Draft, working copy

USL

 

Version 0.1

 

March 2018

United Shooting Sports Leagues

Las Vegas, NV 89014

 

United Steel League

For the Shooters, By the Shooters.

​

Qualification System.

All members of the United Shooting Sports Leagues will be Awarded a Qualification Title by performance in any division, In all 4 leagues separately, and at four different levels.

Level 1, Club level events held monthly.

Level 2, events and the state championship held by one club per year, in any state.  

Level 3, events and the District Championship held by one club per year in any of the 14 districts.

Level 4, Territory,  National, and World level events held once per style same year. IE, EMG, WMG, Traditional.  

 

New members will qualify initially as a Rookie. Members Match Scores below 50% will remain a Rookie until they reach
higher levels of qualification.

Marksman          50 to 59.99%

Sharpshooter      60 to 69.99%

Expert                 70 to 79.99%

Semi-Pro             80 to 89.99%

Pro                       90 to 100%

 

Members will qualify at the Club level after they record 4 completed matches, at their home club or local sister clubs.

Members will qualify at level 2, State matches after, they record 3 completed matches.

Members will qualify at level 3, District matches, after they record 2 completed matches.

Members will qualify at level 4, Territory, National, and World matches, after they record just 1 completed match.

 

Marksman, Sharpshooter, Expert, Semi-Pro and Pro Members competing in a level 2, 3 or 4 events will be scored, and
awarded in their current qualification for that level event. If their final match score averages them into a higher qualification bracket. they will be awarded the new qualification title after completion of all awards.

Members can be ranked differently in all 4 levels depending on performance at each level.

Match scores at all levels will continue to be averaged. All members highest qualification at their highest level will
funnel down to the lower levels in that division only. Example, A member makes Semi-Pro in Tac optics at a level 4 event will automatically be semi pro in all 4 levels In Tac Optics only. Averages will go as follows.

Level 1, club matches, your best 4 of your most recent 8.

Level 2, State matches, your best 3 of your most recent 6.

Level 3, District matches, your best 2 of your most recent 4.

Level 4, Territory, National and World matches, your most recent score will stand, and additional scores will create your average.  Members will be required to maintain an average within 15% of their top QT to maintain their top Title. Your best 3 most recent scores will create your average.

 

Categories:

Lady - Gender as seen on government ID

Junior - Those under 18

Senior - Those over 55

Super Senior - Those over 65

Military - ID required, Active, Guard, or Reserve 

 

 

Ranking System

All members of the United Shooting Sports Leagues are ranked based on time in the league, and voluntary support in all league events. Members automatically rank up each year, or period of years to the next highest rank, just for competing in League events. Members can earn additional points for assisting Clubs in the duties required to run any level of match.

 

Members earn 365 points a year just for being in the league and competing in events. At your 1-year anniversary you will be promoted from M1 to M2. At 2 years from M2 to M3, and so on.  

 

Members will receive additional points for helping in all aspect of league events. Club level match directors will receive 50 points for every level 1 match they hold. Their support build and teardown crew will receive 25 points per event. Each level match there is a point jump to award support in league events accordingly. It is expected that MDs, support staff and ROs will promote faster than regular competitors creating a way to reward support and establishing a chain of command for league events and giving the newer shooters members to approach for info on league events.

 

To find the Rank Tables and the points required to be promoted, and the points earned for support go to www.USSLeagues.com and click on info.

 

 

1. Safety Rules 

1. It is the competitor’s responsibility to read and understand the rules and stage briefings set forth by USL and agree to be subject to these rules while participating in an event.

2. All USL produced events are run on COLD RANGES.

3. Designated Safe Areas

1. The Safe Areas will be clearly marked with signs.

2. Bagging and unbagging long guns should take place in safe area.  It shall take place in a safe direction.

3. Ammunition, loaded magazines, dummy rounds and loaded firearms shall not be handled in any Safe Area.

1. Transporting firearms (carry from vehicle or between stages)

1. Rifle shall be pointed up or down unless cased.

2. Rifles shall be transported with actions open, detachable magazines removed/tubes unloaded, unless closed on an inserted chamber safety flag.

