CONSTITUTION, RULES & REGULATIONS
Incorporating changes up to August 2008

Click here to download a copy of the Constitution and Rules in PDF format:

CONTENTS
    100 - MLAIC Organisation & Structure
    200 - World and Zone Championships 
    300 - Shooting Regulations - Precision Events 
    400 - Shooting Regulations - Clay Target Events
    500 - Safety Regulations
    600 - Competition Names & Origins
    700 - History of MLAIC
    800 - Committee Members & Delegates 
    900 - MLAIC Current Record Scores

APPENDICES
1    - Clay Target Layout - Plan and elevation
1A - Clay Target Layout - Dimensions
2    - Historical Shooting Events
3    - MLAIC Approved Championships
4    - Rules and Conditions for Long Range Rifle Championships
5    - MLAIC Job Descriptions
6    - Specifications for the Form of Japanese Repro Tanzutsu Pistols
7    - Rules and Regulations for Youth Event

100 MLAIC ORGANISATION

110 The name of the organisation shall be the "Muzzle Loaders Associations International Committee" referred to as the "MLAIC". The aims of the MLAIC, as defined at the founding meeting of 20 June 1971 are:

a) To develop a wider interest in antique firearms, through shooting them as close as reasonably possible under the original conditions and style.
b) To discourage any alteration which would affect the historical value of antique firearms; to promote their correct cleaning and repair; and to save them from destruction or irreparable damage.
c) To encourage historical research into antique firearms and their use.
d) To organise matches; establish shooting rules; publish results; award trophies and championship titles; arbitrate on rule disputes, etc.

NB From these aims it is evident that MLAIC shooters should have an active interest in the historical past of the firearms they shoot. Those interested only in shooting and unwilling to learn have no part in MLAIC Championships.

111 The official language of the MLAIC shall be English.

120 Committee Members

121 Each participating country's National Association, as recognised by the MLAIC, shall nominate an official representative. All correspondence, registrations for Championships etc, shall be through this delegate.

122 Delegates may change but the National Association for each country shall remain the same, unless that organisation formally notifies the MLAIC of a change in its country's representative body.

123 The MLAIC cannot admit a single club to represent a country but can only recognise a federation or association of clubs. In the event that such does not exist, it would be the responsibility of that country's National Olympic Association to designate a representative body.

124 A distinction is made between 'Member' Countries which take part in Committee Meetings and Championships, and 'Correspondent' Countries which are non-participant or only just starting muzzle loading activities. Only 'Member' countries can vote at MLAIC meetings.

125 The title of Honorary Member of the MLAIC may be awarded by the Committee to dedicated individuals who have retired from the Committee.

130 Committee Organisation

131
a) The President of the National Association organising a World Championships shall be appointed as the President of the MLAIC from the day after the preceding World Championships up until the last day of his Championships.

b) The President of the National Association organising a Zone Championship shall be appointed as a Vice President of the MLAIC from the day after the preceding Zone Championships up until the last day of his Championships.

132 The Secretary-General of the MLAIC shall be elected at the end of each World Championship Committee Meeting. by a simple majority vote.

133 Postage expenses incurred by the Secretary-General shall be met by a yearly contribution from each Member Country, which is to be paid in cash at each Committee Meeting.

134 The Secretary-General's travel (car/plane etc) and hotel expenses for each Championships together with those of the appointed International Co-ordinator, are to be reimbursed by the host country, except where low attendance make this impracticable.

140 Comittee Meetings

141 The MLAIC shall convene twice at each World Championships for:

a) The Technical Meeting - for technical instructions to team captains; appointment of arms control officers, arbitrators, scorers etc; Championship schedule; transportation etc.

b) The Committee Meeting - to discuss matters on the agenda. This meeting should commence between 1400 hrs and 1800 hrs and conclude before 2300 hrs.

142 At the Committee Meeting, the Committee shall decide on the dates and venues of subsequent Championships, postal matches, alterations to rules (effective immediately following the close of the Championships), admission of new members, amount of yearly contribution, and any other business on the agenda.

143 The Secretary-General shall send the agenda for Committee Meetings to all delegates at least three months before the meeting to allow time for the delegates to discuss it within their Associations. Any matters for inclusion on the agenda must be received by the Secretary-General at least four months before the meeting.

144 Any decision made at an MLAIC meeting must be agreed upon by not less than two thirds of the total votes cast. Abstentions shall not count as votes. If a delegate cannot attend a meeting, a substitute with full voting powers may be sent, or a mail vote may be registered with the Secretary-General. Each country may have only one vote, whether by delegate, proxy or mail. Proposals not on the Agenda can only be adopted with the unanimous agreement of the Meeting.

145 Voting forms will be given to each delegate. These, when completed, will form a record of the voting at meetings.

146 An MLAIC Commission, of six members elected at each Committee Meeting, shall be appointed as a permanent advisory body to study proposals and make recommendations on rule changes.

147 Delegates should keep the Committee informed of the dates of any major outside events likely to clash with MLAIC Championships.

148 A Small Arms Committee comprising six (6) members, not necessarily MLAIC participants, shall be appointed to examine documentation provided by producers of replica firearms for historical correctness in their manufacture and appropriateness for MLAIC competition. Manufacturers will submit all required firearms information to the Secretary-General, who will then submit it to the Small Arms Committee members for their consideration and recommendations. The recommendations of this committee will be made known to the MLAIC by the Secretary-General through the Newsletter.

