Fullbore Target Rifle (Sling & Palma)
Discipline Definition & Philosophy
Fullbore Target Rifle is a high-precision, long-range discipline where shooters engage targets from 300 to 1,000 yards using aperture (iron) sights while in the prone position. The philosophy is one of pure marksmanship: no bipods, no rests, and no magnification are permitted. The rifle is supported entirely by the shooter’s body and a specialized sling. Success is determined by the "wind coach" and the shooter's ability to maintain a rock-solid position through strings of 10 to 15 shots.
The Origin Story (History)
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The 1860s Foundation: Fullbore is one of the oldest organized sports in the world, evolving from British and Commonwealth military service rifle training in the mid-19th century.
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The Centennial & The Palma Trophy (1876): To celebrate the centennial of American independence, the first "International Rifle Match" was held at Creedmoor, New York. The prize was the Palma Trophy, a massive Roman-style banner. This event birthed the "Palma" style of shooting (800, 900, and 1,000 yards) that remains the gold standard today.
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Evolution of the National Teams: Over the last 150 years, the sport has moved from military-issue rifles to highly customized "Target Rifles." The US National Rifle Team (USNRT) was formalized to preserve this heritage and represent America in global competitions against powerhouse nations like Great Britain, South Africa, and Australia.
The Major Leagues & Sanctioning Bodies
US National Rifle Team (USNRT): The primary organization for US shooters pursuing international Fullbore/Palma glory.
International Confederation of Fullbore Rifle Associations (ICFRA): The world governing body that manages the World Long Range Championships.
National Rifle Association - NRA (USA): Sanctions the National Matches at Camp Atterbury and Camp Perry, where the storied "Palma Individual" and "Palma Team" matches are held.
The Rulebook & Scoring
For current technical rules regarding target dimensions and match conduct, refer to the following:
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International Confederation Of Fullbore Rifle Association : ICFRA Technical Rules
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Domestic US Rules: NRA High Power Rifle Rules (Section 3.1 for Palma Rifles)
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Scoring: Points are awarded based on concentric rings on a paper or electronic target (V-Bull, 5, 4, 3, etc.). In team matches, the Wind Coach makes the sight adjustments while the shooter focuses purely on a perfect trigger break.
The Standard Loadout (Equipment)
Unlike the tactical appearance of PRS rifles, Fullbore equipment looks more like a precision instrument built for consistency and repeatability.
The Rifle
Single shot bolt action rifles built specifically for prone competition. These rifles prioritize mechanical consistency and balance for sling supported shooting. Competition is strictly limited to .308 Winchester (7.62×51mm) or .223 Remington (5.56×45mm), which defines the ballistic envelope of the discipline.
The Iron Sights
Precision aperture sights are required. The rear sight allows extremely fine elevation and windage adjustments, often in 1/4 or 1/8 MOA increments. Front sights use interchangeable inserts so the shooter can perfectly center the target within the sight picture.
The Sling
A heavy leather or synthetic cuff sling attaches to the shooter’s upper arm and the rifle’s forend. This creates a triangulated support structure that stabilizes the rifle in the prone position.
The Suit
Shooters wear specialized shooting jackets made from heavy canvas or leather. These jackets provide elbow padding and structural stiffness through the shoulders and back to reduce movement and minimize pulse disturbance.