Rimfire long range clubs/school ?

[G38xOC]

I'd like to get into semi long range shooting . I think its best to learn from rimfire first , then move up . I've been watching some really detailed videos about long range and its very overwhelming. Are there any clubs or school in California ( southern ) that aren't too expensive ? For those that already been there and done that , did you learn all by yourself by extensive range time /reading ?

[EmphaticThumb]

If you are interested in "precision rifle" type matches NRL22 is a good place to start. Matches are friendly and very open to beginners with lots of different gear that folks will usually let you check out. The regular NRL22 stages only go out to 100 yards, but side stages often go further depending on what is available at the range holding the match. There is a monthly match at Sage Range in Ridgecrest and West End Gun Club in Lytle Creek usually holds a few per year.

[G38xOC]

I'm familiar with little creek area and have seen shooting range just before entering canyon . I'll definitely look those up . thank you

[ARFrog]

Not enough background info OP.

Have you mastered the basics? A basic rifle class, Appleseed or Frontsight rifle class might be a good starting place to learn if you need info on POA, POI, sling work, basic scope, basic rifle skills, etc. in the 25 - 100 yd range. With a good foundation you can head in several directions depending on availability of long distance ranges.

I would think rimfire would be in the max 100 - 200 yd range with 25 - 75 yds more likely. So, I'm not sure if it fits with your semi-long range comment. I do understand wanting to master techniques and skills with a .22 cal format from a cost standpoint before expanding to larger caliber range work.

Reading and videos can be good - IMO practical experience is often a tougher taskmaster and therefore better.

Good luck with your journey OP.

[G38xOC]

Thanks arfrog , that got me thinking and realized there are more than just bench scope shooting trying to get tightest group .

I usually goto burro , they have up to 200yards and will be using 17hmr .

Before I can join any match or clubs , I guess I can practice all those things you mentioned .bench , prone , off hand , sling .. Etc .. Overall keep challenging myself .

[Fjold]

When you step up to centerfire, come on up to Cuyama we shoot 600 yards and 1,000 yards every month.

[ARFrog]

Thanks arfrog , that got me thinking and realized there are more than just bench scope shooting trying to get tightest group .

I usually goto burro , they have up to 200yards and will be using 17hmr .

Before I can join any match or clubs , I guess I can practice all those things you mentioned .bench , prone , off hand , sling .. Etc .. Overall keep challenging myself .

38xOC - somethings that might be of comfort:

- there is no one proscribed "right way" to do this

- there are a lot of fine people at the ranges and here on the forums that are happy to help you out, answer your questions, etc.

- many ranges have activities/clubs that perhaps you could observe as they "do their thing"

- everyone has to start learning somewhere and you are correct that ultimately it is a self-challenging journey.

- learn (in a safe environment) from other and your mistakes. It is character building to: figure out why your new scope/red dot just walked off it's rail; which rifle best fits your goal; which round appropriately cycles your rifle and doesn't foul it; how to control your breathing; wind age/evelvation/mil-dit/ranging/lions and tigers and bears, Oh My; how to maintain trigger control - even with a broken finger

So much to learn but it can be fun and calming at whatever level you achieve.

[ARFrog]

I don't mean to hijack your thread OP and maybe this should be the topic of a new thread but it might be instructive to hear from others what so called "screw-ups" were in actuality learning opportunities when learning to shoot rifles.

[G38xOC]

I have few screw ups from recent coyote hunting trips . but learning POI in different elevation is something I'll have to practice out in blm . dont think I be able to test at flat burro range . but by reading , I learned somewhat to do at different situation . just need follow up and range time needed .

[EmphaticThumb]

I want to second ARFrog's recommendation of Appleseed if you want to learn positional shooting with the sling, it is very good training for the small fee they charge. Here is a link to the list of events in California:

https://appleseedinfo.org/schedule/?qstate=CA&state=California

I have been to the event at Rainbow Range and it was very good with a knowledgeable and passionate group of instructors.