3. Pistols carried between stages shall be cased or remain holstered.  Holster does not need to remain on belt.

 

1. Range Commands and Procedures

1.  “Make Ready”: The COF begins with the “Make Ready” command and ends after the “Range is clear” command.

1. The RO will give the “Make Ready” command signifying the start of the COF and then direct and supervise the competitor through the process of preparing and positioning all firearms.

1. “Are You Ready-Standby”: After the competitor has staged all firearms to be used in the COF, the RO will accompany him to the start position. The RO shall then issue the commands “Are You Ready” followed shortly by “Standby” and the activation of the timer.

1. The lack of any negative response from the competitor after being issued the “Are You Ready?” command indicates that they fully understand the requirements of the COF and are ready to proceed. If the competitor is not ready, they shall state “No” or “Not Ready”. Competitors should assume the required start position to indicate their readiness to the RO.

1. “Stop”: Any RO assigned to a stage may issue this command at any time during the COF. The competitor must immediately cease firing, stop moving, and wait for further instruction from the RO.

2. “Squib”: Any RO may call squib if they suspect a competitor’s firearm or ammunition is unsafe (e.g. a “squib” load), the RO will take whatever steps he deems necessary to return both the competitor and the range to a safe condition.

1. The RO will inspect the firearm or ammunition after COF, and proceed as follows:

1. If the RO finds evidence that confirms the suspected problem, the competitor will not be entitled to a re-shoot, but will be ordered to rectify the problem. On the competitor’s score sheet, the time will be recorded up to the last shot fired, and the COF will be scored “As Shot”, including all applicable misses and penalties.

2. If the RO discovers that the suspected safety problem does not exist, the competitor will have the option to re-shoot the stage, or the time will be recorded up to the last shot fired, and the COF will be scored “As Shot”, including all applicable misses and penalties.

1. “If You Are Finished, Unload and Show clear”: If the competitor has finished shooting, they shall lower their firearm and present it for inspection by the RO with the muzzle pointed safely downrange, magazine removed or tube emptied, slide/bolt locked or held open and chamber empty. The RO will instruct and accompany the competitor to safely unload all firearms used in the COF.

1. Pistols: Release the slide and pull the trigger without touching the hammer or de-cocker then holster the pistol

2. PCC: Bolt locked back OR chamber safety flag inserted.

3. PCC shall be carried muzzle up/down when exiting the stage.

1. “Range Is Clear”: This command shall be issued only after all firearms have been cleared by the competitor and RO. This declaration signifies the end of the COF. Once this declaration is made, officials and competitors may move downrange to score, and reset targets.

2. Default Start Position. The competitor assumes the default start position unless otherwise specified in the written stage briefing.

1. Handgun start, the competitor must stand erect, facing downrange, with arms hanging naturally by the sides.

2. PCC start is port arms, unless range rules prohibit it.

3. The written stage brief read by the RO supersedes the match book or any previously posted stage information.

 

1. Firearms

1. All firearms used by participants must be serviceable and safe. ROs may demand examination of a participant’s firearm or related equipment, at any time, to check they are functioning safely. If any such item is declared unserviceable or unsafe by a RO, it shall be withdrawn from the event until the item is repaired to the satisfaction of the Range Master.

1. Devices that increase the risk of unintentional discharge such as binary triggers are prohibited for competition.

2. Fully automatic fire is prohibited unless otherwise specified by the match director.

1. Competitors may change/reconfigure firearms at any time during the event provided they all fit into their registered divisional requirements.

2. If a participant’s firearm becomes unserviceable during competition, and a firearm fitting the shooters division cannot be found, the shooter may use any available firearm with RM approval, but may also be moved to another division depending on the replacement firearm used.

3. Competitors shall not change caliber during the course of a match.

1. A competitor who substitutes caliber, or modifies/substitutes a firearm outside of divisional requirements without the prior approval of the RM will be subject to disqualification for unsportsmanlike conduct.

1. Handguns with shoulder stocks and/or fore grips of any kind are prohibited from handgun divisions.

 

1. Holsters and Equipment

1. Handgun holsters

1. Holsters must be able to safely retain the handgun during vigorous movement.

2. The holster material must completely cover the trigger on all semi-automatic pistols. Revolver holsters must completely cover the trigger and the cylinder.

