Introduction to IPSC Rifle for UK competitors
- UKPSA
- Nov 19
- 4 min read
What is IPSC Rifle?
Think minirifle but with a bigger bang and targets placed at greater distances, therefore creating (arguably) a greater challenge than minirifle.
Rifle is primarily shot with a semi-automatic rifle, the most common being .223. There are however, two manual divisions which should be considered:
MAB – Manual action bolt
MAC – Manual action contemporary
Both divisions are still bound to the same rules of minimum power factor for both minor and major scoring, and competitor equipment as defined in Appendix D of the IPSC Rifle rule book.
Manual action divisions have special conditions outlined in Appendix (see below).
Manual Action is defined as a firearm that can discharge a single round each time the trigger is pulled, but after discharging a round requires the competitor’s physical action to manually prepare the firearm for a new discharge by extracting and ejecting the empty cartridge case, recocking the action and chambering a new round. If any of these steps are performed other than by the competitor’s physical action, the firearm does not qualify as Manual Action. Firearms that do not qualify as Manual Action may be used in the Semi Auto Divisions subject to them complying with any applicable Division requirements.
Spring assisted chambering operations in Manual Action Contemporary Division is permitted, provided the energy conversion to the spring has been made by the competitor's physical action after the Start Signal.
Bolt Action is defined as a firearm in which the opening and closing of the breech is performed via the manual operation of the bolt by the competitor, using a handle directly attached to it.
The above is a direct quote from the IPSC rule book, Appendix D. To be clear, the MAB division requires the bolt handle be directly fixed to the bolt. An example firearm would be a Remington 700 or Tikka T3.
It is important to note that MAC requires two rounds to be scored per paper target, MAB only requires one round per paper target to be scored.
What is the difference between Mini rifle and Rifle?
Ultimately there is no hiding the fact that competing in IPSC rifle is significantly more expensive than competing in Minirifle. Ammunition costs alone can run into the hundreds for a level 3 match.
It is also an unfortunate fact that to compete the competitor will need to travel internationally. Again, at significant cost.
Below is a brief summary of the overall difference between Rifle and Minirifle.
Summary:
Feature | IPSC Rifle | IPSC Mini-Rifle |
Caliber | Larger calibres (e.g., 5.56mm, .223) | Smaller calibres (.22LR, etc.) |
Power | Higher power, more recoil | Lower power, less recoil |
Range | Longer-range shooting | Shorter-range shooting |
Weight | Heavier, full-sized rifles | Lighter, more compact rifles |
Recoil | Significant recoil and muzzle rise | Minimal recoil |
Optics | High-powered optics (magnified) | Red dot sights or low magnification |
Match Focus | Precision, longer-range engagement | Speed, rapid transitions, close targets |
Ultimately, both divisions are designed to test different aspects of a shooter’s skill, with IPSC Rifle focusing on more long-range and power-based challenges and IPSC Minirifle offering a lighter, faster-paced, and often more accessible alternative.
How can UK shooters compete?
The easiest way for UK based competitors to shoot rifle matches will no doubt be to enter in MAB or MAC divisions.
Straight pull rifles will fall into the MAC division. You should pay attention to the power factor of the rifle and ammunition type to ensure you register correctly.
As a rule of thumb, .223 Rem will be minor and 7.62/.308 will fall into major.
Given the law surrounding semi auto, centre fire rifles in the UK, we cannot train or compete in the semi automatic divisions at home. That being said, should a competitor wish to compete in semi auto open (SAO) or semi auto standard (SAS) there are routes available overseas, which are:
Larger matches such as LVL 4 and 5 often have firearm rental available
Reaching out to match directors well in advance of the match and prior to registration to request use of a firearm
Be aware, each country will have their own laws surrounding the use of and/or borrowing of firearms. It is paramount that these laws are thoroughly researched and understood prior to agreeing to using a firearm that is not registered to you.
I strongly urge anyone wishing to compete in IPSC rifle to familiarise themselves with the rule book. You can find the most up-to-date rule books at: https://www.ipsc.org/ipsc-rules/rule-books/
If you have questions surrounding the division your chosen firearm falls within, please visit the above link and read the “IPSC Rifle equipment check handbook”.
How can I find and enter matches?
Useful links below:
When entering matches overseas, it is worth researching and understanding the regional gun laws. You should aim acquire your permit well in advance. If you have any doubt, contact the relevant embassy.
Travelling with a firearm
Travelling with firearms is relatively straight forward but a lengthy process. It is paramount you arrive at the airport well in advance and make yourself known to a member of the airline staff.
Guns and ammunition must be in separate locked boxes but this has been know to vary with each airline. Check with your relevant airline prior to travelling.
Airlines known to transport firearms:
Easyjet
Norwegian airlines
British airways
This list is not meant to be exhaustive but is compiled from experience.
World shoot 2027
The rifle world shoot will be held in Mongolia at the end of July / early August 2027 (exact dates tbc). A selection process for anyone wishing and willing to take part will be clearly defined and communicated to the membership before the end of 2025.
An expression of interest form will be distributed in early 2026.
It is important to note that competing at the world shoot will require significant commitment both in time and money. This should not be underestimated. I intend to publish an estimate of costs along with the selection criteria in the coming months.
DVC
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