MARCH 25, 2017 - MINUTES OF EXECUTIVE MEETING

RNBRA - FULLBORE SECTION

MINUTES OF THE EXECUTIVE MEETING

SATURDAY, MARCH 25, 2017

_______________________________

The Executive Meeting was held at the offices of Adam MacDonald on Queen St. in Fredericton. In attendance were Bert deVink - Chairman; Adam MacDonald - Vice Chairman; Don Coleman - Secretary; Daniel Chisholm - Treasurer; Mike Lutes - Advisor. Regrets - Gordon Holloway - President RNBRA; Conrad Leroux - Past President RNBRA; Mark McMullin - Fullbore Rep. to RNBRA Board (through an oversight Mark had not been notified of this meeting).

1.   Bisley Team Donation 

The RNBRA Fullbore Section will donate $125 to the Bisley Team. Bert deVink will contact the RNBRA for a matching amount to be sent to the DCRA as in years past.

2.   Strategic Planning

          a.   Level of Shooting: After discussion it was not considered necessary for shooters in New Brunswick to identify to what level of shooting they would be aspiring in 2017 (I - local, II - regional, or III - national/international - see previous minutes).

          b.   Shooter Financial Support: As in 2016, the Fullbore Section will support shooters who attend significant matches in 2017. The actual amount available will not be known until the end of the shooting season. As was the case last year, certain matches will be assigned a number of units with this year's weighting being in favour of elite shooters going to Ottawa. The total number of units will be divided into the total amount of money available to determine the value per unit and this will be multiplied by the number of units accumulated by each individual shooter.

                i.   Attendance to out of Province APMs will not be supported this year.

               ii.   ATLANTIC CHAMPIONSHIPS - 1 Unit

                    INTERMARITIME/BRITISH TEAM MATCH - 1 Unit

                    EASTERN F-CLASS CHAMPIONSHIPS - 2 Units

                    VICTORIA DAY MATCHES - 2 Units

                    OTTAWA LONG RANGE WEEKEND  - 2 Units

                    DCRA NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS - 4 Units

                    WORLD F-CLASS CHAMPIONSHIPS - 4 Units

                    BISLEY CHAMPIONSHIPS - 3 Units

          c.   Shooters are advised to register early for the World F-Class Championship and for the  DCRA National Championships

          d.   Worlds F-Class Team: Adam MacDonald will look into the feasibility of forming an F-Class team for the Worlds. If this team can be formed the Fullbore Section will grant $250 for support and $500 will be solicited from the RNBRA. There would also be support for training of this team. Adam has researched the feasibility of this and concluded that it will be easier to form a team for the National F-Class Championships with far less cost to shooters and the Fullbore Section.

         

3.   Business Arising from the 2016 Fullbore Section AGM

          a.   RO Certification: Gordon Holloway will look into certification of ROs for the Fullbore Section. 

          b.   First Aid Training: Mike Lutes will look into the feasibility of holding First Aid Training in St. Antoine. St. Antoine is willing to host and one of the officers of the St. Antoine Club is willing to provide this training. There is a cost involved.

          c.   Automated External Defibrillator: A decision was made to purchase an Automatic External Defibrillator (AED). Given that our membership is aging and that we shoot in areas somewhat removed from medical attention, it was deemed a prudent step to purchase one. Our cursory research indicates this unit would cost approximately $2000Can. Daniel Chisholm will research the specific unit that is most suited for our group and it's cost while Mike Lutes will look into the funding support we might have from the RNBRA. The RNBRA is willing to absorb some of the cost of this equipment.

          d.   Running the APM: It was decided that it is necessary for two people to run the Annual Prize Meet. Adam MacDonald, as Vice-Chairman, is the Match Director. We will need a full-time Chief RO. Bert deVink will ask some of the Benchrest ROs to take this on. (This was done with no interested people. Mike Lutes eventually was able to talk with Dollard LeBlanc who agreed to be the CRO for all our major matches this year - APM, Atllantics, IM/BT. It was agreed that a daily honorarium would be given to him). 

We also need a full time person to manage the E-Target System at the APM. Adam MacDonald will look into a person to fill this task. (Adam has asked Ahmed to perform this duty which he accepted, also with an honorarium.)

          e.   Finances: The Fullbore Section's finances are approximately $8000 in the bank with commitments to spend $2000 for an AED. Of this, about $4000 is set aside for the e-target amortization.

          f.    E-Targets: A reburbished e-target will cost $1500. This expenditure has already been approved in a previous meeting. $400 will need to be set aside for the cost of maintaining the e-target systems we have. A "Step-ladder" will be needed to raise the server on the firing points.

          g.   Duties of Match Directors: After discussion, it was considered important for the Match Director to be able to set up and take down the e-target systems (or have on hand someone who can do this). Adam MacDonald will provide e-target training for all those who attend the "Season Opener". (This was done with 14 shooters attending. These people will now know how to assemble each target and take it down properly so that cables are not damaged - expensive!)

          h.   Match Fees for MDs: Our experiment of allowing Match Directors to shoot free has not resulted in many/any additional volunteers. This will be discontinued and we will return to the former practice of all shooters paying a match fee.

           i.   Hosting the Easterns in 2018:  Gord Holloway will look into this.

           j.   Prize Solicitations for APM: Ash Pardee has volunteered to join the APM organizing committee in order to solicit prizes from various businesses for the APM.