3. Due to safety concerns, shoulder holsters and cross draw holsters are not allowed.

1. Slings, bi-pods, monopods, ammo/mag holders, and flashlights may be added, removed or changed at any time during the match, providing that they are allowed in the competitor’s division.  

2. Lights and lasers shall not be operated on non-designated night stages unless shooting open, and PCC.  The may be attached in any division.  Failure to comply will result in movement to open.

 

1. Ammunition

1. Tracer, incendiary, armor piercing, and steel jacketed or steel/tungsten core ammunition is specifically prohibited.

1. Any competitor found in violation of rule 5.1 shall be assessed a $100 fee for each steel target engaged and or damaged. Fines will be made payable the day of the offense. Additional penalties may be assessed up to a match DQ.

1. Pistol/PCC ammunition shall be 9x19mm or larger. Maximum velocity 1600 feet per second.

2. Pistol cartridges shall fire a single projectile only.

3. Power factor may be checked at any time. Random checks are encouraged over a 100% inspection. Absent obvious target damage, calibration calls require a power factor check if equipment is available to do so.

1. A 3 shot average should be taken to establish velocity. 2 rounds should be disassembled to determine bullet weight.

 

1. Divisional Firearm Requirements

1. USL staff reserves the right to inspect any firearm(s) for compliance to the rules stated below. Any competitor not willing to submit their firearms for inspection shall result in an event DQ.

1. Violations of divisional rules move the shooter to the appropriate division.

1. Use of lights and or lasers is restricted to designated night stages with the exception of Open, and PCC.

2. Silencers are not specifically prohibited; however, all firearms must reliably activate timers.

3. Match Directors may limit divisions provided it is announced prior to match start.

4. Open 

1. Traditional “pistols” only, no stocks or braces allowed

2. No limitations on other accessories.

3. Minimum power factor is 120, max velocity 1600 feet per second

1. PCC 

1. No limitations on accessories. PCC supporting devices (i.e. bipods, etc.) may be added or removed at any time.

2. Minimum power factor is 120, max velocity 1600 feet per second

1. Limited Major

1. Custom or factory installed electronic sights, optical sights, compensators or barrel porting are prohibited.

2. Magazines shall not exceed 171.25 mm OAL (overall length) for single stacks, and shall not exceed 141.25 OAL for staggered magazines.

1. Pistol Magazine failing the OAL inspection, after the competitor has completed one or more stages, will result in the shooter being bumped to Open.

1. Minimum caliber is 40 S&W, and must meet 160 power factor

1. Limited Minor

1. Custom or factory installed electronic sights, optical sights, compensators or barrel porting are prohibited.

1. Magazines shall not exceed 171.25 mm OAL for single stacks, and shall not exceed 141.25 OAL for staggered magazines.

1. Pistol magazine failing the OAL inspection, after the competitor has completed one or more stages, will result in the shooter being bumped to Open.

1. Minimum caliber is 9mm, and must meet 120 power factor

1. Carry Optics

1. Mini red dot must be attached to slide, not to frame.

2. Custom or factory compensators or barrel porting are prohibited.

3. Magazines shall not exceed 171.25 mm OAL for single stacks, and shall not exceed 141.25 OAL for staggered magazines.

1. Pistol Magazine failing the OAL inspection, after the competitor has completed one or more stages, will result in the shooter being bumped to Open.

1. Minimum caliber is 9mm, and must meet 120 power factor

1. Production

1. Designed for non “game” guns. Minor modifications (sights, trigger, stippling) are allowed so long as they meet intent.

2. Custom or factory installed electronic sights, optical sights, compensators or barrel porting are prohibited.

3. MSRP shall be under $1000 including modifications.

4. First shot must be in double action.

5. Max 10 rounds in each magazine.

6. Minimum caliber is 9mm, and must meet 120 power factor.

7. “race” holsters prohibited. Must be worn behind hip (2 and 10 o’clock), along with magazine pouches.

1. Single Stack Major

1. Designed for 1911 platforms.

2. Custom or factory installed electronic sights, optical sights, compensators or barrel porting are prohibited.

3. Max 8 rounds in each magazine.

4. Minimum caliber is 40 S&W. Minimum power factor is 160.

5. “race” holsters prohibited. Must be worn behind hip (2 and 10 o’clock), along with magazine pouches.