200 WORLD & ZONE CHAMPIONSHIPS

201

a) World Championships will be held every two years, preferably between 1 July and 30 September.

b) Zone Championships may be held in alternate years. These comprise:
Zone A: European Zone, All countries other than those countries listed in Zone B.
Zone B: Pacific Zone, All countries adjacent to the Pacific Rim, South Africa and countries within South America.

c) World Records can only be established at World Championships. Zone Records may be achieved by a resident of a Zone at either a Zone or World Championships.

d) Shooters residing outside of a Zone may only participate in that Zone's Championships as Non-classified guests.

202 The organising country will send out official invitations and preliminary entry forms by early February of the year of the event. Participating countries should return these forms by 1st March.

203 Visiting teams will return completed entry forms at least six weeks before the event, giving names of all members in their party; the name of the person in charge (Team Captain); the proposed Customs point of entry; a full list of firearms detailing make, type, calibre and, where possible, serial numbers or identifying marks; details of transportation arrangements; requirements for hotel reservations or camping sites.

204 Each shooter must be either a permanent resident, hold a valid passport, or have been born in the country he or she is representing.

205 The organiser of a Championship must explain at the preceding Championship Meeting any political problems that may prevent the attendance of any MLAIC country. In such cases or where federations must comply with their Government's policies, it is permissible to allow the entry of an MLAIC International Team made up from a) shooters from non-member countries, and b) shooters from member countries not sending an official team, subject to the approval of that country.

206 A fee will be charged for individual/team entries to cover the cost of targets, medals and administration.

207 Recommended Championship Schedule

Monday morning: Arrival, Registration, Firearms Inspection.
Monday afternoon: Technical Meeting, Firearms Inspection, Practice.
Tuesday: Registration, Firearms Inspection, Practice.
Committee Meeting, Opening Ceremony.
Wednesday: Competitions, Shooters' Buffet.
Thursday: Competitions, Awards Ceremonies.
Friday: Competitions, Awards Ceremonies.
Saturday morning: Competitions, Clay target shoot-offs.
Saturday evening: Official Banquet, Closing Ceremony.

Prospective hosts should try to minimise the cost to shooters by limiting the duration of the Championships to six days or less.

To avoid delays and unnecessary queuing, Registration and Firearms Inspections should be carried out to a set programme with a specified attendance time for each country.

210 Catagories - Number of Competitors

211 The number of competitors in each event is to be determined by the organising country according to the range facilities available.

212 Whenever possible each country should be allowed up to a maximum of 16 competitors in each event of which 50% may be using replicas (e.g. if 16 places are available then 16 originals may be used; or 8 originals and 8 replicas; or no originals and 8 replicas).
a) In respect of Long Range Rifle Shooting Championships sixteen shooters using replica rifles may enter each individual event (per country). In addition an unlimited number of shooters using original rifles may enter each individual event (per country).

213 A minimum of 4 competitors is necessary for an individual competition to be valid.

214 No 7 (Colt) and No 12 (Mariette) shall have the same maximum number of permissible entries.

215 No 2 (Maximilian) and No 5 (Cominazzo) shall have at least five permissible entries per country.

216 All competitions shall be shot in two categories - O (Original firearms) and R (Replica firearms).

a) A shooter can compete in either Category O or Category R, but not in both

b) If essential to the Championship schedule, both Categories may be shot at the same time.

c) Team events that are to be shot only with Originals (Category O) are: Nos 9 (Gustav Adolph), 10 (Pauly), 18 (Boutet), 26 (Wedgnock), 27 (Nobunaga) and 30 (Adams).

d) Team events that are to be shot only with Replicas (Category R) are: Nos 13 (Peterlongo), 19 (Nagashino), 29 (Lucca), 31 (Halikko), 32 (Magenta) and 33 (Forsyth).

e) Team events that may be shot with a mixture of Originals and/or Replicas (Open Category) are: Nos 17 (Amazons), 20 (Rigby), 24 (Pforzheim), 25 (Wogdon), 34 (Hawker), 35 (Batesville) and 38 (Kunitomo).

220 Team Events

221 When inadequate time is available, team events will be shot concurrently with the individual competitions. In such cases the Team Captain must notify the organisers, by close of play on the previous day, the names of the shooters whose scores shall be used for team events. These events are Nos. 9, 10, 11, 13, 17, 18, 19, 20, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35 and 38. Each country may have only one team in each team event.

222 222 A minimum entry of four teams is necessary for a team competition to be valid. All teams except No. 11 Versailles shall comprise 3 members..

In No 23 (Hawker) the three members shall be different individuals.

230 Medals and Trophies

231 Medals shall be awarded to the first three places in each individual event and to each member of the first three places in each team event, as follows: Winner - Gold medal, 2nd - Silver medal, 3rd - Bronze medal. Diplomas shall be awarded to fourth, fifth and sixth places in each individual event.

232 Trophies shall be awarded at each World Championship to the winner of each individual event and to the winning team of each team event.

233 Team Captains are responsible for returning trophies at the subsequent World Championships.

234 All competitors shall be issued with a Participant's Medal, a Certificate of Participation and a programme of events.

235 Official medals will not be awarded to medallists in Junior and Historic events.

240 Ceremonies

241 The Championships shall be opened by a short ceremony prior to the start of competitions.

242 A closing ceremony shall be held on the last day of the Championships, after the final awards ceremony.

250 Arbitration
251 An Arbitration Committee shall be appointed at each Championship Committee Meeting and shall be composed of three members and three substitutes.

252 A member will be replaced by a suitable substitute when the dispute involves either:

a) a competitor from his or her own country
b) an event in which he or she is a competitor.

