Rule_book

In all major respects, these SABU Rules have been aligned with the ICFRA Technical Rules for TR (Target Rifle) and F-Class. Several of the appendices from the previous version have been removed, revised and republished in a separate SABU Policies & Regulations document.

1.1 “ICFRA” means the International Confederation of Fullbore Rifle Associations, the world coordinating body for fullbore-rifle target shooting.

1.2 "UNION" means the South African Bisley Union, abbreviated and hereinafter referred to as "SABU". “Bisley” is the South African umbrella term covering the recognised fullbore rifle disciplines of Target Rifle (TR), F-Class and .303 shooting.

1.4 "EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE" means the SABU Executive Committee appointed by the Council in terms of the Constitution. See Rule 2A for detail regarding the Executive Committee’s responsibilities and authority with respect to the South African Open Championships and any other events run by SABU.

1.4.1 “DISPUTE RESOLUTION COMMITTEE” means an Appeal Committee, appointed by the Council, on a standing basis (subject to annual review), to adjudicate any disputes which the Executive Committee has been unable to resolve. This committee will comprise a minimum of 3 (THREE) and maximum of 5 (FIVE) members of the Union, who shall be held in high regard and ideally include person/s with Legal training. The committee will be answerable directly to the Council. (See Appendix K)

1.5 "RULES" means these published Rules & Regulations issued by the Council, together with any amendments and/or additions authorised by the Council.

1.6 "MEETING" means the annual SA Open Championship of the Union. However, where applicable these rules will also apply at any other event (individual or team) organised and run directly by SABU.

1.7 "CAMP" means the entire area where the meeting is held, including the camping ground, shooting range/s, administrative offices, etc.

1.8 "CHIEF RANGE OFFICER" (abbreviated to CRO) means the officer appointed by the Executive Committee to control the range, its safety and management. See Rule 2B for details of Range Control.

1.9 "DEPUTY CHIEF RANGE OFFICER" means the officer appointed as second-in-command on the range, who will assume the full responsibility, authority and accountability of the CRO in the latter's absence.

1.10 "RANGE OFFICERS" (abbreviated to ROs) means the duly appointed personnel assigned to assist the Chief Range Officer with his duties on the range.

1.11 “REFEREE” means any person as may be appointed by the Executive Committee to receive and act on all protests concerning these rules. In terms of the ICFRA Technical Rules, the appointment of a Referee is obligatory for all international team matches, but is optional for other events.

1.12 "SABU RANGE COMMITTEE" means a committee appointed by the Executive Committee to ensure that these Rules & Regulations are enforced on the range. At least one member must be on duty for every match.

1.13 "MATCH" means a pre-determined set of shots, at one distance or more, with a prize or prizes at stake.

1.14 "COMPETITION" means a single match or the aggregate score of two or more matches (or parts of matches).

1.15 "PROVINCE" means a Provincial Bisley / Rifle Association affiliated to SABU, with a geographic area defined by the Council in terms of the SABU Constitution. These areas do not necessarily coincide with official Provincial boundaries. For the purpose of Inter-Provincial Matches, the Executive Committee may combine smaller provinces which have an insufficient number of members to field teams on their own. (See Rule 4.2)

1.16 "RIFLE CLUB" means a private or Service-based club, formed for the purpose of promoting and practising Bisley Shooting, which has had its Constitution approved by the Council and is affiliated to the Union as well as the Provincial Association in whose area it is situated.

1.17 For reasons of simplification, these rules refer to the masculine gender. Unless specifically excluded, they apply equally to the feminine gender. Also, words signifying the singular number will include the plural, and vice versa, unless inconsistent with the context.

2A.1 The meeting is conducted under the general direction of the SABU Council, which delegates to the Executive Committee full powers and responsibility to apply these Rules and to deal with all matters relating to shooting activities and events at the meeting. This includes the imposition of any of the disciplinary penalties detailed in Part Five of these Rules. However, variation or mitigation of such penalties and the period of any disciplinary suspension, will be the responsibility of the Council, whose decisions will be final, after a hearing (if necessary) by the Dispute Resolution Committee.

2A.2 The Executive Committee shall appoint such staff as it deems necessary to conduct the meeting, or any other competition organised and run directly by SABU. The Council or Executive Committee will also appoint sub-committees (from members of the Council) with specific functions at the meeting (or such other event) and a predetermined level of decision-making authority.

2A.3 The Executive Committee is empowered to change the conditions of any match at the meeting, including full or partial cancellation, regardless of whether such match has commenced or not. Any such variation will be announced as early as possible, per notice on the official SABU Notice Board, and will apply only to that specific meeting.

2A.4 Whilst the National Defence Force and/or relevant SABU Committee will be responsible for the Camp Standing Orders, the Executive Committee is authorised to refuse any person admission to the camp or to order the removal of any person from the camp.

2A.5 During the period of the meeting, the Executive Committee may take action against misbehaviour in the camp by any member, competitor, staff member or other person involved in the meeting.

2A.6 The Council reserves the right to execute powers delegated to the Executive Committee.

2B.1 The Chief Range Officer will be totally in command of the range, with full responsibility for its safety and management, for the full duration of the meeting. The CRO is accountable to the controlling authorities (SABU and/or the Range Owners – SANDF in the case of a military range) for all aspects of safety and security. The CRO will work closely with the Executive and Range Committees, but he has authority to summarily prohibit the use of any rifle, ammunition, equipment, or shooting procedure, which in his opinion is unsafe, or being used in an unsafe combination or manner. It is desirable that suitable technical expertise should be available to the CRO in the event of dispute. On all technical rule issues and protests on the firing point relating to the technical rules, the CRO will defer to the Match Referee (if one has been appointed under Rule 1.11), or the Range Committee, but he remains responsible for implementing decisions made.

Any decision made by the controlling authority or the CRO for the reasons of safety or security takes precedence over any other provision in these rules with which it conflicts, as do any statutory regulations with regard to the safety, handling, possession, transport, assembly and firing of ammunition and firearms, including those specific to a particular range.

2B.2 Range Officers will each be responsible for a section of the range. They will give immediate rulings on all matters arising on the firing point. If uncertain about a rule interpretation or application, a Range Officer must consult the CRO or his deputy. Each RO will be in radio contact with the Butt Officer on his section of the range in order to resolve marking queries and challenges.

3.1 In terms of the SABU Constitution, the Council is empowered to, at any time, amend the rules, the conditions for any match and the overall meeting programme.

3.2 All members shall be advised of any amendments to the Rules prior to the next meeting. In the event of technical change that would require or allow significant modification to a member's equipment or shooting technique, the Council will endeavour to give ample notice to allow members to make the changes and become accustomed to them, prior to the implementation date.

3.3.2 Conditions for specific competitions (as detailed in Appendix I and / or published in the Meeting Programme Book).

3.4 These General Rules shall apply unless they are in conflict with the published conditions of a specific competition, or a decision of the Executive Committee in terms of Rule 2A.3.

3.5 Competitors must acquaint themselves with the rules, the conditions of competitions and amendments or notices placed on the SABU Notice Boards, or in the Meeting Programme Book, by authority of the Council or Executive Committee. Ignorance will not be accepted as an excuse.

3.6 The Council shall not be responsible for any accident or damage caused through the negligence or non-compliance by any competitor with the Rules and Regulations.

NB. Take note of the warning in Part 2 (Range Regulations – A. Rifles and Ammunition) which places the onus for safety of his equipment squarely on each competitor.

3.7 No Competitor may use equipment or shooting methods that provides him with an unfair advantage or puts any other competitor at an unfair disadvantage.

3.8 These Rules are intended broadly to be ‘facilitative’ in nature. In considering rulings, protests or appeals on matters not explicitly or unequivocally covered by the rules, the various authorities listed in Rules 1.8 to 1.12 will have regard to the spirit of the rules and ‘fair play’.

3.9 No competitor will present himself to shoot with his faculties impaired by alcohol or drugs. The Chief Range Officer has the power to summarily prevent any competitor, whom he judges for any reason to be in such condition, from firing (or continuing to fire).

3.10 “May”, “Must”, “Shall”, “Should” and “Will” - In these Rules:

3.10.3. “Must”, “Shall” and “Will” are to be construed as being mandatory.

4.1.1 Provinces and Rifle Clubs will only be eligible to participate in SABU team events once they have met their affiliation and annual subscription obligations in terms of the SABU Constitution.

4.1.2 Team members, including non-shooting members/officials, must be SABU individual members (either annual or life).

4.1.3 No member may compete, in any capacity, for more than one team in the same match, or in two matches that are shot concurrently. There are two exceptions to this rule:

4.1.3.1 A province may select a member of its Junior or Under 25 Inter-Provincial Team also as a member of its Provincial "B" Team, in a concurrent match. In this event, the shooter concerned must shoot as a member of the Junior/Under 25 Team. His score in the Junior/Under 25 Match will then also count for the Provincial "B" Match.

4.1.3.2 A province may select/nominate, for its Inter-Provincial Team, an eligible Junior or Under 25 member who has been included in any SABU national or international team for a match being fired concurrently with the inter-provincial match. Any number of Junior or Under 25 shooters may be nominated in this manner for any one of the province’s Inter-provincial Teams. However, such Junior or Under 25 shooter may be nominated for a maximum of either one of the province’s Junior or Under 25 Teams, plus either one of the province’s senior teams (A or B). Any practical arrangements stemming from these concessions, e.g. the transferring of scores to the score card of the particular inter-provincial team, are the responsibility of the province utilising this concession.

4.1.4 The SA Club Team Championship and its component matches (the Hamilton, Dewar & Rhodes) are open events for which bona fide overseas club teams will be eligible. There will however also be separate awards for the top domestic teams on the aggregate of the three matches.

4.2.1 In terms of the SABU Constitution, Provincial Association territorial boundaries are determined by the Council. In team selection, Provincial Associations must abide by these boundaries.

4.2.2 First selection criterion will be residence. However, a shooter resident in the area of one Provincial Association but born in another, will be eligible to shoot for his province of birth, should his services not be required by his province of domicile. Should a shooter, for valid personal reasons, prefer to shoot for his province of birth, both provincial associations must agree. In the event of non-agreement, the SABU Executive Committee will arbitrate. When approved to shoot for his province of birth, the shooter will not be permitted to change back for two years from the date of agreement.

4.2.2.1 Where a shooter owns residential properties within the boundaries of more than one Provincial Association, he must choose which one of such properties will be his or her domicilium for the purpose of possible selection to a provincial team. The shooter must exercise this choice by means of a written communication to the Chairman of the Provincial Association within which he becomes eligible for provincial team selection as a result of the choice, and provide a copy of such communication to the SABU Office. The shooter and province(s) concerned must abide by such choice for a minimum period of two years from the date when it is first made, unless he legally disposes of the chosen property in the interim.

4.2.2.2 Should a SABU member encounter insurmountable practical problems regarding provincial team membership, knowing his province of residence cannot field a provincial team in his discipline, and which cannot be overcome by the concessions contained in Rules 4.2.2 and 4.2.2.1 above, such shooter may apply in writing to the Executive Committee for permission to be allowed to shoot for another province where he is a member of a club which is affiliated to SABU and where he regularly shoots. Such application should be accompanied by the written comments of all the provincial associations concerned. The Executive Committee’s decisions must be made within a reasonable time such as not to delay the member’s chances of inter-provincial team participation, and thereafter be communicated to all parties concerned.

4.2.2.3 If the practical circumstances referred to in Rule 4.2.2.2 should change such as to enable the member to compete for his province of residence, said provincial association and/or the member may apply to the Executive Committee for reconsideration of the previous decision.

4.2.2.4 SABU recognises that provincial sports councils, controlling the award of provincial colours, may determine rules regarding provincial and club membership that may be at variance with the relevant SABU Rules. Inasmuch as such rules are more restrictive than the SABU Rules, they will prevail.

4.2.2.5 Provided target accommodation is available, Provinces may enter a maximum of two teams in the TR Provincial "B" Match. A team must usually be entered in the Grand Challenge Shield Match to qualify for entry to the provincial "B" Match, however, the Executive Committee may approve a province’s application to enter a team in the "B" Match only, subject to such conditions as may be set by the Council. The restriction to one team only in the “A” Interprovincial Match also applies to F-Class.

4.2.3. A province may enter any number of teams for the Junior and Under 25 Inter-Provincial Matches, provided targets are available.

4.2.4. A shooting team-member is not permitted to take part in both the Grand Challenge Shield Match and the Provincial "B" Match, either for his province of domicile or another, should he qualify per Rule 4.2.2. The only exception to this rule, if the two matches are not shot concurrently, is the case of a shooter, selected as a reserve for his province's Grand Challenge Shield team, whose services are required for this match through the late withdrawal, for a valid reason, of a selected team member, after he has already taken part in the Provincial "B" Match. Such substitution must be approved, before the match, by the Executive Committee. Members of a province's Grand Challenge Team (shooters or officials) are however permitted to also act as Officials for the Province's "B" Team (but not vice versa.)

4.3.1 A shooter may belong to more than one rifle club and club membership is not confined to the Province of the shooter's domicile. A shooter belonging to more than one club must declare to SABU which is his primary and which is his secondary club.

4.3.2 To qualify to compete for a team at the meeting, a shooter must have been a bona fide member of that club one month prior to the meeting or regional competition.

4.3.3 A competitor will usually compete in league and other inter-club matches, such as at the SA Open Championships, for his primary rifle club, unless this is rendered impossible by practical reasons such as non-participation by his primary club. When not required by his primary rifle club (the club specified in the meeting entry form), the competitor shall be eligible for selection by another club of which he is a bona fide member.

4.3.4 In the case of a visit by an overseas contingent, the Executive Committee is empowered to decide, on verbal evidence, whether groups, purporting to be members of the same club are eligible to compete in inter-club team events.

5.1 All competitions at the meeting or regional competition are open to "All-Comers" (i.e. anyone legally permitted to and capable of using a Bisley Target, F-Class, or .303 Rifle). Certain special prizes are however competed for only amongst members of specific groups as defined in para's 5.1.1 to 5.1.7:

5.1.3 SPRINGBOKS/PROTEA: All competitors who have been awarded full Springbok or Protea colours for Bisley Shooting.

Note: Past Springboks do not automatically qualify for the later Protea National Colours. For the purpose of certain matches/prizes there may be separate lists.

5.1.4 JUNIORS (UNDER 19): Competitors who are younger than 19 years of age on the first day of the competition.

5.1.5 UNDER 25: Competitors who are younger than 25 years of age on the first day of the competition.

5.1.6 VETERANS OVER 60: Competitors who, at the commencement of the Competition have reached the age of 60.

5.1.7 VETERANS OVER 70: Competitors who, at the commencement of the Competition have reached the age of 70.

5.2 A competitor, who is eligible as above, may win more than one of these special prizes. Thus, a Junior also competes for the Under 25 prizes and a Veteran over 70 can win both Veteran over 60 and Veteran over 70 prizes.

5.3.1 The Council shall designate certain competitions as Merit Matches. There shall be separate merit lists for TR (Target Rifle) and F-Class. The TR A and B classes will be combined. Under normal circumstances there will be ten Merit Matches, consisting of the nine individual shot matches comprising the Grand Aggregate and the Grand Aggregate itself.

5.3.2 To determine the winners of merit awards, the following procedure will be used:

5.3.2.1 All scores in a merit match will be listed in descending order of total score.

5.3.2.3 All competitors with that score or higher will qualify for a merit (e.g. if one score of 48 is in the top 25%, all 48's will qualify). There will be no V-Bull count out.

5.3.3 Each merit winner will receive some form of SABU merit souvenir, differentiated in some way to show the number of merits the competitor has earned during that meeting.

5.3.4 The above procedure applies only to the determination of merit award winners. For all other prizes, the full tie-breaking procedure, including V-bulls, will be applied (see Part 3).

For the purposes of certain matches as determined by the organisers, Target Rifle competitors will be classified in one of two classes (viz. A-Class and B-Class).

5.4.1.1 The following competitors will be classified as “life-long” A Class:

5.4.1.1.2 Those who have been selected for a SABU Honoris Team or its predecessor, the SA Junior National Team (Junior Springbok/Protea), up to and including the April 1997 Junior Springbok Team. These teams are not age-based, but selected from the best shooters who have never attained full national colours.

5.4.1.1.4 Winners of the State Presidents match, or the Bramley Chain, or the SA Open Championship.

5.4.1.2. Regardless of the above, any shooter who has attained the status of a life-long A Class shooter as described in 5.4.1.1 above, may apply (in writing) to the Executive Committee to be reclassified as a B Class shooter.

5.4.1.2.1 It is in the sole discretion of the Executive Committee to grant or refuse an application for downward reclassification. In this regard the decision of the Executive Committee is final.

5.4.1.3 The Executive Committee may also classify as A-Class any foreign competitor, who is not an "International" but who, in their opinion, merits such classification.

5.4.1.4 Any shooter who finishes in the top 25% of all competitors in the Grand Aggregate, or with the same score, excluding V-bulls, as the bottom scorer in the 25%, will be classified A-Class for the following three Meetings.

5.4.1.5 Any competitor who earns 5 or more Merit Awards at one Meeting, will also be classified A-Class for the following three Meetings.

5.4.1.7 The attainment of A class status by competitors, who are South African citizens, will be a strong factor in selection of SA National (Protea) Teams. However, the following exceptions may be made:

a. B Class shooters who have demonstrated a consistently high standard of team shooting, as evidenced by scores in a data base maintained by the Council-appointed selection committee.

b. Shooters emanating from SABU’s development initiatives, who demonstrate good potential for further progress, and who may benefit from inclusion in a national team such as a touring team.

c. Persons who are included in a SA team as an Adjutant/Manager purely on the basis of their administrative/managerial skills and where there is no requirement that such a person must also be a good shooter.

d. A specialist official such as an armourer who may be an official team member of an international team in accordance with international rules.

5.4.2.1 All competitors who do not qualify as A-Class will compete in the B-Class.

5.4.2.2 Competitors who have been awarded Junior Protea Colours since July 1997 as a result of being selected for a South African junior age groups team (e.g. Under 25 or Junior/Under 19) remain B Class shooters until they qualify as A Class as described in Rule 5.4.1.1 to 5.4.1.5.

5.4.3.1 Only SA Citizens, classified as A or B Class, will be considered for selection for a Junior Protea or Honoris Team.

There will only be an "Open" Target Rifle Class (A and B combined) and a separate F Class and .303 Class for these two events. The number of qualifiers for the second stage of the State President’s Trophy will be determined by the number of available targets and based on two details, with three shooters per target. This could allow the whole field to progress. For the third (final) stage the number of qualifiers will be reduced to a single detail, also squadded three to a target, with qualification determined by the aggregate score attained in Stage 1 plus Stage 2. For both of these stages the number of targets allocated to each F-Class and the .303 Class will be pro rata to the respective number of Meeting entrants.

The SA Championship for each will be based on the aggregate score in the Second and Third Stages added to a competitor’s score in the Grand Aggregate. The State President’s Match results will be based on aggregate scores of the 2^nd and 3^rd Stages only.

6.1.1 Entries for the meeting must be on the original official entry form or a facsimile thereof. An entry is not valid until entry and membership fees have been paid in full.

The entry form must be fully and correctly filled in and is invalid unless personally signed by the entrant in the specified places. Electronic (e.g. e-mail) entries, on the official entry form, will be deemed to have been signed by the entrant and will be for all intent and purposes a valid entry. This is particularly important with regard to the undertaking to abide by SABU Rules.

Full entries will have priority over part-entries (i.e. selected competitions only), which will only be accepted subject to target availability.

In the event of the number of full entries exceeding the target capacity of the range, the Executive Committee has the right to either:

6.1.1.1 Amend the shooting programme by cutting the number of shots in selected matches and/or completely eliminating certain matches, to allow additional details to accommodate all the entrants, or (as a last resort)

Note: The Executive Committee is not empowered to switch to the reputedly faster "STRING SHOOTING" squadding method. A decision to do so must be taken by the full SABU Council, well in advance, so that members can be advised of the change in the newsletter accompanying the entry forms.

6.1.2 In deserving cases, (e.g. Scholars and full-time Students), the Council may make provision for entry at a reduced fee. If not specified on the entry form, written application must reach the Executive Officer on or before the entry closing date.

6.1.3 Every competitor must enter and shoot under his own name and not more than once for any prize, unless the conditions for the competition allow otherwise.

6.1.4 No one may enter for or shoot in any competition for which he is not qualified to compete or is ineligible to win a prize.

6.1.5 Late entries will only be accepted if accompanied by the requisite late entry fee and provided target accommodation is available, or under such conditions as decided by the Executive Committee.

6.1.6 The Council reserves the right to refuse any entry without giving reasons.

6.1.7 The Council reserves the right to cancel an entry that has already been accepted, without giving reasons.

6.1.8 In cases where, for reasons considered valid by the Executive Committee, an entrant is unable to take part in the meeting or regional competition, or part of the meeting, the applicable entry fee will be refunded, less an administrative charge. However, as soon as a competitor fires his first shot in any match, he forfeits any right to a refund of entry fee for that match or any aggregate in which that match is included. Written refund claims must reach the Executive Officer within 30 days of the conclusion of the meeting or regional competition. Alternatively, the person concerned may request that the refund portion of his entry fee be carried over to the next year. Annual Membership fees are not subject to refund or carry-over.

6.1.9 In cases where an entry is refused, or cancelled by the Council prior to the start of the meeting, a full refund of all entry fees will be made, without application by the entrant.

6.1.10 A competitor who is disqualified or excluded from further participation in the meeting, in terms of the Disciplinary Penalty Rules, will forfeit all entry fees.

6.2.1 An entry for a team competition must be made by, or on behalf of the Team Captain, on the official entry form.

6.2.2 The closing date for team entries will be 12 Noon on the day preceding the day of the match. Late entries will only be accepted subject to target availability and could attract a late-entry fee.

6.2.3 Where more team entries are received than the available target accommodation, entries will be accepted on the following basis:

First, all A-teams, then all B-teams and, for the remaining targets, lots will be drawn amongst the rest of the entries. If the number of A- and B-teams exceeds the number that can be accommodated, lots will be drawn by the B-teams and all lower teams will be excluded. The Executive Committee reserves the right to vary this formula in special circumstances.

