They took part in the 2012 Czech Police International Sniper Competition, competing against police and military teams from Czech Republic, Russia, Ukraine, Slovakia, Bulgaria, Hungary, Germany, Italy, Israel, Mongolia and the USA.
146 personnel shot as both individuals and pairs.
Our best performer in the individuals was placed 5th overall (ex 146).
In the team placings, the pairing of my partner (who came 5th iundividuals) and I were placed 9th (ex 73)
Four pairs travelled to the competition from the UK, two of the pairs carried on to the World Championships in Hungary, which is taking place this weekend.
We travelled to the comp, arriving sunday evening, where we stayed overnight at a town near the military area where the competition took place.
The following day we spent a very interesting visit to the CZ factory and were given a guided tour of the vast site. We had the opportunity to see all the processes involved in the manufature of the various weapons and machine parts made there.
We also had the opprtunity to shoot the new .223 assault rifle, Skorpion 9mm Semi auto and pistols.
A very interesting visit.
Tuesday took us to the competition billets and once booked in and unpacked, we headed to the range for zero check and evening meal.
Wednesday morning we had to be at the range for 07:00, where after breakfast, there was an opening ceremony, final competitor number allocation and start of the various details.
No sighters (as one would expect in such a comp) timed stress tests, small target scoring areas and unpredictable winds were the problems we faced.
My oartner and I were shooting 6.5x47's
Another pair were using 308's
We all used a card system for drop and wind correction.
All I can say is i'm glad I relied on it as once one gets used to using the card, it becomes a moments task to read, and make corrections for any condition.
Far, far simpler than electronic devices.
Anyway, some pics
Opening Ceremony
Example of typical detail briefing:
500 mtrs - 5 shots prone
250 mtrs - 2 shots prone (in 10 seconds) when tapped on the ankle - stress test.
150 mtrs - 1 shot prone (in 5 seconds) when tapped on ankle - stress test
Note small scoring areas on faces....
Results
(Remember: There are no sighters in this sort of competition! (and generally, mirage meant that fall of shot couldn't be seen on the targets either))
500 Mtrs partner
500 mtrs (me)
250 mtrs partner
250 mtrs (me) - note same shot fall and group size - but I didnt pick up on wind change.....
150 mtrs partner
150 mtrs (me)
There will be, no doubt be some UK detractors of tactical competition from internet-angry little people..Lets make this clear, we just enjoy shooting and shooting in competitions. Its one thing being able to steer a rifle, its quite another humping 50 lbs of kit for tens of miles and then making a shot in a difficult situation. None of us were in the latter boat; we simply entered the comp to participate and because we were invited :)
On that note, id like to thank those involved on the CZ side for their help and assistance in making this years trip possible.
