By

What is TAR shooting (Regulation Firearms Shooting)?
TAR – Shooting with Service Weapons – is a sporting discipline overseen by the French Shooting Federation (FFTir). Officially established in 2003, it is attracting more and more enthusiasts, whether they are passionate about military history, aficionados of antique weapons, or simply curious to discover an accessible and friendly sporting activity.

A Discipline Inspired by Military History

As its name suggests, TAR shooting is practiced with regulation weapons, meaning models that have been issued to armed or security forces. It includes, for example:

  • Rifles like the MAS 36, the Lee-Enfield, the Mauser K98, or the M16.

  • Pistols and revolvers such as the Glock 17, the SIG Sauer P226, or the Colt 1911.

  • Modern carbines, often derived from military models adapted for sport shooting.

This approach is appealing because it combines a historical dimension and sporting rigor. Shooters can thus bring iconic weapons back to life while adhering to strict safety and sportsmanship rules.


The TAR Events

TAR includes several events, generally organized on fixed targets at various distances (25 m, 50 m, 200 m).
Among the most well-known:

  • The 820 – Pistol/Revolver: shooting at 25 m, alternating precision and speed.

  • The 820 Modified: a version adapted for more diversity in the weapons used.

  • The 812 – Rifle 22 LR: shooting at 50 m with military training rifles.

  • The 815 – Manual Repetition Rifle: shooting at 200 m, a particularly demanding event.

  • The 816 – Semi-Auto Rifle: also at 200 m, highlighting consistency and shooting control.

Each event combines precision, control, and stress management, in a spirit similar to military shooting but governed by sports rules.


An Accessible and Friendly Sport

Unlike some highly specialized shooting disciplines, TAR remains open to a wide audience:

  • No need for sophisticated equipment: a regulation weapon in good condition, a few magazines, and a minimum of accessories are sufficient.

  • The atmosphere at competitions is known to be friendly: shooters often share tips, anecdotes, and a passion for the history of weapons.

  • The rules emphasize safety, allowing for a calm practice, even for well-supervised beginners.


Why Practice TAR?

TAR shooting is appealing for several reasons:

  • The variety of events, which allows progress in multiple disciplines.

  • The historical enjoyment, for those who appreciate collectible or military weapons.

  • The sporting spirit, as it is indeed a competition overseen by the FFTir, with regional and national championships.

  • Accessibility, since one can start without investing in high-end equipment.


Conclusion

The Regulation Weapons Shooting (TAR) is a unique discipline, at the crossroads of sport, history, and passion. Whether you are a competitor at heart or simply a fan of military weapons, TAR offers a stimulating, friendly, and emotionally rich environment.

If you wish to discover sport shooting from an original and authentic perspective, TAR is undoubtedly an excellent entry point!

Back to the blog