APRIL 29, 2017 - SEASON OPENER AT BATOUCHE

A good number of shooters arrived at the Batouche Ranges on Base Gagetown to help with range and target maintenance. The day began with setting up some long-range targets which provided an opportunity for some training. Adam MacDonald instructed us as to the best way to assemble the target frames and the electronics in the butts. Then we went back to the 900m point where we learned how to set up the electronics for the different matches we might be shooting during the year.
Thanks for your work on this Adam and Daniel. 





After this, we set up on the 900m range and shot a couple of relays. The RO for this was Mike Lutes who had recently had some knee replacement surgery and still braved coming out. Thanks for volunteering Mike.
Today, Adam was the match Director. Many thanks to all who made this day possible.



The weather started out bright and sunny and around 10C. Gradually it became more overcast and at one point during the day we experienced a very little bit of rain - but not enough to stop. The wind between the berm and the targets at 900m was very changeable and most of the time we added 3-4 minutes of left wind - but there was that occasional shot at 0 wind when the flags indicated a 6 o'clock wind. 
There were many bugs to work out with new rifles, new loads, new shooters and lots of post-winter rust. Some of us learned the value of plotting as well. As the day progressed the smiles grew broader and it was clear we all had a very good time - our first back on the range since last Fall.

APRIL 22, 2017 - LOAD DEVELOPMENT WORKSHOP AT MINTO RANGES

Everything came together in the end and we had a great day at the range. The Minto range with two separate buildings was perfect. Everyone walked away happy with their velocity SD and ready for long range matches. We measured lands, then tried a few powder charges and seating depths, and once there was a good result, fired enough shots for good statistics so we were confident in the performance. We even managed to find a good 900m load for a 24 inch hunting rifle that certainly will compete with our target rifles. I think we can expect a good turnout at the first few matches and a few new regular shooters this year.

Attendees were Adam MacDonald, Gord Holloway, Ken Kyle, Mike Connell, Paul Plume, and Matthew McAllister.

APRIL 15, 2017 - LOAD DEVELOPMENT WORKSHOP - ADAM MacDONALD

On April 15, Adam MacDonald held a workshop on advanced reloading and load development techniques suited for long range F-Class.

Whether you are just getting started or are already an experienced competitive shooter, this workshop is an opportunity to save time and effort by learning what’s important and what’s not when developing accurate loads for long range competition.

In the morning the use of certain reloading tools and reloading methods was critically analysed in the 

context of their actual practical benefit to long range accuracy. We discussed topics such as neck turning, and how important it is measure powder accurately, and internal ballistics.

Next we dove into load development. In the world of long range, velocity consistency is king. 

Simple statistical methods can be applied to better measure and test performance of a load. Topics to be 

discussed include record keeping, data analysis techniques, chronographs, and practical load development 

processes.

The workshop went very, very well. We had 23 people and I was happy to see so many shooters ready to learn about advanced long range challenges. There were many good questions and we stayed within the scheduled time.

FEBRUARY 19. 2017 - F-CLASS PRACTICE (VIRTUAL SHOOT)

Adam MacDonald, with support of the RNBRA Fullbore section, hosted an indoor F-class practice session on February 19 at the Northside Pistol Range in Fredericton.

This “virtual shoot” involves using electronic simulation equipment which connects the dry-firing of your rifle to the e-target system. Your firing pin triggers a rubber button in the primer pocket of an electronically-rigged 308 cartridge, in order to simulate a shot in the system when you pull the trigger. 
Participants read a challenging 3D virtual wind flag, recorded scope adjustments on their tablets, and aimed at a scaled-down target at 20 meters. Once they fired a few shots and started to learn the flag, it felt just shooting a real match - but without the "BANG".

The day began at 9:00 am with a presentation covering plotting for F-class. This was a golden opportunity to learn to properly apply plotting to your shooting routine well in advance of the shooting season and to get together with some like-minded friends. 

Participants used all the equipment typically brought up to the line (rifle, shooting mat, rear bag, tablet for the e-target) except live ammunition. 

Adam accepted 15 participants, first come first serve. Fee was $20 per person (but we didn't kick you out if you're broke). 

Here are some pics and a description from Adam MacDonald:

The day went perfectly. 7 people came out, plus myself and the very helpful Laura. First there was a presentation about plotting which took over an hour on account of the very involved questions and example scenarios we ran through. Then we went downstairs and most fired 3 relays. There was a noticeable improvement in handling of the very difficult simulated wind conditions as the day went on. It was a great chance to practice wind calls and discuss strategy.