1. Single Stack Minor

1. Designed for 1911 platforms.

2. Custom or factory installed electronic sights, optical sights, compensators or barrel porting are prohibited.

3. Max 10 rounds in each magazine.

4. Minimum caliber is 9mm. Minimum power factor is 120.

5. “race” holsters prohibited. Must be worn behind hip (2 and 10 o’clock), along with magazine pouches.

1. Rimfire Pistol

1. Custom or factory installed electronic sights, optical sights, compensators or barrel porting are prohibited.

2. MSRP shall be under $1000 including modifications.

3. Max 10 rounds in each magazine.

4. Minimum caliber is 22LR.

5. Targets are not required to fall, but should indicate audibly. Hits below the calibration zone do not count for score.

6. Targets that fall are not grounds for a reshoot. This includes moving targets such as the texas star.

7. Targets that require activation with a falling target shall be activated prior to the start signal.

1. Rimfire Rifle

1. No more than one optical sight.

2. Muzzle brakes or other loudening devices are encouraged.

3. Targets are not required to fall, but should indicate audibly. Hits below the calibration zone do not count for score.

4. Targets that fall are not grounds for a reshoot. This includes moving targets such as the texas star.

5. Targets that require activation with a falling target shall be activated prior to the start signal.

1. Tactical Shotgun

1. Only conventional tubular magazine fed shotguns are allowed.

2. Gauge shall not be changed for the duration of the event.

3. Electronic or optical sights are prohibited.

4. Supporting devices (i.e. bipods, etc) are prohibited.

5. Compensators or porting on barrels is prohibited.

6. Shotgun speed loaders are prohibited.

7. Shall not start a stage with more than 9 shells in the shotgun.

1. Manual Shotgun

1. Only conventional tubular magazine fed shotguns are allowed.

2. Gauge shall not be changed for the duration of the event.

3. Electronic or optical sights are prohibited.

4. Supporting devices (i.e. bipods, etc) are prohibited.

5. Compensators or porting on barrels is prohibited.

6. Shotgun speed loaders are prohibited.

7. Shall not contain more than 9 shells in the shotgun at any time.

8. Semi automatic and fully automatic firearms are prohibited.

1. Open Shotgun

1. No limitations on accessories.

2. Gauge shall not be changed during the event.

3. Shotgun speed loaders are allowed provided they are the new type, or modified old style with primer relief cut.  Use of old style shotgun speed loaders without the primer relief cut will result in disqualification.

 

1. Targets

1. The MD reserves the right to use any target at any time.

2. The backside of all cardboard targets is white and is used as a penalty target. Paper targets are “impenetrable”

3. The written stage briefing will specify target type/count.

4. Shooters are responsible to listen to the written stage briefing and ask questions prior to receiving the make ready command regarding what firearms may engage which targets to avoid procedural penalties or match safety penalties including DQ.

 

1. Scoring 

1. Any scoring issue the shooter does not agree with may be appealed to the stage CRO, and if not resolved, the match director or RM.  Scoring decisions may not be arbitrated.

2. Each stage is time plus penalties.  Maximum points are assigned based on the fastest time rounded down to the nearest whole second.  For example, a stage ran in 59.9 seconds would be worth 59 points.  The top time in each division would receive 100% of those points.  The next competitor’s time is divided in to determine their percentage of points.  If second place was 62.0 seconds then they would be (59.9/62)*59=57.0016 points.

3. Match is scored as cumulative stage points in each division.

4. All divisions will be scored separately regardless of participation.  

5. Prize table if used will be by division and sized according to relative participation.

1. If there are less than 5 people in a division they will be assigned a random walk number not to exceed the top 5 finishers.

2. Trophy count is announced during match check in.  Divisions under 5 competitors may not receive a trophy.

1. Stages or the match will call out scoring type, Fixed Time, Sweeps, Traditional.

2. Fixed Time = Stages are a fixed time and shooters race to hit the most steel.

1. Timer will be set with a par time corresponding to the shooters current qualification. Each level below Pro gets an additional 10% added to their par time to complete the stage. Times should be set so few if any Pro shooters complete the stage.

