
BASC Northern Ireland women’s shooting day a fantastic success
The BASC Northern Ireland team hosted a successful women’s shooting day at Sperrin Sporting Ranges, Draperstown.
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BASC’s Women in Shooting rifle day took place at the newly refurbished Bisley Sporting Rifle ranges in Surrey, allowing participants to try a variety of rifles on a mix of targets.
The BASC Women in Shooting rifle day on 11 October combined practical rifle work with time to share experiences and enjoy the social side of shooting.
Nineteen women took part, travelling from as far as Cumbria and Gloucestershire. After coffee and a safety briefing from range conducting officer Stanton Royale, the group moved straight into shooting .22 rifles under the guidance of BASC instructors. The focus was on developing accuracy through breathing, focus and steady movement.
British Women’s Air Rifle champion and BASC Legacy Sponsored shooter Courtney Palmer-Jones joined the day, sharing straightforward advice that helped participants refine their technique and build confidence.
The morning ended with the running boar discipline, testing everyone’s ability to track and shoot a moving target. For many, it was a new challenge and a rewarding step up in skill.
In the afternoon, the group moved on to full-bore rifles, including the classic .303 Enfield and more modern models. Shooting at longer distances gave participants a clear sense of how each rifle handled and performed. By the end of the day, it was clearly how much everyone in attendance had enjoyed themselves, with plenty of chat about what might come next – from more target shooting to future plans in deer management.
Reflecting on the event, BASC regional officer Fliss Winters said: “It was lovely to see newcomers to target shooting enjoying the day, learning new skills and developing an interest in our sport, with several expressing an interest in continuing their journey. I was delighted to share my knowledge and experience with these women and hope to see them again in the future, be that on the range or out in the field as their stories unfold.”
Find out more about BASC Women in Shooting and upcoming events here.

The BASC Northern Ireland team hosted a successful women’s shooting day at Sperrin Sporting Ranges, Draperstown.

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