The 2016 Match Schedule will be different from the 2014-2015 National Matches – returning to the original schedule of years past. Events featured will include the John C. Garand, President’s Rifle, Hearst Doubles, Vintage Sniper, as well as a multitude of prestigious pistol events. This year also marks the 20th Anniversary of the CMP, so come help us celebrate!
New this year, the CMP will introduce its Legacy Series: an extra week highlighting an assortment of competitions that feature both vintage and modern military rifles. Each event has been named to honor the memories of important figures in marksmanship history, as well as to commemorate the spirit of past and present National Matches.
One of the clinics offered during the National Matches are the Small Arms Firing Schools. These schools introduce new shooters to pistol and rifle shooting and also offer experienced marksman advanced training. Both pistol and rifle schools include firing practice with experienced coaches and participating in an EIC match.
On top of competitive opportunities, a Small Arms Firing School (SAFS) will also be held for rifle and pistol enthusiasts, where participants will be instructed by some of the top military shooters in the country on firearm safety and competition technique. The SAFS courses have been a staple in the National Matches at Camp Perry since 1918.
Many other clinics and learning opportunities, taught by qualified professionals, will also be available throughout the National Matches. Whether an experienced shooter or firing a shot for the first time, those wanting to enhance their rifle or pistol abilities can register for a number of clinics conducted during the Matches.
Gary Anderson CMP Competition Center is open throughout the National Matches. Special re-entry matches are available along with open public shooting. Visit the CMP website at http://thecmp.org/competitions/cmp-national-matches/national-match-air-gun-events/ for a calendar and program.
Events are open to the public, and spectators are welcome to observe firing on the Camp Perry ranges at any time. Guests are encouraged to participate in the many exciting activities and visual attractions offered during the Match season.
Don’t forget that outside of the action on the firing line, Commercial Row offers a variety of items for both spectators and shooters – with a multitude of manufacturers selling used firearms, ammunition, competition gear, accessories, apparel and much more. The CMP Store allows even more buying opportunities at the Matches with our collection of military surplus rifles.
Be a part of and witness the most anticipated time of year for competitive shooting – all happening at Camp Perry!
A photo from 1956 during the National Matches at Camp Perry. Spectators and guests are welcome to attend any event at the National Matches. If you plan on visiting Camp Perry, please stop in at the National Matches Welcome Center for a schedule of events and additional information.
For registration and more information on the National Trophy Pistol and Rifle Matches, including a new schedule of events, log on to http://thecmp.org/competitions/cmp-national-matches/. We hope to see you there!
Article originally appeared on Ammoland By Ashley Brugnone, CMP Writer
About the Civilian Marksmanship Program:
The Civilian Marksmanship Program is a federally chartered 501 (c) (3) non-profit corporation. It is dedicated to firearm safety and marksmanship training and to the promotion of marksmanship competition for citizens of the United States.
For more information about the CMP and its programs, log onto www.TheCMP.org.