7.1 Appendix A gives details of the four types of scorecards to be used during the meeting.

7.2 Prior to the commencement of the matches, each individual contestant must collect from the Secretarial Office an envelope containing:

7.2.1 A computer print-out detailing his competitor number and squadding for all the matches he has entered.

7.2.4 If applicable, SABU Range Officer, or Butt Supervisor, or other special duty cards.

7.2.5 Other useful material such as score summary cards, elevation correction tables, etc, issued by SABU or sponsors, to aid the competitor.

7.2.6 The onus is on the competitor to collect his envelope timeously. A competitor, who fails to collect his scorecards in time to shoot in the detail and on the target specified on his squadding card, will forfeit his right to shoot.

7.2.7 Competitors must acquaint themselves with the "Notes for the guidance of Competitors” and other important information in the Meeting programme book.

7.3 Each competitor must fill in his surname and initials (or first name), plus a suburb, town or club name that will clearly identify him, on each of his scorecards. He must also fill in his squadding code on each of his register scorecards. Alternatively, SABU will include pre-printed computer stickers for each match, with all this detail. These must be affixed to the appropriate cards.

NB. It is essential that this personal information is identical on all cards and ties up with the data on the competitor's entry form (e.g. he must not use initials on one card and first name on another, or his town on one and his club on another).

7.4 It is the responsibility of the competitor to check that he has a scorecard for each competition he has entered, or the correct number of blank cards and a sticker for each match. Each competitor must check the details on these stickers, particularly his entry number and class.

7.5 Scorecards are not transferable. A competitor who wilfully uses a card other than one issued to him, in order to "improve" his squadding, will be disqualified.

7.6.2 Signing any certificate/s required by the Executive Committee regarding eligibility of team members and his authority to act as team captain;

7.6.4 Advising the Secretarial Office of the names and competitor numbers of team members, before shooting starts, in matches covered by team claim cards (i.e. where scores in other matches also count for the team score).

7.7 Should a competitor or team captain lose a scorecard and report the loss to the Secretarial Office in time for a replacement card to be issued, this will be done, subject to an administrative fee.

7.8 Should a competitor or team captain only discover the loss of a scorecard when on the range, with insufficient time to obtain a replacement card from the office, he may appeal to the Chief Range Officer. Provided the competitor knows his squadding details, the CRO will issue a temporary card for the match. This temporary card will only become valid if the competitor (or team captain) reports to the Secretarial Office immediately after the match and pays an appropriate fee. (The amount will be determined annually by the Executive Committee.) If the competitor or team captain does not know his squadding details, authority of the Executive Committee will be required for the CRO to issue a temporary scorecard.

7.9 The appropriate Register Card, either Individual or Team, gives authority to the Range Officer to permit the competitor (or team) to shoot in a match.

7.10 Once a competitor or team has commenced firing, a register card becomes the property of SABU and it must be handed to the Range Officer or placed in the scorecard bin behind the firing point on his butt, immediately on completion of the shooting, even if the competitor "retires" (see Rule 23.28.3). This is most important, to save “Stats” an unnecessary hunt for a missing card.

7.11 The onus is on the competitor to ensure that his register keeper has filled in the value of his shots correctly and has correctly added the score. He is also responsible for the accurate entry of scores and addition on any claim cards.

On multi-distance aggregate claim cards, if used, it is important that, where appropriate, the vertical columns of scores at each distance be totalled (including V-Bulls). By cross-casting, the arithmetical accuracy of the total can then be checked. These range sub-totals will be required in case of a tie count-out.

For team events, it is the responsibility of the team captain to ensure that scores have been correctly transcribed from marking cards onto the team master score register and that the score is correctly totalled and cross-checked.

7.12 No claims for scorecard errors will be entertained unless they are purely arithmetical and are reported to the Statistics Office before prize-lists are finalised. Offenders may have to pay a fine, determined by the Executive Committee, to have scorecards corrected.

If an error is reported prior to the publication of the Final Prize List for a competition, the error will be rectified, with the exception that, if a competitor misses a tie shoot through under-totalling his score, he will have no claim against the Union in respect of the prize/s determined by that tie shoot. His amended score will rank below that of any other competitor who took part in the tie shoot, or made himself available, after the competition, for a tie shoot in case his score was equalled.

7.13 Register cards MUST be handed in on the firing-point, or placed in the bin provided, immediately competitors finish a match. Competitors must however not cause delays for following details by filling in any claim cards whilst on the mound. They should retire behind the firing-point, complete these cards and then hand them in to the Range Officer, or place them in the bin with the register cards.

7.14 Scores on scorecards handed in late could be disallowed at the discretion of the Executive Committee.

Note: The SABU rules and shooting procedures for individual competitions are based on our preferred method of "Bisley Style" squadding, i.e. three shooters down together on a target, shooting shots in rotation. Should the Council decide to switch to String Shooting for a specific meeting, the shooting procedure and rules detailed in Appendix G will apply.

8.1 All individual events at the meeting are "squadded". Squadding will be done by random process within a structure designed to equalise each competitor’s exposure to the various sections of the range, to alternate his details and to ensure a change of target companions for each match. A competitor's squadding details are on a computer printout, which shows his competitor number and, for each match, the following data: Match number, match name, target butt (alphabetical), target number, detail number, scheduled starting time and position on target (left, middle or right). The competitor must transcribe this information to the appropriate blocks on his register cards. Alternatively (current practice), the SABU Office will prepare a set of computer stickers for each competitor, with all the relevant detail. Each of these is then affixed, by the competitor, to a register card.

NB. For communication with range personnel, it is necessary that competitors know and use the international Alphabet Code (A=Alpha, B=Bravo, C=Charlie, etc) and work to the 24-hour clock.

8.2 For each match, a competitor MUST shoot on the designated target in the specified detail or at the specified time. The Chief Range Officer is however empowered to change a competitor's squadding under certain circumstances, provided such change does not give advantage, or disadvantage, to the shooter concerned. A competitor who shoots in the wrong detail or on the wrong target, unless instructed to do so by the CRO, will be penalised by the deduction of five points from his score in the Match concerned.

8.3 As far as possible, competitors will be squadded three to a target in each detail. Because of the limited space when in threes, left-handed shooters will either be squadded on, or moved to the right-hand targets on each butt. Alternatively, for each detail, all left-handed competitors will be grouped together on one butt or adjacent butts.

8.4 If desirable, a Range Officer may transfer a competitor to another target on the same butt, in his designated detail, either before he begins to shoot or if a target breaks down. A transfer to another butt must be authorised by the Chief Range Officer. Only under exceptional circumstances will the CRO permit a change of detail.

8.5 A Range Officer must not allow a competitor to shoot by himself if there is a vacancy to which he can be transferred. If necessary, the Range Officer will move a competitor from a target with three shooters to partner a shooter found to be alone on a target. If there is no alternative but to permit a competitor to shoot alone, the Range Officer must appoint another competitor to act as Register Keeper.

8.6 Depending upon circumstances (e.g. the time available, whether competitors are required for butt marker supervision duties, etc), the Executive Committee will decide whether all shooters in the second detail (and subsequent details, if any) will go down and commence firing together (which is the normal practice) or, alternatively, whether competitors on a specific target will "fill in" immediately the shooters from the previous detail vacate that target. The method will be announced via the range P.A. System. The Executive Committee may change from one system to the other during the course of the meeting, which means that the scheduled starting time for a detail is a guide only. Competitors must be ready, behind their designated targets, to move onto the firing point immediately they are called upon to do so by the Range Officer.

8.7 It is permissible to use a “seeded” squadding for the Final Stage of a major competition shot in stages, both for presentational purposes and to ensure that leading contenders are grouped together. For the Third Stage of the State President’s Match, the leading scorers, on the aggregate of their First and Second Stages, will be squadded in the centre of the range, with next-best ranged alternatively on either side.

9.1 Dependant upon factors such as the duration of the shoot and the facilities available, organisers of other competitions conducted under "SABU Rules" at provincial or club level may need to deviate in certain respects from these rules.

9.2 It is essential that such departures be clearly communicated to participants in printed programmes advertising the event and/or in the opening announcements on the range.

9.3 It is in everyone's interest to have as much consistency as possible from shoot to shoot. For this reason, the Council recommends that Organisers follow the guidelines in Appendix B.

A. RIFLES, AMMUNITION AND OTHER EQUIPMENT

NB1: It is the personal responsibility of each competitor to ensure that his rifles, ammunition and other equipment comply with the specifications laid out in these rules. He is also responsible for ensuring that his rifles are safe with the ammunition he will use and will not endanger himself or any other person or property. He may be required to indicate in writing that his ammunition has been tested and found safe in the rifle/s to be used. He will, on entry, be required to indemnify SABU against responsibility and claims arising from any occurrence caused by his equipment.

At the SA Championships, all rifles may be subjected to a pre-check for safety and compliance with the rules. At any time during a meeting, a competitor must submit his rifle and/or ammunition for inspection and possible safety testing, whenever required. If excess pressure is suspected, ammunition may be test-fired in the specific rifle for which it was loaded.

NB2: The following rules are specific to TR. For equivalent rules for F-Class, see Appendix H and, for .303, Appendix J.

Any TR bolt action rifle may be used that conforms to the specifications in Rule 10.2 subject to the following conditions:

10.1.2 That it, or any component part (excluding the stock), is or was freely available.

10.1.3 The Executive Committee and Range Committee reserve the right to examine any competitor's rifle at any time during the meeting to ensure compliance with the rules. In cases of doubt, the Executive Committee, or Range Committee, is authorised to impound the rifle, pending a decision by the Council, or to order the competitor to produce the rifle at a specified time for examination by the Council.

10.1.4 The provisions of Rule 10.1.3 also apply to any accessories to the rifle and other equipment and shooting aids used by any competitor.

10.1.5 Contravention of rifle regulations will result in penalties as specified in Part Five of these rules.

10.1.6 Any rifle permanently registered (licensed by the SA Police Services) in South Africa must have been properly proofed by a recognised Proof-House.

NB. If the fit between barrel and action is disturbed in any way or if the chamber is modified, the proofing is invalidated and the rifle must be reproofed. The acceptance of overseas proofing only applies to a complete rifle. If a member fits a "proofed" barrel to his existing action, the combination must be reproofed by the SABS.

Any rifle proofed by the SABS must bear two proofmarks, one on the action (receiver), the other on the barrel. Both must be clearly stamped and undamaged and the two marks must line up with one another horizontally and be as close together as possible. The only exception is the very early Bloemfontein Musgrave RSA Rifle, which carries only one SABS proofmark. Users of these rifles must satisfy Council that the barrel to action fit has never been disturbed.

10.1.7 Every South African registered rifle, and its components, must comply with the requirements of the SA Government Arms and Ammunition Act and/or the Firearms Control Act, as periodically amended.

10.1.8 Competitors from abroad will be permitted to use rifles conforming to their home National Association Rules, provided that such rifles do not exceed whatever weight may be stipulated in the ICFRA TR Rifle specifications (if any), and the triggers are not set lighter than 0,5 kg.

Any person on an extended visit to, or taking up residence in SA will be permitted to use such a rifle for a maximum period of three months, after which the rifle must be modified if necessary, to conform to these rules in all respects. This includes proofing by the SABS if the rifle does not carry recognised proof marks.

Rifles must be chambered for the .308 Winchester cartridge or its 7.62 x 51mm, commercial metrification equivalent. However, all Lady competitors (and male competitors medically certified as being unable to tolerate the recoil of the .308 Winchester), are permitted to alternatively use rifles chambered for the .223 Remington cartridge or its 5.56 x 45mm commercial metrification equivalent, unless specifically prevented from doing so under Match Conditions. This is subject to the provision that a competitor may not change from a rifle of one calibre to one of the other at any stage within a match, whether team or individual.

Important note: For all international matches, other than a “Ladies” match, only .308/7.62mm rifles are permitted. For all team shoots, captains/selectors will have the prerogative to insist on rifles of a common calibre, for reasons of consistent wind corrections. Users of .223/5.56mm in the individual events could thus jeopardise their chances of selection for provincial teams, or SABU teams such as the President’s or Honoris.

10.2.3.1 Any barrel is permitted that is manufactured to safe standards and is of appropriate bore and groove dimensions for bullets specified in Rule 11. The barrel should be marked to indicate the calibre for which it is chambered. Sight-radius-increasing barrel extensions (bloop tubes) and fixed or moveable barrel tuning weights are permitted, provided the sight radius does not exceed 1.2m.

10.2.3.3 Chamber Dimensions must fall within the envelope defined by the SAAMI or CIP minimum and maximum chamber drawings for .308 Winchester or .223 Remington, as appropriate. Bore, groove and throat dimensions may be altered to suit the bullets used. A throat diameter smaller than the diameter of the bullet must NOT be used.

If a magazine is fitted to a rifle, it may only be used as a loading platform for single rounds.

An Aperture Backsight (peepsight) adjustable for both elevation and windage, must be affixed to the rifle receiver. Open or telescopic sights are not permitted in Target Rifle events.

10.2.5.2 A tubular eyepiece, fitted to the backsight may incorporate a fixed or an adjustable aperture. A flexible disc or eyecup may be fitted to the eyepiece.

10.2.5.3 A single lens or a Variable Dioptre of magnification not exceeding 1.5x may be fitted to the rear sight and may be used in conjunction with a foresight lens as specified in Rule 10.2.6.

10.2.5.4 In addition to the permitted sight lenses, a competitor may wear spectacles or contact lenses.

10.2.5.5 The vision of the target from the non-aiming eye may be restricted of blocked by the use of a blinder fitted to the rifle or sight, or by the competitor wearing an eyepatch.

A fixed tunnel foresight, or one adjustable for elevation, may be fitted. The foresight tube may be of any length or diameter. The foresight may be mounted on a barrel extension to increase the sight radius. The maximum permitted sight radius is 1,2m. Use is permitted of any insert, or combination of inserts. A lens not exceeding a magnification power of +0.5 dioptre (focal length 2m) is permitted.

10.2.7.1 There is no restriction on the number of optically flat (plano) coloured, neutral density or polarising filters, which may be fitted into or onto the sights.

10.2.7.2 Glare tubes of any length of diameter may be fitted to either or both foresight and backsight to protect elements and lenses from direct sunlight or rain.

10.2.7.3 Offset sights or non-magnifying periscope devices at the backsight may be fitted to permit the competitor to shoot from the shoulder opposite to his shooting eye.

10.2.7.4 SPIRIT LEVEL. A spirit level or other levelling device may be mounted on the rifle, either fitted into or onto the foresight, or elsewhere on the rifle.

10.2.8.1 Adjustable match triggers may be used, provided they cannot be easily adjusted on the range (see Rule 22.1.8)

10.2.8.2 A trigger-shoe may be fitted. If one is used, it must remain in place for trigger pressure testing.

A trigger must support a weight of 0.5 Kg (500g) without discharging. See Rule 22.1.9 for testing procedure and penalties applicable to rifles that fail the trigger pressure test.

Rifle stocks may be made of any suitable material/s and may be shaped so as to be comfortable to the firer. Custom-made stocks are permitted provided they, in the opinion of the Council, do not render the rifle unsafe, or give unfair advantage to the user.

10.2.9.3 A recoil pad or butt plate (either fixed or adjustable) may be fitted, provided that the depth of curvature does not exceed 20 mm. No hook type of fitting is permissible.

10.2.9.4 Standard checkering or stippling is permitted on the pistol-grip and the fore-end.

10.2.9.5 A hand stop may be fitted to the fore-end and may incorporate the forward sling attachment. Padding of the handstop is permitted.

10.2.9.6 A bipod rest may be fitted to the stock fore-end provided that, if left on whilst shooting, it is well clear of the ground.

11.1 For all events shot under SABU Rules, competitors and teams are to supply their own ammunition, which must comply with the international standard, as set by ICFRA. Ammunition may be commercially purchased or hand loaded. However, some clubs (particularly those Service-based) may still have stocks of Service Ammunition, either with 143 grain or 155 grain bullets. Competitors are free to use this ammunition.

11.2 Rules 11.2.1 to 11.2.8 detail the ICFRA ammunition specifications adopted and adapted by SABU.

With the exception of overall loaded length, cartridges must comply with the SAAMI or CIP cartridge specifications for .308 Winchester or .223 Remington respectively.

11.2.2.1 The .308 bullet diameter will be between .3075” and .3085”. No single bullet may exceed 156 grains (or the factory tolerance for 155 grain ammunition when factory ammunition is in use).

11.2.2.2 The bullet diameter for .223 Remington will be between .2235” and .2245”. No single bullet may exceed 81 grains (or the factory tolerance for 80 grain ammunition where factory ammunition is used.

11.2.2.3 Any brand of bullets may be used, as well as those that have been handmade. There is no restriction on bullet length or shape, provided it is within the weight and diameter tolerances.

Any commercially available propellant may be used which is suitable for the cartridge in use. The load must be safe in the rifle for which it was developed.

The case may be of any manufacture capable of safely withstanding the pressures of the loads used. Steel cases may not be reloaded. The use of SA Military cases for reloading is strictly prohibited. Apart from local military brass produced by the SA Mint and P.M.P. this also includes, cases from imported Nato ammunition previously used by the SANDF, i.e.: FN, FNM, etc, each of which can be identified by the Nato symbol (a cross in a circle) on the head stamp.

Primers must be of the appropriate type, which is compatible and safe with chosen propellant and case.

Ammunition once chambered must be capable of being extracted without separation of bullet from case. In the event of a round of ammunition separating, no extra time allowance will be given for rectification, nor will there be an entitlement to an additional sighter.

Ammunition may not be used which is forbidden under specific rules provided for in Range Regulations. Even if permitted thereunder, prohibited bullets for TR shooting will be those having a core consisting of steel, hardened material, depleted uranium, incendiary or tracer compounds. Also prohibited are bullets having a discarding jacket/sabot. The ICFRA prohibition on bullets of monolithic construction does not apply on rifles ranges within South Africa.

Commercial .308 Winchester ammunition fired from some Target Rifles may well generate higher pressures than those shown on factory test, since factory ammunition will have been tested using CIP/SAAMI standard barrels, as opposed to the tight barrels used in many TR rifles. Without prejudice to the responsibility laid on the competitor for the safety of his rifle and ammunition in combination, it is recommended that the following values are not infringed:-

11.2.8.1 The throat diameter should not be smaller than .3085” (the maximum permitted bullet diameter).

11.2.8.2 Bore and groove dimensions should not be less than .2980” and .3065” respectively.

The SABU Council expects each member who handloads ammunition to exercise the standard safety precautions in load development and cartridge assembly. See Rule 21.3 (Inspection of rifles and ammunition).

Each competitor, on entry, will indemnify the Union and its servants and officers against any mishap relating to handloaded ammunition, or other causes. (See the expanded warning at the start of Part 2A).

The barrel dimension minima quoted in rules 11.2.8.1 and 11.2.8.2 also apply when handloaded ammunition is used.

See Rule 21.3 for details of SABU checks on handloads for safety and compliance with the rules.

12.1.1 Where the use of shooting aids is permitted, it is emphasized that such use is aimed solely at providing comfort to the shooter and it is an express condition that no aid shall be applied in a manner so as to afford the user an unfair or unwarranted advantage over other competitors.

12.1.2 The Executive and Range Committees have the right to examine a competitor's shooting clothing and other equipment at any time during the meeting or regional competitions.

12.1.3 The Executive Committee will take action against the user of any artifice to facilitate shooting, not expressly permitted by the Rules, which is contrary to the spirit of the Rules (see Rules 36.5 and 37.5).

12.1.4 The Council may, on application, permit such modification to the rifle, clothing or equipment of a physically disabled shooter as may assist him to compete on equal terms with other competitors. In such case, the Council will issue to the shooter concerned a certificate with full details of the concession(s) allowed. This must be carried with the shooter's equipment and produced if requested by a Range Officer.

Any suitable jacket/coat maybe worn, provided it gives no support to the forearm. Flexible padding may be attached to protect the shoulder, upper sling arm and elbows. A devise may be fitted to the upper sleeve to prevent the sling slipping down the arm, or rotating about the upper arm. In addition, internal or external elbow pads may be worn.

NB Elbow padding may not extend to give support to the wrist. Shoulder padding must be visibly clear of the ground when the shooter is in the prone position.

A flexible padded glove or mitt may be worn (with or without a stitched-in or separate soft lining), provided it gives no artificial support. In addition, a lightweight glove, with (or without) one or more fingers cut off, may be worn on the trigger-operating hand to protect against cold or sun/windburn.

The competitor may wear wet weather clothing. It is permitted to place the rifle butt under a lightweight cape or poncho when in the aim.

In individual matches, each competitor must use a spotting telescope or binoculars powerful enough to verify that the value signalled for a shot agrees with the spotting disc. Use is compulsory whenever a competitor is serving as a register keeper (see Appendix F).

12.5.2 no part of the shooter, his rifle or his clothing, other than his headgear, touches the telescope or stand whilst he is aiming; and

The use of a handstop is permitted. It may incorporate the front sling swivel and may be padded.

The use of a sling to help steady the rifle, is compulsory. However, should it break during a match, a competitor has the option of completing his shots at that distance without the sling or of temporarily quitting the firing point, to repair or replace the sling, per the procedures in Rules 23.14 to 23.16.

12.7.1 The sling may be of any suitable material. A laminate of different materials is permissible.

12.7.2 The width and thickness of the sling must not be such as to give the shooter a “dead rest” advantage. The sling may not be used or configured in such a manner that it, or its buckle or sling swivel, becomes a prop between the inside of the support elbow and the rifle stock.

12.7.3 If a handstop is not used, padding may be attached to the forward end of the sling.

12.7.4 The sling must be attached to the rifle at one or both sling swivels and may be wound around one arm and/or wrist, but not around any other part of the competitor's body. On rifles with a top-guard to the fore-end, the sling may be placed over the rifle.

A competitor may lie on a groundsheet, or mat, provided it is laid flat on the ground. Holes may not be made in the ground for the elbows. The legs of a spotting telescope must be alongside, in front of, or on top of the mat, but not underneath it. A folded soft rifle bag, or soft pad, may be used for the advanced knee in the “Estonian” position, or elsewhere under the shooter’s body, to make the prone position more comfortable, without providing artificial support.

A shooting hat or cap, with or without side-flaps, may be worn. It may cover and touch either any part of the rifle, or any part of the spotting telescope, or both.

