A GUIDE FOR NEW PRECISION RIFLE SHOOTERS

Long-range shooting is a skill that requires patience, knowledge, and the right approach. Whether aiming for competition, tactical applications, or improving your marksmanship, navigating the vast world of ballistics, rifle selection, and shooting techniques can feel overwhelming. This guide provides a structured approach to help you progress efficiently.

THE CONCEPT OF THE ROADMAP

This approach is inspired by the Marine Corps' career progression roadmaps, which lay out clear paths for Marines to advance in their careers. Just as an infantryman completes specific courses and achieves milestones to advance, new precision rifle shooters benefit from a structured progression of skills and knowledge. Below is an effective pathway to mastering long-range precision shooting

START WITH YOUR GOALS

Before diving in, define your objective:

• Competition shooting – Master various positions and perform under time pressure.

• Military or law enforcement applications - Develop mission-specific precision shooting skills.

• Recreational shooting – Improve personal skills at a comfortable pace.

EQUIPMENT AND RANGE ACCESS

Before making a major investment, ensure precision shooting fits your lifestyle. Many newcomers purchase high-end rifles only to realize they lack the time or range access to use them effectively. My first precision rifle was a high-end build I purchased from someone who never had the opportunity to shoot it. Learn from others' mistakes—start with what you can realistically commit to.

Understanding Accuracy: Mechanical vs. Practical

Mechanical accuracy is your rifle's maximum potential under ideal conditions, determined by:

• Rifle build quality (action, barrel, trigger)

• Ammunition consistency

• Optic quality and proper mounting

• Support equipment (bipod, bags, etc.)

Practical accuracy is what you can achieve in real-world conditions, factoring in:

• Your shooting fundamentals

• Wobble zone management in various positions

• Wind reading skills

• Environmental conditions

THE LEARNING PROGRESSION

Before diving into advanced concepts, focus on the basics:

• Body position and rifle-to-shoulder connection

• Proper aiming process

• Trigger control and follow-through

• Basic rifle handling skills

Become familiar with your precision rifle system:

• Barreled action and its components

• Optics and mounting systems

• Triggers and stock/chassis systems

• Match-grade ammunition vs. factory loads

• Support equipment (bipods, bags, etc.)

Once fundamentals are solid, learn about external ballistics and ballistic solvers. The Hornady 4DOF calculator is a great free tool that our instructor team uses for both teaching and competition.

Expert Resources:

• Brian Litz – Groundbreaking work in ballistic coefficients and ballistics research.

• Eric Cortina – Precision reloading and ballistic testing expert.

• Jayden Quinlan – Insights into modern precision rifle shooting.

Podcasts and Learning Resources:

• The Hornady Podcast – Focuses on external ballistics and ballistic calculators.

• Online Communities – Learn from experienced shooters in forums and social media groups.

• YouTube Channels – While useful, avoid jumping between topics without mastering basics.

4. Wind Reading

Develop a practical system for making wind calls. Avoid getting bogged down in complex wind vectors—experience is key. The only way to improve wind calls is to make (and learn from) bad ones.

5. Positional Shooting

For competitors, mastering shooting positions beyond prone is crucial. Pay attention to:

• Your "wobble zone" (reticle movement)

• Comfort and stability

• Recoil management

• How different positions affect your natural point of aim

6. Competition and Community

Consider entering local competitions to validate your training and connect with other enthusiasts. The precision rifle community is incredibly welcoming and can be an invaluable resource for continued learning. Many shooters find mentors at these events who dramatically accelerate their progress.

Competition is a great way to validate your training.

ADVANCED TOPICS

As you advance, explore:

• High-level ballistics concepts

• Different cartridge options and their applications

• Handloading (but don't obsess over SDs if you haven't mastered shooting fundamentals)

• Environmental effects on bullet flight

• Advanced wind reading techniques

• Load development and testing

Finding the Right Instruction

If possible, train with reputable instructors who align with your goals. Look for instructors who:

• Explain "why," not just "what."

• Have experience relevant to your goals.

• Stay current with modern techniques and equipment.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Precision shooting is learned by doing. Research is important, but nothing replaces time behind the rifle. Make informed choices, get out on the range, and refine your skills through experience. The shooting community is here to help—so start pulling the trigger and enjoy the journey!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Phillip Velayo is a precision rifle expert and 10-year Marine Corps Scout Sniper veteran. He served as Team Leader, Chief Scout Sniper, and Instructor, finishing as the Primary Marksmanship Instructor at the 1st Marine Division Scout Sniper School. A top graduate of all sniper courses and a 2016 Instructor of the Year nominee, Phillip left active duty in 2018 but remains a leading figure in long-range marksmanship, earning national recognition as a top instructor and competitive shooter. Phillip is a founder and instructor for The Cadre, a training company specializing in long-range shooting.