253 The Arbitration Committee shall have the following duties and responsibilities:
a) to settle all litigations
b) to check the top six targets in each event
c) to check the top six scorers' firearms in the event of a protest.
In the case of a claim on a rejected arm, the Team Captain and the shooter must be given the opportunity to discuss the matter with the Arbitration Committee.

254 All decisions by the Arbitration Committee will be final and binding.

255 Protests for resolution by the Arbitration Committee must be made in writing by either the Delegate or Team Captain of the country concerned. Claims involving scores must be lodged with the Chief Arbitrator within one hour of the initial posting of the results.

256 Penalties that may be imposed are:

a) A caution delivered by the Range Officer
b) A reduction of two points from the competitor's score
c) The disqualification of the shooter by the Arbitration Committee on the Range Officer's report.

257 The Chief Arbitrator and the Chief Range Officer will draw up and post a schedule of Arbitration Committee Meetings.

258 A non-voting arbitrator from the host country shall be appointed to the Arbitration Committee for the purpose of providing information.

260 Firearms Control Committee

261 The Firearms Control Committee shall be appointed by the President of the MLAIC from participating members of at least three different countries. The organisers should, in advance, seek volunteers from participating countries and notify those appointed before the start of the Championships. A member of the Firearms Control Committee will not be able to inspect the arms of his or her own country.

262 The Firearms Control Committee shall have the following duties and responsibilities:

a) To inspect and certify all firearms to be used in the Championships prior to the start of competitions. Firearms must pass this inspection before being used in any event.

b) To identify and mark in a easily visible manner all firearms certified for competition and their original or replica status.

c) To have available on the shooting range all tools necessary to perform inspections competently, e.g. callipers, micrometer, magnifying glass, metric screw gauges, and to have available specifications for most common types of firearms.

d) The Firearms Control Committee may carry out a check on any firearm, its sights, bore, bedding etc at the firing point immediately after the firearm has been shot.

263

a) Any firearm of questionable authenticity should be presented to the Firearms Control Committee with any available substantiating documentation The arm would then either be accepted with normal reserves or rejected. 'Normal Reserves' means that the Committee accepts the firearm as complying with the Rules, but without any implication of authenticity.

b) Any questionable bullet design should be presented to and left with the Firearms Control Committee with any available substantiating documentation. That type of bullet would then either be accepted or rejected. This applies to any type of bullet that is not of a standard recognised design.

264 The disqualification of any unacceptable firearm should be done by the Firearms Control Committee before the event.

300 SHOOTING REGULATIONS - PRECISION EVENTS (NB Precision events refer to those shot with rifle, musket or pistol to distinguish them from clay target events)

301 All Team Captains and competitors should be fully acquainted with MLAIC Rules and the competition programme.

302 Range Officers shall be provided by the host country and will include:

a) A Chief Range Officer, who shall be responsible for the proper operation of the range throughout the Championships
b) .Line Officers, who shall verify that competitors are in their correct positions before competition details begin and check for infractions of rules during competitions.
c) Verification Officers, who shall be assigned to specific targets to verify the number of shots fired by each competitor and to record fouling shots, cross-fires, and firearm breakage's.
d) Range Officer should not disturb any shooter after signal "Open Fire", except for safety matters.

303 No one except Range Officers, MLAIC Officials and competitors shall be allowed to go beyond the area designated for spectators, which shall be three meters behind the firing line. No one other than Range Officers shall be permitted to speak to competitors during competition*. Spectators must remain quiet while shooting is in progress. (*Explanation: This means no one other than Range Officers, and ensures that the competitor will not be disturbed during the 30-minute event. Anyone speaking loud enough for the competitor to hear – whether it be positive or negative comments – constitutes a violation of this rule. It is recommended that the Range Officer remove the violator from the range. The second violation by the same person should be answerable to the Arbitration Committee for disciplinary action. Repeatedly photographing a competitor during the official time period of the event may also constitute a violation of this rule by distracting the competitor, and action by the Range Officer is also in order if this situation occurs.)

304 Competitors may use telescopes for spotting shots, but no coaching or assistance from others is permitted.

305 The following signals shall be used to start and stop competition details:

a) Open Fire - Two whistle blasts
b) Temporary Cease Fire - Series of short whistle blasts
c) Cease Fire - One long whistle blast

306 No firearm is to be loaded until the signal is given to 'Open Fire'.

307 No snapping of caps or pan flashing before the signal is given to 'Open Fire'.

308 All firearms to be uncapped or unprimed during 'Temporary Cease Fire'.

309 All firearms to be unloaded on 'Cease Fire'.

Instead of whistle blasts the match organiser may choose to use dissimilar audible instruments for the three signals, so as to improve clarity.

310 Targets

311 - a) Events Nos. 1, 9, 14, 16, 19 and 27 use the French Military 200 metre target (MLAIC C200). 10 ring = 80 mm (3.15") diameter, black centre out to 6 ring, measuring 400 mm (15.75") diameter.

b) Events Nos. 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 12, 13, 15, 17, 18, 20, 24, 25, 26, 28, 29, 30, 32, 33, 36, 37 and 38use the ISSF 50 metre Pistol Target (MLAIC C50). 10 ring = 50 mm (1.97") diameter, black centre out to 7 ring, measuring 200 mm (7.87"), white out to 1 ring, measuring 500 mm (19.69").

c) Unless glued to a backing of cardboard, the paper used for targets shall be a minimum of 230 gr/m2.

312 Targets shall bear the following markings:

Top Left: Relay Number Top Right: No of Target
Bottom Left: No of Shooter Bottom Right: No of Event

Neither the competitor's name nor nationality shall appear or be identifiable in any manner on the target.
On scoring, the value of each shot and the total score shall be clearly marked in the lower right corner of the target and initialled by the scoring official.

