running, ringing steel targets using the data on their D.O.P.E. sheets. In general, the data Jamie provided for each shooter’s rifle in the class was as accurate as the computer programs he used could make it. The data for my rifle was pretty much dead on. Shooting at known ranges allowed each shooter to fine-tune these data to the field condi- tions on the range. Also, the class dialed for all necessary windage adjustments. This was totally new for many in the class. By the end of day two, the whole class was connecting on targets out to 875 yards with few if any problems. The high point of day two was
a single elimination shoot-off on a 10 by 12 inch steel silhouette target. The range to the target was 740 yards. Using the dope from their data sheets, each shooter was allowed only one shot. Miss and you’re out, hit and you’re still in the game. The winner prevailed by being on his rifle and observing the wind- caused miss (which was one mil right of the target) of the shooter before him. Holding one mil into the wind (left) for a hit clinched the deal. It was a great drill. Jamie stayed at the range on day two for as long as anyone in the class either wanted, or needed, to stay and shoot. Before anyone left the range they had to re-check their zero at 100 yards. DAY THREE
Much of the last day’s classroom
work at Gander Mountain again cen- tered on ranging targets using the military ranging formula and discuss- ing the finer points of using the mil dot reticle. Other subjects dealt with were shooting up and down hill, judg- ing distance, shooting moving targets, hold off and hold over, and using the Mil Dot Master. After completing an open book
written test and discussing the answers in detail, it was off to the range for the fi- nal day of shooting and the field shoot- ing test. The shooting test involved both known and unknown distance targets (you had to mil the targets to determine their range). There was a score for both the ranging of the targets and for the shooting of them. When the shooting ended, the Top Gun Hat was awarded to the high shooter of the day. Follow- ing the shooting test, there was time for more shooting, questions on final top- ics, and socializing. Jamie, again, was willing to stay on the range for as long
as anyone wanted to stay and shoot. After the shooting test, I elected
to start out on my drive home, which gave me three hours to process the past three days while it was all fresh in my mind. From the perspective of one who has launched a few bullets, both in competition and at critters, I believe this class definitely was worth attending. I had some skill sets retuned and found the “shooting fundamentals reinforce- ment” extremely valuable. Jamie’s com- ments on shooting with an experienced friend, so you can critique each other, are very true. Take it from the guy who shoots alone a lot because of geographic location. Given the opportunity, I’d take this class every couple of years just for a tuneup. Remember, not all varmint or game shooting is done at long range. But, if you can shoot way out there with some degree of confidence, the shorter shots are a cake walk and the basic requirements of that single, successful shot are the same, regardless of the range. Whether one’s goal is to get into long-range competition or to become more proficient at hitting small furry critters that are “out yonder,” the Wolf Precision Long Range Shooting School definitely will be of value to any rifle- man who is serious about advancing his skills. All in all, it is my opinion that this is a very good course for shooters at most any skill level. IF YOU GO
Don’t be intimidated, just go. This
is not rocket science, although to me the math makes it seem so. There are crutches, like charts and the Mil Dot Master, for those of us who are chal- lenged by the details of long-range shooting. This course does require some serious thought, but most impor- tant it also was good fun. Hearing the ring of a hit on steel at 1,000 yards will bring a smile to the face of any shooter. And, it is a great confidence booster. GUN, OPTICS, AND AMMO
The rifle you take to this, or any
other, shooting class should be accurate and, more important, relentlessly reli- able. If the rifle doesn’t work, or shoot consistently well, you will be cheating yourself. It’s just that simple. You are taking a course like this to learn about shooting, not to test a newly acquired or recently repaired rifle. Take a rifle that has a proven record of performance in the field. ’Nuf Said!
The above also applies to your
rifle’s optic. Use your head on op- tics. First, the scope must have target type turrets for dialing elevation and windage and have the ability to dial elevation for distances out to or past the 1,000 yard line. Second, in order to allow the shooter to see targets at 1,000 yards, the scope must possess enough magnification. And it must be solidly mounted to the rifle’s receiver. Reticle wise, any variation of the mil dot type is the obvious choice. Assuming you have a proven rifle
and optic, you need to shoot either prov- en handloads for the class (it’s cheaper) or get a bunch of factory match grade ammunition. Whichever way you go on ammo, be sure to test it in your rifle before attending the class. GEAR AND OTHER STUFF
A shooting mat of some sort is a
must for this class as you will spend considerable time in the prone position. Also, have a couple of different sized sandbags for supporting the rear of the rifle. A good adjustable bipod like the Harris models also is required for the course. Other handy items to have along are a note pad and pencil, a spot- ting scope (not mandatory), a brass bag, camera, lens cleaning gear, and finally, clothing appropriate for the weather. A small range bag is also handy. FUTURE WOLF PRECISION
LONG RANGE RIFLE COURSES For 2013, Jamie is taking his class
on the road. This shooting class will be offered in Georgia, South Dakota (at the VHA headquarters), and Montana, as well as in Pennsylvania, throughout 2013. Check the website, www.WolfPre-
cision.net for a class near you.
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