NRA High Power Rifle
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
What is NRA High Power Rifle?
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.
Types & Variations
02 // START
Getting Started with High Power
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.
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 High Power Cost?
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.
High Power Rifle Categories
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
Frequently Asked Questions
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
Upcoming Events
Find high power events near you
LE Rifle Rented
A competitive rifle match at Scarborough Fish & Game Association. 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 Scarborough Fish & Game Association for match format, distances, round count, and entry fees.
Small Rifle Practice
Small Rifle Practice is a rifle match at Butler County Sportsmen Club where you'll shoot against the target and the clock to dial in your marksmanship. It's straightforward competition that keeps your fundamentals sharp and shows you exactly where you stand. The match runs August 10th at 1 PM. You'll shoot multiple stages at varying distances, which means you're testing your ability to adapt and hold true under match conditions—the real measure of your rifle skills.
RIFLE Night
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
High Power League (600)
High Power rifle matches follow the traditional NRA/CMP course of fire, testing marksmanship at 200, 300, and 600 yards from standing, sitting/kneeling, and prone positions. Events may include the full National Match Course or reduced versions. | Detail | Info | |--------|------| | Distances | 200, 300, and 600 yards | | Positions | Standing, sitting/kneeling, prone | | Divisions | Service Rifle, Match Rifle | | Round count | 50-88 rounds (varies by course) | Service rifle (M1 Garand, AR-15, M1A) or match rifle Shooting coat and glove (recommended) Spotting scope Ammunition (match-grade recommended) Eye and ear protection (required) Contact Cumberland Riflemen for course of fire, pit duty requirements, and entry fees. Many clubs offer loaner rifles for new shooters.
e full roster of rifle, pistol and shotgun athletes set to compete at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games from to
USA Olympic Team Roster Meet the th Gun Mounting Exercise This sub-five-minute video from The Shooting Channel promises to show you “the cheapest way of learning how to mount the gun and improve your shooting without even firing a cartridge.” World Champion Roundtable
Kutztown Rifle Team Practice(Indoor Range)
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.