
NRA High Power is a precision rifle discipline shot at distances from 200 to 600 yards using iron sights or optics. The "Across the Course" format includes standing, sitting, and prone positions with time limits.
01 // LEARN
Understanding this shooting discipline
NRA High Power is a precision rifle discipline shot at distances from 200 to 600 yards using iron sights or optics. The "Across the Course" format includes standing, sitting, and prone positions with time limits.
Service Rifle division uses AR-15 pattern rifles with specific restrictions. Match Rifle allows bolt actions with specialized stocks and optics. The sport develops marksmanship fundamentals applicable to hunting, military service, and other shooting disciplines.
02 // START
Equipment, costs, and tips for beginners
Getting into high power doesn't require starting with top-tier gear. Focus on safety fundamentals, basic equipment, and finding welcoming places to learn. The community is generally helpful to newcomers who show up prepared with the right attitude.
What you need to get started
Know these before your first shot
Advice from experienced shooters
Realistic budget expectations
$800-1,500
Basic equipment to begin
$2,500-5,000+
Quality gear for serious shooters
Hidden costs to consider: A quality AR-15 with proper barrel is the best starting investment. Add shooting coat and mat as budget allows.
Compare your options
| Type | Best For |
|---|---|
| Service Rifle AR-15/M16 pattern, 4.5x max optics, 2-stage trigger minimum pull. | Most accessible starting point; uses common AR platform |
| Match Rifle Any bolt action, free rifle stocks, unlimited optics. | Maximum accuracy potential; higher equipment investment |
| CMP/Vintage M1 Garand, M1A, other military rifles. Historical categories. | History enthusiasts; CMP sells surplus rifles to members |
03 // ASK
Common questions about high power
New to high power? These are the most common questions from shooters exploring this discipline. The shooting community is generally welcoming and happy to help newcomers.
Find answers to common questions about nra high power rifle. Can't find what you're looking for? Contact us and we'll help you out.
A standard AR-15 with a 20-inch barrel works for Service Rifle. Many shooters use a Rock River, White Oak, or similar upper. Avoid short barrels or heavily modified lowers.
Service Rifle allows magnified optics up to 4.5x. Traditional iron sight matches still exist. Match Rifle has no optic restrictions.
CMP (Civilian Marksmanship Program) runs similar courses but includes vintage military rifle categories. Both organizations sanction legitimate matches.
Moderately. Standing (offhand) position requires fitness. Prone and sitting are more accessible. A shooting coat helps stabilize all positions.
A full "Across the Course" match takes 4-6 hours. Reduced courses and league formats are shorter. Plan for most of a day.
04 // FIND
Find high power events near you
An open practice session at Guth S Ville Rod and Gun Club. This is dedicated time for shooters to work on fundamentals, sight in firearms, test loads, or prepare for upcoming competitions. Your firearm(s) and ammunition Targets (or purchase at the range) Eye and ear protection (required) Any accessories you want to test or zero Contact Guth S Ville Rod and Gun Club for range hours, bay availability, and any guest policies.
This is a rifle match at 1000 Islands Sportsmen's Club reserved for club members on June 10, 2026. You'll test your marksmanship against other shooters in a competitive format that demands accuracy and consistency across different shooting distances. Rifle matches give you real feedback on how well you shoot under match conditions—tighter than casual range time, with a defined course of fire and scoring system. It's a solid way to benchmark your skills and see where your shooting actually stands.
A competitive pistol match featuring scored courses of fire. Depending on the format, this may include bullseye (precision), action pistol, or timed/rapid fire stages. Handgun (caliber and type per match rules) Ammunition (typically 50-150 rounds depending on format) Magazine pouches and holster (if action format) Eye and ear protection (required) Arrive early for sign-in and safety briefing If this is your first match, let the match director know -- most clubs pair new shooters with experienced mentors Focus on safety first, speed comes with experience Contact Renton Fish & Game Club for match format, round count, divisions, and entry fees.
Light rifle match at Marion Road Gun Club tests your marksmanship across multiple distances. These competitions push accuracy fundamentals and let you benchmark your shooting against others in a structured format. The match runs at the club's Macon location with a format designed for rifle shooters looking to compete without extreme round counts or specialized equipment demands. Shows up to see where your skills stand and trade notes with shooters who take their accuracy seriously.
Benchrest shooting is the pursuit of ultimate accuracy. Shooters fire from a stable bench rest, seeking the smallest possible groups. Competition is as much about ammunition preparation and rifle tuning as it is about trigger technique. | Detail | Info | |--------|------| | Distances | 100 and 200 yards typical | | Scoring | Group size measurement | | Divisions | Sporter, Light Varmint, Heavy Varmint, Unlimited | | Round count | 25-50 record shots per match | Benchrest or varmint-class rifle Front rest and rear bag Ammunition (match-grade or handloads) Wind flags (or use club flags) Eye and ear protection (required) Contact Hollywood Rifle & Pistol Club for match format, class divisions, and entry fees.
Marion Road Gun Club runs a rifle match that puts your marksmanship to the test across multiple distances. It's a straightforward way to see how you stack up and dial in your rifle's performance in a competitive setting. Shooters fire courses of fire at various ranges. The match gives you concrete feedback on where your rifle shoots and where your technique needs work. Bring ammunition and be ready to spend the day on the line.
05 // LOCATE
Ranges, clubs, and shops for this discipline