313
a) Competitions in which the ISSF 50 meter Pistol Target (C50) is used, will be shot using a pair of targets set side-by-side at the same level, for each competitor. Six shots are to be fired on one target and seven shots on the other. In the event of the use of electronic targets, only one target is to be used for all 13 shots.

b) Competitions in which the French Military 200 meters target (C200) is used will be shot using a single target for all thirteen shots for each competitor.

314 Rules Modifications for Use of Electronic Targets (Applicable only when electronic targets are used)

a) Target is to be printed on I.S.S.F. regulation paper, 550 mm square. Target to be off-white with black center.

b) For events Miquelet, Tanegashima and Hizadai, scoring to be only from five to ten-rings.

320 Practice

321 There will be no practice during the competition days of the Championship. Two days of practice will be allowed prior to the start of the competition events.

322 Practice targets on each range will be fairly allocated to each country in proportion to its number of competition entries.

330 Shooting Rules

331 Prone, kneeling and standing positions shall be as defined by ISSF Rules, but use of a carrying sling is permitted for all positions.

332 For precision competitions, thirteen (13) shots are to be fired within a thirty (30) minute relay. The highest scoring ten shots are to count.
One fouling shot may be fired into the backstop provided that the Range Verification Officer is first notified.
Snapping of caps, flashing of pans and firing of fouling shots must be done within the 30 minute relay.

333 In the event of a loading incident (e.g. bullet loaded without powder, two bullets loaded etc) the shooter should seek permission from the Range Line Officer before clearing the firearm so that the extra shot is not recorded as one of the thirteen permitted shots.

334 If a relay has to be stopped due to inclement weather or any other reason, it will be resumed where it was stopped and continue for the unexpired time. If however the targets are no longer in a usable condition, they shall be replaced and the relay shot again.

335 Any malfunctions requiring the assistance of a second party shall terminate any further shooting by the competitor in that event. Any necessary repairs to firearms during events must be carried out by the competitor only, and completed within the 30 minute relay. Under no circumstances will the competitor be allowed to substitute a different firearm or be granted additional time to effect repairs.

336 The duties and responsibilities of every competitor are:
         a) to fully understand and to comply at all times with all competitionrules and regulations.
         b) to present his or her firearms to the Firearms Control Committee for inspection and approval prior
             to competing.
         c) to provide proof, if required by the Firearms Control Committee, of the authenticity of his or her firearms.
         d) to be at the correct firing point, at the designated time for each competition.
         e) to correctly maintain his or her firearms and equipment.
         f) to practice good sportsmanship at all times and to promote the aims of the MLAIC.

340 Scoring

341 In competitions where pairs of targets are being used, a maximum of seven shots one target and six on the other is allowed. If there are more than seven shots on a target the best scoring additional shots will be counted as misses.

Example: Target 1 (8 shots) 10, 10, 9, 9, 9, 9, 8, 7 (Delete the best shot, 10)
Target 2 (5 shots) 10, 9, 9, 9, 8
Score 10, 10, 10, 9, 9, 9, 9, 9, 9, 9, 8, 8, 7 Total = 91

a) In the event electronic targets are being used, computers will score, record score, break ties and print out results. In the event of a tie (all computer scores being the same), the worst shot from the center is the loser.

342 The centre point of the bullet hole must be at least on the line to count for the higher score.

343 A bullet fired into another competitor's target must be signalled to the Range Verification Officer and will be counted as a miss.

344 Scores shall be witnessed by one official of the host country and one official of the MLAIC.

345 In the event of ties in individual events, the winner is the one who has the highest number of shots in each scoring ring in descending order. If these are the same for each ten scoring shots, then the loser is the one with a scoring shot furthest from the centre. If the tie is still unresolved the next nearest scoring shots are used, and so on.

NB If necessary all ten scoring shots are to be used in this manner to determine ties and the three non-scoring shots are only to be considered if a tie then still exists.

346 In the event of ties in team events, the winning team is determined by the one which has the highest number of shots in each scoring ring in descending order. If these are the same for all the scoring shots, then the losing team is the one with a scoring shot furthest from the centre. If the tie is still unresolved the next nearest scoring shots are used, and so on.

350 Firearms

351 General information:

a) Any firearm may be used once only in each event.
b) All firearms must be privately owned.
c) No colours, other than black or white, may be used on the foresight.
d) The half-cock position, if present, should be in a safe working condition.

352 Originals: Any alterations to an original firearm which would spoil its historical value will disqualify its use in MLAIC competitions. If an original has major modifications (i.e., relining or replacement of the barrel or replacement of the stock) the firearm may be shot in the replica class, provided it has not been declared as an original prior to the competition. Any lined or modern barrels must be classified as replicas prior to inspection. If declared as an original and found to be a replica, the firearm must be disqualified.

A) Military Rifles - Service issue rifles and muskets for use in competitions Nos. 1, 3, 8, 9, 10, 11, 15 and 37. The following shall apply:

1) Arms shall be manufactured in accordance with military patterns, in unaltered condition and with original pattern sights.
2) Limited alterations to the point of aim are permissible by the use of a replacement blade or sight bearing the same configuration and profile as the original. Alterations to the original sights are not permitted.
3) Military smooth-bore flintlock muskets having a fixed (non-detachable) rear sight are not permitted in competitions No 1 or No 9. The removal of such existing sights is not permitted. Military smooth-bore flintlock muskets with rear sights that may be detached without alteration to the gun, may be used with the rear sight removed.
4) Set triggers, butt pads, cheek pads, wiping out between shots, and long loading funnels are not permitted.
5) The bore diameter must be in excess of 13.5 mm (0.5315").
6) Barrels may not be bent to alter their point of aim.
7) Replica barrels or original barrels which have been sleeved are not permitted.
8) The use of Cream of Wheat, Cornmeal, or other natural filler is permissible in military rifles.

