Marksmanship
- Participant(s): All cadets are welcome
- OPI: TBA
- Date: Saturdays beginning in September 2023
Objective
Develop an interest for shooting while promoting the secure handling of firearms.
Description
Marksmanship is one of the most popular cadet training activities. Cadet marksmanship had its roots in familiarization training with the Canadian Forces. Its current focus, however, is on teaching cadets the proper use and safe handling of firearms for recreational purposes only. The marksmanship program has been specifically designed for youth and is based on Olympic-style competition.
Self-confidence, acceptance of responsibility and sports etiquette are just some of the life skills acquired from the training. A healthy respect for firearms, the development of proficient use of rifles for sport and recreational purposes, and an improvement in self-discipline are additional benefits.
Cadets use the Daisy 853C air rifle that fires a .177 calibre pellet and has a round aperture sight. Because of the low muzzle velocity, the Daisy 853C is not classified as a firearm under federal gun legislation.
Throughout the year, cadets participate in a series of competitions at the local level that culminate in zone and territorial/provincial competitions and the annual National Cadet Marksmanship Championship.
Also, marksmanship activities are present at all the various cadet summer training centres and some courses are aimed specifically towards this program.
Remarks
The rifles, pellets, portable shooting ranges and targets are provided.
Recreational shooting periods are scheduled into the training plan to give each cadet a chance to fire.
Requirements
Any cadet, from any level, may try out for the Marksmanship Team.
Qualifications Awarded
Qualifications are based on shooting 10 pellets onto two targets for all levels. The 10 pellets are fired on the same relay. The highest qualification attained during the year is retained. For a Marksman qualification, a cadet must obtain two groupings of 3 cm on two targets. For example:
Three additional Cadet Marksmanship Championships Series Pins are awarded when a member competes in the various levels of competition.