BB Gun Rules and Safety

Importance of Safety

• BB guns and air guns must be treated with respect as they are not toys.
• Key NRA safety rules for gun handling include:
  • Always point the gun in a safe direction.
  • Keep your finger off the trigger until ready to shoot.
  • Keep the gun unloaded until ready to use.
• Additional safety practices:
  • Dry firing is allowed only on the firing line or designated areas.
  • Eye and ear protection is essential for everyone on the firing line.

Competition Eligibility and Regulations

• Competitors can participate until their 16th birthday.
• A competitor cannot be a part of more than one team in a match.
• BB guns used must be factory manufactured with no unauthorized modifications.

Equipment and Ammunition Rules

• Only round .177 (4.5mm) lead or steel BBs are allowed.
• Audible timing devices and electronic triggers are prohibited.
• A single layer of tape or non-glare paint can be used to reduce barrel glare.
• Factory stocks can be altered in length but must maintain original design.

Targets and Scoring

• Official targets must bear the NRA insignia and be used as per rules.
• Scoring includes penalties for missed shots and shots outside scoring rings.
• Excessive hits and cross-fires have specific penalties and procedures.

Positions and Firing

• Positions include prone, sitting, kneeling, and standing with specific rules for each.
• No artificial support allowed except for some adjustments for disabled competitors.

Tournament Structure

• Types of matches include open, restricted, classified, and invitational matches.
• Sanctioned tournaments need NRA approval with specific timelines for applications.

Range Operations

• Firing lines and points are clearly defined with specific safety measures.
• Range must have safe backstops and adequate lighting.

National Records and Classifications

• Scores for national records must be fired in NRA registered tournaments.
• Competitors are classified into categories based on average scores.

Duties of Competitors and Coaches

• Competitors and coaches are responsible for adhering to rules and safety protocols.
• Checking scores and ensuring eligibility for events is the competitor’s responsibility.

Challenges and Protests

• There are specific procedures for handling challenges and protests.
• Fees may apply for filing challenges, refundable if the challenge is sustained.

Appendices and Glossary

• Includes definitions of key terms and roles for better understanding of rules.

This summary encapsulates the key rules and guidelines from the NRA 2023 BB Gun Rulebook. It emphasizes safety, eligibility, equipment standards, and the structure of competitions, providing a comprehensive overview for participants and officials.