B) Free Rifles - Any original muzzle loading rifle not qualifying as a Military rifle in A) above, with contemporary sights (excluding telescopic or optical) for use in competitions Nos. 2, 4, 8, 14, 15, 16, 17, 19, 20, 24, 26, 27 and 36. The following shall apply:

1) Aperture sights (including modern made replica sights) are permitted providing their design is consistent with the period of manufacture and appropriate to the type of firearm. This applies to both rear and fore-sights. NB The periods of manufacture in relation to the pattern of sights are: up to 1750 for matchlocks, up to 1850 for flintlocks, and up to 1890 for percussion.
2) Military rifles of a calibre of less than 13.5 mm (.5315") may be used in competitions Nos. 4 and 20,and those of any bore diameter may be used in competitions Nos. 2, 8, 15, 17 and 24.
3) Barrels may not be bent to alter their point of aim.
4) Replica barrels or original barrels which have been sleeved are not permitted.

C) Pistols and Revolvers - Any original pistol or revolver with contemporary sights, for use in competitions Nos. 5, 6, 7 18, 25 and 30. The following shall apply:

1) Rifled single shot percussion pistols, eligible for competition Nos 6 and 18, must have sights contemporary to the 19th Century, ie: fore-sights should be pinhead, narrow blade of a maximum width of 2.03 mm (.080"), narrow pyramid or similar, but not broad Patridge form; rear sights should have V or U form sight notches.
2) The front sights of original revolvers, eligible for competition Nos 7 and 30, may be of any height to assist aiming at 25 metres, but the original profile must be retained.
3) Barrels may not be bent to alter their point of aim.
4) Replica barrels or original barrels that have been sleeved are not permitted.

353 Replicas: A replica is a modern made reproduction of an original antique firearm, with sights, lock assembly, stock and barrel in the original style. Original parts may be used to build replicas. Replica firearms do not need to bear proof marks.

A) Replica Military Rifles - Service issue rifles and muskets for use in replica classes of competitions Nos. 1, 3, 8, 15, 17, 24 and 37. The following shall apply:

1) Replica Military rifles shall closely follow original military service patterns, specifications and tolerances. The rifling pitch and number of grooves should replicate the appropriate original pattern but the depth of the rifling grooves may be different.
2) Limited minor alterations to the front or rear sights to improve the point of aim are permissible providing a similar configuration and profile as the original is retained.
3) Replica Military smooth-bore flintlock muskets having rear sights are not permitted in competition No 1.
4) Set triggers, butt pads, cheek pads, wiping out between shots, and long loading funnels are not permitted.
5) The bore diameter must be in excess of 13.5 mm (0.5315").

B) Replica Free Rifles- Any replica of an original muzzle loading rifle not qualifying as a Military rifle in A) above, with contemporary sights (excluding telescopic or optical) for use in replica classes of competitions Nos. 2, 4, 8, 14, 15, 16, 17, 19, 20, 24, 29 and 36. The following shall apply:

1) The rifling pitch and number of grooves should replicate the appropriate original pattern but the depth of the rifling grooves may be different.
2) Aperture sights (both rear and fore sights) are permitted providing their design is consistent with the original period of manufacture and are appropriate to the type of firearm. NB the periods of manufacture in relation to the pattern of sights are: up to 1750 for matchlocks, up to 1850 for flintlocks, and up to 1890 for percussion.
3) Replica Military rifles of a calibre of less than 13.5 mm (.5315") may be used in competitions Nos. 4 and 20, and those of any bore diameter may be used in competitions Nos. 2, 8, 14, 15, 16, 17, 19, 24, 29 and 37.

C) Replica Pistols and Revolvers - Any replica of an original muzzle loading pistol or revolver, with contemporary sights for use in replica classes of competitions Nos. 5, 6, 12, 13, 18 and 25. The following shall apply:

1) Replica rifled single shot percussion pistols, eligible for competition No 6, must have sights contemporary to the 19th Century, ie: fore-sights should be pinhead, narrow blade of a maximum width of 2.03 mm (.080"), narrow pyramid or similar, but not broad Patridge form; rear sights should have V or U form sight notches.
2) The front sights of replica revolvers, eligible for competition No 12, may be of any height to assist aiming at 25 metres, but the original profile must be retained. There are no restrictions on the form of rifling for replica revolvers.
3) Dovetailed fore-sights are acceptable on replica revolvers provided that the ends of the tennon are flush with the barrel.

354 Matchlocks (Originals and Replicas)

A) Original Matchlock Muskets - original muzzle loading smooth-bore matchlock muskets for use in competitions Nos. 14 (O), 15 (O), 16 (O), 19, 24 and 27 and in accordance with the following design:
Of early Portuguese or Japanese style, with an attenuated butt similar to a pistol grip and designed to be held against the cheek (cheekstock) and not against the shoulder. The rear sight block to have a narrow aiming slot and the foresight to be in the form of a pyramid or vertical wedge. Replacement sights should be of these forms.