Equipment boxes/bags may be taken onto the firing point provided they do not inconvenience other competitors and are not placed so as to shield the competitor, or his rifle, from wind, rain or sun. The maximum permitted height of such a shooting box/bag is 300mm. (See also Rule 23.19).

Any person within the butts, on or close enough to the firing point to risk damage to their hearing, must use adequate ear protection (such as ear defenders/muffs or ear plugs) at all times when shooting is taking place.

A barrel mirage band is permitted and black or coloured adhesive tape may be applied to the top surface of the barrel. A flexible or rigid cover may be used to prevent dust or rain from getting into the action.

Personal wind indicating or measuring devices of any description are forbidden on the firing point, nor may any such device be visible from the firing point. “Wind Correction Tables” in printed form, or as “slide rules” are permitted. National or Team Flags flown at the back of the team area are not considered a contravention of this rule.

The CRO (having consulted the Referee if one has been appointed) may require a competitor, whose equipment or dress is thought to provide an unfair advantage, to modify them to suit, or withdraw from the match.

The abuse of drugs or alcohol to enhance performance or overcome match nerves is strictly prohibited (see Rule 37.11 and Appendix C).

14.1 The Conditions for all SABU Matches specify that all shooting shall be from the PRONE position. No other position will be allowed except in the case of a physically disabled shooter, who is unable to assume the prone position. In such an instance, the Executive Committee may allow use of another shooting position, provided they consider it safe.

14.2.2 Lie with his elbows as close to the front of the mound as possible, taking into account the condition of the firing point. The muzzle of the rifle MUST protrude over the forward edge and must be well forward of the ears of neighbouring competitors;

14.2.3 Support his rifle with both hands, with the butt plate placed against the shoulder or upper arm, on the outside of the clothing. All parts of the rifle, the sling and the arms below the elbows, including clothing, must be visibly clear of the ground and of all other objects. It is not permitted to rest the rifle’s pistol grip on the ground, the inside of the elbow or upper arm, or on the sling. The butt may however be positioned under a protective cape, when shooting in the rain;

14.2.4 In individual competition, a competitor may not screen himself or his rifle from the sun or weather while shooting, nor allow anyone else to purposely do so, except as provided for in Rules 12.4, 12.9, 12.10 and 12.12.

15.1 Wind flags will be pennant-shaped, 4,6 metres in length, with a base of 1,8 metres. The SANDF Item Control Number is 18-419-1401.

In the event of SABU supplying the flags, the following specifications will apply:

15.1.1 The flag shape will be triangular – either true pennant or with two flags cut diagonally from a rectangle of cloth, leaving one edge at right angles to the hoist. If the latter, the flags should be flown with the right-angle edge uppermost.

15.1.3 Length and base dimensions to be approximately the same as those of the SANDF flags.

15.1.4 Preferably of two solid colours horizontally, but a small appropriate sponsor’s logo is permitted. Ideally, red should be avoided if the flags are to be viewed against a background of green vegetation.

16.1 Overall current target sizes and scoring-ring dimensions are given in Appendix D. The ICFRA International Match Target dimensions are also shown (source: the ICFRA TR Technical Rules). The target date for adoption of the IIMT was 1 January 2010. SABU decided to use the IIMT from that date in all official International Team Matches. For domestic use, ICFRA permits member countries to decide on scoring ring dimensions within standard size Aiming Marks. The latter are the same as for the current SABU targets, which may thus be used for all events other than International Team Matches.

16.2 All SABU targets are rectangular, with a circular black aiming mark against a white background.

16.3 Each has three circular scoring zones, with scoring values from 3 to 5 points. Hits on the rest of the target, outside these circles, score 2 point. Alternatively, there will be an additional ring in the white, bounding the 2-point zone. Hits on the target, outside this ring will score 1 point.

16.4 The Bull (5 Ring) has an inner circle, sometimes with a dotted line, known as the V-Bull.

16.4.1 In both individual and team matches, V-Bulls will be marked throughout the meeting. Whilst retaining the value of 5 points, a V-Bull will be entered on the score-card with the letter V and the number of V's and their position in a string of shots, will be criteria in the counting out of tied scores (see Rule 30).

16.5 The colloquial names for the scoring zones and the Afrikaans translations, are:

NB. If a 300 metre target is mounted on a mid-range frame (1.8m x 1,8m), it will be centred in a 1.2m x 1.2m (4x4 foot) square. Shots outside this square will be regarded as misses. If either the 300m or 500/600m target is mounted on the 1.8x2.4m Long Range Frame, a 1.2m or 1.8m square respectively will delineate the scoring area. As the frame is 1.8m high, the latter will just have a non-scoring strip on either side. Any shot outside the square will be scored as a miss, but a spotting disk will be inserted to guide the shooter.

All SABU events are Deliberate-Fire Rifle Competitions with butt marking. The butts will be under control of a Chief Butts Officer, assisted by an appropriate number of butt officers, each in radio contact with his counterpart Range Officer. Their responsibility will be to ensure rapid and accurate marking and to resolve marking queries and challenges. Each target must have one or more markers.

17.2 The value of each shot is indicated by a value panel placed on the target by the marker. Its position shows the score value. There are four positions across the bottom of the target indicating from left to right the values as follows: 2, 3, 4 and 5. In the case of a miss no value panel will be displayed.

A V bull will be indicated with the value panel at 4 o’ clock, a third of the way up the right-hand side of the target.

A 1-point Hit (if applicable) will be indicated with the value panel at 8 o’clock, a third of the way up the left-hand side of the target.

17.3 The actual position of the shot is shown by a spotting disc. (See Appendix E for spotting disc sizes and the marking procedure). If a shot is on the target but outside the scoring area it will be signalled as a miss, but its position will still be shown with a spotting disc. If it is in a position where a spotting disc cannot be inserted it is permissible for the butts to inform the RO of its position and for the competitor to be informed thereof.

17.4 A spotting disc that has been hit must on no account be used again until it has been patched.

17.5 When a shot hole touches the line between two divisions of the target, the competitor will be credited with the higher value. In cases of doubt a gauge of 7.82mm diameter (=0.308 inches) will be used to determine the value, irrespective of the calibre in use. The ruling by a butt officer will be final.

17.6 A shot that misses the target will be signalled by the removal of the value disc and the target sent up clear, after the previous spotting disc has been removed and the shot hole patched.

17.7 A ricochet that hits the target shall be regarded as a hit. If it makes an elongated hole, the end closest to the centre of the target will be taken as the point of strike. NB. This is a deviation from the ICFRA rule.

17.8 If two shots strike the target during the same exposure, only the higher value shall be signalled. Both shots shall however be indicated by spotting discs.

17.9 A competitor may challenge the signalled value of a shot, either for a hit, a further hit or for a higher value, by so indicating to the RO (see also Rules 19.5 and 19.7). On a challenge being received the target will be lowered and the butt officer’s disc/flag shown above the mantlet. The butt officer (whose decision is final) will then personally examine the target, gauging the shot hole if necessary, after which:

17.9.1 If a challenge for a hit, the shot (if found) or a miss will be signalled.

17.9.2 If challenged for a further hit, the target will be examined for such shot hole. If another shot hole is found, the original spotting disc will be removed, the shot hole patched and the further shot found will be marked and signalled. If no further shot is found the target will be sent up with the original spotting disc and value.

17.9.3 If a challenge for a higher value, or a report that the spotting disc disagrees with the signalled value, the correct value will be signalled whether it has been changed or not.

The outcome, in each case, will be communicated to the RO who will relay it to the shooter.

Other than the CRO’s communication with the Chief Butt Officer, the only means of contact between the butts and the firing point is that formally used between Range and Butt Officers. No person in the butts is to use any other means of communication that could be contacted by any person in sight of the firing point. In particular, mobile/cell phones must be switched off by all personnel in the butts and those within 20 metres of the firing point.

18.1 The following Code Messages will be used for communication between Range Officers and the Butts by radio. The target number will be given, followed by the message number. To avoid confusion for overseas visitors, or when SA shooters compete abroad, these code messages are identical to those in the ICFRA Rules and similar to those used by the British NRA, with the exception of Message numbers 6 and 8, which numbers are used for service rifle shooting in Britain.

Message 3 : Spotting disc disagrees unmistakably with signalled value. Check that spotting disc shows LAST hit and signal its correct value (see Rule 19.9).

Message 4 : A shot has been fired but no signal has been made. Examine the target and spotting disc carefully and signal the hit, if found. If there is no hit, signal a miss.

Message 5 : The firer or his Register Keeper has challenged the value of the current shot. Recheck the shot hole (using a gauge if necessary) and signal correct value.

Message 6 : It is suspected that there is a second shot on the target. If another shot is found, clear and patch out the existing shot hole, and mark and signal the further shot found. If no additional shot is found, re-signal the position and value of the original shot marked.

Message 7 : A miss has been signalled but firer has challenged for a hit. Re-examine the target carefully and signal the hit if found. If not, re-signal the miss.

Message 8 : Shot appears to be in the same position as the previous (Was # 11) one. It is suspected that the wrong shot hole has been patched out. Please check and either rectify error or confirm that the two shots were very close to one another.

NB. If the marker has changed the value indicator for the second shot, this fact must be communicated to the Butt Officer as it is then almost certain that the wrong hole has been patched.

Message 9 : Marking appears to be unduly slow. Butt Officer to investigate and, if justified, have marker speed up.

For Messages 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9 the results must also be confirmed by radio.

19.2 A shot fired out of turn will be scored as the value of the shot less a one point penalty.

19.4 If two shots strike the target during one exposure, the competitor who fired in his proper turn will be credited with the higher value. Should he wish to do so, he may fire a non-convertible sighting shot immediately, but he must first inform his Register Keeper of his intention to do so. If the second shot on the target was the result of one of the other shooters on that target firing out of turn, the errant competitor will be credited with the lower-value shot, less the one-point penalty. A shooter may not claim the value of a stray shot on his target unless he has simultaneously fired at that target.

19.5 The signalled value of a shot may be challenged, once only, by the firer, before another shot is fired at that target. All challenges may be subject to a challenge fee, as determined by the Executive Committee – to be paid to the RO immediately the competitor finishes his shoot. No fee is payable if the challenge is successful.

19.6 The same challenge fee applies in team competitions, payable by the team captain.

19.7 When the value of a shot has been challenged, the target MUST be lowered and examined by the Butt Officer even if he can clearly see on the elevated target that the challenge will be unsuccessful, or was present and observed the shot being marked. Whatever the result, the value of the shot must be re-signalled and confirmed by radio.

19.8 If a target is moved at the moment a shot is fired, in such a way that it can affect the value of the shot (e.g. pulled by the marker in error, slippage of the mechanism, target frame breaks, wind blows target out of frame, etc, but NOT a side-to-side sway caused by the wind), the firer will be permitted to immediately fire another shot in its place. The shooter concerned must however appeal to his Register Keeper and the Range Officer, BEFORE THE SHOT IS MARKED, and the incident must have been observed by one of the other competitors on the target or the Range Officer, or confirmed by the marker, in response to a radio query to the butts. Once the Range Officer agrees to a replacement shot, the original shot is nullified and may not be counted in the shooter's score.

19.9 If the spotting disc disagrees unmistakably with the value signalled, the firer or register keeper must at once inform the Range Officer, who will ascertain by radio (Message 3) whether the marker has failed to move the spotting disc to the new shot hole or has signalled the wrong value. The Butt Officer will correct the marking on the target and confirm by radio that the spotting disc and value panel now relate to the last hit on that target.

19.10 If a spotting disc remains in the same place signalled for the previous shot, the firer, or his register keeper, is entitled to request the Range Officer to confirm with the butts that the last two shots on the target were close to one another. If not, the marking error must be corrected (Message 8).

19.11 It is the responsibility of every competitor to bring to the attention of the register keeper and the Range Officer any anomalies or incorrect marking, before the next shot is fired on the target concerned.

19.12 It is an offence punishable by disqualification to knowingly claim or accept points that have not been scored or to connive at such conduct by another competitor. (Rule 37.10)

19.13 The CRO or a RO may not go to the butts to inspect a target or allow an assistant or any competitor to do so. The only time a competitor will be permitted to enter the butts is if he is allocated a duty as a “Marker Supervisor”, or is appointed as a Butt Observer for a major international team match.

These rules are designed to cover our preferred "Bisley Style" method of shooting. With Single String Shooting certain changes in procedure will be required. See Appendix G.

20.1.1 The Chief Range Officer's Control Position will be near the centre of the range, approximately 20 metres behind the firing point.

20.1.2 It is essential that the Chief Range Officer has a clear view of the entire range. Therefore, an imaginary line will be drawn approximately 5 metres behind the CRO's Control Position, hereafter referred to as the "25 Metre Line". The area between this line and the firing point will be a restricted area.

20.1.3 No vehicle, military or private, may be parked in this restricted area, and no vehicle, other than the ambulance, may move through it during shooting.

20.1.3.1 Range control vehicles, CRO's transport, PA vehicles, the ambulance and private vehicles used by disabled competitors with special permits (issued by the CRO), may be parked on the 25 metre line.

20.1.3.2 All other vehicles, must be parked at least 50 metre behind the firing point (i.e. not forward of the mid-distance row of wind flags), except for catering vehicles, which may be parked in the area between the 25 and 50 metre lines.

20.1.3.3 Competitors waiting to shoot in a subsequent detail must not place their equipment forward of the 25 Metre Line.

20.1.4 While shooting is in progress, the only persons allowed forward of the 25 metre line will be:

20.1.4.4 Competitors actively engaged in shooting, or moving towards or back from the firing point.

20.1.4.8 Any other person with special authority from the Executive Committee or CRO (e.g. visiting dignitaries, the Captain and Adjutant of a visiting International Team, etc).

20.1.4.9 Where appropriate, SABU will issue identifying badges or armbands to those persons authorised to be in the restricted area.

20.1.5 Within the 25 metre line, a competitor must comply with all orders, for the due carrying out of the Rules, given by a Range Officer.

20.1.6 No firearms other than .308 or .223 single-shot target rifles and rifles allowed for participating in the F and .303 Classes will be permitted into the restricted area.

20.1.7 Cellular/mobile telephones may not be taken into the butts or be used in the restricted area in the vicinity of the firing point.

20.2.1 Any competitor, who is not ready at his proper place by the scheduled starting time, may forfeit his right to shoot.

20.2.2 Under no circumstances will a latecomer be permitted to join a squad once the first sighting shot has been fired by a competitor on that target.

20.2.3 The Executive Committee will decide whether second (and subsequent) details "go down together", or whether individual targets will be filled, on instruction from the Range Officer, immediately shooters from the previous detail vacate that target. As the system could be changed during the course of the Meeting, competitors are warned that start times could differ slightly from those stated on their squadding cards.

20.2.4 In threatening weather conditions (particularly if there is lightning danger), or for other reasons, the Chief Range Officer, or the Executive Committee, could decide to delay the start of shooting. Under no circumstances will start times be brought forward from the scheduled times, unless the Executive Committee can guarantee that all competitors have been made aware of the change.

20.2.5 Once shooting is in progress it will not be halted for rain unless visibility is so poor that the targets cannot be clearly seen, in the view of the CRO. However if there is lightning anywhere close to the range, the CRO must stop all shooting immediately.

Whilst on the range, a competitor must at all times have the bolt removed from his rifle action, or an Empty Chamber Indicator (hereinafter referred to as an ECI) inserted, until instructed otherwise by the RO. An ECI is a breech flag with a full length stem.

21.1.1 on the firing point, with the rifle pointed towards the stopbutt, after the Range Officer's "PREPARE" command;

21.1.3 carrying out essential repairs/adjustments to a rifle that becomes defective during a shoot (see Rule 22.1.3).

21.1.4 Before procedures 21.1.2 and 21.1.3, care must be taken to check that the rifle is unloaded. Both these activities must be under the supervision of the Range Officer.

21.1.5 If, before firing a match, a competitor is found with the bolt in his rifle, without an ECI, anywhere in the "restricted area" (within the 25 metre line), other than as allowed in Rules 21.1.1 to 21.1.3, he will be penalised 5 points from the score yet to be made. His scorecard will be annotated accordingly by the Range Officer (see Rule 34.2.2).

NB This penalty applies whether the rifle is carried loose or in a gun bag/case.

21.1.6 It is the responsibility of the register keeper to ensure that a competitor’s rifle is safe immediately after shooting at each distance. (See Appendix F) If on leaving the firing point, a competitor is discovered (in the restricted area) with the bolt in his rifle, without an ECI, both he and his register keeper will have their scores for that distance disallowed (see Rule 35.4). If the register keeper can satisfy the Executive Committee that the chamber was clear, at the time he certified the scorecard, or if the shooter has checked trigger pressure after leaving the firing point, only the shooter will be penalised.

Per Rule 21.1.1, the bolt may be inserted into the rifle, or an ECI removed, on the command, "PREPARE". However, the rifle may not be aimed at the target, dry-fired, or loaded until the Range Officer issues the order: "Range safe, when targets appear you may load and commence firing".

21.2.1 A competitor who places a round on the loading platform or loads his rifle prior to the "Commence Fire" command will be guilty of an offence and will be suitably penalised by the CRO or Executive Committee.

21.2.2 A competitor who fires a shot prior to the "Commence Fire" command will be similarly, but more harshly, penalised. If, however, the offence occurs whilst the danger signal (normally a red flag) is displayed at the Butts, the competitor will be excluded from further competition during the meeting in terms of Rule 36.3.

21.2.3 A loaded rifle must always be pointed towards the stopbutt (see Rule 21.2.5). A rifle should ideally be loaded in the shoulder, but this is difficult for left-handed shooters using right-handed actions and shooters small in stature. In these cases, the rifle may be loaded whilst rested on the ground and then lifted into the shoulder without significantly elevating the muzzle. It is permissible for any shooter to partially close the bolt, while the rifle is rested, then lift it into the shoulder and tap the bolt handle down fully. Once the rifle is loaded the shooter must ensure that the bolt is completely closed before taking aim.

21.2.4 A competitor who, whilst on the firing point, accidentally discharges his rifle, without aiming, will not be allowed to repeat the shot and it will be recorded as a miss. He may also be dealt with under Rule 21.2.5.

21.2.5 A competitor acting in what the Range Officer considers to be a dangerous manner, will forthwith be forbidden to fire again until the circumstances have been investigated by the Chief Range Officer. If he too considers the action dangerous, he will order the shooter to quit the firing point and will refer the matter to the Executive Committee, for further action.

21.2.6 An incorrectly dimensioned chamber, or incorrectly loaded ammunition, or incorrectly sized and trimmed cases can cause excessive pressure. The CRO or his staff must investigate the cause of difficult extraction, blown or leaking primers, blow-back, case separation or splitting or any other signs of excess pressure.

21.2.6.1 stop firing immediately if he suspects that the ammunition he is using is producing dangerous pressures in his rifle.

21.2.6.2 draw the attention of the Range Officer to the continued use of apparently dangerous ammunition. The cumulative effect of cartridges producing excessive pressure can lead to rifle failure even in cases where one or more rounds have been discharged without apparent damage or danger.

21.2.7 At all times, the RO MUST, if he sees or has brought to his attention a competitor having difficulty opening his bolt, or with extraction, or any other typical signs of excessive pressure (mainly blown or severely flattened primers), order the competitor to cease firing temporarily and immediately report the matter to the CRO. The CRO, or the RO at his direction, will:-

21.2.7.1 ensure that the competitor does not inconvenience or endanger others, by making him wait until others on his target have completed their shoots.

21.2.7.2 Examine the competitor’s fired cartridge cases for signs of high pressure. If this is evident, the CRO must not allow the competitor to fire again unless he changes his ammunition. This does not preclude the CRO authorising completion of the shoot with a safe rifle and ammunition. Changes of rifle are governed by Rule 22.1.2 and a non-convertible sighter will be permitted.

Users of handloads must have sufficient ammunition on the firing point to allow the Range Officer or a member of the Range Committee, or someone delegated by the Range Committee, to take one round at random for critical examination. This must only be done before the competitor starts to shoot, or after he has finished. As the round will be dismantled, it will not be returned to the competitor, or replaced. Every sampled round will be placed in an envelope, clearly identified with the competitor's name and number. Checking will be done by a competent person appointed by the Executive Committee.

A Range Officer, or a member of the Range Committee, is empowered to, at any time, inspect a rifle, fired cartridge cases from that rifle or a competitor's unfired ammunition, if he suspects that the rifle or ammunition might not be safe.

22.1.1 Two competitors squadded in the same detail of an individual match, are not permitted to use the same rifle.

22.1.2 No competitor may change his rifle during the firing at any single distance of an Individual Competition, unless it becomes unserviceable, due to the breaking or malfunctioning of a mechanical part, which has come about through no deliberate action by the shooter. The Range Officer must verify that the rifle is indeed unserviceable before allowing an exchange. On recommencing with another rifle, the competitor will be permitted one optional non-convertible sighter. He must inform his register keeper if he intends exercising this option.

“An unserviceable rifle” is one that cannot be held, loaded or discharged in the normal way or that could, with continued use, be dangerous to the user and others. (See rule 21.3 and 23.16)

Also classified as unserviceable is a rifle that, through dropping or being knocked, has had one of the sights bent out of alignment to an extent that can be visually discerned by the Range Officer.

A trigger that has suddenly "gone light" to the extent that there is a possibility of a shot going off as the bolt is closed, is another valid reason for allowing a rifle to be exchanged. However, the opposite does not apply. If a trigger "becomes heavy" during a shoot, but will still function, the competitor must continue with that rifle until he has completed his shots at that distance.

A competitor who exchanges a rifle during firing, without the Range Officer's permission, will have his score for that distance disallowed (see Rule 35.7).

22.1.3 If satisfied that it can be done with safety, a Range Officer may permit a competitor to temporarily leave the firing point to rectify a rifle defect and then to rejoin the shoot, provided there is sufficient remaining time. (See Rule 23.16)

Before quitting the firing point during a shoot, a competitor must comply with the provisions of Rules 23.14 and 23.15.

A competitor who suffers a malfunction of his rifle, which cannot be rectified on or behind the firing point, may be resquadded if timings and target availability permit. This is at the absolute discretion of the CRO. The competitor’s score to date will stand and he will be permitted one non-convertible sighter.

