Re: Using a magazine for CF and RF fly rule
Posted by Andy Prowse on Apr 05, 2017; 11:28am
URL: http://oldforum.flyshooter.com.au/Using-a-magazine-for-CF-and-RF-fly-rule-tp5709214p5709231.html
As the matter of single loading has been raised. I personally condone the full use of magazines during both practice and matchs. They were designed to be used in the particular firearm if so fitted, so why restrict their use artifically? [not by State legislation]
I would like to ask some questions & hopefully get some answers before the "rule book" is changed. "Just because" is not a valid reason when it comes to firearms safety. Sounds like that Howard bugger, he does not like guns, so .......
We should not takes the same attitude as responsible competitors and firearm users.
With regard to single round loading and having to have an RO on hand if you actually use a magazine fed rifle (of any action, bolt, lever, pump or otherwise).
My research on this over many years is it only a range by range requirement [local range requirement due to someone getting their knickers in a knot in the past] and was probably introduced when we were allowed semi-autos.
Possibly due to a 'loose/damaged trigger/sear", the firearm could be capable of an unintended discharge, a second round may occur, this can be attributed to poor maintenance and or lack of experience / user instruction. I have never found in any shooting rules or publications any valid/safety reason for single round loading!
When I have posed the question over the past 25 years, the response has ALWAYS been: this is how we have always done it or it was brought in by Mr XX RO or as mentioned in posts above. No one has stated it is a requirement because of "this safety reason", always to date no verifiable facts to support the supposed "rule".
I would like an answer from the very experienced competitors here as to the evidence/facts as to the why.
Second question: Bolts out = how do I do this with a lever or drop bolt action rifle? [eg. Ruger No1 in 300WinMag.]
If there are going to exceptions to the rules, they need to be listed for every possible action/receiver OR change the range order from 'bolts out' to 'actions open & magazines out' - to accommodate the other actions which are legal in this country.
When running a range, I have always operated on "action open" & magazine out / cleared or feed rod/spring (for tube fed) removed.
Are we going to fully move to the "nanny state" & have to have paperwork signed off by two witnesses to state the "whatever" is done during a match? or are we going to trust the competitor [we are or should be responsible adults or juniors under instruction] and continue to use empty chamber indicators and not approach the shooting bench when anyone is forward of the firing line & range closed for shooting?
I would much appreciate factual & verifiable evidence or reasons which are proven with regards to the above.
{anything else is just hearsay & not sustainable in a reasoned discussion}
Andy.