B) Replica Matchlock Muskets - replica muzzle loading smooth-bore matchlock muskets for use in competitions Nos. 14 (R), 15 (R), 16 (R), 19 and 24 and in accordance with either of the following two designs:

1) Of early Portuguese or Japanese style, with an attenuated butt similar to a pistol grip and designed to be held against the cheek (cheekstock) and not against the shoulder. The rear sight block to have a narrow aiming slot and the foresight to be in the form of a pyramid or vertical wedge.
2) Of European style, with a shoulder stock and, in original military form, often used with a forked rest. This rest is not permitted for use in MLAIC competitions. Adjustable dioptric sights are not permitted but contemporary style fixed rear peep-sights or tube-sights attached to the barrel are allowed.

C) Matchlock Pistols - for use in competitions Nos. 5, 28 and 39 (See 354 G and Appendix 6)

1) Of Japanese style - shall be a similar, but shorter, form of the Japanese musket.

D) Matches (applies to both original and replica classes)

1) During loading, the lighted end of the match must be kept in a safe container.
2) When shooting, the match must be secured so that it does not fly about on firing.

E) Relining - The relining of Japanese smooth-bore matchlock barrels is permitted for safety reasons, as long as it does not affect the external appearance and historical characteristics. Relined matchlocks will only be permitted in replica events.

F) Should there be less than four original matchlock musket entries, these originals will be permitted to shoot in the replica class.

G) Replica matchlock pistols are not permitted in the replica class of Competition No 5 (Cominazzo).

355 Miscellaneous

1) Original and replica flintlock pistols for use in competition No 5 shall have a minimum bore diameter of 11 mm (.433").
2) To prevent the use of revolvers as single shot pistols, competitors must load at least five chambers for each of the first two strings.
3) The cylinder may be removed from the revolver for any reason other than for loading.
4) The major parts of replicas (barrel, lock and cylinder) may be made of stainless steel.
5) Chromium plated barrels are permitted in replica shotguns.356 Ammunition

356 Ammunition

A) Powder:
1) Only factory made black powder may be used. A simple test may be used if necessary to detect the use of powder other than authentic black powder, to eliminate the possibility of competitors using substitutes.
2) Loading from pre-measured single charge containers is obligatory.
3) No priming flask containing more than 16 grams (250 US grains) of powder may be used.
B) Wads: No plastic wads are permitted in any competition. Wads may be made from paper, fibre or felt materials.

C) Bullets:

Bullets shall be of the style associated with the original firearm namely:
1) Flintlock and matchlock arms - Round ball only
2) Percussion rifled pistols - Round ball only
3) Percussion revolvers - Round ball or picket bullet
4) Percussion military rifles - Original style expanding bullet
5) Percussion free rifles - Round ball or any type of elongated bullet
No pre-rifled bullet may be used in a firearm that was not designed for use with such a bullet.
No modern style or wadcutter bullet may be used in any competition except as permitted in item 5 above.

357 Accessories:

A) Slings:
1) Slings must be original or a reproduction of a contemporary type. Modern adjustable target type slings, including single-point slings, are not permitted.
2) Only military style slings are permitted in competitions Nos. 1, 3, 9, 10, and 37. Slings may only be attached to proper original sling swivels.
3) Carrying slings are permitted on original target rifles without sling attachments, providing attachment is by straps or string. The addition of sling swivels is not permitted.
4) Slings – are not permitted on matchlock long arms.

B) Palm supports - Palm supports must be original or a reproduction of an original type and only used on firearms designed to have this attachment.

C) Funnels and loading tubes:

1) Funnels and loading tubes may be used in all competitions except Nos. 1, 3, 9 and 10.

2) Short funnels (10 cm/4" maximum spout length) are permitted in competitions Nos. 1, 3, 9 and 10 to avoid spillage of powder.

D) Cleaning/wiping rods - may be used in all competitions except Nos. 1, 3, 9 and 10.

E) Clothing

1) Heavy shooting trousers of the type used for ISSF competition are eliminated for use in MLAIC competition. This rule is intended to allow the use of shooting trousers made of light-weight, flexible material, such as cotton, with no reinforcement that would give artificial support. The trousers could have knee pads for the protection of the shooter’s knees and would also allow a reinforced sewn-in seat. However, what is not permitted is the use of heavy-weight, stiff and inflexible trousers (such as those made of leather or double-weight canvas) that may or may not also have “stays” in the legs to provide additional support. This would include trousers that use any special devices or means of immobilizing or unduly reducing the movement of the shooter’s legs and lower body, thus possibly artificially improving the shooter’s performance.

2) There are no other restrictions on clothing.

358 Repairs:

1) Repairs must follow the original construction and be of a style contemporary with the period of manufacture.

2) The faces of frizzens, or any re-facing material, must be of a ferrous material.

3) Modern chemical materials such as fibreglass and epoxy resin may not be used for bedding barrels. Materials such as animal glue and sawdust used by contemporary gunsmiths for making repairs, are permitted.

359 Data on Firearms used by the top six competitors:

The final MLAIC Championship results should include details of the makes and calibres of firearms used by the top six competitors in each event. Also, for the benefit of inexperienced shooters, these competitors are asked to provide for publication the following additional information: bullet type, weight and size; powder type and weight; and type of sights (open or aperture).

Rules 360 - 375 are included on the 'COMPETITIONS' page.

400 SHOOTING REGULATIONS - CLAY TARGET EVENTS

401 CLAY TARGET COMPETITIONS

402 No 21 Manton Free flintlock guns of any calibre. Total of 50 clay targets shot in two separate rounds (one in the morning and one in the afternoon of the same day) of 25 clay targets over five stands within 60 minute detail.

403 No 22 Lorenzoni Free percussion guns of any calibre. Total of 50 clay targets shot in two separate rounds (one in the morning and one in the afternoon of the same day) of 25 clay targets over five stands within 60 minute detail. (O & R).