22.1.4 The range should be equipped with a cartridge removal tool. If a live round is jammed in a rifle chamber, but the bolt can be removed, the competitor must leave the rifle pointed towards the stopbutt and call for the RO to arrange for the removal of the cartridge. Under no circumstances should an attempt be made to remove the round with a cleaning rod. After removal of the cartridge, the competitor will be permitted to continue his shoot. If the action locks on a live round and the bolt cannot be removed, the rifle must be left on the firing point, pointed towards the stopbutt, until the range is clear. An armourer must then be called to make the rifle safe. A cartridge extractor, cleaning rod, or other means may be used to extract a spent cartridge case, either by the shooter or some other person, with minimum disturbance to neighbouring competitors.

In the event of more than one failure, or the need repeatedly to artificially extract spent cases, the Range Officer must consider the possibility of the use of unsafe ammunition as provided for under Rules 21.2.6 and 21.2.7 and not permit the competitor to continue with that rifle/ammunition combination.

22.1.5 No allowance will be made for a shot fired from a defective rifle and, once a bullet has left the barrel, it shall, for scoring purposes, be considered as properly fired, except when this is done to clear a jammed loaded rifle as in Rule 22.1.4.

22.1.7 A competitor is not permitted to clean/wipe out the barrel of his rifle between shots at any distance.

22.1.8 Triggers may not be adjusted on the Range (i.e. on the firing point, or in the restricted area), without the express permission of the Range Officer.

NB. These are new international rules and differ in both method and penalty from the previous SABU rules.

22.1.9.1 A RO may at his sole discretion (or in accordance with the CRO’s direction) test the trigger of any competitor’s rifle immediately prior to him shooting, or following a shoot, before the scorecard is accepted. This is NOT limited to those scoring the highest possible score. Before testing both the competitor and the RO must check to see that the rifle is unloaded.

All trigger tests are to be made by a RO or, under his supervision, by the competitor or some other person delegated by the RO, or requested by the competitor.

22.1.9.2 Current practice is for the triggers to be tested of all competitors scoring a "possible" (maximum score) at any distance, or any other score specified by the Executive Committee. However, the CRO is empowered to modify or waive this testing requirement, at his sole discretion.

22.1.9.3 In all cases, triggers will be tested with the barrel held vertically, and with the testing weight suspended from the centre point of the trigger finger piece (or deepest point in respect of curved triggers). The weight must be lifted from a flat, dry and level surface and the trigger must support the weight without “breaking”. If a suitable surface is not available, or a relatively strong wind is blowing, an alternative method of holding the rifle vertically and gently hanging the weight from the trigger is permissible. A maximum of five attempts may be made to lift the weight. If the rifle fails the test and the competitor desires a re-test the RO will retain the rifle in his possession and re-test it after not less than five or more than ten minutes. If it then passes the test on the first attempt, the score will be allowed.

22.1.9.4 If the trigger passes the test, the Range Officer must confirm that the rifle serial number agrees with that entered on the competitor's scorecard, then sign the card in the appropriate place. If it fails the test, he must clearly annotate, on the front of the card, "Failed trigger test”, then deduct 5 points from the competitor’s score for that distance.

22.1.9.5 If a competitor fails to test his trigger when required to do so, he will be penalised as though the trigger had failed the test.

22.1.10.1 Prior to any tie shoot, the Range Committee has the right to check each rifle for valid proof marks and trigger pressure.

22.1.10.2 If a competitor's rifle fails the trigger pressure test, no penalty points will be deducted. The competitor will however not be allowed to take part in the tie shoot and his name will be placed on the prize-list below all others with the same score.

22.1.10.3 If a competitor's rifle is found to be unproofed, his score at the final distance of the match will be disallowed.

Only the ammunition as described in Rule 11 may be used during the meeting. Any competitor caught using ammunition that does not comply with the rules, will be disqualified. (See Rule 37.6)

22.2.2.1 Before starting to shoot, each competitor must check that he has sufficient ammunition on the firing point for that distance. This must include additional rounds to cover the possible random handload check collection by the Range Officer (Rule 21.3), an additional optional non-convertible sighting shot (Rule 24.4), or a faulty cartridge that does not fire.

22.2.3. If a misfire occurs, the competitor should be aware of the possible danger of a hangfire. The RO must be called immediately, whilst the rifle remains pointed towards the stopbutt. After waiting at least 30 seconds, the competitor may then turn the rifle on its side, so that the loading port faces the ground, and open the bolt. The competitor must ensure that his fingers and all other parts of his body are not behind the bolt. It is the responsibility of the RO to ensure that no one is standing behind, should the bolt be blown out. On no account must a round that has misfired be reloaded into the rifle.

22.2.4 In the case of a perforated primer, the competitor must, immediately he finishes at that distance, have his rifle checked, by someone competent, for a faulty or miss-set firing pin. An expert should also look at the other of the competitor’s cartridges for damaged or incorrectly seated primers.

23.2 No competitor may place any of his gear in position on the firing point until the Chief Range Officer gives the command, "PREPARE".

23.3 At this command, competitors will immediately move forward and set up their equipment on their allotted positions. The position of the number on the firing point indicates the centre of the space for the target concerned.

23.4 During this preparation period ( a minimum of five minutes), all targets will be at half-mast.

23.5 As quickly as possible, Range Officers will check for gaps on the mound and, if necessary, re-squad some competitors onto other targets, per Rule 8.4.

23.6 The competitors on each target will then exchange scorecards for the match, per the directive in Appendix F, "Register Keeping".

23.7 Once a competitor has taken up his position, he may only leave the firing point with the permission of the Range Officer (see Rules 23.14 and 23.15), or if he "retires" from the match (see Rule 23.27), or when he and the other shooter(s) on his target have completed firing at that distance.

23.8 After the command, "RANGE SAFE, WHEN TARGETS APPEAR, YOU MAY LOAD AND COMMENCE FIRING", competitors must not waste time with last-minute preparation, or excessive dry-firing. However, as aiming is not permitted before this command and targets were until then at half-mast, competitors will be allowed sufficient time for sight aperture adjustments, etc.

23.9 The competitor to shoot first must confirm that the other shooter(s) on the target are ready, before he starts. The time limit per shot applies from the moment the shooters declare themselves ready (Rule 23.13).

23.10 Competitors on each target will fire shots in rotation, starting with the shooter on the right, followed by the shooter in the middle and then the shooter on the left.

NB: Refer to Rules 17, 18 and 19 for the target marking and scoring procedures and the code messages to be used for communication with the butts.

23.11 Each competitor will act as Register Keeper for the shooter who fires immediately after him. Refer to Appendix F for the full Register Keeping procedure.

A strict time limit is applicable for every shot. From the moment the target is in position, a competitor will be allowed:

23.13.2 When there are two shooters on a target, or when a competitor is shooting on his own: 60 seconds.

NB: This time limit per shot applies to all individual competitions fired "Bisley Style", including tie shoots, but not to String Shooting (see Appendix G) or team events (see Rule 27.13).

Timing starts when the target has come to rest at the top of its travel, or at the point at which any query as to shot value, protests and challenges have been disposed of by the RO.

23.13.3 Should a Range Officer observe that a competitor is possibly exceeding the time limit, he must accurately time a subsequent shot. If the permitted time is exceeded, he will issue a warning to the competitor. If the offence is then repeated, the Range Officer will instruct the register keeper to deduct two points from the value of the shot, annotating the reason. For each subsequent shot outside the time limit, the shooter will forfeit the value of the shot in question. These penalties apply to a particular distance only. For any transgression at a subsequent distance the process shall start anew. In the case of a localised disturbance such as a whirlwind or dust storm, a RO may use his discretion in allowing shooters a short relief from the 45/60 seconds time limit.

23.14 During the course of firing a competitor may only leave the firing point with the permission of the Range Officer, who must satisfy himself that the shooter has a valid reason for doing so. Before quitting the mound, the competitor must switch scorecards so that the two remaining shooters act as Register Keeper for one another. If there are only two competitors on a target, one may not leave the firing point until the Range Officer has nominated a Register Keeper for the other (see Rules 22.1.2 and 22.1.3).

23.15 The Range Officer must ensure that the competitor has made his rifle safe before allowing him to remove it from the firing point. If a live round is stuck in the chamber, the rifle must remain on the firing point with the muzzle pointing towards the targets and the procedure in Rule 22.1.4 must be followed.

23.16 After temporarily leaving the firing point, a competitor, on his return, must wait until the other two shooters have completed their shots at that distance before continuing. He will not be permitted additional sighting shots.

23.18 A competitor who intentionally fires at the wrong target, or out of turn, will be disqualified (see Rule 37.7).

23.19 In individual matches, a competitor may not screen himself or his rifle from the sun, wind or weather, or allow anyone else to do so, except as allowed under Rule 12.12, and the wearing of rain protective clothing.

23.20 In individual matches, competitors on the same target may spot for each other. It is also permitted for a competitor, on his first sighting shot, or after a miss, to request the others on his target to watch for the strike. Information on the whereabouts of the "dust" on this shot will not constitute coaching, provided no specific advice is given on sight correction.

23.21 Other than the above, the giving or receiving of any information or advice in the nature of coaching is not permitted. (See Rule 35.5)

23.22 Conversation on the firing point must be limited to essentials so as not to disturb other competitors.

23.23 No person is allowed to make any loud noise or disturbance likely to affect a competitor. The Range Officer may have anyone infringing this regulation removed from the vicinity of the firing point.

NB: This does not apply to conversation at normal levels, at a reasonable distance behind the mound.

23.24 The Executive Committee will provide and endeavour to maintain, radio communication between the firing point and the butts, but will not be answerable for any breakdown, whether temporary or permanent. Such occurrence must not be allowed to interrupt the shooting, nor will it be admitted as a claim on the part of a competitor to any indulgence.

23.25 The Chief Range Officer may suspend firing temporarily if, in his judgement, the weather conditions justify such suspension, or for any other reason he considers valid. Shooting shall be resumed as soon as possible, unless the Executive Committee decides otherwise. If shooting is suspended for longer than 5 minutes, competitors will be permitted an optional extra non-convertible sighter. This concession applies whenever a competitor’s shoot is interrupted through no fault of his own (e.g. target breakdown, etc.). See Rule 24.4 re additional sighting shots.

23.26 A competitor who misses the target with four consecutive shots (whether including sighting shots or not), MUST stop firing until the others on the target have finished. He may then complete his shoot, but will not be allowed an extra sighting shot.

23.27 A competitor "retires" when he voluntarily ceases to fire before required to do so by the conditions of the match.

23.27.1 Unless the reason for retirement is imperative (e.g. sudden illness), the shooter concerned must carry on with his register keeping duty until the other shooters on the target have finished. If circumstances are such that the Range Officer authorises the retiring shooter to quit the firing point immediately, he must first comply with Rules 23.14 and 23.15.

23.27.2 When a competitor retires he will be allowed to count the score he has made up to that point. Retirement at one distance of a match does not debar the competitor from firing at subsequent distances.

23.27.3 To avoid a later search in stats for a missing scorecard, a competitor who retires MUST hand in his scorecard to the Range Officer, or place it in the bin as he leaves the firing point (see Rule 7.10).

23.28 When he has completed his shoot, a competitor may lay his rifle down but he must remain in the prone position until the other shooters on his target have also finished.

23.29 When competitors vacate the firing point whilst shooting is still in progress on neighbouring targets, they must be careful not to cast shadows on, or in any other way disturb a shooter on aim. Such disturbance will not however be allowed as a reason for a shot to be repeated unless the shooter was actually physically bumped as he discharged the shot. In such a case the shooter concerned must appeal to the Range Officer, before the shot is marked. Once the Range Officer authorises a replacement shot, the original shot is nullified and cannot be claimed by the shooter if it is a Bull.

23.30 The provisions of Rule 23.29 also apply when competitors are moving onto the firing point, if a fill-in system is in operation.

23.31 The CRO may, if desirable, transfer a competitor to another target in the same detail, either before he begins to shoot or if the target breaks down. If the competitor has fired one or more shots (whether sighting or to count), he will be entitled to an optional, non-convertible sighter before resuming exactly where he left off. Squads shooting 'single string' may be redistributed to other targets at the RO's discretion.

24.1 During the meeting, competitors will be allowed two convertible sighting shots at every distance of each match, both individual and team. For tie shoots only one convertible sighting shot is allowed.

24.2 A competitor who cannot tell the position of a convertible sighting shot, owing to the display of two (or more) spotting discs, may elect to accept the one of higher value or, alternatively, may request permission from the RO to repeat the shot, which remains convertible. If he does so, the RO will declare the previous shots on the target null and void. If any other shot is known to be a shot out of turn by another competitor squadded on the same target, that competitor will have no relief and the value of his shot will be as in Rule 19.4.

24.3 After a competitor has fired his second sighter, he may elect to count the second sighting shot, or both, in his score. He must declare his intention to his register keeper before he fires a further shot. In the absence of such a declaration, he shall be presumed NOT to have converted his sighting shots. The register keeper must acknowledge any conversions.

24.4 Except as provided in Rule 24.2 above, all extra sighting shots provided for in these rules are optional and non-convertible (See Rules 19.4, 21.2.7.2, 22.1.2, 22.1.3, 23.25 and 23.31). Unless a competitor declares, before firing his shot, that he is taking a permitted extra sighter, he will be deemed to have fired ‘on score’.

24.5 Refer to Appendix F (Register Keeping) for details of how sighting shots are to be entered on register cards.

Appendix F details the full procedure for register keeping in both individual and team matches.

26.1 The procedures relative to challenges of the signalled value of shots is covered in Rule 19, "SCORING" and Appendix F, "REGISTER KEEPING".

26.2 Any claim or complaint by a competitor or team arising on the firing point must be made at once by way of protest to the Range Officer. If his decision is disputed, or if the protest is not disposed of on the spot, the matter must immediately be referred to the Chief Range Officer, or his Deputy. The CRO will, if necessary, seek advice from the Referee (if one has been appointed), or members of the Range Committee. The CRO, with the concurrence of the Referee or Range Committee, may impose any penalty up to and including disallowance of score, and will report any offence potentially meriting disqualification to the Executive Committee, while taking any appropriate interim action, which could include the firing of provisional shots. If provisional shots are ordered, the RO must annotate full details on the competitor’s scorecard, identifying the provisional shots, for subsequent decision by the Executive Committee.

26.3 The CRO has absolute discretion to deal with matters involving safety or security in accordance with Rule 2B.1.

26.4 The ruling by the CRO as to outcomes on the range will be final. In the event that a ruling cannot be given on the spot, or immediately on the completion of the competitor’s (or team’s) shoot, the circumstances must be put in writing by the competitor or team captain concerned and handed to the CRO or the secretarial office within 30 minutes of the end of the match, for subsequent ruling by the Executive Committee. The Executive Committee will also rule on the admissibility of any associated provisional shots fired in accordance with Rule 26.2.

26.5 Protests not directly related to occurrences on the firing point, must be made, in writing, to the Executive Officer for resolution by the Executive Committee.

26.6 An appeal against disallowance of score or any other penalty (or lack thereof) imposed by the CRO must be made in writing to the Executive Officer, within 2 hours of the end of the match, accompanied by any relevant appeal fee as set by the Executive Committee. This fee will be returned if the appeal is upheld. The Executive Committee will deal with the appeal as promptly as possible, consistent always with the principles of fair hearing under “due process.”

26.7 Should an appellant not be satisfied with a ruling of the Executive Committee, he has the right to request a review by the SABU Dispute Resolution Committee. (See Appendix K)

27.1 Regulation 4 "PROVINCES AND RIFLE CLUBS" covers the general rules for eligibility to compete in team matches during the meeting. Rule 6.2 covers entries for team events.

27.2 The published match conditions specify the number of shooters in a team. The Executive Committee will decide on the number of targets allocated to each team, based on the team size, number of entries and target availability. For all major team competitions (International or Interprovincial), each team will be permitted the following non-shooting officials, Captain, Adjutant/Manager, Chief-Coach/Coordinator (when more than one target will be used by the team) and one coach for each target allocated to the team, e.g. a 12-shooter team, shooting on three targets will be allowed a maximum of six non-shooting members. Non-shooting members must meet the same eligibility criteria as shooting members. The number of prizes available for winning teams will assume the maximum number of non-shooting members. However, teams are not obliged to appoint non-shooting officials. Shooting members may also perform any, or all, of the above functions.

For all other team events, unless the Match Conditions specify to the contrary, teams will be allowed a maximum of a captain plus one non-shooting coach per target allocated to the team.

No one other than selected team members (shooting or non-shooting) may actively assist a team in any way other than acting as a Register Keeper.

NB: Team reserves are not normally considered as part of a team for international and other matches under the full jurisdiction of SABU. For international matches under the full jurisdiction of ICFRA or other host nations, whether held abroad or in South Africa, the status and roles of official team reserves will be as stipulated in the relevant ICFRA or host nation rules and/or match conditions.

27.3 Under exceptional circumstances, the Executive Committee is empowered, in terms of Rule 2A.3, to change team size, number of officials, course of fire, etc., for any team event during the meeting.

27.4 Target positions for teams will either be drawn or allocated by the Executive Committee, who will also decide whether teams remain on the same target throughout the match or move a specified number of targets for subsequent distances. For International or Interprovincial matches involving more than one distance, teams should be moved at subsequent distances on a predetermined plan so as to minimise the effect of weather or favoured locations on the range.

27.5 If at all possible, in matches where each team has multiple targets, at least one vacant lowered target should separate the team sets.

27.7 Every team captain must, if called on to do so by the Executive Committee, furnish evidence that he has been appointed by competent authority.

27.8 In all team events, Team Captains are responsible for providing the requisite number of Register Keepers. Appendix F details the qualification for register keepers, the standard method of exchange between teams and the full procedure.

27.9 Each Captain shall squad the members of his team on the allotted target(s). He may, at any time, order one member to suspend his firing and start with another. The first shooter will not be entitled to an additional sighting shot when he resumes, even if more than five minutes have elapsed.

27.9.1 If a team is running short of time, a captain is permitted to order a team member to fire alternate shots on any of the targets allocated to the team, not being fired on by any other member; not necessarily waiting for one to be marked before firing on another.

27.9.2 The one proviso is that the register keepers are informed, for each shot, if necessary, which shooter is about to fire, on which target. Failure to inform the register keepers of any change in firing order or target will result in the member concerned being penalised for firing out of turn (Rule 19.2), or having the shot declared a miss for firing on the wrong target (Rule 19.1). The fact that the target is one allocated to the team is irrelevant.

27.10 A Team Captain may delegate responsibility for the decisions specified in Rule 27.9 to the Team Adjutant/Manager or Coach.

27.11 There is no limit to the number of team members on the firing point at one time, provided there is no interference with safe range operation, or with members of another team, or the register keepers.

27.12 No other person is allowed to give advice to the competitors on the firing point.

27.13 Unlike individual matches, there is no time limit for single shots in team events. For each distance in a team match, there will be an overall time limit for the whole team, based on the following formula, unless specific match conditions dictate otherwise:-

27.13.1 SHORT RANGE (300, 500 & 600 metres). The time allowed, in minutes, shall be equal to the number of shots to be fired at a target (including sighters), plus 25%.

27.13.2 LONG RANGE (700, 800 & 900 metres). As for Short Range but 33% added instead of 25%.

27.14 At the expiration of the time allowed, all firing at that distance must cease, whether all teams have completed their firing or not, and the Chief Range Officer will order the targets to be half-masted. The CRO may allow a time extension if there has been an exceptional delay on a target not occasioned by any act or neglect on the part of the team concerned. The Captain is responsible for calling the attention of the Range Officer to any such delay, immediately it occurs, not just at the end of the allotted time.

27.15 No radio device may be used between coaches/team officials, but a communication system using wires is permitted, provided it is restricted to those on the firing point. No one in the communications loop may sit that far behind the shooters and coaches that he can receive outside advice in contravention of Rule 27.12.

27.16 All members of a team, shooters and officials, are permitted to spot for or coach the shooting members, or act as plotters. Incidental shielding of firers by coaches or plotters is not in contravention of the prohibition against shielding in Rule 23.19.

27.17 Should a member of a team be prevented from continuing to fire by any cause both imperative and unforeseen, his place may, with the prior approval of the Chief Range Officer, be taken by a Reserve. This reserve will take up firing at the point where the team member retired and will not be entitled to any extra sighting shots. Any such incapacitated shooter who is replaced may not participate in the match again as a shooter on the same day as his withdrawal. If he is restored to the team, the reserve who replaced him will revert to reserve status.

27.18 A member of a team may voluntarily change his rifle at any time but, as a consequence, will not be permitted additional sighting shots.

27.19 Two members of a team may use the same rifle provided they are not squadded to shoot at the same time.

27.20 It is the responsibility of the team captain to ensure that score registers are correct in every respect and to sign them accordingly.

27.21 The disciplinary rules applicable to Individual Matches also apply, where appropriate, to Team Matches. Misconduct or failure to comply with the rules by any team member may lead to the disallowance of his score, or his personal disqualification, or disqualification for the whole team. If disqualified on a personal basis, a team shooter may NOT be replaced during the match in question.

28.1 In all competitions at the meeting, a score includes the number of V-Bulls, thus 50.8 is higher than 50.7 (but 50.1 is higher than 49.9). A tie therefore only occurs when two or more individuals or teams achieve the same total score in a competition, with the same total number of V-Bulls.

28.2 A tie for any prize in a Team Match will always be counted out per the procedure in Rule 30.

28.3 In individual competitions, every tie for a trophy or first place in a competition will be resolved by a tie shoot, unless otherwise stated in the specific match conditions, published in these rules or the meeting programme book, or otherwise decided by the Executive Committee.

28.4 All other ties in individual matches, will be counted out per the procedure as described in Rule 30.

28.5 It is the responsibility of the competitor to ascertain whether he is likely to be required for a tie shoot. Any competitor who fails to attend the tie shoot will be placed as per Rule 29.3.11.

29.1 For the meeting, all tie shoots will take place on a day and at a time that will be specified in the programme book. Under certain circumstance, the Executive Committee may change this, so competitors who know from the prize lists posted on the score boards that they will be involved in a tie shoot, must watch the SABU Notice Board for revised tie shoot times.

