Rimfire Challenge

The Rimfire Challenge was originally started as the Ruger Rimfire Challenge in 2009, designed to introduce new shooters to competitive shooting in a fun, low-pressure environment using .22 LR pistols and rifles.

In 2014, the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) took over and rebranded it as the NSSF Rimfire Challenge. By 2018, the management transitioned to the Rimfire Challenge Shooting Association (RCSA), which continues to oversee and promote the sport today.

We are no longer a member of the NSSF Rimfire Challenge but still follow the same rule base for most events. However, the Match Director can verify the specific rules for each match.

Our club hosts an event every month, split into three types:

1. Rimfire Speed Steel (Following RCSA Rules)

Stages: 4 pistol stages and 4 rifle stages. 8 stages added together for the aggregate best score.
Options: You can choose to shoot only a pistol, only a rifle, or both.

2. Outlaw Steel Match

Rules: Some RCSA rules are followed but modified for this match.
Details: Typically 4 stages. This match is open to 9mm, .45 centerfire, PCC 9mm, as well as standard .22 Rimfire.

3. Rimfire 2-Gun Match

Rules: Some RCSA rules, but modified for this match.
Purpose: Designed to help newer shooters develop skills applicable to Action Pistol, USPSA, and 3-Gun matches.
Difficulty: This is the most challenging of the three matches we offer.

What Do You Need to Start?

1. Rimfire Pistol – Semiautomatic Highly Recommended

Magazines – Min. 5 magazines (we will assist beginners with reloading if they have less).
Popular choices include Ruger Mark II, III, IV 22/45 pistols. The Taurus TX is also gaining popularity.

2. Rimfire Rifle – Semiautomatic Highly Recommended

Magazines – Min. 5 magazines (we will assist beginners with reloading if they have less).
Most common rifle: Ruger 10/22 style rifles and AR pattern, such as the Smith & Wesson 15/22.

3. Eye and Hearing Protection

Eye protection is especially crucial in steel matches, where shrapnel can bounce back.
Ear muff style hearing protection is recommended, but ear plug style protection is accepted.

4. Gun Case

No holsters are allowed. You will need a soft or hard case that zips or latches securely for each firearm.

Targets

Sizes: 6″, 8″, 10″, 12″, 14″, and 18×24″.
Distances: Targets range from 7 to 40 yards.

Ammunition

Any .22 Rimfire ammo is acceptable.
Average round count: About 300 rounds, but it can vary based on your skill level and the course of fire.
Many participants buy bulk ammo (325-550 round packs). Rimfire ammo is dirty and can quickly foul a gun; better ammo tends to foul less.
Some .22 rimfire firearms can be finicky about the ammo that they like. Be sure to test what you plan to use in advance of the match to be sure that your firearm will cycle it reliably.

Timing and Scoring

Matches are timed using electronic timers that register off of the record.
Scores are kept on Practiscore, where you can sign up for events (up to 4 months in advance).
Matches often have a maximum number of participants. Once full, they are full.

New Shooters

If you’re new to shooting, let the Match Director know. They’ll help you get set up in a group that will guide you through the match.

Local Clubs and Matches

In addition to our club’s monthly events, several other clubs in the area offer Rimfire Challenge matches:

Canby Rod & Gun Club (CRGC) Rimfire Speed Steel
Tri-County Gun Club (TCGC) Outlaw Steel
Redmond Rod & Gun Club Rimfire Speed Steel
Grants Pass Gun Club
Medford Gun Club Steel Challenge

Each of these clubs hosts high-profile, fun shooting events!

The Rimfire Challenge is an exciting and accessible way to dive into competitive shooting. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or just starting, there’s a category and match for you. Come join the fun, and develop your skills!

Rimfire challenge

You can sign up for matches at DRRC on Practiscore. Enter “DRRC” in the search field to find upcoming matches. For more information, please contact the match director.