404 No 34 Hawker Teams of three shooters from No 21.(O &/or R Open)

405 No 35 Batesville Teams of three shooters from No. 22 (O &/or R Open)

410 Regulations

411 Shooting stands:

a) Stands should be at the same level as the top of the trap house.

b) Stands should be marked by a 70 cm (approximately) square or circle.

c) For the flintlock (No 21) and percussion (No 22) layouts there shall be five stands at 8 meters behind the point where the flight of the clay target intersects the level of the stands. Stands should be located: 70 degrees left, 35 degrees left, central, 35 degrees right, 70 degrees right.

d) Individual loading tables shall be provided within a few meters behind each stand.

e) Whenever possible, an acoustic release clay target launcher will be used.

f) (In effect only when using ATA trap ranges.) All shooting stands for flint and percussion must be at the same elevation as the ATA station number 3. (Note: This rule will place the trap shooter standing with his feet at the same height as the trap machine throwing arm.)

412 Clay Launcher:

a) The point where the clay target leaves the traphouse and the approximate point where it lands should be clearly marked so as to be visible from all stands.

b) The clay launcher should be set to throw centrally with the clay target landing at 60 metres (plus or minus 5 metres) from the point at which the flight of the clay target intersects the level of the stands. The height of the clay target should be 2 metres above stand level at 10 metres forward of this point of intersection.

c) A malfunction of the clay launcher should be reported to the Range Officer who should decide whether to change the launcher, to continue, or to stop the event.

413 Clay Target - The clay target shall be of the standard type used for Olympic Trap shooting.

414 Spectators:

a) must be at least three metres behind the loading tables and maintain quiet.

b) may not speak to the shooters or assist them in any way.

415 Range Officer and Arbitrators:

a) The Range Officer controls the shooting, with the assistance of three arbitrators for scoring. These officials are the only people allowed to intervene if a shooter has difficulties.

b) The Arbitrators signal each missed clay target by each raising an arm.

c) The Range Officer observes the Arbitrators' signals and, from the majority (if there is a disagreement), clearly calls out the result for all to hear.

416 Shooting rules:

a) Each round to be 25 clay targets in 60 minutes.

b) Only one shot may be taken at each clay target.

c) Double barrelled guns may be used but with only one barrel loaded at a time.

d) The following misfires will be allowed, without penalty:
Three misfires per round for flintlock guns
One misfire per round for percussion guns
One misfire in each additional Tie shoot-off round (for both flintlock and percussion)

e) For each misfire allowed an extra clay target will be launched at the same stand.

f) If a misfire is due to the mechanical failure of the gun (other than due to ignition problems), an 'allowed extra misfire' will be granted.

g) If a shooters fires before the command 'Pull', it will be scored as a miss.

h) Prior to the start of each round, one trial clay target will be launched in full view of all the shooters in that round.

i) If the launcher is repaired or replaced, a further trial bird will be launched.

j) If a clay target is not launched immediately on the command 'Pull', the shooter may refuse to shoot without incurring a penalty, but must make his or her actions clear by raising the gun.

k) The allocation of stands for each round will be made by the shooters drawing lots. Each shooter shall fire his or her first shot in the sequence determined by the draw, but may subsequently fire in any order as soon as ready.

l) After each shot, shooters will proceed to the next stand in an anticlockwise direction.
m) Shooters must have the authorisation of the Range Officer before calling 'Pull'.

n) Shooting will proceed without interruption unless disrupted by technical difficulties. The Range Officer may stop the shooting due to inclement weather and resume the round later at the point where it was stopped.

o) If a shooter is not present when his or her name is called prior to the commencement of a round, the Range fficer will call out the shooter's name three times within a minute. If there is no response the round will commence regardless and the missing shooter will only be allowed to shoot later if space permits.

p) In the case of a severe mechanical breakdown of a gun which cannot be repaired quickly, the shooter must leave his or her round and may only be allowed to complete the remaining round if space is available on a later round. If the gun can be repaired before the end of the round, the competitor may resume shooting with the permission of the Range Officer, but will forfeit any shot not fired within the time limit of that round.

q) After a misfire, a gun may be unloaded or fired away subject to the authorisation of the Range Officer.

r) The normal maximum number of shooters to be squadded on a round is six for No 21 (Manton) and No 22 (Lorenzoni). Should it be absolutely essential, this may be increased to a maximum of eight in No 21 and No 22, but the time for the round is to be increased by ten minutes for each additional shooter above six.

417 Ties
a) Ties for the top three individual places will be determined by shoot-off with the first five birds. If a tie still exists, the winner will be determined with the first fault being the loser. Shoot-offs shall comprise:

Flintlock and percussion: One clay target from each of the five stands

Should both shooters miss, they will continue the shoot-off on the next stand

b) Ties for team scores will be determined by count-back. The winning team is that which has the longest unbroken string of hits from the end, counting back.

418 Guns:

a) Guns may be percussion or flintlock, military or civilian, single or double barrelled, smooth-bore, and of any calibre. Replicas with choked bores are forbidden.

b) Slip-on butt pads made of leather or other contemporary material (but not rubber) are permitted. Any other addition to the butt is forbidden.

c) An 'Original' is defined as any original muzzle loading gun in unaltered condition. A 'Replica' is a newly made reproduction of an antique original.

