Bolt Action Rifle Course
Bolt Action Rifles are arguably the most popular hunting rifles in the U.S. today. They are available in calibers from .17 rim fire to 50 BMG and even more powerful cartridges. Bolt Action Rifles are known for their reliability and accuracy. They were the primary Infantry weapons used by all combatants in WW 1. The U.S. Military used bolt action rifles early in WW 2 and other nations used them throughout the war. Bolt Action Rifles are still used for sniper/counter sniper operations. Today the Bolt Action Rifle has been largely replaced by semi-automatic and select fire rifles for Infantry and Law Enforcement duty but remain very popular with civilian shooters, hunters and Military/SWAT Snipers.
For those who know how to use them tactically, the bolt action rifle is still a formidable weapon. As a LAPD SWAT Sniper I routinely trained with and deployed a bolt action rifle. I was frequently posted with my rifle on airport hangers and hotel roof tops while guarding U.S. Presidents and visiting foreign dignitaries. I received Sniper training (bolt action rifle) from the USMC and from the FBI Firearms Training Cadre. I was the primary rifle instructor for LAPD SWAT for 14 years. I graduated from the Gunsite General Rifle Class (bolt action) with an expert certificate from Jeff Cooper who was the lead instructor. Later I instructed in the Gunsite General Rifle Class. Based upon these experiences we have created the Marksmanship Matters Bolt Action Rifle Class.
In this 2-day class your training will include:
Loading and unloading
Zeroing
Chamber Checking and Condition Checking
High Ready and Low Ready positions
Running the bolt
Snap shooting
Tactical and Speed Reloading
Close Contact Weapon Retention shooting
Multiple target drills
Hostage taker targets
Transition drills
Use of the shooting sling
Use of cover
LAPD Rifle Qualification Course
Note: We will be shooting only two types of targets. Paper and heavy-duty steel Pepper Poppers. These targets give us more latitude in the calibers and types of ammunition that we can allow for use in the class.
Equipment List for the Bolt Action Rifle Class
A safe, reliable and reasonably accurate bolt action rifle.
A short action rifle is preferred.
Low powered optics are preferred. Check with us for options.
Aperture sights will suffice.
Shooting Slings are strongly suggested.
Bipods are discouraged unless integral to the rifle.
Detachable box magazine rifles are approved.
Top loading fixed magazine rifles are approved.
Preferred Calibers for Bolt Action Rifle Class
Short non-magnum calibers are the most practical:
.223, .243 Winchester, .260 Remington, 7 mm/08, .308
Note: These shorter cartridges require a shorter action which allows the shooter to maintain his cheek weld while working the bolt.
Calibers up to the power of the .30/06 may be used.
Regardless of caliber, velocities must be kept below 3,000 FPS.
Ammunition: 250 accurate, safe and reliable factory cartridges.
The number of rounds fired will vary between individual classes. Â
No ammo with any steel in the bullet. No Russian ammunition.
You may use FMJ, JHP or JSP ammunition.
All rifle ammunition should be of the same load.
Note: Any change in the load can and usually will change your zero.
A-Zoom dummy cartridges-a minimum of 10 for the rifle are required.
Cartridge Loops-5 loops minimum in the appropriate caliber affixed to your belt.
Magazines-If your rifle uses a detachable box magazine, 3 are required.
Rifle Magazine Pouch-If your rifle uses a detachable box magazine.
Butt Cuff-nylon or leather Ammo Carrier attached to the shoulder stock is also strongly suggested.
Note: You will need a butt cuff and cartridge loops for single cartridge reloading even if you are using a detachable box magazine.
Recoil Pad-on the rifle butt will make shooting more comfortable and reduce slippage on the shoulder.
Shoulder Pad-we recommend that you use a PAST shoulder pad. Not necessary for firing a few rounds. Helpful for firing 250 rounds.
Shooting mat will be required for shooting from prone and kneeling
You may use a piece of carpet or a heavy moving blanket for a mat.
Elbow and knee pads are recommended.
Baseball cap.
Pistol such as the one you used in Pistol 1-4.
Strong side butt to the rear holster with some form of retention which allows you to rapidly assume the prone position without losing the pistol.
Three magazines for the pistol.
Pistol magazine pouch (Single magazine pouch is acceptable).
Fifty accurate, safe and reliable factory pistol cartridges.
Shooting gloves-thin, with fingers exposed are recommended.
Boots or sturdy high-top shoes to protect your ankles.
Ear plugs and ear muff type hearing protection.
Both clear and dark shooting glasses.
Wide heavy-duty belt that will fit your belt loops to support your pistol.
Trousers with belt loops are required to prevent your pistol from riding up as you present the pistol from the holster.
Bug spray is recommended.
Sun block is highly recommended.
One gallon of water (minimum) for each range day per shooter is suggested.
Tools required to adjust iron sights.
Cleaning rod is suggested.
Pocket notebook to record all zeroing and range data.
Writing implements to record information in your notebook.
Binoculars will be helpful.
Cleaning kit is recommended.
Fire extinguisher is optional, please bring one if you can.
Personal first aid kit is suggested.
Larry and Stacey Mudgett