2. Stage “value” is set to number of targets multiplied by 5 seconds + par time. For example a stage with 5 targets is worth 25 seconds. Shooters who neutralize all targets receive a time equal to their par time. Shooters who do not hit anything receive a 25 second time.

3. 30 second target = spinner

1. Sweeps = Static or Dynamic field courses that require multiple hits on steel in a specific order.

1. Stage briefing shall provide detailed description of sweeps. Example would be a progressive sweep, ten shots on four targets, 1-2-2-3-3-3-4-4-4-4.

2. Sweep may not start on a target that the prior sweep ended on.

3. Shooter may start a sweep over to avoid penalty. They should announce it to reduce RO confusion.

4. 3 second penalty = penalty target

5. 4 second penalty = miss on steel outside a sweep

6. 5 second penalty = procedural

7. 9 second penalty = FTE

8. 10 second penalty = failed sweep

9. 30 second penalty = fail to spin spinner

1. Traditional = static COF that requires multiple strings, or dynamic field courses where steel replaced paper.

1. Unless otherwise stated static courses will score the best 4 of 5 strings.

2. Unless otherwise stated dynamic course will only be 1 string.

3. 4 second penalty

1. miss on steel

2. penalty target

1. 5 second penalty = procedural

2. 30 second penalty = fail to spin spinner

1. Unless otherwise stated in the stage brief, the best 2 hits on paper are scored as followed

1. Major & Minor both score the same

1. A/B = clean

2. C = .25 seconds

3. D = .75 seconds

1. Miss on paper = 2 seconds

2. Miss on steel = 4 seconds

3. Penalty target = 3 seconds

4. Procedural = 5 sec

5. Fail to Spin = 30 seconds - FTE is not added to this

1. Steel knock down (KD) plates must fall or turn 45⁰ by gunfire to score

1. Non-hinged KDs are “down” if struck by a projectile from a firearm and turned 45 degrees or more as determined by the RO.

2. The RO may yell HIT indicating neutralization of target if they are certain the plate turned more than 45⁰.

3. In the event that a shot KD turns less than 45 degrees, a competitor has two alternatives:

1. The KD is shot again until it falls. In this case, no further action is required and COF is scored as shot.

2. If the KD is left standing, the competitor may challenge the RO’s 45 degree call. In this case, no person shall touch or interfere with the KD or the surrounding area. If the Range Master determines that the target did not turn more than 45 degrees, the target is scored as missed.

1. Static plates are struck with a bullet to score; individual stages may require multiple hits.

1. Plates requiring multiple hits will be of different shape or color to clearly identify them to the shooter.

1. Calibration Challenges

1. ROs should check all targets for proper function prior to each squad starting the stage. They shall take corrective action for any target that is faulty.

2. If, during a COF, a popper does not fall when hit, a competitor has three alternatives:

1. The popper is shot again until it falls. In this case, no further action is required and the COF is scored “as shot”.

2. The popper is left standing but the competitor does not challenge the calibration. In this case, no further action is required and the COF is scored “as shot”, with the subject popper scored as a miss.

3. The popper is left standing and the competitor challenges the calibration. In this case, no person shall touch or interfere with the popper or the surrounding area. If a Match Official violates this rule, the competitor must reshoot the COF. If the competitor or any other person violates this rule, the popper will be scored as a miss and the rest of the COF will be scored “as shot”. If the popper falls for any non-interference reason (e.g. wind action), before it can be calibrated, it is range equipment failure and shall result in a reshoot.

1. In the absence of any interference, or problem with a target mechanism, a calibration officer shall conduct a calibration test of the subject popper (when required under 8.9.1.3 above), from inside the shooting area. The following will apply:  

1.  If the first shot by the calibration officer hits on or below the calibration zone and the popper falls, the popper is properly calibrated, and it will be scored as a miss.  

2. If the first shot fired by the calibration officer hits the popper anywhere on its frontal surface and the popper does not fall, the calibration test has failed and the competitor shall reshoot the COF once the popper has been recalibrated.

3. If the first shot fired by the calibration officer hits above the calibration zone, and the popper falls the calibration test has failed and the competitor shall reshoot the COF once the Popper has been recalibrated.

