
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
High school shooters vie for prep rifle titles Highpower Match and Vintage Match this Sunday 13th 2014 Highpower Match Results 21 Dec 14 Highpower Match Results 22-23 Jun 19 2019 Highpower Match Results August 19th 2018
PRS (Precision Rifle Series) matches challenge shooters to engage targets at varying distances from unconventional positions under time pressure. Stages may require shooting from barricades, rooftops, vehicle simulations, and natural terrain. | Detail | Info | |--------|------| | Sanctioning body | Precision Rifle Series | | Typical distances | 100-1,200+ yards | | Common calibers | 6mm Creedmoor, 6.5 Creedmoor, .308 Win | | Round count | 80-150 rounds | Bolt-action precision rifle with quality optic Rear bag, tripod, and positional support gear Ballistic data (DOPE card or app) 150+ rounds of match-grade ammunition Eye and ear protection (required) Contact Farm Out Range for stage details, round count, and registration. Many clubs offer separate gas gun or rimfire PRS divisions for newer precision shooters.
Dave Hasselback. 129.54 Shooting Results Frank Holtzhauer 96Dave Melick 93Dan Sanders 93Tom 92Tim Moxley 91John 90Stan Watson 87Jon Paul Vincent 81Sid 77Larry 76Tom B. 73Frank Sparacino 66 7/14/19 Outlaw Steel Challenge Chris Jones open 79.58Rick Gulliam open 83.03
The Falling Plates Rifle Match tests your ability to knock steel plates off their stands under match conditions. This is practical rifle work—you're competing against the clock and other shooters to see who can hit moving targets fastest and most accurately. Falling plate matches reward speed and precision equally. You'll shoot stages at various distances, and plates stay down once you hit them cleanly. It's straightforward competition: shoot clean, shoot fast, compare scores. Good way to push your skills beyond the range fundamentals.
Small Rifle Practice is a rifle match at Butler County Sportsmen Club where you'll shoot against your own performance and other shooters in a controlled, competitive setting. It's straightforward marksmanship work at distance. The match runs July 20 at 1 PM. Bring a rifle and ammunition; you'll fire from a bench or prone position depending on the format. This is how you benchmark your accuracy and see where your rifle and technique actually stand.
Weekly bench time for rifle practice or to get your rifle sighted-in for hunting or competition events. You DO NOT need to be a Ridgedale Club member to attend – Ridgedale members attend for free but non-member guest fees are $25.00 and guests will have to call or email in advance to ensure a spot is booked for you. Guests are limited to 2 rifles and 90 minutes of bench time to ensure all shooters get access to the range. Additional technical help is available from our experienced, competition-l
05 // LOCATE
Ranges, clubs, and shops for this discipline