Thread: SPARC 22LR Series - Barren Earth

Originally Posted by Gillie

For the SPARC Series it is a bit match and class dependent.
For Rifleman Class (i.e. open class) with the more precision orientated matches with smaller targets and limited round counts for stages, the heavier bolt guns come into their own. But then the "Run N Gun", "Dark SPARC", and "Speed vs Precision" matches are excellent for semi-autos (not required, but they are an advantage) with higher round count stages (e.g. up to unlimited round counts) and bigger targets.
For Marksman class (the old hunter class) the stage design (i.e. target size and round counts) is such that a semi-auto is competitive all the time.

A portion of the 2024 SPARC Series Rifleman class was orientated towards providing a basis for competitors qualifying for the 2025 IPRF Rimfire World Championships. So far in the 2025 SPARC Series the Rifleman class has almost entirely been built towards the team that went to the Worlds. I expect that to tone down a little for the remainder of the 2025 Season and in a small way for the 2026 Season - noted that we expect the 2026 Season will be qualifying competitors for the IPRF World Championships again (in Rifleman class).



The top end of Rifleman/open class in the SPARC Series is crazy competitive... consistent targeted practice, a solid rifle / scope / ammunition setup, and a no screw ups is required to podium at most matches it seems!
Even Marksman class this year is pretty competitive at the top end. There is a bunch of people going into the Finale on maximum season points (or very close to it).

I am looking forward to Barren Earth and Speed vs Precision. I am still toying with the idea of shooting my Ruger 10/22 at Barren Earth in Rifleman class - just for a bit of fun.

Do you have any indication of the most common blot guns? Is it dominated by tikka t1x, or cz, or is it more custom set ups?