4. If the first shot fired by the calibration officer misses the popper altogether, another shot must be fired until one of the above occurs.

1. Calibration challenges for all poppers will be done with the calibration handgun(s) using 9mm ammo at 120±5 power factor.

2. Metal plates/KDs are not subject to calibration.

3. Spinners are subject to calibration. The larger plate shall pass the cross bar a minimum of 3 times after being released from the point opposite of its position at rest.

 

1. Procedural Penalties

1. Additional 5 Seconds shall be assessed for:

1.  Foot faults, a competitor who fires shots while any part of their body is touching the ground or while stepping on an object beyond a shooting box or a fault line will receive one procedural penalty. However, if the shooter has gained a significant advantage on any target(s) while faulting, they may be assessed one procedural penalty for each shot fired while faulting.  Competitors may gain support or stability through contact with an object, which is not attached to a shooting box or fault line provided they do not violate the above section.

2. Failure to follow stage procedures, shooting under walls, or not using the correct positions denoted in the written stage brief.

3. Failure to start in the prescribed starting position  

4. Abandoning a safe, or completely unloaded firearm in a safe direction on a start table.

5. Acting on “coaching” or providing coaching.

1. Additional 30 seconds shall be assessed for:  

1. Entering a forbidden area to create a competitive advantage.

2. Dropping a pistol completely unloaded and visually cleared by the RO before drawing and loading it. When the written stage brief allows the pistol to be completely unloaded and the pistol falls out of the holster during the COF the shooter may retrieve the pistol and re-holster it and continue with the stage.

3. Staging ammo or equipment other than as prescribed in the stage briefing.

4. Unsportsmanlike conduct. This can be issued multiple times depending on the infraction.

 

1. Disqualifications

1. A Disqualification (DQ) will result in complete disqualification from the event and the competitor will not be allowed to continue. The competitor will not be eligible for prizes, or entry into other divisions. Stage DQ’s DO NOT APPLY to USL matches.

2. Safety violations are not subject to arbitration. Disqualifications will apply for the violations contained in section 10.

3. Disqualifications are issued by the RO, Range Master, or Match Director.

4. Negligent Discharge: A competitor who causes a negligent discharge shall be stopped by a RO as soon as possible.

1. A shot which strikes the ground less than 10 feet from the competitor, except when shooting at a target closer than 10 feet to the competitor. The shooter will be stopped, and their position marked as well as the impact point. Until a ruling is made no one will walk the stage or the area where the violation occurred.

1. Exception: A bullet or shot which strikes the ground within 10 feet of the competitor due to a “squib” shall not be subject to rule 10.4.1

2. If the RO determines that the bullet or shot would have struck the ground within 10 feet of the competitor had it not been deflected or stopped by a prop, the provisions of rule 10.4.1 will apply.

1. A shot which occurs while loading, reloading or unloading any firearm after the “Make Ready” command and before the “Range is Clear” command.

2. A shot which occurs during remedial action in the case of a malfunction.

3. A shot which occurs while transferring a firearm between hands.

4. A shot which occurs during movement, except while actually shooting at targets.

1. Exception: A detonation which occurs while unloading a firearm is not considered a shot or discharge and is not subject to DQ. However, rule 3.1 may apply.

1. Dropping or losing control of a firearm, whether loaded or unloaded at any time after the “Make Ready” command and before the “Range is Clear” command. This includes any firearm, loaded or unloaded, that falls after being grounded during the COF.

1. Exception: Dropping an unloaded firearm before the “Make Ready” command or after the “Range is Clear” command will not result in a disqualification, provided the firearm is empty and retrieved ONLY by an Event Official.

2. Exception: A completely unloaded pistol visually checked by the RO during the “Make Ready” falls out of the holster while navigating a COF prior to any loading process. See 9.2.3

1. Allowing the muzzle of a firearm to break the 180 degree safety plane at any time. Exception rule 10.9.1.

2. Having a holstered pistol with a live round in the chamber, or magazine inserted while in the prone position

3. Allowing the muzzle of any firearm to point at any part of the competitor’s body (i.e. sweeping) during a COF.

1. Exception: A match DQ will not apply for sweeping below the belt while drawing or re-holstering the handgun as long as the shooters fingers are clearly outside of the trigger guard.

