01 // LEARN
What is F-Class Rifle Shooting?
Understanding this shooting discipline
F-Class is a long-range prone rifle discipline at 300-1,000 yards. Shooters use front bipods and rear bags for support, engaging paper targets. Named after Canadian shooter George "Farky" Farquharson, it was created as a more accessible alternative to traditional Palma shooting.
F-T/R (Target Rifle) restricts caliber to .308 or .223 with bipod support. F-Open allows any caliber up to .35 and permits front tripod rests. Both classes shoot at special F-Class targets with smaller scoring rings.
Types & Variations
02 // START
Getting Started with F-Class
Equipment, costs, and tips for beginners
Getting into f-class 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.
Essential Equipment
What you need to get started
Safety & Rules
Know these before your first shot
Pro Tips for Beginners
Advice from experienced shooters
What Does F-Class Cost?
Realistic budget expectations
$1,500-2,500 (F-T/R)
Basic equipment to begin
$4,000-8,000+
Quality gear for serious shooters
Hidden costs to consider: F-T/R offers lower entry cost with .308/.223 restriction. Used Savage F-Class rifles ($800-1,200) are club-competitive.
F-Class Divisions
Compare your options
| Type | Best For |
|---|---|
| F-T/R (Target Rifle) .308 Win or .223 Rem only, bipod attached to rifle, 18.18 lb limit. | Beginners and those wanting lower equipment costs |
| F-Open Any caliber to .35, front tripod allowed, 22 lb limit, no caliber restriction. | Those seeking maximum performance regardless of cost |
03 // ASK
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about f-class
New to f-class? 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 f-class long range rifle. Can't find what you're looking for? Contact us and we'll help you out.
For F-T/R, any accurate .308 or .223 with a bipod works at club matches. You will want a heavier barrel for competitive shooting as strings are 20 rounds.
F-T/R: .308/.223 only, bipod support, 18.18 lb max. F-Open: any caliber up to .35, front tripod allowed, 22 lb max. F-Open is faster to shoot well but more expensive.
6mm and 6.5mm calibers dominate: 6 Dasher, 6 BRA, 6.5x47 Lapua, 6.5 Creedmoor. Low recoil lets you see your hits, flat trajectory, and excellent accuracy.
At 1,000 yards, 190-200 out of 200 is competitive. At club matches, 175+ is respectable for beginners. Top shooters hit 195+.
04 // FIND
Upcoming Events
Find f-class events near you
Military Match; , IHMSA Match (State FP & PH); , Rifle Match; , Action
June 6, Military Match; June 13, IHMSA Match; June 20, Rifle Match; June 27 Action July 4, Military Match? (to be announced); July 11, IHMSA Match; July 18, Rifle Match; July 25, Action Sept. 5, Military Match; Sept. 11-13, IHMSA STATE Match (BB & HS); Sept. 19 Rifle Match; Sept. 26 Action Oct 3, Military Match; Oct 9-11, IHMSA STATE Match (SB & FS); Oct. 17, Rifle Match; Oct. 24. Action Nov 7, Military Match; Nov 14, IHMSA Match, Nov. 21, Rifle Match, Nov. 28, Action (?)
Rifle 100 Yd Open
A competitive rifle match at Oakdale Sports Mens Club. Depending on the format, this may include benchrest, highpower, CMP service rifle, or practical rifle stages at various distances. Rifle (caliber and type per match rules) Ammunition (round count varies by format -- check with venue) Shooting mat or rest (as appropriate for format) Eye and ear protection (required) Arrive early for sign-in and safety briefing Bring more ammunition than you think you will need If this is your first match, let the match director know Contact Oakdale Sports Mens Club for match format, distances, round count, and entry fees.
PRS Rimfire Match
08 Aug PRS Rimfire Match August 8, 2026 8:00 am - 3:00 pm Location: 5201 Cougar Rd Lipan, Texas 76462 Gravestone Precision Shooting is excited to host these monthly matches on the 2nd Saturday of the month. Expect [...] More Info
Musketeers (Juniors) Rifle/Pistol
MUSKETEER .22LR: Youth shooters are the future of our sport. Children and Grandchildren of Diablo members, who are between the ages of 8 and 18, may participate in Youth Rifle & Pistol, and Shotgun activities. Rifle & Pistol use .22 cal. rimfire only and shoot at the Multi-Purpose Range. Ammunition is supplied at the rifle events. Some loaner rifles are available, but the shooters should provide their own firearms and parents should help out. During the shoots, a responsible adult, OTHER
Rifle/Pistol range hours are 10am to 6pm
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.
PIRU – PRS Regional pts match (centerfire)
Location: 6700 Holser Canyon Road Piru, California 93040 7 to 8 stages with yardages ranging from 200 to 1100 yards. Most stages will be between 10-12 rounds, shooting from various barricades and positions. Be prepared with at least 100 rounds for the match and more for zero check or re-shoots. The shooting is from “flat range” conditions (but ground is uneven) up valleys and hills to the targets. Although in beautiful Southern California, the weather can vary widely, so be prepared for cold or
05 // LOCATE
Where to Shoot
Ranges, clubs, and shops for this discipline