Disciplines 

Discover the Disciplines of the NSRA with Devon County Small-bore Rifle Association

Target shooting is an exciting, rewarding sport for people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities. Whether you enjoy calm precision, friendly competition, or just trying something new, there’s something for everyone.

At the Devon County Small-bore Rifle Association (DCSRA), we’re proud to support a wide range of disciplines governed by the National Small-bore Rifle Association (NSRA). Our local clubs offer excellent opportunities to try these disciplines, build your skills, and take part in competitions—or just enjoy the challenge at your own pace.

Here’s a simple guide to the most popular types of target shooting you’ll find at our clubs:

Prone Rifle Shooting – Calm, Focused, Traditional

This is the classic image many people have of target shooting—lying flat on your front with a .22 rifle, aiming at a paper target some distance away.

• Why try it? It’s one of the most stable and accurate shooting positions, ideal for learning how to control breathing and keep your aim steady.
  
  

• Where is it done? Indoors at 15–25 yards, and outdoors at 50 metres or even 100 yards.
  
  

• Who’s it for? Great for people who enjoy focus, patience, and developing precise control.
  
  

Lightweight Sporting Rifle (LSR) – Simple, Accessible, Standing

LSR is a fantastic choice for beginners. Shooters use a lighter rifle, shoot standing up, and don’t need any special clothing or equipment.

• Why try it? It’s easy to get started, teaches you balance and control, and is popular with juniors and adults alike.
  
  

• What’s involved? You aim at targets 20 or 25 yards away. Shooters use either iron sights or scopes.
  
  

• Who’s it for? Anyone who wants a fun and straightforward entry into the sport.
  
  

Benchrest Shooting – Accuracy without Physical Strain

In benchrest, you sit at a table and rest the rifle on special supports. This makes it easier to focus purely on aiming and consistency.

• Why try it? It’s ideal if you want to take part without having to hold the rifle’s weight yourself.
  
  

• Who’s it for? Popular with a wide range of shooters, offering precision and focus from a more comfortable seated position.
  
  

• Devon’s pride: Our county was the first in the UK to have qualified instructors and coaches for this discipline!
  
  

Air Rifle and Air Pistol – Olympic-Style Precision Indoors

These events are shot at 10 metres using precision air-powered rifles or pistols. The targets are small, the distances short, and the focus intense.

• Why try it? It’s quiet, clean, and ideal for indoor ranges. Airgun shooting is also part of the Olympic Games!
  
  

• Who’s it for? Great for young athletes and those with Olympic ambitions, hobbyists, or anyone looking for an affordable way to get started in precision shooting.
  
  

• Also popular: 20-yard air pistol is a uniquely British version, offering a longer challenge indoors.
  
  

Other Exciting Disciplines to Explore

Want to try something a bit different? Here are some of the more specialist forms of shooting supported by NSRA and enjoyed by shooters across Devon:

Long Barrel Pistol (LBP)

Specially designed pistols with extended barrels that meet UK laws. Often used in timed competitions, they provide the feel of pistol shooting in a legal and controlled format.

Match Crossbow

Not just for medieval re-enactments! These modern crossbows are shot from a standing position at paper targets. They’re quiet and precise—and surprisingly technical!

3-Position (3P) Rifle Shooting

Shooters test their skills in three different positions: lying down (prone), standing, and kneeling. It’s challenging and varied, an Olympic sport and a mainstay of international competitions.

Target Sprint

Run, shoot, run! Just like in the winter biathlon (minus the snow), this energetic event combines running and air rifle shooting. Great for juniors and fitness fans.

Inclusive for All Abilities

Shooting is one of the most accessible sports out there. Many clubs offer adapted equipment and support for people with disabilities, including those who are visually impaired. Everyone is welcome—and everyone can succeed.

What Happens at a Devon Club?

Your local club is a friendly place to start your journey. Here’s what to expect:

1. Have-a-go session – Most clubs welcome newcomers and offer try-out evenings with all equipment provided.
   
   

2. Beginner coaching – Learn the basics of safety, aiming, breathing and posture.
   
   

3. Choose your path – Whether it’s prone, benchrest, air, or LSR, you’ll find something that suits your style.
   
   

4. Enter local leagues – Postal competitions allow you to shoot at your own club and send scores in by mail.
   
   

5. Advance with confidence – As you grow, you can join county teams, national events, or even train to become a coach yourself.