1. Unsportsmanlike conduct, which includes, but is not limited to cheating:

1. Intentionally altering targets prior to the target being scored to gain advantage or to avoid penalties.

2. Altering or falsifying score sheets

3. Altering a firearm’s caliber/gauge.

4. Altering the COF, i.e. moving props or targets, etc.

5. Pistol and PCC cartridges must fire a single projectile only.

6. Failure to submit to a inspection of any and all equipment used during a match to verify rule compliance

7. Flagrant power factor violations

1. Any competitor found with a magazine inserted in their pistol or PCC while not under the direct supervision of a range official, shall be escorted to a safe area to check the loaded condition. If the magazine, or chamber is found to be loaded, the competitor will be subject to DQ.

2. Handling loaded magazines, live, or dummy rounds or a loaded firearm in a safe area.

3. A competitor impaired by and deemed unsafe as a result of drugs, legal or otherwise, or alcohol

4. Engaging any steel inside 7 yds

 

1. Re-shoots

1. Re-shoots may be issued by a Chief RO, Range Master, or Match Director. The competitor will be given the choice to re-shoot immediately or have their position moved to the bottom of their squad’s shooting order

2. If a stage has not been completely reset prior to the start signal or if a target falls on its own after the start signal, the RO shall stop the competitor as soon as possible. The competitor will then be required to re-shoot the COF once it has been reset.

 

1. Appeals

1. Decisions are initially made by the stages’ Chief RO

2. If the competitor disagrees with the CRO’s decision the Range Master will be called to make the final ruling in the matter. Safety violations will not be subject to arbitration.

1. Definitions

1. Coaching--Includes, but is not limited to calling skipped targets, misses, advice on how to clear malfunctions, during a COF.

2. COLD RANGE--Competitor’s firearms shall remain unloaded at the event site except under the direct supervision of an event official.

3. Course of fire (COF)--Time between make ready and range is clear commands.

4. Detonation--Ignition of the primer of a round, other than by the action of a firing pin, where the bullet or shot does not pass completely through the barrel (e.g. when a slide is being manually retracted or when a round is dropped).

5. Empty firearm-one that is completely devoid of all live ammunition

6. Engaged--To be in a position where the muzzle is in line of sight to the target in question. Shooting in the general direction of target, shooting over obstructions that targets are behind, or through see-through walls and/or barriers is prohibited.

7. Firearm--The combination of a specific caliber/gauge, fixed magazine, box Magazine or magazine tube if applicable.

8. Forbidden Area--Any area the MD decides to make off limits. This can be done for any reason, but should be clearly marked on the stage briefing. It is recommended to be easily identified on the stage itself.

9. May--optional

10.  Negligent Discharge--A shot which travels over a backstop, a berm, or in any other direction deemed by the event organizers as being unsafe. However, a competitor who legitimately fires a shot at a target, which hits and then travels in an unsafe direction, will not be disqualified.

11. OAL-- Overall length

12. Operational--The safety operates correctly as intended. It must not be altered or disabled in a way that while not being handled, the safety features can no longer prevent the firearm from discharging.

13. Passive safety--Safety that engages automatically and disables the firearm from discharging while the firearm is not being handled. “Safe Action” striker safeties or passive trigger safeties fall under this ruling.

14. Port arms--competitor must stand erect and relaxed, with the firearm held in both hands, stock touching the competitor's belt at waist level, muzzle at eye level with the finger out of the trigger guard.

15. Power Factor--bullet weight in grains multiplied by velocity in feet per second divided by 1000. May be checked at any point, by any reasonable, established means.

16. Range Officer (RO)--Match official responsible for stage scoring and safety

17. Safe direction--orientation that ensures if the firearm were to discharge no person would be injured

18. Safe firearm--one that has its manual safety fully engaged, regardless of ammunition status

19. Shall--compliance is mandatory

20. Should--recommended action

21. Will--compliance is mandatory

 

1. USL and its Staff reserve the right to make modifications to the rules as necessary. Suggestions or issues with the rules can be made to pete@iscopellc.com or on the USL Facebook page. Last update *draft*, supersedes all previous versions.