Choose your first rifle for your discipline and your height, not for a famous name. A good beginner rifle is one that can be fitted to you and will serve for a year or two.
Start with the discipline
For most beginners, the first step is a 10 m air rifle. It costs less to run, is quieter, and needs no special range.
A smallbore rifle is for when you are ready to shoot at 50 m. It needs a range of the right length and ammunition access, and the weapon must be registered by law.
Talk to your coach
A coach sees your position and knows what the club has. Many clubs lend a rifle at first, and that is the best way to learn what suits you before buying.
Before buying, ask to hold other athletes’ rifles. The difference between models is easy to feel.
Fit and weight
The rifle must adjust to your height, arm length, and neck length. Check that the stock adjusts for butt length and cheek height.
Weight and balance matter too, especially standing: a heavy rifle is hard to hold, and a light one is hard to settle. See the article on balance.
Lighter rifles and growing stocks exist for young athletes. Ask your coach.
New or used
A new rifle comes with a warranty and a known history. A used one costs less, but wear on the barrel and trigger is not always visible.
If you buy used, bring your coach or an experienced athlete. Check the barrel, the trigger travel, and any play in the stock.
What to check before buying
- The rifle meets the rules of your discipline.
- The stock adjusts and holds its settings.
- The trigger is clean, without play, and its pull weight adjusts.
- For air rifles: cylinder refills are available in your city.
- You have budget for pellets or cartridges, sights, and a sling.
Don't chase the maximum
A beginner rarely needs the most expensive model. Spend the money on fitting, training, and consumables.
For competition requirements, see the rules at issf-sports.org/rules and Rules and regulations.