29.2 For other events, time permitting, tie shoots will take place immediately after a Competition. The onus is on competitors to establish whether they are in the running to qualify for a tie shoot and the likely time of the tie shoot, before they leave the range.

29.3.1 All tie-shoots will consist of one convertible sighting shot and five shots to count at the longest or only distance of the relevant match.

29.3.2 Numbers permitting, each contestant will fire on a separate target. Adjacent targets will be used and exactly the right number will be exposed.

29.3.3 Allocation of targets will be on a random basis by the Chief Range Officer, or a member of the Range Committee but, if several ties are being resolved simultaneously (e.g. different classes), those shooting against one-another will be grouped together.

29.3.4 Each contestant must have a register keeper, who will position himself behind his shooter, to the rear of the firing point.

29.3.5 At the "Commence Firing" command, each contestant will fire one convertible sighter plus five shots to count.

29.3.6 Once a contestant starts, a maximum of 60 seconds will be allowed per shot, from the time the target is elevated, or any marking query or challenge resolved.

29.3.7 When he has completed these shots, the shooter will remain in position on the firing point but his register keeper will stand up, to signify to the Range Officer that his shooter is finished.

29.3.8 When all have finished, the Range Officer will count down from the highest possible score (including V's) and each Register Keeper will raise his hand when the score attained by his shooter is called.

29.3.9 If there is still a tie for first place, the shooters concerned will fire single shots “sudden death” until the tie is broken. For this purpose a V-Bull will count higher than an ordinary bull.

29.3.10 Immediately the winner has been established, the tie shoot will be stopped and the order of merit of all other competitors in the tie will be decided as follows:

29.3.10.3 If still a tie, by counting out on the original match score as detailed under Rule 30.

29.3.11 Should a competitor who has qualified, fail to take part in a tie shoot, his name will be placed on the prize list in order of merit below that of the lowest scorer in the tie shoot

29.3.12 If the number of contestants in a tie shoot exceeds the number of targets available, or in extraordinary circumstances, the CRO is empowered to order shooting in pairs, with the two shooters on a target acting as register keepers for one another.

30.1 The ranking of scores in individual competitions will be determined as follows:

30.1.1 If a tie shoot has been held, those competitors involved will be ranked according to Rule 29.

30.1.2 If there was no tie shoot, or to rank the scores below those involved in a tie shoot, the following count-out procedure will be applied to the original competition score.

This applies to both single matches and aggregates. In all cases the total score includes the number of V-Bulls.

30.1.3 When two or more competitors have the same total score, with an identical total number of V-Bulls, the order of merit will be decided by:

30.1.3.1 For competitions conducted in multiple stages (e.g. The State President’s Match):

By the aggregate scores in each successive stage, starting with the last. If this does not resolve the tie, the count out will continue as for single stage matches in Rule 30.1.3.2

30.1.3.2 Firstly, by range totals, in order of distance, commencing with the longest. If any distance has been shot more than once, all scores at that distance will be added together.

30.1.3.2.1 If still a tie, by the value of each shot at the longest distance of the match, in the reverse order of their firing

30.1.3.2.2 If still a tie, by the value of each shot at the next-to-longest distance, in the reverse order of their firing and so on, until the tie is broken,

NOTE 1: In all count out steps by shot, a V-bull will be deemed to be of higher value than a bull 5.

NOTE 2: Refer to Rule 34.2, which specifies how penalty points are treated in a tie count-out.

30.1.4 Where a tie shoot is not specified, and application of the tie-breaking steps does not resolve a tie, any prize money will be equally divided.

30.2 As tie shoots are never conducted in team events, the sequence of count-out steps, on tied scores (i.e. same total score with identical number of V-Bulls), is as follows:

30.2.1 By range totals in the order of distance, commencing with the longest. If any distance has been shot more than once, all scores at that distance will be added together.

30.2.2 If still a tie, by the value of the aggregate of the shots (by shot number) of all the firers in the team, at the longer distance, in reverse order of firing, until the tie is broken. If still necessary thereafter, by the application of the same principle to the next-longest distance and so on.

31.1 B Class competitors will not be eligible for cash prizes in the A Class, but the top B Class competitor will win a trophy if his score is higher than that of the top A Class competitor. In the event of a tie (for first place only), a tie shoot will be held irrespective of class.

31.2 The "Top Ten" plaques will be awarded to the target rifle competitors in the first ten positions in the Grand Aggregate, irrespective of class. (Separate awards are made to the F class and .303 Class.)

31.3 For each competition, a provisional prize list will be published by the Statistics Office and displayed on the Notice Board. This will state the time (normally 6 hours after posting) at which the list will become final.

31.4 Prize winners, or potential prize winners, will be responsible for calling attention to any omissions or errors in a Provisional Prize List. If a competitor fails to do so, within the time prescribed, he forfeits all claims to a prize, or a higher prize as the case may be, even if the omission or error is solely the fault of the Union. If there are special circumstances that prevented a competitor from checking the provisional list, an appeal may be made to the Executive Committee.

31.5 If a competitor is awarded a prize to which he may subsequently be found not to have been entitled, he will be required to return it.

32.1 Because of the large number of prizes involved in the meeting, there may be two prizegiving ceremonies – one mid-week and the other at the end of the meeting. All merit medals and other prizes in kind must be collected from the secretarial office at the end of the meeting.

32.2 The description of medals, etc, as "Gold" and "Silver" refers to the colour, rather than the actual metal.

32.3 Cups, shields and other challenge trophies shall be held as the property of the Union.

32.5 SABU will undertake the engraving of Challenge Trophies, free of charge to the winners.

32.6 Money prizes may be handed over at the prizegiving ceremonies, but will otherwise not be paid out during the meeting. In the latter case, every effort will be made to post prize-winners’ cheques within thirty days of the conclusion of the meeting. However, the Executive Officer may allow an exception to the latter procedure in respect of competitors from abroad, if time permits it at the end of the meeting.

32.7 All prizes, whether in money or kind, shall be forfeited to the Union if not claimed within six months after the end of the meeting.

For any minor or technical infringement, which does not expose anyone to danger, or give the offender any material benefit or advantage over other competitors and for an offence for which no penalty is specifically laid down in these rules, the Executive Committee has full discretion to impose what it considers an appropriate penalty. This could be a warning or a fine. For examples of such offences see Rules 7.7, 7.12, 21.2.1 and 21.2.2. The competitor (or team captain) concerned will have the right of appeal to the Dispute Resolution Committee if he considers a discretionary penalty applied by the Executive Committee to be unjust or excessive. The Dispute Resolution Committee’s decision in the matter will be final.

34.1 The following offences will result in the deduction of points from a specific shot:

34.1.1 A shot fired on the wrong target: loss of the value of the shot, i.e. a miss (Rule 19.1);

34.1.2 A shot fired out of turn: a one point penalty relating to the value of that shot (Rule 19.2);

34.1.3 For exceeding the time limit per shot, after an earlier warning by the Range Officer:

34.1.3.1 For the first offence at any distance: 2 points off the value of the specific shot.

34.1.3.2 For a second or subsequent shot, at the same distance: forfeiture of the specific shot (Rule 23.13.3).

34.2 For the following general offences, points will be deducted from the last shot of the string concerned. If the value of this last shot is insufficient to cover the penalty, the balance will be deducted from the second last shot, and so on. (This provision is necessary in case of a tie count-out):

34.2.1 Failed the trigger pressure test (Rules 22.1.9.4 and 22.1.9.5): five points

34.2.2 Bolt found in a rifle, without an ECI (breech flag), per Rule 21.1.5: Five points deducted from last shot/s of the score yet to be fired

34.2.3 Shooting in the wrong detail or on a target other than the one specified per his squadding card, unless instructed to do so by the CRO: Five points (Rule 8.2)

Any competitor shall, on the occurrence of any of the following offences being proved to the satisfaction of the Chief Range Officer, but subject to an appeal to the Executive Committee within 24 hours of the CRO’s decision, have his score disallowed by the CRO for the distance at which the offence took place:
If he considers that there are extenuating circumstances, the offender may appeal to the Dispute Resolution Committee, whose decision in the matter will be final.

35.1 Refusal to obey valid instructions, for the due carrying out of these rules, given by a Range Officer (Rule 20.1.5 and 23.1) (In each such case, the CRO must verify the facts and only he can order a score disallowed.)

35.2 Failure to comply with the specific conditions laid down for a particular competition or the general regulations for the conduct of the meeting

35.3 Use of a rifle that does not comply with the requirements set out in these regulations e.g. one that is unproofed (Rules 10 & 22.1.10.3; Appendix H for F-Class)

35.4 After completing a shoot, leaving the firing point with the bolt in his rifle, without an ECI (breech flag). In this event the penalty will apply to both the shooter and his register keeper, unless the latter can satisfy the Executive Committee that the chamber was clear, when he certified the scorecard). Rules 21.1.6 and Appendix F.12)

35.5 When coaching is not allowed, giving or requesting any advice in the nature of coaching, whilst on the firing point (Rule 23.21)

NB: Refer to Rule 23.20 which defines help that does not constitute "coaching" in terms of these rules.

35.7 In an individual match, changing rifles during the firing at any one distance, except under the circumstances detailed in Rule 22.1.2

35.9 Failure to properly use, complete, or hand in a score-card, or handing it in late (Rule 7.14)

35.10 Unfairly screening himself or his rifle, or allowing anyone else to do so (Rule 23.19)

35.11 Continued use after warning of rifle attachments, shooting aids, or other equipment which, although not specifically prohibited by the rules, are considered by the Referee (or CRO if no referee has been appointed) to give the user an unfair advantage over other competitors

Note: In each of these cases the CRO or Referee will have the authority to impose a lesser penalty should he consider that there are mitigating circumstances.

Any competitor shall, on the occurrence of any of the following offences being proved to the satisfaction of the Executive Committee, be excluded from all further competitions during the meeting and shall forfeit all entrance fees and any prizes won subsequent to the offence. The competitor concerned has the right of appeal to the Dispute Resolution Committee, whose decision shall be final:

36.1 Discharging a firearm anywhere in the camp, other than on a shooting range that is under control of a Range Officer

36.2 Being found with a loaded rifle except at his proper firing point during a match or practice

36.3 Firing a shot when the danger sign is up (Rule 21.2.2) or intentionally firing a shot at any object other than his proper target

36.4 Accidentally discharging his rifle on the range, in a direction other than towards the stop-butt (Rule 21.2.3)

36.5 Acting in any other way that might prove dangerous, either on the range or elsewhere in the camp (Rule 21.2.5)

Any competitor shall, on the occurrence of any of the following offences being proved to the satisfaction of the Executive Committee, forfeit all entry fees and any prizes won subsequent to the offence; be disqualified from the meeting, expelled from the shooting range and camp and suspended from all SABU activities for such period as the Executive Committee might determine:

37.3 Knowingly entering for or shooting in a competition for which he is not eligible (Rule 6.1.4)

37.4 Shooting in a competition more times than is permitted by the conditions (Rule 6.1.3)

37.5 Contrary to the provisions of these rules, deliberately modifying his rifle or applying his shooting aids in such a way as to obtain an unfair advantage (Rule 12.1.1)

37.7 Intentionally firing a shot at the wrong target, or out of turn (Rule 23.19)

37.8 Offering, or accepting, a bribe of any kind to overlook a breech of the rules, or to falsify a scorecard, etc., or, knowing of such a bribe offer, failing to report it without delay to the Executive Committee

37.9 Deliberately failing to inform the Range Officer when the spotting disc disagrees with the value signalled

37.10 Knowingly claiming or accepting points that he has not scored, or conniving at such conduct by another competitor (Rule 19.12)

37.11 Except on valid medical grounds acceptable to the South African Institute for Drug-Free Sport (SAIDS), taking any banned drug (see Appendix C)

37.12 Is guilty of any conduct which the Council or Executive Committee may consider to be discreditable or detrimental to SABU

37.13 Has been reported to the Council or Executive Committee as having elsewhere been proven guilty of any of the above Rule 37 offences
In every case involving disqualification or suspension, except under rule 37.11, the competitor concerned has the right to dispute the ruling and have his case heard by the Dispute Resolution Committee. He may personally plead his case and submit evidence in mitigation, but may not be represented by a third party. The committee findings will then be reviewed by the Council who, if satisfied of the competitor’s guilt, will determine the period for which the competitor will be suspended. The decision of the Council will be final.

37.13.1 Anti-Doping offences (Rule 37.11) will be dealt with by the special SABU Anti-Doping Disciplinary Committee detailed in Appendix C, Clause 9. This includes the conduct of any necessary disciplinary hearing required by the authorities.

Suspension by the Council debars the individual concerned from any SABU activity and from taking part in the activities of any provincial association, unit or club, affiliated to the Union, for the full period of the suspension.

38.1 In every case of disqualification, the name of the offender, as well as the particulars, will be posted on the SABU Official Notice Board.

38.2 In cases where competitors have their scores disallowed per Rule 35, or are excluded from further competition during the meeting or regional competition per Rule 36, the circumstances under which the penalties were incurred will be posted on the notice board as a warning to others, without the names of the individuals implicated.

1. INDIVIDUAL REGISTER CARDS (commonly referred to as scorecards) on which the value of each shot is entered, in the correct sequence, at the time of shooting, by a register keeper. An individual register card is only valid once it is signed by the register keeper and the competitor, as well as the Range Officer when required by these Rules, e.g. after trigger testing. Appendix F details the procedure for register keeping.

2. INDIVIDUAL CLAIM CARDS on which an individual competitor claims a score, or an aggregate of scores, already recorded on register card/s. An individual claim card must be filled in and signed by the competitor and may not be handed to a register keeper for filling-in. With computerised “stats”, Individual Claim Cards are now only rarely used.

3. TEAM REGISTER CARDS. These are issued for all team competitions shot separately. As with individual register cards, each shot, by each team member, must be entered, in the correct sequence, at the time of shooting, by a register keeper. To be valid, a team register card must be signed by the team captain, register keeper(s) and the Range Officer. A team register card may be a single document or a number of scorecards, with a separate score summary sheet. In the latter case, the complete set constitutes the team register card. With separate scorecards, each team member must sign his card at each distance of the match.

4. TEAM CLAIM CARDS. These are used for team competitions where the scores made by team members in other specified competitions (recorded on individual or team register cards) also count for this team event. Only the team captain's signature is required to validate the card, provided the requirements of Rule 7.6, particularly 7.6.4, were met prior to the event.

Organisers of other meetings, conducted under SABU Rules, may wish or need to deviate in certain respects from these Rules. It is essential that such departures be clearly communicated to participants in printed programmes advertising the event and/or in the opening announcements on the range.

It is in everyone's interest to have as much consistency as possible from shoot to shoot. For this reason, the Council recommends the following guidelines:

1. CLASSIFICATION. SABU classification must be maintained, as far as possible. Organisers are however permitted to reclassify to A Class any shooter who has recently won an open prize-shoot or has represented a Provincial "A" Team, within the past three years.

2. AGE GROUPS. If additional prizes are offered for shooters in certain age groups, age grouping must be strictly in line with the SABU criteria:

4. SQUADDING. Normally, three shooters will be squadded to a target. If positions are not indicated, the shooter with the lowest competitor number of the three will lie on the right and the one with the highest, on the left. In the hot summer months it is permissible to switch to Single String squadding.

5. SAFETY PRECAUTIONS. Except for a smaller restricted area on certain existing ranges, no deviation whatsoever from the SABU safety rules will be permitted.

For non-SABU meeting regional competition events such as Pyramid shoots, "Skins" or V-Bull Competitions, organisers are permitted to devise their own tie-breaking procedures.

6. PENALTIES. If a competitor is penalised for any of the rule contraventions listed in Rules 36 and 37 (those punishable by exclusion or disqualification), full details must, without delay, be submitted to the Executive Officer of SABU.

7. TEAM SHOOTING. In extremely hot conditions, for team matches only and subject to unanimous agreement of all team captains, shade (umbrellas) may be provided on the firing point if this does not interfere with the CRO/RO’s clear view of the range.

1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 The South African Institute for Drug-Free Sport will hereinafter generally be referred to as SAIDS. “The SAIDS is the entity designated by the Government of the Republic of South Africa as possessing the primary authority to adopt and implement anti-doping rules, direct the collection of Samples, the management of test results, and the conduct of hearings, all at the national level.” (Source: World Anti-Doping Code, as quoted in SAIDS 2009 Anti-Doping Rules) It was established in terms of a law of Parliament (Act 14 of 1997, as amended) and thus has extensive statutory powers, some of which will be highlighted below.

1.2 SAIDS is affiliated to the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA). During 2005, SAIDS formally accepted the World Anti-Doping Code (WADC). The SAIDS’ Anti-Doping Rules are adopted and implemented in conformance with SAIDS’ responsibilities under this Code, and are in furtherance of SAIDS’ continuing efforts to eradicate doping in sport in South Africa.

1.3 In its 2009 Anti-Doping Rules, the SAIDS states the fundamental rationale for anti-doping rules as follows:

Anti-doping programs seek to preserve what is intrinsically valuable about sport. This intrinsic value is often referred to as “the spirit of sport”; it is how we play true. The spirit of sport is the celebration of the human spirit, body and mind, and is characterized by the following values:

1.4 SABU subscribes to this rationale. In South Africa and internationally, all participants in the sport of Bisley (fullbore rifle shooting), including competitors and team officials, are subject to anti-doping regulations and testing. (Under certain circumstances, other persons can also be parties to anti-doping rule violations as defined in clause 4 below.)

2. APPLICATION

2.1 Within South Africa, anti-doping regulations and controls apply to all persons whether South African citizens, in or out of competition, or from abroad, who intend to participate in SABU supervised championships and competitions.

2.2 Provinces and clubs affiliated to SABU are subject to the same rules in competitions which they control, and such competitions shall for the purpose of these rules be deemed to be SABU supervised championships or competitions.

2.3 All SABU provincial associations and clubs must recognize sanctions (punishments) for violation of international, SAIDS and SABU Anti-Doping Regulations.

2.4 Whilst anti-doping measures generally follow the same approach, there are some differences in application depending on where the particular competition is being held and under whose jurisdiction the competition and/or anti-doping controls falls. For the purpose of this appendix, three broad situations are distinguished:

2.4.1 All competitions held in South Africa under the jurisdiction of SABU or ICFRA, and where all anti-doping controls are always under the statutory control of SAIDS.

2.4.2 Competitions held abroad and where both such competitions and anti-doping controls are under the full jurisdiction of ICFRA and/or a host NRA that applies the ICFRA anti-doping policy.

2.4.3 Other competitions held abroad under the jurisdiction of ICFRA, a host NRA or another international sport organization such as the Commonwealth Games Association (CGA) or Commonwealth Shooting Federation (CSF), but where international or national anti-doping agencies similar to SAIDS may have partial or full jurisdiction over the conduct of anti-doping controls.

2.5 The diverse jurisdictions mentioned in clause 2.4 above, as well as much ‘technical’ detail, create a situation where a number of documents containing much detail on anti-doping legislation, definitions, policies, rules, procedures, penalties etc exist. This appendix will not repeat all this detail, but will provide the necessary contact particulars and references below in order to enable shooters to obtain such information themselves. (Please note: the information provided was correct at the time of compiling this SABU rules appendix.) Only some aspects of particular significance will be mentioned specifically, but this does not in any way imply a lesser importance of any other matter contained in the various sources referred to.

2.6 It is thus personally incumbent upon every potential participant in any of the competitions mentioned in clause 2.4 above to fully acquaint himself with the applicable anti-doping measures and to comply with them accordingly. Ignorance of the relevant information will not be an excuse or defence in any disciplinary action or hearing. SABU is not responsible for exercising this responsibility on behalf of participants. However, should any such potential participant experience a particular difficulty in obtaining the required information and/or require clarification of, or advice on, any of its aspects, the SABU office may be approached with a request for assistance. Where the SABU office is unable to render such assistance itself, the request will be referred to the relevant office-bearer(s) within SABU. The same applies to TUE applications – see clauses 3.3 and 5 below.

All relevant information regarding - and current documents of - SAIDS can be accessed on the SAIDS website at www.drugfreesport.org.za. The following is of particular importance:

3.1 The SAIDS’s Anti-Doping Rules for the particular calendar year (under the tab ‘Sports Federations’ at the time of compiling this SABU rules appendix). This document, amongst others, includes information on: anti-doping rules violations; proof of doping; testing; analysis of samples; results management; disciplinary procedures; sanctions against individuals, teams and national sports federations; and appeals.

3.2 The Drugs in Sport List for the current year (under the tab ‘Prohibited List’). This is a list of South African trade names of prohibited and permitted drugs/preparations and generic names of prohibited substances.

3.3 Therapeutic Use Exemptions (TUEs): the WADC International Standard for TUEs, including guidelines, procedures and application forms for TUEs (under tabs ‘TUE Guidelines’ and/or ‘Therapeutic Use Exempt forms’). See below for more information regarding TUEs.

To emphasise some critical definitions and other aspects of anti-doping controls in South Africa, the following is quoted from section 1 ‘Definitions’ of the South African Institute for Drug-Free Sport Act of 1997 (Act 14 of 1997) as amended:

‘adverse analytical finding’ means a report from a WADA-accredited laboratory that identifies in a sample, the presence of a prohibited substance or its metabolites or markers (including elevated quantities of endogenous substances) or evidence of the use of a prohibited method.

(i) the presence of a prohibited substance or its metabolites or markers in an athlete’s bodily specimen;

(iii) the refusal or failure, without compelling justification, to submit to sample collection after notification as authorised in terms of applicable anti-doping rules or otherwise evading sample collection;

(iv) the violation of applicable requirements regarding athlete availability for out of competition testing, including failure to provide required whereabouts information and missed tests which are declared based on reasonable rules;

(viii) the administration or attempted administration of a prohibited substance or method to any athlete, or assisting, encouraging, aiding, abetting, covering up or any other type of complicity involving and anti-doping rule violation or any attempted violation.

‘athlete’ means for purposes of doping control, any person who participates in sport at international level (as defined by each International Sports Federation) or national level (as defined by the Institute) and any other person who participates in sport at a lower level if designated by the Institute.

‘doping’ means the occurrence of one or more of the anti-doping rule violations as set out in this Act.

‘negative analytical finding’ means the finding, on analysis of a sample by a WADA-accredited laboratory, that does not indicate the presence of a prohibited substance or the use of a prohibited method.

