Shooting

In the Air Training Corps, as cadets, we have the opportunity to experience shooting with various different rifles. This includes, but is not limited to, air rifles, the L144 A1 Cadet Small Bore Training Rifle, L98A2 Cadet GP Rifle, L81A2 Cadet Target Rifle and 12 gauge shotguns. Cadets are trained on each different rifle or are observed by qualified instructors in a one to one ratio. The air rifle is the first step in a cadets shooting career, air rifles are used on a 5 metre range and are usually fired indoors. The next step is onto the L144 A1 which is a 0.22 bolt action rifle and this will be fired on a 25 metre range which could be inside or outside. Next is the L98A2, which is a variant of the armed forces’ L85A1, the L98A2 will be fired with 5.56 ammunition on a range which is 25 metres or higher. Finally, some cadets will get the opportunity to fire the L81A2 which is a target rifle chambered in 7.62 and is used strictly in competitions on 100 metre ranges or greater. If a cadet possess’ a good amount of skill then they may be selected to compete at Corps level against other air cadets and potentially be invited to the Inter-Service Cadet Rifle Meeting where you will compete against cadets from the Sea Cadet Corps and the Army Cadet Force, if you manage to place within the top 100 or top 50 you will receive the cadet 100 and cadet 50 badges appropriately. You will also have the opportunity to take part in clay pigeon shooting with 12 gauge shotguns with other members of your wing.