The high score went to Mike Armstrong, a benchrest shooter of 6 years, and this was his first time shooting long range for score. Now he's hooked!

Registered attendees: Mike Armstrong, Mike Lutes, Ron Mason, Harrison Brown, Roly Trainor, John Stamp, Ash Pardy.

OCTOBER 22, 2016 - VIRTUAL MATCH AND DRY-FIRE STRATEGY TRAINING SESSION.

Today was a trial run for an indoor long range practice session using a real target at distance outside. This all happened in a barn in Bouctouche with Adam MacDonald hosting the event. Six Long-range shooters were in attendance. 
After a tutorial on plotting strategy, they "fired" a virtual match using new long range simulation tools which Adam is developing. With electronic bullets and sensors, and software based on the SMT e-target system, each shooter used their own rifle and equipment to compete in simulated matches with a realistic virtual wind flag.  All aspects of what we do in Long-range shooting were part of it - except the bang. Wind reading, plotting, decision making, going through the motions of pair and threes firing, etc.

Using a plot for making smart decisions is one of the best way to improve our scores and many people have expressed interest in learning to plot in the last few months. This is an opportunity to practice the entire experience.

This system provides a much needed opportunity to practice shooting in tricky wind conditions, something which is very rare at ranges in the Maritimes. Without the need for hearing protection, everyone is able to communicate and learn from each other.

The day went exceptionally well and everyone was keen for this to take place throughout the winter, and to be able to practice at home, which will be a possibility very soon.

Paul Bastarache took home the first "virtual" gold medal with a score of 143-11.

DECEMBER 19, 2016 - MINUTES OF THE FULLBORE SECTION EXECUTIVE MEETING

A meeting of the Fullbore Executive was held on December 19, 2016 at the offices of Adam MacDonald on Queen Street, Fredericton NB.
In attendance were Bert deVink, Fullbore Chairman; Adam MacDonald, Fullbore Vice-chairman, Don Coleman, Fullbore Secretary; Gordon Holloway, Ex-officio-President RNBRA; Conrad Leroux, Ex-officio - Past President of RNBRA; Steven Stewart, Smallbore Representative.
Regrets: Daniel Chisholm, Fullbore Treasurer; Mike Lutes as member of previous discussions.

AGENDA
1.     Steven Stewart - Small-Bore Presentation
2.     Bisley Team Donation
3.     Funding Proposal
4.     Shooting schedule
5.     Strategic Planning
_________________________________________________________________________

MINUTES OF THE FULLBORE SECTION AGM - 2016

Thanks to Don Coleman for taking and preparing these minutes

 (and my apologies for being tardy in posting them)

MINUTES

FULLBORE SECTION ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

OCTOBER 30, 2016

The Annual General Meeting of the RNBRA Fullbore Section was held on October 30th, 2016 at the All Seasons Inn in Sussex.

In attendance were George Cook, James Cook, Linda Cook, Daniel Chisholm, Don Coleman, Bert DeVink, Gordon Holloway, Conrad Leroux, Michael Lutes, Jim Lutes, Adam MacDonald, Ron Mason, Mark McMullin and George Chase.

The Chairperson for the meeting was Bert deVink and Don Coleman recorded the minutes.

1. New Business arising from a call from the Floor

Item xvi) - Precision and 3 position rifle shooting and access to other ranges at CFB Gagetown by Mark McMullin.

Adoption of the Agenda moved by Daniel Chisholm and seconded by Don Coleman.

WE WISH
 A VERY

MERRY

CHRISTMAS

 SEASON 

AND

A VERY HAPPY 
NEW YEAR 

TO ALL OUR

FRIENDS

IN THE

MARITIMES, 

ACROSS CANADA, 

AND 
AROUND THE WORLD

FROM 
THE FULLBORE

(AND SMALLBORE)

SHOOTERS 

OF 
NEW BRUNSWICK

DECEMBER 3, 2016 - RNBRA TARGET RIFLE CHAMPIONSHIP - RESULTS

Place: Northside Indoor Pistol Range,  65  Route 148,  Fredericton N.B.

Awards:   Senior 1^st,2^nd,3rd  Brig. T.E. Snow Trophy

                Junior 1^st,2^nd,3rd  Maj. W.H. Clarke Trophy

                Burge and Snow cash prize for top Junior TR
  

60 shots on 3 targets at 20 meters - unlimited sighters - 60 mins plus prep time

Steven Stewart

RNBRA

Match Director







RESULTS - SENIOR
Marcel Kolb                      592         Senior Winner   Brig.T.E.Snow Trophy

Daniel Chisholm                   568         

Don Coleman                    563 

Gordon Holloway              522         

Conrad Leroux                  485         

Kalvin Noble                      364         

Tim Ross                           298         

Bertrand LeBlanc              259           

RESULTS - JUNIOR

Braden Colman-Sadd      541        Junior Winner    Maj.W.H.Clarke Trophy

Valerie Vancuren             499