The exciting world of Target Rifle Shooting

Founded in 1908, the Mossman & District Rifle Club provides a safe and welcoming environment for everyone who wants to learn and compete in the sport of Target Rifle shooting.

Newsport spoke with Rick Mischlewski, captain of the Mossman & District Rifle Club and asked him why Target Rifle shooting is such an exciting type of sport.

Mr Mischlewski became a member of the rifle club in 1976 and has held several positions in the committee including treasurer, captain and president.

He participated in events including regional competitions, the Queens, which was held in Mackay every year and was part of the NQRA under 25’s team at the National Competition held in Melbourne in 1985.

“Target Rifle shooting is a long standing discipline and is sanctioned by the National Rifle Association dating back to the 1800’s”, Mr Mischlewski explains.

“It requires the shooter to hit targets at different distances, accounting for wind, mirage, breathing, posture, lighting conditions and trigger release.

“It demands physical and mental agility and skill, without requiring extraordinary strength.
“Shooting teaches discipline and patience, preparation and anticipation, accurate observation and judgement, safety and mutual respect.

“It is a sport for everyone, regardless of age, sex, physique, strength and stamina, all competitors compete on an equal footing.

“Our current membership consists of 28 members, including three females, ages ranging from 13 to 75.

“Saturday afternoons are spent shooting distances of 300, 400, 500, 600 and 700 metres. Members can coach and assist other participants to improve their skills and knowledge.”

History of the club

Mr Mischlewski said that according to club records, the Mossman & District Club was founded in 1908. 

He adds that details are a bit sketchy regarding the location of the club. “The club records show that a range was established at Syndicate Road in 1947 and then moved to its current location in Killaloe in 1956.  

“Several significant characters were involved in building the club house. Including Ron Schilds, Frank Clark and Sam Leonardi, a renowned target shooter who represented Australia on several occasions at Bisley, an international competition held in Britain.”

Disciplines

“Club members can compete in different disciplines, including Target Rifle, F-class and F-open class”, Mr Mischlewski explains. 

“Different rules apply to the different disciplines regarding rifle weight and trigger weight. “There are three grades within the Target Rifle discipline. A, B & C grade divisions are used and in some cases handicaps are applied to ensure that everyone, where possible, competes on equal footing.

“F-class is shot lying down, using .223 & .308 Calibre projectiles weighing 155.5 gram, utilising front and rear stands with scope sights. F-open class uses different calibres and different weight projectiles. 

“A newly introduced discipline is Hunter class which uses a bipod front stand and the rifle has to be off the shelf with no modifications.”