CMP Service Rifle rules changes

[ocabj]

It looks like the CMP has made quite a few changes to what qualifies as a Service Rifle for CMP High Power competitions. Specifically:

http://thecmp.org/2016-cmp-rifle-and-pistol-rule-changes/

I'm actually apathetic about scopes. If you want to run a 4.5x powered scope, go for it. But this is going to open the door for some scopes that are designed specifically for High Power.

I do like how they expanded the criteria to including anything less than a 20" barrel, as well as collapsible stocks. This will invite more shooters into High Power matches who don't own a 20" A2 configuration.

[russ69]

I have a scoped AR15 that I have shot "in position". I think adding a scope is a good idea, it's time highpower reflected what people and the military actually use. Scopes bring their own set of issues. Parallax, repeatable dials, eye relief in different positions, etc. In the end you still have to hold hard and have good fundamentals. I see this as a good thing.

[alpha_romeo_XV]

[Army GI]

Wow, that is amazing. I do think that changing the rules that reflect the composition of US military service rifles makes sense. Although I do think there should be a version of the match that is for "as-issued" equipment only. As you mentioned, it might pave the way for dedicated high power scopes, but I believe you should only be able to use off-the-shelf ACOGs or whatever the military is currently issuing.

As far as now being able to use M4-geries, I think that's great too. I know Active Duty army is pretty much done transitioning into "pure fleet" M4s as the standard issue rifle.

There should be a separate match for M4geries ONLY since it would be dumb to try and compete with full length 20" rifles.

[highpower790]

Service rifle now has the additional cost of a scope/mount and for those wanting to shoot competition on a limited budget this could be a problem .
I see a time now should scores by scoped rifles be ahead of those traditional style service rifles by a wide margin a split class or one with a handicap system .

[wpage]

CMP was once a excellent resource for civilian marksmanship...

[LowThudd]

I think there should be separate divisions, but I like the changes made.

[ocabj]

As you mentioned, it might pave the way for dedicated high power scopes, but I believe you should only be able to use off-the-shelf ACOGs or whatever the military is currently issuing.

I'm waiting for pics to leak of a new custom 4x Nightforce scope being used by the USAMU for Service Rifle competitions.

You know it's going to happen.

[musketjon]

CMP was once a excellent resource for civilian marksmanship...

Don't confuse the DCM with the CMP. DCM did a helluva lot more for marksmanship programs than the CMP has. And then there was the NBPRP as well.
Jon

[milotrain]

1. The market is pretty small for CMP matches. If a custom scope is built it will be a loss leader or part of a larger AMU order. Nothing wrong with an up charge if you are getting what the best play with.

2. The scope is great for people with eye trouble who were already needing an optical lens in the rear aperture, for people who don't have eye trouble it introduces a lot more that can go wrong. (Fixed 200 yard paralax? Good luck with your 100 yard practice. Fixed 100 yard paralax? Good luck with offhand at 200. Variable paralax? Good luck affording it).

3. When guys are shooting high 190s at 600 yards with irons a requirement of optics doesn't exist. The Master who shoots irons will still beat the vast majority of people showing up for LEG matches regardless of what they are running, and at Nationals it will only matter for the High Masters who want the whole pile.

I have not seen a need for optics. I can see a desire for optics, especially by those classified as Experts and trying to get over the first big hard hump but optics are not necessary for this progress. When irons will net you a high 190 at 600 yards then optics are simply a game of Xs and weather mitigation. People win by Xs no doubt but only at the very top of the game.

[OpenSightsOnly]

Don't confuse the DCM with the CMP. DCM did a helluva lot more for marksmanship programs than the CMP has. And then there was the NBPRP as well.
Jon

The CMP is still continuing the mission of the NBPRP.

Did the people who got their DCM Garands use that for marksmanship practice?

Or, another way of asking - Did the people who got their CMP Garands use that for marksmanship practice?

Most can be found at the CMP forum exchanging parts for their builds!

[highpower790]

Never will I scope a service rifle!I take pride in my abilities to compete against those that are at or near the top shooting match rifles.To me a scoped service rifle is in the match class and as such I welcome the challenge,so long as my eyes hold out.

[Randomnamerealquick]

Makes sense, actual service rifles have had some sort of optic on them for years

[milotrain]

Makes sense, actual service rifles have had some sort of optic on them for years

That's right, and that is a major reason for the adaptation of the rules. The problem however is that the general service optics are as useful as tits on a bull at 600 yards. We were shooting a match at Pendleton one day and a Marine brought his M4gery with an aimpoint, did really good at 200 yards, and we finally got him on paper at 600 yards after about 12 rounds of "sighters". Shot the string and did alright considering. After the string was done we asked him where he was holding. "Right top corner of the left target's number board." Works good until the wind switches.

[wolf_walker69]

That's ACOG work at least, 2moa dot covers a freakin foot at 600yrds.
Right tool for the job, that tool is air support or artillery or a .50 these days.