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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
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.
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.
22 Long Rifle A-32 Target 50 Recorded Shots Unlimited Shots 500 Point Possibility
Winchester Rim Fire Rifle Marksmanship Program is a self paced, reward based program. By participating, you'll develop basic knowledge, skills and attitude necessary for the safe use of a rifle in target shooting. Course of fire moves from relatively simple to more difficult and is a great follow up to further education and skill building after taking a basic rifle course. You'll need a .22lr Rifle (brought to the range unloaded, in a bag or box), 60 rounds+, eye and ear protection. A brimmed hat is highly recommended. Like other Winchester programs at MCSA, you do not need to be a MCSA member to participate. $10.00 for club members, $15.00 for non-members. For more information, email Send email ([email protected]).
2026 Pistol Spring Selection Schedule https://ems.usashooting.org/2026-pistol-spring-selections 2026 Rifle Spring Selection Schedule https://ems.usashooting.org/2026-rifle-spring-selection Shotgun National Championships
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.
05 // LOCATE
Ranges, clubs, and shops for this discipline