‘notifiable event’ means any sports competition or event under the auspices of the South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (SASCOC) or any national sports federation anywhere within or outside the Republic, with reference to which doping control is to be carried out, as determined by the Institute.

‘prohibited list’ means the list identifying the prohibited substances and prohibited methods, published at least annually by WADA as a mandatory International Standard.

‘prohibited method’ means any method so described on the Prohibited List.

‘prohibited substance’ means any substance so described on the Prohibited List.

‘registered testing pool’ means the pool of top level athletes, established by the Institute, who are subject to both in competition and out of competition testing as part of the Institute’s test distribution plan.

5.1 It is the personal responsibility of any potential participant in a competition under SABU jurisdiction and who requires a TUE to apply directly to SAIDS for such TUE.

5.2 According to the SAIDS Anti-Doping Rules 2009, the following potential participants (referred to as “athletes”) must apply for TUEs as described (Note: only extracts provided with emphasis added to some words – consult the Rules for full particulars):

a. Athletes with a documented medical condition requiring the use of a Prohibited Substance or Prohibited Method must first obtain a TUE.

b. Athletes included by SAIDS in its Registered Testing Pool and other Athletes participating in any National Event must obtain a TUE granted or recognized by SAIDS. The application for a TUE must be made as soon as possible and in any event no later than 21 days before the Athlete’s participation in the Event.

c. For Athletes neither in the Registered Testing Pool nor in the National Testing Pool and who are not selected by their National Federation for a National or Provincial Team, the following TUE rules apply:

(1) Athletes need not apply to SAIDS for a TUE but will have to Declare the Use of and be in possession of a valid doctor’s prescription for the use of diuretics, insulin, tamoxifen treatment for cancer, steroid treatment for osteoporosis, systemic glucocorticosteroids, methylphenidate and beta-blockers (not for shooting). Athletes fulfilling these criteria will qualify for a Retroactive TUE for the use of the declared medication.

(2) Athletes who suffer from asthma will need to Declare the Use of their prescribed medications and in the event of being tested positive for a prescribed medication, they will be required to lodge a medical file with SAIDS with their medical history and a report of the clinical examination with the specific focus on the respiratory system and prescribed medications. Athletes fulfilling these criteria will qualify for a Retroactive TUE for the use of the declared asthma medication.

5.3 TUEs for the use of beta-blockers: SAIDS is of the firm opinion that Beta-blockers are expressly banned in all shooting sports. Generally, a TUE for beta-blockers in shooting sports is thus not granted by SAIDS, but where exceptional cases exist, the SAIDS TUEC will evaluate the application on its medical merits.

(d) to promote and ensure the adoption of a centralized doping control programme, which may subject any athlete to testing, with or without advance notice, both in and out of competition.

(e) to ensure that national sports federations and other sports organizations adopt and implement anti-doping policies and rules which conform with the Code and with the requirements set out in the anti-doping policy and rules of the Institute.

(f) to ensure the establishment and maintenance of a WADA accredited laboratory in the Republic.

6.2 Extracts from SAIDS Act section 11 ‘Powers and duties of Institute’, subsection (2): The Institute shall

(a) adopt and implement anti-doping rules and policies which conform with the Code including the WADA Prohibited List;

(d) disseminate information relating to the sanctions likely to be imposed if athletes violate anti-doping rules;

(f) collect samples from athletes and secure the safe and tamper-free transit of samples to WADA-accredited laboratories in accordance with the World Anti-Doping Code International Standard for Testing;

(i) take steps aimed at ensuring that South Africa complies with the World Anti-Doping Code and any other anti-doping agreements or arrangements to which South Africa is a party.

6.3 Section 11 ‘Powers and duties of Institute’, subsection (3): Any failure of any national sports federation or sports organization to co-operate with the Institute shall be reported to the Minister [of Sport], who will address the issue with SASCOC or any other relevant sports body and organization as he or she deems fit.

7.1 ICFRA has adopted a set of ICFRA Anti-doping rules, that are published on the ICFRA website www.icfra.com, under the tab ‘Shooting Rules’.

7.2 ICFRA will usually cooperate with host National Governing Bodies (NGBs) in the conducting of anti-doping controls. Potential participants can thus peruse the ICFRA rules as stated above and, if required, seek further clarification from the relevant host NGB.

8. ANTI-DOPING MEASURES UNDER THE FULL OR PARTIAL CONTROL OF INTERNATIONAL OR NATIONAL ANTI-DOPING AGENCIES, AT COMPETITIONS HELD IN OTHER COUNTRIES

8.1 As a variety of situations and participating organizations could be involved in this scenario, potential participants must obtain the necessary contact particulars and thereafter all relevant anti-doping information as may be relevant at the time.

8.2 If required, the assistance of the SABU Executive Committee member responsible for international liaison matters may be sought in this respect.

In accordance with the ICFRA guidelines, SABU will have a disciplinary committee to specifically deal with alleged anti-doping violations and related matters, known as the Anti-Doping Committee for short. It shall be appointed by the Executive Committee for periods of four years and shall consist of the following:

9.1.1 A Chairman who shall be a member of the Executive Committee, ideally the Chairman of the SABU Constitution and Rules Committee

9.1.2 Two members with expertise in this area, of which at least one should ideally be a law-experienced person

9.1.3 The Executive Officer of SABU, who shall be the Secretary of this committee (without a vote)

9.2 The Anti-Doping Committee may co-opt further members with particular expertise, e.g. a medical doctor or experts to advise it regarding scientific or organisational problems.

9.3.1 The Anti-Doping Committee is responsible for cooperation with SAIDS regarding the preparation, supervision and correct execution of anti-doping tests, as well as for the interpretation of these regulations.

9.3.2 On other anti-doping matters, the Anti-Doping Committee collaborates with the SAIDS, and where appropriate with SASCOC and the SA Shooting Sport Federation (SASSF).

9.3.3 The Anti-Doping Committee also acts as a Committee of Investigation and Inquiry in all cases of a positive anti-doping test result. Its rules of procedure shall be in accordance with the disciplinary procedures as may be stipulated by ICFRA, SAIDS or a similar anti-doping authority, the principles of natural justice and the maintenance of human rights. SABU'S Anti-Doping Committee shall recognize the jurisdiction of the SAIDS Anti-Doping Disciplinary Committee as per article 8.2 of the SA Anti-Doping Rules.

10.1 A departure or departures from the relevant anti-doping regulations shall not invalidate the finding of a doping offence, unless it was such as to cast real doubt on the reliability of such a finding. Minor breaches of procedures will not invalidate the results of testing unless they are material.

10.2 Alterations of these SABU Anti-Doping Regulations must be approved by a majority vote of the SABU Executive Committee, as delegated by the SABU Council.

10.3 Changes of the anti-doping regulations become effective immediately upon approval by the SABU Executive Committee.

It is permissible to mount the 300m target on a 1.8x1.8m mid-range frame, or to mount either the 300m or 500/600m target on a 1.8x2.4m Long Range frame. In each case, the appropriate scoring zone square will be drawn in. See Rule 16.5.

DIMENSIONS OF ICFRA TARGETS

D1. Targets: General

D1.1. Form. All targets will consist of a circular black aiming mark centred on a white or off-white background.

Alternatives: The 300yds/m target may also be mounted on a 6x6 ft. frame, centred in a marked 4x4 ft. square. Long Range targets may be mounted on 1.8 x 1.8 m or 1.8 x 3.0 m frames if domestic practice so prescribes.

D1.3. Target numbering. Each target must be clearly numbered. These numbers must be of such size that they are clearly visible, to the naked eye, at the furthest distance to be shot on the targets in question. Corresponding number markers (pegs) will be placed on the forward edge of each firing point.

D2. ICFRA Standard Aiming Marks

Within these standard criteria National Associations may specify scoring rings according to local criteria for domestic reasons provided always that no scoring zone is partly in the black and partly in the white.

D2.2 The target date for adoption was 1/1/2010. After that date, the only Imperial-equivalent aiming mark which remained acceptable pending reprinting was that of 559mm (22”).

D3. The ICFRA International Match Target (Short Range)

The bull will count 5 points unless the conditions of the match specify otherwise.

D3.1. The target for 700 yds will be that for 600 m. If a 400yds or 400m target is required, the 300yds or 300m target (as appropriate) may used, with aiming mark and rings increased proportionately - i.e. x4/3 in diameter.

D4 The ICFRA International Match Target (Long Range)

The bull will count 5 points unless the conditions of the match specify otherwise.

* Countries using targets with wooden outer frames may have a 25 mm (1 inch) non-scoring zone on the outer edges of the targets.

SPOTTING DISCS. A spotting disc is a cardboard disc, with a dowel or spring-clip through the centre, which is inserted into a shot hole, by the marker, so that the shooter and register keeper can see the exact position of a hit on the target. It can either be white on one side, for signalling shots in the black aiming mark and black on the reverse, for showing hits in the white area of the target, or, alternatively, of ‘dayglow’ red, pink or orange, which can be seen on both.

So as not to enlarge the shot hole, diameter of the dowel must not exceed 7,5 mm.

MARKING PROCEDURE. Immediately a shot is fired, the marker will lower the target, find the new shot hole and place the spotting disc in it. He will then patch the previous shot hole, place the value panel in the appropriate position to indicate the value of the new shot and raise the target. This sequence is followed for each subsequent shot fired at that target. As it is often difficult to see the shot hole in the raised target, which is well above his head, the marker must watch for the bullet strike on the stop-butt behind the target.

1. In individual matches, the competitors squadded together on a target will exchange scorecards and each will be the register keeper for the competitor firing immediately after him. In the case of a competitor firing by himself, despite pairs or threes being in use, the Range Officer must detail a register keeper. Arrangements for register keeping under the Single String squadding method will be as detailed in Appendix G.

2. Every register keeper must use a spotting telescope or binoculars powerful enough to clearly see the lines dividing the scoring areas on the target.

3. For each shot, the register keeper must first confirm that the spotting disc agrees with the value signalled. He must call out the result loudly and clearly, giving the target number (or the competitor's name), followed by the shot number, the colloquial name for the scoring zone and the points value. e.g. "Mr. van der Merwe, second counting shot, inner 4".

4. If the spotting disc does not agree with the value signalled, either the register keeper or the competitor must at once inform the RO, who will ascertain the value of the shot.

5. He must then enter the shot value in the appropriate block on the shooter's scorecard. The scorecard has a block printed for each of the two sighting shots and a series of numbered blocks for the counting shots, appropriate to the number of shots to be fired at that distance of the match.

6. If the competitor decides to convert one or both sighting shots, the value/s must be struck through with a diagonal line and transferred to the blocks (boxes) for the first, or first and second, counting shot(s), as the case may be. Any scoring spaces left blank, crossed through or written “C” will count zero. Only the shot values in the scoring blocks will be counted.

In the top example, both sighters have been converted.
In the middle example, only the second sighter has been converted.
In the bottom example, neither sighter has been converted.

7. In all matches a V-Bull must be entered as the letter "V". A miss must be entered as the letter “M” on the score card.

8. The competitor must pay attention to the scores called out by his register keeper and immediately bring any errors to the attention of the register keeper.

9. If, on any shot, a register keeper considers that there has been a marking error, in favour of the shooter, he is obliged to challenge the value of the shot. The challenge-fee rule does not apply.

10. On completion of the shoot, the register keeper must record and call out the total score for that distance, including the number of V-Bulls. A decimal point must be used to separate the score and the number of V's (e.g. 34.4). At the final distance of a match, he must also enter and call out the total score and total number of V's (e.g. 102.13). He must then sign the scorecard and insert his competitor number in the space provided.

11. At the end of the match, it is the competitor's responsibility to sign his scorecard as having been correctly filled in, before it is handed to the Range Officer or placing it in the bin. In multi-distance matches, if there is a single scorecard for all the distances and if they are squadded together throughout, it is the practice for a register keeper to retain the scorecard in his possession until the match is completed. It is therefore strongly recommended that a shooter visually checks his scorecard at the completion of every distance, to avoid any later disputes. In the event of a disagreement between a shooter and his register keeper, relating to a score at an earlier distance, it is most likely that the Range Officer and the Executive Committee will side with the register keeper.

12. Before handing the card to the shooter for checking and signature, the register keeper must visually confirm that the competitor’s rifle is safe. The bolt must be removed to allow the register keeper to look down the barrel from the breech end. Once this is done, the competitor must either leave the bolt out, or insert an ECI into the chamber (or both). This is critically important as per rule 21.1.6, both the shooter AND his register keeper will have their scores disallowed if the shooter is discovered with the bolt in his rifle without an ECI, after leaving the firing point.

13. The register keeper will then certify the rifle as safe in the space provided on the competitor’s scorecard and confirm that the competitor has entered the correct rifle serial number on the card.

14 Any alteration of a score must be initialled by the register keeper. The RO must verify all such alterations with the register keeper. No erasure is permitted on a scorecard. Errors must be corrected by striking them out, then writing in the correct values. If the alteration results from a point-deduction penalty, the register keeper, or the RO, must annotate the details on the card.

15 The register keeper is responsible for ensuring that all scores are completed in ink. Pencil is not allowed, except when scoring in the rain.

16. For team events, each team must provide a sufficient number of register keepers (one per target), who can be either members of the team, in rotation, or volunteers. Such volunteers must be SABU Members.

17. The Chief Range Officer will announce the arrangements for the exchange of team register keepers, which will generally be on the basis of adjacent teams, on a butt, keeping score for one another, i.e. 1 for 2 and 2 for 1, 3 for 4 and 4 for 3, etc. In the event of there being an odd number of teams, the three teams on the extreme right of the butt will exchange register keepers in the same way as three shooters on a target in an individual match, i.e. the team on the right will keep score for the team in the middle, the team in the middle for the team on the left and the team on the left for the team on the right.

18. In team events, it is the responsibility of the team captain to ensure that score registers are correct in every respect and to sign them accordingly.

19 Any objection to a score on a scorecard (individual or team) must be made, to the Range Officer, on the firing point at the time (see Rule 26.2). No competitor or team shall have the right to object at any subsequent time.

Dependent upon the number of entries, competitors will be divided into squads, ideally of a minimum of 4 and a maximum of 9 shooters. Where target and entry numbers imply squads of 10 or more, consideration should be given to the creation of two ‘sub-squads’, in order to allow respite for competitors. The members of a squad will shoot together throughout the Grand Aggregate matches, or with one change midway through the meeting. Allocation to squads will be on a random basis, irrespective of class, except that one shooter, with experience of string shooting, will be "seeded" to each group. He will be known as the "Squad Leader" and will be "No.1" (initial first shooter) in that squad. As shooting will be one at a time on each target, left-handers will not be isolated.

Squadding. Squads will be allocated positions on the range which move between distances in a predetermined pattern designed as far as possible to equalise the effect of any variances in conditions across the range, or times of the day, particularly if there are sub-squads.

Shooting Sequence. Together with his score cards, each competitor will receive a squadding summary sheet. This will detail the competitor's name, entry number, class, group number and, most importantly, position in the group. This pre-determines the shooting order, on a rotational basis. It will also list the matches, showing the group's allocated target number and starting time for each distance. Each competitor will retain his position in the squad throughout. However, the shooting order will rotate. At the first distance, Squad member No.1 will shoot first and the others will follow in the sequence of their squad numbers. At the second distance (or second match, should they be at the same distance), Squad member No 2 will shoot first, followed by No.3, and so on, with No.1 shooting last. At the third distance, No.3 will start, with No.1 shooting second last and No.2 shooting last. This rotational pattern carries through from one distance to the next and also from one day to the next. If sub-squads are in use, they will rotate within themselves, but the sub-squads themselves will swap order of firing for successive days.

NB. If the first competitor to shoot is not present at the commencement of firing, the second competitor will fire (after due allowance to prepare). Any late competitor will explain his reasons for absence to the CRO and a five point penalty will be imposed, unless the CRO rules that the absence arose for reasons beyond the competitor’s control. He will be accommodated as ruled by the squad leader on receiving authority from the CRO. Should a squad member be absent, the RO must be informed. Squads may then be reorganised by the RO to even out the number of competitors per squad.

Shooting procedure. When instructed by the Range Officer to move forward onto the mound, the first shooter will be allowed a preparation time 5 minutes. He must allow sufficient space for the next to prepare alongside to obviate any time delay when he finishes. On the command of the RO, the targets will be exposed to allow sight setting and dry-firing. The period for this will be 2 minutes, after which the targets will again be lowered. Timing for the first competitor will commence the moment his target is re-elevated. Shooter No.2 will utilise the time that No.1 is shooting for his own preparation, to enable him to start almost immediately No.1 finishes. As soon as No.1 vacates the firing point, No.3 will move forward and prepare whilst No.2 is shooting. This process will continue for all successive members of the string, making shooting virtually continuous. As shooters will be moving backwards and forwards onto and off the mound whilst others are shooting, they must be very careful not to disturb those shooting, only moving forward when the firer is not on aim. They must also be ever mindful of shadows. Each shooter must advise his register keeper as soon as he is ready to start shooting, and will commence on the register keeper’s command, from which point he will be timed.

At the first distance, the squad leader is empowered to amend the order of firing to accommodate any left-handed shooters in the squad. This revised order must then be maintained throughout the Meeting.

Time Allowance. Each competitor be given a tabulation of the time allowance per distance and number of shots, including sighters. The norm will be as agreed internationally and set by ICFRA. This is shown in the following table. The Executive Committee does have the right to vary these times should circumstances make it necessary.

The time allowances for individual string shoots are given in the following table. Sighting shots must be fired within the time allowance.

	7 shots	10 shots	15 shots	20 shots
SR (300m)	10	14	20	26
MR (500 - 600m)	11	15	21	27
LR (700m and over)	12	16	23	29

There is no time limit per individual shot in string shooting. A fast shooter, who wishes to wait 5 minutes between two shots, for the wind to settle, is at liberty to do so, provided he finishes within his allotted time for the distance.

Register Keeper and Check Scorer. Squad members will also take rotational turns as register keeper and check scorer, on their own target. Competitors will be issued with schedules and will be briefed by their squad leaders. In principle, however, the golden rule is: a competitor is Check Scorer for the shooter who fires directly after him. He must therefore clear the mound as quickly as possible to take up his duty. He then becomes the Register Keeper for the following shooter. At any distance, the last to shoot will be check scorer and the second-last the register keeper for the first shooter.

Remember, the other members of your squad are your "family" for the duration of the meeting. You must work together and help one another (within the rules, of course).

Scoring and Time-keeping. The register keeper must position himself immediately to the rear of his shooter. He must be equipped with a telescope and watch on which he can accurately time the shooter. Unless there is a target/marker problem (which must be brought to the attention of the Range Officer immediately it happens/starts), timing must be strictly enforced. If the marking on a target is particularly slow, despite a message to the butts, the Range Officer will decide, after observing the target, whether (and if so, how much) extra time will be allowed. The register keeper (whose timing is authoritative in the event of a dispute) must warn the shooter when he has three minutes left. At the end of the time, any remaining shots will be fired and penalised at the rate of two points per shot. In all other respects, the register keeper will follow the procedure laid down in Appendix F.

The check scorer will stand further back and will independently enter each shot value on the squad daily mastercard and/or a blackboard, which will face away from the firing point for the benefit of the Range Officer and spectators. He must also use a telescope or strong binoculars to confirm shot values. As soon as the shooter finishes, the register keeper and check scorer will confirm the score, including V-Bull count, and both will sign the competitor's scorecard. The register keeper will also enter the shooter's end and start times (conventional watch) or total time taken. (Stopwatch). If the time taken is more than that allocated, the scorecard must be countersigned by the Range Officer, who must annotate the reason/s for extra time being allowed.

Temporary reallocation If, from observation of the blackboards, a range officer finds that one target is lagging behind the others in his section, he must temporarily reallocate one or more shooter/s to a faster group in order to save time. Any competitor thus moved will revert to his own squad at the next distance.

SA BISLEY UNION
APPENDIX H

These rules have been revised to line up with the rules of the International Confederation of Fullbore Rifle Associations (ICFRA) as far as possible, per the wishes of the SABU F-Class Club and agreement in principle by the SABU Council. These rules came into effect from 1 January 2010. They are to be read in conjunction with the approved SABU Rules for Target Rifle Shooting in all respects where applicable. This is particularly relevant with respect to the SA Open Championships. F-Class entrants must acquaint themselves with all the rules governing meeting entries, the role of the SABU Executive Committee and all the various general definitions and rules covering the conduct of shooting on the range. For reference, the SABU Rulebook is posted to the Union’s Website.

FC1.1 These rules govern the conduct of all F-Class discipline shooting throughout South Africa with particular reference to the SA Open Championships, which are held in conjunction with those for Target Rifle (TR) and .303 shooting.

FC1.2 For all International Team Matches, the ICFRA Rules will be strictly applied unless there are minor deviations for safety reasons.

FC1.3 SABU recognises both international classes (F-Open & F/TR) as defined under Technical Specifications FC2.1. At the SA Open Championships they will have equal status.

FC1.4 No competitor may use equipment or shooting methods that provide them with an unfair advantage or put any other competitor at an unfair disadvantage.

FC1.5 The spirit of the F-Class Rules is to encourage innovation. Range and Match Committees and Referees will bear this philosophy in mind when ruling on issues not covered by these rules.

NB: Other definitions, common to all three disciplines (Target Rifle, F-Class and .303) are spelt out in the TR Rules.

FC2 RIFLES, AMMUNITION AND OTHER EQUIPMENT

It is the personal responsibility of each competitor to ensure that his rifles, ammunition and other equipment comply with the specifications laid out in these rules. He is also responsible for ensuring that his rifles are safe with the ammunition he will use and will not endanger himself or any other person or property. He may be required to indicate in writing that his ammunition has been tested and found safe in the rifle/s to be used. He will, on entry, be required to indemnify SABU against responsibility and claims arising from any occurrence caused by his equipment.

FC2.1 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS OF RIFLES AND AMMUNITION

FC2.1.1 Two separate rifle classes are recognised under F-Class rules, F-Open and F/TR. The differences are in calibre, rifle maximum weight and rests allowed.

