Though threatened by various social and political reform groups, shooting, a competitive sport that tests the competitor's accuracy and speed using different types of guns like firearms and air guns is a popular Olympic event. Shooting tests a person's talent in different positions - standing and kneeling (prone). Olympics features Pistol, Rifle and Shotgun events in shooting where the competitors have to aim at a 10-ringed target from a given set distance which is usually 10m, 25m or 50m depending on the event. Shotgun events are slightly different as the target moves. Olympics has two rounds for each rifle and pistol event - qualification round and final. Points scored in these two rounds are added to find out the winner. The London Olympics 2012 takes place in a truly historic venue - Royal Artillery Barracks reminding the Royal Warrant authorized for the formation of two artillery companies at the Royal Arsenal in Woolwich. Read on to learn more about shooting, its rules, regulations and records.
Sailing Rules And Regulations
Shooting is one of the most popular sports in Olympics. Learn about the rules and regulations of this game and also have a look at the Olympic records in this discipline.
Shooting
- Shooting events in Olympics are subjected to the rules and regulations of International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF).
- Round targets are used for rifle and pistol events. Target consists of concentric circles. The smallest circle in the center is called bull’s-eye and gives you maximum points. The size of the target is different for different events.
- The task for shotgun event is to shoot down the clay targets thrown into the air. The contestant who breaks the maximum number of target is declared winner.
- Only one shot per target is allowed in double trap and skeet.
- Two shots each are allowed in trap event.
- 4.5mm (.177 inch) pellets can be used in pistols and the gun should be loaded only with one pellet.
- Semi-automatic pistols or revolvers should be used in rapid-fire pistol event. Compensators or perforated barrel attachments are allowed.
- Only 22-caliber rimfire single-shot pistols are allowed for pistol events.
- Action 22-caliber rimfire rifle can be used in the "rifle 3 positions" event and in prone. Thumbholes, palm rests, thumb rests, heel rests, and spirit levels are allowed.
- Smooth-bore shotgun 12 gauge or smaller is allowed for shotgun events including double trap, trap, and skeet. However, slings are not allowed.
History
Since 1876 shooting is an important event in Olympics and it has been featured in every Olympic Games except for two years 1904 and 1928. Women's shooting events has been a part of it since 1984. As years passed by, changes occurred in these games keeping it up with technological and social standards. Some events were dropped while some others were added. For example, Olympics shooting events included shooting live pigeons but now, candidates shoot on clay targets.
Since 1876 shooting is an important event in Olympics and it has been featured in every Olympic Games except for two years 1904 and 1928. Women's shooting events has been a part of it since 1984. As years passed by, changes occurred in these games keeping it up with technological and social standards. Some events were dropped while some others were added. For example, Olympics shooting events included shooting live pigeons but now, candidates shoot on clay targets.