paramount in Fullbore target shooting, and the Victorian Rifle Association strictly adheres to national standard rules to ensure the safety of participants on the range and to promote fair competition. The association encourages individuals to try the sport and emphasises that no equipment is necessary to give it a go. Those interested in trying Fullbore target shooting can contact their nearest club or reach out to the Victorian Rifle Association directly through phone, email, or mail.
The Victorian Rifle Association prides itself on its long history and commitment to the sport of Fullbore target shooting. It provides a platform for individuals to develop their shooting skills, compete in various competitions at different levels, and engage with a community of like-minded individuals who share a passion for the sport.