FC2.1.2 An F-Open rifle may be of any calibre up to and including 8mm and the overall weight must not exceed 10kg including all attachments (such as, but not limited to, its sights and bipod, if any). NB: An ‘attachment’ is defined as including any external object (other than the competitor, his sling (if any) and his apparel) which recoils (or partially recoils) with the rifle, or which is clamped, magnetically or viscously held, or in any other way joined to the rifle for each shot, or which even slightly rises with the rifle when vertically lifting the latter from its rest(s).

FC2.1.3 An F/TR rifle is limited to .223 Remington or .308 Winchester calibre chambers or their commercial metrification equivalents. Chamber dimensions must conform to SAAMI or CIP dimensions. Ammunition may be commercially made or hand-loaded as defined in Rule FC2.1.24. There is no restriction on bullet weight. The F/TR rifle class is limited to the use of an attached bipod and/or a sling as front supports, optionally together with a rear bag, which provides no positive mechanical means of returning the rifle to its precise point of aim for the next shot. The overall weight must not exceed 8.25kg including all attachments (such as, but not limited to, its sights and bipod, if any). NB: An ‘attachment’ is defined as in Rule FC2.1.2. All other Technical Rules apply.

FC2.1.4 If an F-Open rifle is used with a separate front rest/bag, the fore-end width may not exceed 76mm.

FC2.1.5 Triggers shall be manually operated: electronic, set or “release” triggers are not permitted.

FC2.1.6 The weight of the trigger pull is unregulated, but must be safe and conform to the requirements of rules FC2.1.5 and FC2.1.7.

FC2.1.7 A trigger shall be deemed “safe” if the sear engages on each occasion when the bolt is slowly and gently closed three times in succession with the barrel pointing upwards. Any failure will lead to the trigger being deemed “unsafe” and the rifle may not be used pending rectification.

FC2.1.8 Any Range Officer may at his absolute discretion, or on instruction from the Chief Range Officer, test any trigger prior to a shoot.

FC2.1.10 Barrel extensions of any length may be fitted to mount a foresight or act as counterweight, but will be weighed as part of the rifle.

FC2.1.11 Magazine: A magazine - if fitted - will not be used except as a loading platform for single rounds.

FC2.1.14 The F-Open rifle may be supported by front and rear rests, or on bags (front and rear), which provide no positive mechanical method for returning the rifle to its point of aim for the previous shot. The area of contact between the front bag and the rifle fore-end shall not exceed 76mm x 76mm. No more than two rests may be used to support the rifle. If two rests are employed, they may not be attached to each other.

FC2.1.15 The F-Open front rest may be employed for either the rifle’s fore-end or for the shooter’s forward hand. If attached, clamped or held onto the rifle in any way, a front rest must be included in the rifle’s overall weight.

FC2.1.16 The F/TR rifle may be supported by an attached bipod and rear bag which provide no positive mechanical method for returning the rifle to its point of aim for the previous shot. No more than two artificial supports may be used to support the rifle. If two supports are employed, they may not be attached to each other. A sling may be used in addition to the above.

FC2.1.17 The rifle or the front and rear rests (or bipod) may, however, incorporate an integral mechanism for raising and lowering either its butt or fore-end provided that it does not contravene rule FC2.1.2 above. The front rest may also be adjustable laterally.

FC2.1.18 No portion of the rifle’s butt or pistol grip shall rest on the ground or on any hard surface. Any rear rest employed shall not be attached, clamped or held onto the rifle in any way.

FC2.1.19 The contents of front and rear bags shall be a dry, finely (< 5 mm) divided substance such as, but not limited to sand, gravel, or grain, packed loosely enough so that the bag shall be visibly deformable by pressure of the range officer’s fingers.

FC2.1.20 Any number and type of object(s) (of any material) may be placed beneath each rest to compensate for variations in the height, slope or surface of the firing point, also beneath and around any rear sandbag or beanbag to reduce its rolling, but such objects may not touch the rifle fore-end or butt.

FC2.1.21 The F-Open rest(s) or base(s) for each front rest may have up to three “feet”. Each such “foot” may terminate in a spike, which may be pressed into the ground by up to 50mm (about 2”) provided this causes no significant permanent harm or indentation to the firing point.

FC2.1.21.1 The F/TR bipod may have up to two “feet”. Each such “foot” may terminate in a spike, which may be pressed into the ground by up to 50mm (about 2”) provided this causes no significant permanent harm or indentation to the firing point.

FC2.1.22 Rests may be adjusted after any shot, in order to change the point of aim and/or to compensate for the rifle’s recoil having caused such things as rest movement and/or sandbag/beanbag settling.

FC2.1.24 Ammunition may be commercial or handloaded but loaded in a manner consistent with the ammunition industry’s accepted standards; must be safe to fire in the rifle for which it is intended and must meet in all respects the limitations of any range regulations (e.g. calibre, velocity, muzzle energy etc.).

FC2.1.25 SABU may on application permit such modification to the rifle, clothing or equipment of a physically disabled competitor as may assist him to compete on equal terms with other competitors. See also Rule FC6.1.

FC3 DRESS AND AIDS TO SHOOTING

FC3.1 Equipment boxes/bags may be taken onto the firing point provided they do not inconvenience other competitors and are not placed so as to shield the competitor, or his rifle, from wind or rain or sun. The maximum permitted height of such shooting box/bag is 300mm.

FC3.2 Screening. A barrel mirage band is permitted and black or coloured adhesive tape may be applied to the top surface of the barrel. A flexible or rigid cover may be used to prevent dust or rain from getting into the action. More general cover may be provided by a piece of transparent material not exceeding 1 metre square over the scope and action which:-

FC3.2.1 does not interfere with the RO’s visibility over whether the bolt is open or not, and

FC3.2.2 is attached to the rifle in such a way as to ensure that the material cannot be blown away by wind or muzzle blast.

FC3.3 Personal wind indicating or measuring devices of any description are forbidden on the firing point. “Wind Correction Tables” in printed form, or as “slide rules” are permitted. National or Team flags, flown at the back of the Team Area are not considered a contravention of this rule.

FC3.4 Any person within the butts, or close enough to the firing range to risk damage to their hearing, must use adequate ear protection (such as ear defenders or ear plugs) at all times when shooting is taking place.

FC 4.1 For the SA Open Championships, all F-Class shooters will be squadded on a separate butt or butts from the TR competitors (this is necessitated by the different targets).

FC4.2 For individual matches, squadding will be computer generated, following the pattern of that for TR. Normally this will be “Bisley style” with three competitors to a target, firing single shots in rotation.

FC4.3 There will normally be two details. A competitor will be squadded in the same detail for all the matches on Day 1 and the details will alternate on subsequent days. Timing of the details will be based on the generally slower TR details.

FC4.4 Refer to Rule 8 in the TR Rules for full details of the squadding procedure.

FC4.5 An alternative Single String squadding system is detailed in Appendix G. This system is permissible at Provincial and Club level, particularly in the hot Summer months. It could be considered by the SABU Council for the SA Championships if fired on a smaller range, which cannot accommodate the whole field in two details.

FC5 TARGETS

FC5.1 For International Long Range Matches, the target is the ICFRA F-Class International Target (IIFT). Dimension details are shown in Annex FC/A. This is in fact the ICFRA (Palma) TR Target, scored one ring tighter. A new 128mm (5”) V-Bull is centred in the TR 254mm (10”) V-Bull, which becomes the F-Class Bull. For all other long range matches in South Africa, the target will be as per SABU TR Targets, again scored one ring tighter, with a new V-Bull as for the IIFT. (This is a deviation from ICFRA rules.)

FC5.2 For Short Range, targets will be as per SABU TR Targets, again scored one ring tighter, with a new V-Bull, half the diameter of the TR V-Bull. For International Matches, the ICFRA 300m target will be used. This has an additional scoring zone in the black aiming mark. (The SABU 500/600m target is identical to the ICFRA one for 600m).

FC6 CONDUCT OF SHOOTING

FC6.1 The prone or supine (back) position may be used with the barrel protruding over the front of the mound, unless special provisions exist in the match conditions for disabled competitors and range safety regulations so permit.

FC6.2 A competitor may not screen himself or his rifle from the sun or weather while shooting, except as provided in rules FC3.1 and FC3.2. See also TR Rule 27.16 in respect of team matches.

FC6.3 When on the firing point a competitor must comply with all orders given by the CRO or by any assistant acting under his orders.

FC6.4 No competitor may move himself or his equipment forward onto the firing point until authorised to do so by the CRO. In all competitions the CRO will allow a minimum of five minutes between calling competitors forward and giving the order to commence firing.

FC6.5 Firing may be suspended temporarily by order of the Chief Range Officer, if in his opinion the weather makes such suspension desirable; or for safety reasons. (Shooting MUST be suspended in the case of lightning). Firing will be resumed as soon as possible, at the CRO’s discretion. Rule FC6.6. applies.

FC6.6 If a competitor’s firing, through no fault of his own, has been interrupted in the opinion of the CRO for five minutes or more, the competitor may, after notifying the register keeper, fire one optional non-convertible sighting shot before resuming.

FC6.7 The CRO may, if desirable, transfer a competitor to another target in the same detail, either before he begins to shoot or if the target breaks down. If the competitor has fired one or more shots (whether sighting or to count), he will be entitled to an optional, non-convertible sighter before resuming exactly where he left off. Squads shooting ‘single string’ may be redistributed to other targets at the RO’s discretion.

FC6.8 In individual competitions, competitors whilst on the firing point, may spot for each other but must NOT give or willingly receive any information or advice in the nature of coaching. It is NOT regarded as coaching to assist a competitor to obtain his first hit on the target, nor to spot for a strike for a shot following a ‘miss’ though NO advice may be given thereafter.

FC6.9 The following only are allowed both within the CRO’s Restricted Area (See TR Rule 20.1) or on the firing points:

FC6.9.2 Competitors required for firing or otherwise taking part in the competition

FC6.9.4 Officially accredited team members and reserves in accordance with the conditions of the match being shot

The following are allowed within the Competitors’ Area but are not allowed onto the firing point without the prior permission of the CRO:

FC6.9.5 VIPs and others with ‘Field of Play’ accreditation, escorted on behalf of the CRO

FC6.9.6 Officially accredited Media Representatives, who will be subject to rule FC6.10 and all appropriate safety limitations

FC6.10 No person is allowed to make any noise or disturbance likely to affect a competitor. The RO may have any person infringing this regulation removed from the vicinity of the firing point.

FC6.11 “Retirement”. A competitor ‘retires’ when he voluntarily ceases to fire before being required to do so by the rules or conditions of the competition. When a competitor retires he will not be allowed to resume firing at that distance but will be allowed to count the score that he has actually made. Retirement at one distance of the competition does not debar a competitor from firing at any subsequent distance(s). The competitor must notify the RO of his intention, and must hand in his scorecard suitably endorsed. Unless retiring due to some unforeseen emergency, the competitor must discharge his register keeping duties or, if squadded in threes, he may, with RO’s approval, switch scorecards so that the other two can act as register keeper for one another.

FC6.12 It is expressly forbidden for a competitor to change from a rifle of one calibre to one of another calibre during the firing at either short or long range of a match, either individual or team. If a match comprises both short range (up to 600m) and long range distances (700m or greater), it is permitted to change calibres between short and long range.

FC7 SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

Although covered in the TR Section under the same heading, the procedures in these rules are vitally important and are reproduced here directly from the ICFRA F-Class Rules.

FC7.1 Competitors MUST ensure the safety of their Rifle and ammunition. The CRO or his staff must investigate the cause of difficult opening of the bolt or cartridge extraction, blown primers, blow-back, case separation or splitting or any other signs of excess pressure.

FC7.2.1 stop firing immediately if he suspects that the ammunition he is using is producing dangerous pressures in his firearm; and

FC7.2.2 draw the attention of the Range Officer to the continued use of apparently dangerous ammunition by any competitor including himself. The cumulative effect of cartridges producing excessive pressures can lead to firearm failure even in cases where one or more rounds have been discharged without apparent damage or danger.

FC7.3 At all times, the RO MUST, if he sees or has brought to his attention a competitor having difficulty because his ammunition is producing signs of excessive pressure or for any other reason, order the firer to cease firing temporarily and immediately report the matter to the Chief Range Officer. The CRO, or the RO at his direction, will:-

FC7.3.1 ensure that the competitor does not inconvenience others, by making him wait until others on his target (if any) have completed their shoots; and

FC7.3.2 examine the competitor’s fired cartridge cases for signs of high pressures. If the cases show the signs of excessive pressure, the CRO must not allow the competitor to fire again unless he changes his ammunition. This does not preclude the CRO authorising completion of the shoot with safe equipment or ammunition. Changes of rifle are also governed by Rule FC8.1.

FC7.4 All rifles, whether in bags/cases or not, must at all times and in all places on the range be carried in “safe condition". This can either be with bolt removed or by displaying an ‘Empty Chamber Indicator' (“ECI”, often a breech flag) inserted (or both). An ECI MUST be of sufficient length to penetrate at least 20mm into the chamber and of overall length appropriate to the action.

FC7.5 No rifle may be loaded or fired until the CRO has given the order “LOAD and CARRY ON”. Any RO may give an order to cease firing at any time for any safety-related reason. If a competitor observes a safety hazard, which has not been noted by the range staff, he is to unload and immediately warn the RO and competitors in his vicinity.

FC7.6 Neither aiming nor dry firing an unloaded rifle is allowed except when in the firing position on the firing point, and then only, with (C)RO permission, if it would be in all respects safe actually to fire, and provided it causes no delay.

FC7.7 A competitor who, whilst on the firing point, accidentally discharges his rifle will not be allowed to repeat his shot and the shot will be recorded as a miss. He may be considered to have acted in a dangerous manner under penalty rule 36.4 in the TR section.

FC7.8 Any competitor acting in a dangerous manner will be forbidden to fire until the CRO is satisfied that he will no longer act in a dangerous manner.

FC7.9 The rifle of every competitor must be inspected by the competitor’s register keeper immediately after firing at every distance to establish that the breech and barrel are clear and a breech flag has been inserted, or the bolt has been removed from the rifle. A competitor who fails to present his rifle for inspection whether called on to do so or not, may be considered as “acting in a way that might prove dangerous”.

FC7.10 If a live round is jammed in a rifle chamber, but the bolt can be removed, the competitor must leave the rifle pointed towards the butts and call for the RO to arrange for the removal of the cartridge. Under no circumstances should an attempt be made to remove the round with a cleaning rod. After removal of the cartridge, the competitor will be permitted to continue his shoot. If the action locks on a live round and the bolt cannot be removed, the rifle must be left on the firing point, pointed towards the targets, until the range is clear. An armourer must then be called to make the rifle safe. A cartridge extractor, cleaning rod or other means may be used to extract a spent cartridge case, with minimum disturbance to neighbouring competitors.

FC7.11 In the event of more than one failure under rule FC7.1 or a need repeatedly to artificially extract spent cases, the Range Officer must consider the possibility of the use of unsafe ammunition as provided for under Rules FC7.2. and FC7.3.

FC7.12 If a misfire occurs, the competitor should be aware of the possible danger of a hang-fire. The RO must be called immediately, whilst the rifle remains pointed towards the targets. After waiting at least 30 seconds, the competitor may then turn the rifle on its side, so that the loading port faces the ground, and open the bolt. The competitor must ensure that his fingers and all other parts of his body are not behind the bolt. It is the responsibility of the RO to ensure that no one is standing behind, should the bolt be blown out. On no account must a round that has misfired be reloaded into the rifle.

FC8 RIFLES and AMMUNITION – MISHAPS and TESTING

FC8.1 Unless otherwise stipulated by a specific match condition, a competitor may change his rifle between distances of a single match, provided he adheres to rule FC 6.12 regarding change of calibre. In respect of changes between shots within a shoot: -

FC8.1.1 In individual matches, he will only be permitted to switch rifles during firing should the first rifle become unsafe or unserviceable and only if the RO verifies this to be so. Deteriorating grouping ability of the rifle due to barrel fouling or any other non-visible cause will not be considered a malfunction.

In neither case is an extra sighter permitted, nor may the rifle be changed for one of another calibre. A reserve, if called upon to shoot, may use his own rifle (of whatever calibre). A reserve may ONLY be called on to shoot in circumstances personally affecting a Team Member and not in respect of his equipment failing.

FC8.2 A shot has not been fired until the striker has functioned and the bullet has left the barrel. If a bullet exits the muzzle, it will, for scoring purposes, be considered as a shot properly fired, unless the shot has been discharged deliberately for safety reasons at the request of the RO or other Range official.

FC8.3 The CRO or RO, if satisfied that it can be done with safety, may permit a competitor to leave the firing point to rectify a mishap to his rifle, or to change his ammunition in accordance with rule FC7.3.2 and complete his shoot within the period of his detail or time allocation, once the other competitors on his target have completed their shoot. An additional sighter will not be permitted.

FC8.4 A competitor who suffers a malfunction to his rifle which cannot be rectified on or behind the firing point may, if timings and target availability permit, be re-squadded. This is at the absolute discretion of the CRO. The competitor’s score to date will stand, and he will be permitted one optional non-convertible sighter.

FC8.5 A RO may at his sole discretion (or in accordance with the CRO’s direction) test any trigger of any competitor immediately prior to him shooting under rule FC2.1.8, or following a rectification under rule FC8.3 above, or following a shoot before the scorecard has been accepted.

FC8.6 Before testing, both the competitor and the RO must check to see that the rifle is unloaded.

FC8.7 All trigger tests are to be made by a RO or, under his supervision, by the competitor or some other person delegated by the RO or requested by the competitor. The format of the test is given at rule FC2.1.7.

The following F-Class rules for sighting shots are identical to those for Target Rifle (Rule 24 in the TR Section) but are repeated here for ease of reference.

FC9.1 A competitor who cannot tell the position of an initial convertible sighting shot, owing to the display of two (or more) spotting discs, may elect to accept the one of higher value or, alternatively, may request permission from the RO to repeat the shot, which remains convertible. If he does so, the RO will declare the previous shots on the target null and void. If any other shot is known to be a shot out of turn by another competitor squadded on the same target, that competitor will have no relief, and the value will be as in Rule FC11.3.

FC9.2 After a competitor has fired his second (or only) sighting shot, he may elect to count the sole sighting shot, or the second sighting shot, or both when there have been two, in his score. He must declare his intention to his register keeper BEFORE any further shot is fired by him. In the absence of such declaration, he will be deemed NOT to have converted his sighting shots. The register keeper is to acknowledge any conversions.

FC9.4 Except as provided at FC9.1 above or FC11.1 below, all extra sighting shots provided for in these rules are optional and non-convertible. Unless a competitor declares before shooting his shot, that he is taking a permitted extra sighter, he will be deemed to have fired ‘on score’.

FC9.5 If ‘blow-off’ shots are called for under match conditions and can safely be provided, they are to be fired as aimed shots into the stop butt, the rifle having previously been safely loaded. They will be conducted under control of the (C)RO.

The procedure for Register Keeping is common to Target Rifle, F-Class and .303, as detailed in Appendix F (and G for Single String Squadding). For F-Class, the marking and scoring will be one ring tighter, but the Register Keeping procedure remains the same.

FC11 TARGET IRREGULARITIES

NB: The rules in this section are common to Target Rifle but are reproduced here as some are separated in the TR Section.

FC11.1 If at the moment at which a competitor fires, his target is moved in such a manner as to falsify the result of his shot and this can be evidenced to the satisfaction of the RO, he will cancel this shot and order the competitor to fire another in place of it. A high strike on the target will not, of itself, be evidence that the target moved. If the shot concerned is a convertible sighter, the replacement shot remains convertible.

FC11.2 In all competitions, a competitor who fires at the wrong target will be credited with a miss for each shot so fired.

FC11.3 A competitor who fires out of his proper turn at his own target will have one point deducted from the value of the shot, so long as this does not create a negative score for that shot. A V-bull or bull will be scored as an inner. This applies both to counting and sighting shots. If in the circumstances of his shot out of turn two (or more) shots strike the target the value credited to him will be one point deducted from the shot of highest value unless the competitor, whose proper turn it was to shoot, has also fired during the same exposure. The deduction will then be from the shot of second highest value.

FC11.4 Once the value of a shot has been accepted, or any query has been resolved, it remains “final”. If the target subsequently goes down and a new shot is signalled without any of the competitors allocated to it having fired, that value will not be credited to any of them, even if a cross-shot from a nearby target cannot be established.

FC12 MARKING and SCORING

A. Marking in the Butts

FC12.1 The SABU system of value signalling is detailed in Rule 17 of the TR Section.

FC12.2 A shot on the non-scoring area will be signalled as for a miss and by a spotting disc, if possible. If the shot is on the target but a spotting disc cannot be inserted it is permissible for the butts to inform the RO of its position and for the competitor to be informed thereof.

FC12.4 A shot that misses the target will be signalled by the removal of the value panel and the target sent up “clear” (i.e. previous spotting disc removed and hole patched):

FC12.4.1 if the marker lowers the target, being sure (whether or not correctly) that a shot has been fired at his target, or

FC12.4.2 after a radio or telephone message calling for the target to be marked (both target and spotting disc to be examined). The Butt Officer should, if possible, supervise “examinations”.

FC12.5 A ricochet will be regarded as a hit. In the event of an elongated hole the point closest to the centre of the target will determine the point of impact for scoring and marking purposes.

NB: This is the only significant SABU deviation from ICFRA Rules, which stipulate that a ricochet is a miss. We believe that “evidence of throwing sand into the gallery” is not a meaningful determinant of whether a shot has ricocheted or not and will lead to inconsistent rulings by the Butt Officer.

FC12.6 If, on lowering the target, two (or more) shot holes are apparent, that having the higher value will be signalled but all shots will be shown by spotting discs.

FC12.7 When a shot touches the line between two divisions of the target, the competitor will be credited with the higher value. In case of doubt a gauge of 7.82mm diameter (=0.308 inches) will be used (regardless of the actual calibre in use) to determine the value of the shot. The ruling by a butt officer will be final.

FC12.8 A competitor may challenge the signalled value of a shot, whether for a hit, a further hit or for higher value, by so indicating to the RO (see also FC12.15 and FC12.16). On a challenge being received the target is to be lowered. The butt officer’s disc/flag will be shown above the mantlet by the marker. The butt officer (whose decision is final) will then personally examine the target, gauging the shot hole if necessary, after which:

FC12.8.1 If a challenge for a hit, the shot (if found) or a miss will be signalled.

