CMP and Hornady have teamed up to bring a new match to the 2011 CMP Eastern and Western games, and Camp Perry. The Vintage Sniper Rifle Match was proposed several years ago by Dave Emary of Hornady Manufacturing, as a way to include many of the vintage sniper rifles that are in circulation, yet lack an official shooting format. CMP and Hornady included it as a test match for the 2010 CMP Eastern and Western Games with great success, drawing large turnouts and positive comments.

The Vintage Sniper Rifle Match will feature a two-man team format, with each alternating as shooter and spotter, and firing 10 rounds at both 300 and 600 yards. Match rifles will be original or replica sniper rifles issued through the Korean War. Allowable optics will be original scopes or replicas, along with a few commercial scopes giving essentially the same optical performance. Download a complete list of acceptable rifles and scopes as well as rules and regulations here.

Short, 20-second target exposures, followed by maximum 20-seconds in the pits, differentiates this match, making it both challenging and fun. Teams must plan and communicate to do well, with the spotter tracking wind conditions, giving clear and concise wind calls to the shooter.

All shooting takes place in the prone position. Slings may be used for support, or sandbags will be supplied as a rest if the team chooses to use them. Mechanical supports or rear rests may not be used.

A custom trophy designed as a memorial to Hornady founder, J.W. Hornady, is being commissioned by CMP and Hornady for Camp Perry. Hornady will provide Match ammunition in 6.5 X 55 mm, 303 British, 7.62 X 54R, and 8 X 57 mm, to go along with its excellent 30-06 M1 Garand Match ammunition. All will be made available to shooters for purchase through the CMP.

Now is the time to buy a CMP M1D, or Gibbs 1903A4, or put together a rifle with some of the excellent replica mounts and scopes on the market. The match will be an official competition at the 2011 CMP Eastern and Western games, and will be held immediately after the Hearst Match at the 2011 National Matches at Camp Perry.