NRA BB Gun Safety and Competition Rules:
A Comprehensive Guide
This resource provides a concise and accurate overview of key safety guidelines and competition
regulations governing National Rifle Association (NRA) BB gun shooting. Whether you're a
beginner learning the fundamentals or a seasoned competitor brushing up on the rules, this guide
offers essential information for safe and fair participation.
I. Fundamental Safety Rules:
1. Always keep your finger off the trigger until your sights are aligned with the target
and you are ready to shoot. This is a cornerstone of safe gun handling and prevents
accidental discharges. (True)
2. Consistently adhere to NRA safety rules when handling or storing any gun.
Responsible gun ownership demands unwavering commitment to safety protocols.
(True)
3. Dry firing should never be considered a casual activity permissible anytime,
anywhere. Safe practice requires a designated safe area and confirmation that the firearm
is unloaded. (False)
4. Ground cloths are not permitted for use in the standing shooting position. Their
purpose is to provide a stable platform in other positions without offering artificial
support in standing. (False)
5. Wearing a shooting jacket or heavy sweatshirt is not allowed in the IBBGCM
(International BB Gun Competition Match). Standard attire rules ensure a level
playing field. (False)
6. The forearm of your rifle can have a maximum of four holes designed to
accommodate screws for sling attachment. This specification ensures equipment
consistency. (True)
, 7. Only round .177 (4.5 mm) lead or steel BBs are permitted for competition. This
standardizes ammunition and ensures fair performance. (True)
8. On the official NRA target, AR-4/10 (with 12 bullseyes), the eight, nine, and ten
scoring rings are printed in black. This is a key feature for accurate scoring. (True)
9. In BB gun competitions, normal street shoes or light athletic shoes are permitted,
provided they do not extend above the ankle. Specialized shooting boots or shoes are
not allowed, and mismatched pairs are acceptable. (False)
10. The maximum permissible weight for an unloaded BB gun in competition is 6 lbs.,
excluding the sling. This weight restriction ensures fair equipment standards. (True)
11. Each firing point on the range must have a minimum width of four feet. This
provides adequate space for each competitor. (True)
12. The designated shooting distance to the target in a 5-meter BB gun match is 16 feet
4 inches (approximately 5 meters). This precise distance is crucial for consistent
competition. (False)
13. The standard course of fire in NRA BB gun competition includes four positions:
prone, standing, sitting, and kneeling. This tests a competitor's skill in various shooting
stances. (False)
14. In the sitting position, a competitor's elbows must rest on the legs at or below a
point 6 inches from the bend of the arm (defined as the elbow). Resting elbows
above this point is not permitted. This rule defines the allowable support in the sitting
position. (False)
15. In BB gun competition, each competitor is allowed one minute per record shot. This
time limit ensures a consistent pace for the match. (True)
16. BB guns must remain uncocked until the competitor is called to the firing line and
the designated preparation period has commenced. This is a critical safety protocol.
(True)
17. If a target falls, is blown from its holder, or becomes dislodged, the competitor or
their coach must immediately notify the Range Officer, who will then inform the
Chief Range Officer. This ensures fair handling of equipment malfunctions. (True)