Glossary of target rifle terms

This is a basic glossary of target rifle terms that includes both technical terminology and jargon developed over the years in the sport of target rifle. Where words in a sentence are also defined elsewhere in this article, they appear in italics.

For a list of words relating to Target rifle, see the Target rifle category of words in Wiktionary, the free dictionary.

Bisley

The main British target rifle range complex. It is considered the 'spiritual home' of target rifle, and hosts the prestigious Imperial Meeting every year.

Bull

The central blackened portion of a target that appears as a dot to the shooter taking aim. It may also refer to the score achieved when a shot lands in the centre of the target.^[1]

Butt

Natural or man-made earthwork which sits behind the targets, with the purpose of stopping bullets travelling beyond the range. It is often made of sand. It may also refer to the rear end of a rifle or shotgun stock that rests against the shoulder.^[2]

Hit

Score achieved when a shot lands in the 1 ring of the target.

Inner

Score achieved when a shot lands in the 4 ring of the target.

Magpie

Score achieved when a shot lands in the 3 ring of the target.

Miss

Score achieved when a shot misses the target, scoring 0.

Outer

Score achieved when a shot lands in the 2 ring of the target.

RCO

Abbreviation of Range Conducting Officer.

Range Conducting Officer

Official responsible for the management, following of rules and safety on a range.

V-Bull

Score achieved when a shot lands in the central bullseye ring of the target, scoring 5.1.

• Glossary of firearms terms
• Fullbore target rifle

• "TECHNICAL RULES & REGULATIONS for FULLBORE TARGET RIFLE SHOOTING" (PDF). International Confederation of Fullbore Rifle Associations. 2024. Retrieved 5 January 2026.