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Shooting in the ATC begins with extensive "dry" training on the weapons before anyone gets onto a range with real ammunition. All range details are conducted by trained and authorised staff.
Shooting can be categorised by the type of weapon and ammunition used and the type of range.
Small bore or .22 calibre shooting is typically carried out in indoor ranges or 25m barrack ranges. The calibre refers to the diameter of the bore of the rifle barrel; .22 of an inch. Most Squadrons use Lee Enfield Mk8 rifles converted to fire .22 ammunition (as seen in action right)
Some also have Anschutz or BSA competition rifles.
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Full bore shooting includes 5.56mm and 7.62mm calibre and is carried out on outdoor barrack ranges, gallery ranges up to 600m and Electronic Target Ranges (where the targets can be controlled to appear and disappear).
For 5.56mm the L98A1 Cadet Rifle is used. This is essentially a single-shot version of the army's SA80 and holds a magazine of up to 30 rounds. For 7.62mm the L81 Parker Hale target rifle is shortly returning to service. This rifle provides a much better weapon for competition target shooting.
Air rifles (.177 calibre) are often used for marksmanship training as the slow speed of the pellet forces the firer to control breathing, trigger pressure and follow through.
Three awards are available for shooting, an ATC MARKSMAN for getting 5 rounds in a 1 inch group, an RAF MARKSMAN for tight grouping on rounds fired on a series of full bore details, and the CADET ONE HUNDRED for coming in the top 100 places at a Bisley Competition Shoot.
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