[01] How to Earn the Pro-Marksman Rating in the NRA Winchester Marksmanship Qualification Program

April 5, 2019

Master the NRA Winchester Marksmanship Qualification Program to improve your shooting skills and earn recognition.

Quick Look

Overview

The NRA Winchester Marksmanship Qualification Program is a structured system designed for shooters at every skill level to enhance their marksmanship. This program encourages diligent practice and progression through a series of standard shooting drills, leading up to formal recognition for achievements. This article will guide you through the initial steps required to earn the Pro-Marksman rating.

What This Video Demonstrates

In this video, we overview the initial stages of the NRA Winchester Marksmanship Qualification Program, focusing on the Pro-Marksman level. The objective is to understand what is required to successfully complete this introductory qualification stage and how to effectively set up your practice sessions. The video illustrates the shooting drill, including tips on improvised setups, such as making use of tables when bench rest positions aren’t available.

Step-by-Step Explanation

To achieve the Pro-Marksman rating, you must complete a specific course of fire that consists of shooting at nine-inch paper plates from a distance of 15 feet or five yards. Here’s a breakdown of how it works:

Set Up Your Targets: Use at least four paper plates affixed to a suitable backer. You can spatially arrange multiple plates to reduce the need for frequent target changes.
Shooting Position: Begin in a seated position, utilizing a stable rest, such as a shooting bag or table, to stabilize your firearm. This method simulates a bench rest position.
Shooting Technique: Focus on your fundamentals—sight alignment, trigger control, breath control, and follow-through—while shooting five rounds at each plate.
Repeat the Drill: Complete the required ten sets of five-shot groups. You can complete these over multiple sessions, thus allowing time for practice and improvement.

Key Tips

Don’t feel pressured to complete the full ten sets in one day; take your time and ensure each shot is as precise as you can make it.
Maintain a log of your progress, noting which groups you achieved and areas that may need improvement.
Be sure to use a scoring method that allows for some leniency, as long as shots remain within the designated zone.

Key Takeaways

The NRA Winchester Marksmanship Qualification Program is an excellent way for shooters to formalize their training and gauge improvement. Starting with the Pro-Marksman level, participants can build confidence and skill before progressing to more challenging ratings. Remember, the key to success lies in consistent practice and patience. Enjoy the process, celebrate small victories, and prepare for more advanced levels of the program as you become more proficient.