Rimfire rifles—particularly those chambered in the humble yet tried-and-true .22LR cartridge —have always been my gateway into many different forms of shooting, including competition. For those unfamiliar, the .22LR (Long Rifle) is a small, affordable cartridge with minimal recoil, which makes it perfect for anyone new to shooting. From knocking down old tin cans behind the house to honing precision skills at your local range, the .22LR remains a favorite across all experience levels. Now, the Civilian Marksmanship Program (CMP)—an organization dedicated to promoting safe firearms use and sportsmanship—has teamed up with Lake Erie Arms in Ohio to bring the CMP experience indoors with its brand-new CMP Rimfire Rifle League. Based on the initial details, this league is tailor-made for beginners dipping their toes into the CMP-style of competition, but it’s also an inviting avenue for seasoned shooters looking to sharpen up when outdoor opportunities are limited (think winter months). If you’re hoping for a fun, low-pressure way to get into the competitive shooting scene or brush up your skills, this looks like a prime opportunity. Let’s hope the concept catches fire and finds its way into indoor ranges across the country.
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CMP Shooting On A Dime – New CMP Rimfire Leagues in Ohio
After completing a successful Bullseye Pistol League in the fall, the Civilian Marksmanship Program (CMP) is excited to announce a new competition series, partnered with Lake Erie Arms – the CMP Rimfire Rifle League, featuring electronic targets!
The CMP Rimfire Rifle League is an indoor .22 caliber sporter rifle target competition, held Tuesdays from 5-8 p.m. at Lake Erie Arms and running from Jan. 14 to March 4, 2025. The league is suitable for those looking for an introduction into marksmanship competition as well as those looking for a fun challenge with friends or family. All experience levels are welcome, including juniors (ages 10 and up).
The Rimfire Rifle League matches will be fired at 25 yards from three positions: prone, sitting/kneeling and standing. Competitors may choose from T-Class (telescopic sights), O-Class (standard sights) and TU-Class (tactical/unlimited, any sights) categories.
Beyond just hosting these competitive events, the CMP is offering classes designed to guide newcomers through the basics of a firearms competition—answers to those questions that often keep people on the sidelines. Judging by the outline provided, nearly any .22LR rifle you’ve got stowed away at home is fair game. The equipment requirements aren’t overly restrictive, which fits perfectly into the league’s welcoming atmosphere. Events like the CMP Rimfire Rifle League thrive on getting new and experienced shooters together, bonding over safe shooting practices, and helping build confidence in a more laid-back competitive environment. The continued growth of these accessible rimfire competitions is great news for anyone wanting to refine their marksmanship without the hefty cost or intimidation factor of more advanced events. If you’re curious to learn more, head over to Lake Erie Arms’ official website or the CMP’s homepage, where you can get the latest details on how to sign up, what to bring, and what you can expect on match day.
Firing will be completed on CMP’s line of electronic targets, complete with a scoring monitor located beside each participant. The electronic targets deliver fast, accurate shot scores – offering an enhanced experience for individuals and quicker competition times! The same targets will also be used during the National Rimfire Sporter Match, part of the annual National Matches at Camp Perry, for the first time on July 20, 2025.
Additionally, the CMP will host a Rimfire Rifle class prior to the start of the league for those wanting to learn more about the sport! Sign up for the CMP Rimfire Rifle League and find additional info at https://www.learms.net/current-leagues!
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