FC12.8.2 If a challenge for a further hit, any further shot found will be marked and signalled. If no further shot is found the position and value of the original shot marked will be re-signalled and retained by the competitor.

FC12.8.3 If a challenge for a higher value, or a report that the spotting disc disagrees with the signalled value, the correct value will be signalled whether it has been altered or not.

The outcome will also be communicated to the RO who will relay it to the shooter.

FC12.10 The only means of communication between the butts and the firing point is to be that formally used by the range and butts officers. Use will be made of Code Messages as detailed in Rule 18 in the TR Section. No person in the butts is to use any other means of communication that could be contacted by any person in sight of the firing point. In particular, mobile/cell phones must be switched off by all personnel in the butts and those within 20m of the firing point.

B. Scoring on the firing point

FC12.11 If the target shows two (or more) spotting discs the shot having the higher value will be signalled and credited to the competitor who has fired at the target in proper turn. If the shot in question is a convertible sighter, Rule FC9.1 applies. If it is a shot to count or a non-convertible sighter, the competitor will be entitled to an optional non-convertible sighting shot (or repeat as the case may be). In either case, if taken, the shot is to be fired at once and MUST be nominated to the register keeper and any other competitors on the target before being fired.

FC12.12 If the spotting disc disagrees unmistakably with the value signalled, the competitor or register keeper must at once inform the RO (Message 3) who will ascertain the value of the shot. No more shots are to be fired at that target until the value has been ascertained and signalled.

FC12.13 Anyone who sees such an unmistakable disagreement in the value of a spotting disc, on any target, to which there has been no call for rectification, is obliged to immediately call it to the attention of the RO. It is not permitted for the shooters on the target to agree amongst themselves that it is a marking error and score accordingly.

FC12.14 If the target is not lowered after a shot is fired at it, the competitor, his register keeper, or the next competitor to fire must ask the RO to have the target marked.

FC12.15 The signalled value of a shot (or a miss if so signalled or notified) may be challenged once only before any other shot is fired at the same target. The competitor must notify the register keeper and the next competitor due to fire (if not himself) that he intends to challenge, and the register keeper must initial any consequent change in value recorded on the scorecard. An unsuccessful challenge may become liable for a ‘Fee’ under Rule FC12.19.

FC12.16 If a competitor believes that the shot marked on the target was not that which he fired he may query the shot marked and call for the target to be examined for a further hit (SABU Message 6). He will be credited with the value of any further shot found. If no further shot is found the position and value of the original shot marked will be re-signalled and retained by the competitor.

FC12.17 If there is any uncertainty as to the true value of a shot, the RO will communicate with the butt officer by radio to confirm the true value, and the competitor will be credited with the true value. Where a spotting disc appears not to have moved, a competitor or register keeper may check that this reflects the arrival of a shot extremely close to its predecessor by means of SABU Message 8.

FC12.18 If the circumstances are such that the signalled value of a shot cannot be verified at once, or without considerable delay, the competitor will, unless the RO decides otherwise, be credited with the signalled value.

FC12.19 It is SABU’s prerogative to decide whether there should be a challenge fee and, if so, the amount. No fee is payable if the challenge is upheld.

FC12.20 No competitor may, under any circumstances, knowingly claim or accept points which he has not made, or connive at any such conduct by another competitor.

FC12.21 In all competitions all targets will remain fully exposed until the completion of all shooting at that distance. The CRO will then direct the Chief Butt Officer to lower all targets and either:-

FC12.21.1 patch out all targets and keep them lowered or half-masted until Message 1 for a subsequent detail; or

During a detail the CRO may order individual targets to be lowered on completion if the weather is such that the targets need protection.

FC12.22 The CRO or a RO may not go to the butts to inspect a target or allow an assistant or any competitor to do so.

FC12.23 All messages and results to and from the butts will be confirmed by radio.

FC13 CONDUCT OF INDIVIDUAL COMPETITIONS

FC13.1 Two styles of conduct of individual competition are recognised, defined as follows: -

FC13.1.1 Single string. In this, the competitor fires his sighters and counting shots in a string subject only to an overall time limit determined by the number of shots and the distance. How long he takes over each individual shot is a matter for him.

FC13.1.2 ‘Bisley’ style. In this two or three competitors are detailed to fire at the same target. They fire in rotation (or alternately, as the case may be) starting with the right hand competitor, and register keep for one another. This is the norm for the SA Open Championships. (See Rule FC4 – SQUADDING)

FC13.2 At the SA Open Championships and at Provincial or Club Open Championships advertised as being shot under SABU Rules, when both Target Rifle and F-Class Rifle are being shot concurrently, the style of shooting shall be the same for both disciplines, but with separate and distinct provision for squadding and targets.

FC13.3 Whichever method is in operation, F-Open and F/TR competitors will be randomly squadded together.

The following extracts from the ICFRA Rules for conduct of “Bisley Style” shooting are similar to those for Target Rifle, but have been modified in accordance with SABU procedures. They are shown here for easy reference. (Rule numbers do not correspond with ICFRA ones.)

FC13.4 Squadding for the SA Open Championships will be in accordance with section FC4. For other events, organisers may squad competitors in twos or threes.

FC13.5 When called forward by the RO, competitors on each target will position themselves on the firing point, with the ‘middle man’ directly over the target number marker.

FC13.6 ROs will then check for any target on which there is only a single competitor and rectify the situation by moving one or more competitors. Only in exceptional circumstances may a competitor fire on his own, in which event the RO must detail a register keeper to keep score. Every reasonable effort should be made to avoid creating a trio, when pairs squadding is in use.

FC13.7 The CRO will allow a minimum of five minutes preparation time before the “commence firing” order.

FC13.8 A competitor who arrives during or after that preparation period, forfeits his right to shoot and may only be permitted to shoot if it does not inconvenience the other competitors on his target. No competitor is to be allowed to get down to shoot after the first shot has been fired on the target in question. The CRO (or his Deputy) alone has the absolute discretion to allow a competitor who has missed his detail to shoot in another; and will bear in mind the undesirability of allocating a detail or range position which might be thought to be more favourable to the competitor.

FC13.9 The time allowance, per shot, is 45 seconds. Timing starts when the target has come to rest at the top of its travel, or the point at which any query as to the shot value, protest or challenge has been disposed of by the RO.

FC13.10 If the targets have been pre-exposed, to allow sight adjustments, etc., timing for the first shot will be from the order to commence firing. If the targets have not been pre-exposed, timing will commence when the competitors on the target signify that they are ready and in any case within 2 minutes of first exposure.

FC13.11 A competitor, timed by a RO and found to have taken too long, will be given one warning. Thereafter, he will forfeit two points for the first shot which the RO has personally timed and found to have exceeded the time limit. For each subsequent shot outside the time limit he will forfeit the value of the shot in question. These penalties apply to a particular distance only. For any transgression at a subsequent distance the process shall start anew. In the case of a localised disturbance such as a whirlwind or dust storm, a RO may use his discretion in allowing shooters a short relief from the 45 second time limit.

FC13.12 Competitors on each target will act as register keepers for one another. In each case, a competitor will score for the competitor who fires immediately after him. This means that, with threes, the left and middle competitors will pass their scorecards to the right and the competitor on the right will pass his to the competitor on the left. If there are two competitors, they will just exchange scorecards.

FC13.13 Competitors on a target will fire single shots alternately, or in rotation, starting with the competitor on the right.

FC13.14 In individual competition a competitor who misses the target with four consecutive shots (whether including sighting shots or not) must stop firing until the others on the target have finished. He may then complete his shoot, but will not be allowed an extra sighting shot. The detail will not be extended to facilitate this, however.

FC13.15 Competitors must remain in position until all on their target have completed the shoot. They may then retire from the firing point, after completing their register keeping duties and rifle safety checks, provided they do not disturb competitors who are still firing on adjacent targets.

F-Class team matches will be conducted under the same rules as those for Target Rifle, as set out in TR Rule 27.

FC14.1 Team composition (number of officials relative to number of shooters and targets) will be as per TR rules, unless Match Conditions dictate otherwise.

FC14.2 The time limit for F-Class teams, for all distances, will be calculated as per Target Rifle for Short Range (Rule 27.13.1) (i.e. 1 minute and 15 seconds per shot).

FC14.3 A member of a team may change his rifle at any time, subject to Rule FC8.1.2, but as a consequence may not fire any extra sighting shots.

FC17.1 The offer of any money or a bribe of any kind to any match official, register keeper, butt marker (or anyone in a position to affect either true marking or scoring) or other competitor is strictly forbidden.

FC17.2 Any person knowing of any such offer, or of any attempt to defraud the host country or an official or any competitor, must report the same without delay in writing to the CRO, who will arrange for the matter to be dealt with by the SABU Disciplinary Committee. Failure so to do leaves the individual open to sanction under TR Rule 37.8.

FC18 DOPING CONTROL

The SABU Anti-Doping Regulations are detailed in the revised Appendix C, which was approved by the SABU Council on 24^th September 2009.

The SABU Penalties Rules (identical to those of ICFRA) are in Part Five of the TR Rules (Rules 33 to 37).

The SABU Tie Rules are at Part Three of the TR Rules and apply to TR, F-Class and .303. They differ from the ICFRA rules in only one respect. In Individual matches, only ties for a trophy or first place in a competition will be resolved by a tie-shoot. All other ties will be counted out. At the SABU Council Meeting on 24^th September 2009, TR Rule 29.3 was amended to fall into line with ICFRA. In future, all tie-shoots will consist of one convertible sighter and five shots to count, irrespective of the number of contestants.

DIMENSIONS OF SABU and ICFRA F-CLASS TARGETS. (Refer Rule FC5)

See also Appendix D for descriptions of the TR Targets on which these are based.

A1. Targets: General

A1.1 Form. All targets will consist of a circular black aiming mark centred on a white or off-white background. Scoring rings must be of a thickness and whiteness to be readily visible through a riflescope. A white circle instead of a white ring for the V-Bull is acceptable in domestic competition.

Long Range: The target frame shall not be less than 1.8m square. Target widths of 2.4m or 3.0m (or their imperial equivalents) are permissible.

However, it is permitted to mount the 300y/m target on the 1.8 metre square frame, within a marked 1.2 metre square “box”, designating the scoring area. Similarly, both the 300y/m and the 500/600y/m targets may be mounted on the Long Range frame, with the 1.2 metre square, or a 1.8 metre square, respectively, clearly marked to define the scoring area on each.

A1.3. Target numbering. Each target must be clearly numbered. These numbers must be of such size that they are clearly visible, to the naked eye, at the furthest distance to be shot on the targets in question. Corresponding number markers will be placed on the forward edge of each firing point.

A2. The ICFRA International F-Class Target Short Range

A2.1 The ICFRA F-Class targets for short range will be based on the ICFRA TR International targets for the respective distances, with a new V-Bull, half the diameter of the TR V-Bull. Scoring will be one ring tighter, i.e. the TR V-Bull will be the F-Class Bull and so on. (See Appendix D for dimensions). These targets will be used by SABU for all full-International matches. For domestic purposes, both short and long range targets will be whatever is being used for TR, with the new half-diameter V-Bull and one ring tighter scoring.

A3 The ICFRA International F-Class Target (Long Range)

NB: The small differences in the metric dimensions compared with those in Appendix D result from rounding off of conversions from the original Imperial dimensions.

MATCH CONDITIONS - INTERNATIONAL MATCHES

INTERNATIONAL PROTEA MATCH:

CONDITIONS The International Protea Match in which National Teams compete may only be conducted when an official SA Bisley Union team is present and competing against one or more official visiting National teams.

TEAM COMPOSITION Teams shall usually consist of a Team Captain, Manager, Co-ordinator, 3 wind reader coaches and 12 shooters.

NUMBER OF SHOTS Each firing member of the team shall fire ten shots to count at each distance.

SIGHTING SHOTS Two sighting shots of which the second or both may be converted, at each distance. If a competitor’s firing, through no fault of his own, has been interrupted for five minutes or longer (as timed by the Range Officer), an optional non-convertible sighter will be allowed. (The shooter must first notify his register keeper of his intention.). This rule does not apply in the case where a team captain orders a team member to suspend his shooting. (Clause 24.4)

RIFLES Rifles including sighting equipment, trigger weight, etc must conform to the ICFRA TR Technical Rules. Only the .308 Winchester/7.62 x 51mm calibre is permitted. A rifle may be changed at any time, and team members may shoot with the same rifle.

RIFLE CHECKING All rifles intended to be used by teams in the match may be checked by the Range Committee or Chief Range Officer, for conformation with the ICFRA Rules prior to the commencement of firing the first range. Random checks of rifles may be carried out during the course of the Match.

AMMUNITION To be provided by all competing teams in accordance with ICFRA Rules and Regulation. Random checks of ammunition may be carried out during the course of the Match.

TARGETS Three targets shall be available to each team and shall confirm to SABU Rules and Regulations (see Appendix D) from 1/1/2010, the ICFRA International Match Target must be used.

REGISTER KEEPING Each team shall be responsible for providing three register keepers at the firing point. Team members including reserves, or volunteers from outside teams, may be used.

DISPUTES Disputes (if any) shall be heard and decided by the SABU-appointed Referee, with right of appeal to the Executive Committee.

CONDITIONS The International F-Class Match in which National Teams compete may only be conducted when an official SA Bisley Union team is present and competing.

TEAM COMPOSITION Teams shall usually consist of a Team Captain, 8 shooters, 2 wind reader coaches, a chief wind reader coach (optional), a manager/adjutant (optional) and an official reserve .

NUMBER OF SHOTS Each firing member of the team shall fire two sighting shots (convertible) and ten shots to count at each distance.

CONDITIONS The International Junior, Under 21 and Under 25 Matches in which National Teams compete may only be conducted when an official SA Bisley Union team is present and competing. No country will be allowed to enter more than one (1) official team per match.

TEAM COMPOSITION Junior teams shall usually consist of a Manager, 6 shooters and 2 optional non-shooting coaches, and Under 21/25 teams of 4 shooters and 1 non-shooting coach. The manager shall have no role on the mound during the match.

NUMBER OF SHOTS Each firing member of the team shall fire two sighting shots (convertible) and ten shots to count at each distance.

CONDITIONS The International Women’s Matches in which National Teams compete may only be conducted when an official SA Bisley Union team is present and competing. No country will be allowed to enter more than one (1) official team per match.

TEAM COMPOSITION Women’s teams shall usually consist of 4 shooters and 1 optional non-shooting coach, and 1 optional official reserve. The coach and official reserve may double up in other roles such as captain, manager, plotter and register keeper.

NUMBER OF SHOTS Each firing member of the team shall fire two sighting shots (convertible) and ten shots to count at each distance.

RIFLES Team members may use rifles of either .308 Winchester/7.62x51mm or .223 Remington /5.56x45mm calibre, with the proviso that no team member may switch from a rifle of one calibre to one of the other calibre during the match.

1. All other conditions not stipulated in respect of the International F Class, International Junior and Under 25 Matches, but set out in the rules and conditions of the International Protea Match, are also applicable to the said matches.

2. The organising committee may adapt and change team compositions and make other amendments as may be necessary, e.g. adapt distances due to inclement weather.

All SABU rules pertaining to 7.62 NATO target rifles apply to the .303 Class with the following exceptions:

Rifles must be standard .303 service rifles, which were at some time issued to British Empire or Commonwealth armed services.

Only .303 174 grain Mk VII Ball ammunition or the handloaded equivalent thereof is permitted.

Rifles may be re-barreled with barrels that conform to the original weight, diameter and length. No bull barrels will be permitted.

The stock must be as issued, and no adjustments and / or modifications, of a temporary or permanent nature, are permitted. However, cheek pieces and / or recoil pads of a semi-permanent nature may be added to the butt, as long as the length remains within 290 - 330 mm. When removed, the butt must conform to original specifications.

Rifles must be equipped with vernier adjustable target aperture rear sights as manufactured by Parker Hale, A.J. Parker, Central etc. Rifles equipped with battle sights only will not be permitted.

All other rules with regard to rifles are as per the SABU Target Rifle rules, including sights, slings, etc.

Apart from the exceptions in respect of rifles and ammunition, as stated above, all the other general rules as laid down by SABU, where applicable, must be adhered to by the .303 Class Competitors.

PROCEDURES FOR APPEAL AND RESOLUTION OF DISPUTES

1.1 The Council will appoint a Appeal Committee which will comprise a minimum of 3 (THREE) and maximum of 5 (FIVE) members of the Union, who shall be held in high regard and ideally include person/s with Legal training.

1.2 An application of Appeal must be lodged within 21 (TWENTY-ONE) days after the final date of the disciplinary hearing.

1.3 Every application for leave to appeal must be accompanied by the grounds for the applicant’s appeal.

1.4 The Notice of Appeal is to be lodged within 7 (SEVEN) days after the first meeting held by the Executive Committee after receiving the application of leave to appeal, and if they decided to grant the applicant leave to appeal.

i) Each party will equally contribute to the Appeal Committee costs, if opposed;

2.1 The Council will appoint a Dispute Resolution Committee which will comprise a minimum of 3(THREE) and a maximum of 5(FIVE) members of the Union, who shall be held in high regard and ideally include person/s with Legal training.

2.2 A request to resolve the dispute by mediation and/or arbitration must be lodged as soon as possible with the Executive Council.

2.3 Every request must specify if the parties wants to resolve the dispute by mediation or arbitration.

2.4 The mediation and arbitration will take place at the domicilium address of SABU at a time agreed by the parties.

2.5 Each party will equally contribute to the costs of the Dispute Resolution Committee.

RULES AND REGULATIONS
SEPTEMBER 2011

C. APPLICATION OF SABU RULES AT OTHER MEETINGS

D. CONDUCT OF SHOOTING

B. APPLICATION OF SABU RULES AT OTHER MEETINGS OR REGIONAL COMPETITIONS 46

G. STRING SHOOTING 58

FOREWORD

A. RIFLES, AMMUNITION AND OTHER EQUIPMENT

1. INTRODUCTION

2. APPLICATION

DIMENSIONS OF ICFRA TARGETS

D1. Targets: General

D2. ICFRA Standard Aiming Marks

D3. The ICFRA International Match Target (Short Range)

D4 The ICFRA International Match Target (Long Range)

SA BISLEY UNION
APPENDIX H

FC2 RIFLES, AMMUNITION AND OTHER EQUIPMENT

FC2.1 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS OF RIFLES AND AMMUNITION

FC2.1.1 Two separate rifle classes are recognised under F-Class rules, F-Open and F/TR. The differences are in calibre, rifle maximum weight and rests allowed.

FC3 DRESS AND AIDS TO SHOOTING

FC5 TARGETS

FC6 CONDUCT OF SHOOTING

FC7 SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

FC8 RIFLES and AMMUNITION – MISHAPS and TESTING

FC11 TARGET IRREGULARITIES

FC12 MARKING and SCORING

A. Marking in the Butts

B. Scoring on the firing point

FC13 CONDUCT OF INDIVIDUAL COMPETITIONS

FC18 DOPING CONTROL

The SABU Anti-Doping Regulations are detailed in the revised Appendix C, which was approved by the SABU Council on 24^th September 2009.

DIMENSIONS OF SABU and ICFRA F-CLASS TARGETS. (Refer Rule FC5)

See also Appendix D for descriptions of the TR Targets on which these are based.

A1. Targets: General

A2. The ICFRA International F-Class Target Short Range

A3 The ICFRA International F-Class Target (Long Range)

NB: The small differences in the metric dimensions compared with those in Appendix D result from rounding off of conversions from the original Imperial dimensions.

MATCH CONDITIONS - INTERNATIONAL MATCHES

INTERNATIONAL PROTEA MATCH:

PROCEDURES FOR APPEAL AND RESOLUTION OF DISPUTES

Last modified: 02/28/12

RULES AND REGULATIONS SEPTEMBER 2011

C. APPLICATION OF SABU RULES AT OTHER MEETINGS

D. CONDUCT OF SHOOTING

B. APPLICATION OF SABU RULES AT OTHER MEETINGS OR REGIONAL COMPETITIONS 46

G. STRING SHOOTING 58

FOREWORD

A. RIFLES, AMMUNITION AND OTHER EQUIPMENT

1. INTRODUCTION

2. APPLICATION

DIMENSIONS OF ICFRA TARGETS

D1. Targets: General

D2. ICFRA Standard Aiming Marks

D3. The ICFRA International Match Target (Short Range)

D4 The ICFRA International Match Target (Long Range)

SA BISLEY UNION APPENDIX H

FC2 RIFLES, AMMUNITION AND OTHER EQUIPMENT

FC2.1 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS OF RIFLES AND AMMUNITION

FC2.1.1 Two separate rifle classes are recognised under F-Class rules, F-Open and F/TR. The differences are in calibre, rifle maximum weight and rests allowed.

FC3 DRESS AND AIDS TO SHOOTING

FC5 TARGETS

FC6 CONDUCT OF SHOOTING

FC7 SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

FC8 RIFLES and AMMUNITION – MISHAPS and TESTING

FC11 TARGET IRREGULARITIES

FC12 MARKING and SCORING

A. Marking in the Butts

B. Scoring on the firing point

FC13 CONDUCT OF INDIVIDUAL COMPETITIONS

FC18 DOPING CONTROL

The SABU Anti-Doping Regulations are detailed in the revised Appendix C, which was approved by the SABU Council on 24th September 2009.

DIMENSIONS OF SABU and ICFRA F-CLASS TARGETS. (Refer Rule FC5)

See also Appendix D for descriptions of the TR Targets on which these are based.

A1. Targets: General

A2. The ICFRA International F-Class Target Short Range

A3 The ICFRA International F-Class Target (Long Range)

NB: The small differences in the metric dimensions compared with those in Appendix D result from rounding off of conversions from the original Imperial dimensions.

MATCH CONDITIONS - INTERNATIONAL MATCHES

INTERNATIONAL PROTEA MATCH:

PROCEDURES FOR APPEAL AND RESOLUTION OF DISPUTES

Last modified: 02/28/12

RULES AND REGULATIONS
SEPTEMBER 2011

SA BISLEY UNION
APPENDIX H

The SABU Anti-Doping Regulations are detailed in the revised Appendix C, which was approved by the SABU Council on 24^th September 2009.