419 Loads:

a) Only factory made black powder is permitted.

b) b) Lead (or non-toxic lead substitutes of single metals only) shot size must maximum 2.55 mm diameter.

c) Loads must not exceed normal Proof Table Service Loads for the calibre of gun up to a maximum of 6.2 grams (3.5 drams) of black powder and 35 grams (1.25 oz).

d) Loading of powder must be from pre-measured single charge containers.

e) No priming flask containing more than 16.2 grams (250 US grains) of powder may be used.

f) Loading of lead shot (or non-toxic lead substitutes of single metals only) must be from prepacked single charge containers.

g) Loading must be in accordance with contemporary methods and materials. Plastic wads are prohibited.

420 Shooting Rules:

a) Loading may only be carried out at the loading tables.

b) When walking from the loading table to the stands and back, shooters must carry their guns with the muzzles pointed upwards.

c) Capping or priming may only be done at the shooting stand, with the barrel pointed down range.

d) Cap dispensers are encouraged for percussion guns.

e) Guns shall only be fully cocked when at the shooting stand and ready to fire.

f) The use of slings is forbidden.

g) The utmost care in handling guns is to be observed at all time.

h) When not in use guns should be kept in the racks and must not be touched without the owner's permission.

i) The shooter may only shoot when it is his or her turn to do so, and after the clay target has been released.

j) Aiming or shooting at other shooters' clays is forbidden.

k) The shooter may mount the gun in the shoulder or start from the gun down position as preferred before calling 'Pull'.

l) When firing, shooters must stand within the area marked for the stand.

m) Safety spectacles and hearing protection must be used when shooting.

n) When the shooter is ready to fire he or she may, with the permission of the Range Officer, give the order 'Pull'. The shooter may also ask 'Ready?' but nothing else.

o) A clay target will be deemed broken when, after being correctly launched and shot according to the rules, at least one visible part flies away.

p) A clay target will be deemed missed and scored zero, if:
it is not broken during flight;
the shooter does not fire because he or she has: the gun in the safety or half cock position; forgotten to load, prime, cap or fully cock the gun; lost the priming or cap; not seen the clay target; had a misfire in excess of the permitted number; or
the shooter touches the lock of the gun before it is checked by the Range Officer following a misfire or technical fault.

q) A clay target will be deemed a 'No bird' and another clay will be granted to the shooter, whether he or she fired or not if:
the clay breaks on launching;
the flight is not straight, is irregular or is too slow;
two or more birds are launched together;
the clay is of a different colour to that of preceding clays;
the clay is launched before the order 'Pull';
the clay is not launched immediately on the order 'Pull', providing the shooter
indicates an intention not to shoot by raising the gun;
if a misfire or default is due to the mechanical breakdown of the gun, the lock or the cock; or
if the shooter has obviously been hindered by a third party.

421 Claims:

a) If the shooter or Team Captain does not agree with the Range Officer over a miss, one of them should immediately lodge a claim by raising one arm and shouting 'Protest!' The Range Officer will then suspend shooting, consult with the Arbitrators and give a final decision. The Protest will be entered into the Range Report.

b) It shall not be permissible to recover a clay target to check whether or not it is broken.

c) If the shooter or Team Captain does not agree with the shooter's score, one of them should immediately lodge a complaint with the Range Officer who will consult with the Arbitrators and then give a final decision.

d) An appeal against a Range Officer's decision can be lodged in writing with the Arbitration Committee but no appeal can be made over whether a clay was broken or not, as the Range Officer's decision in this matter is final.

e) If a shooter, Team Captain or Championship Official observes something that is contrary to the rules he or she should point the matter out immediately to the Range Officer who should take immediate steps to stop the violation of the rules. If this is not possible a protest may be lodged as above.

422 Penalties:

a) All shooters shall be deemed to know the rules, and must accept beforehand all penalties that may result from violations thereof, or from disobeying the Range Officer's instructions.

b) If a shooter uses a gun or ammunition which does not comply with the rules, any target hit with that gun or ammunition will be scored as a miss.

c) If a violation of the rules is deliberate, the shooter may be disqualified.

d) If a shooter hinders another by his or her attitude, conduct or words, the shooter will be warned by the Range Officer. If the offence is repeated the shooter will be penalised by the deduction of one or two points from his or her score, as decided appropriate between the Range Officer and the Arbitration Committee.

e) A shooter firing a gun before reaching the shooting stand will be committing a severe breach of the safety rules and will be disqualified.

423 For safety reasons, flintlock and percussion guns should not be shot on the same relay.

500 SAFETY REGULATIONS

501 Smoking is absolutely forbidden on the firing line.

502 The snapping of caps or the flashing of pans before the 'Open Fire' signal is not permitted. Firearms may only be capped or primed with the barrel pointing down range.

503 All firearms are to be uncapped or unprimed and placed in a safe position during a 'Temporary Cease Fire'.

504 All firearms are to be unloaded upon the 'Cease fire' signal and before retiring from the firing line.

505 Powder in bulk is not allowed on the firing point. Powder charges must be in pre-measured single charge containers. Priming flasks containing no more than 16.2 grams (250 US grains) of powder may be used. Powder should be kept away from direct sunlight.

506 Percussion caps, being sensitive and dangerous, should be protected from accidental ignition by heat or sparks. Only a minimal quantity should be taken to the firing point and containers should be kept closed when firing.

507 Care should be taken when loading to ensure that the projectile is firmly seated on to the powder charge to prevent damage to the barrel.

508 The use of safety spectacles, tinted or otherwise, is mandatory. Corrective shooting lenses are permitted.

509 The use of hearing protection by shooters and Range Officers is mandatory.

510 Original firearms must be in a safe shooting condition.

511 Replica arms must be of reliable construction and in a safe shooting condition.

512 Loads must never exceed the normal service loads applicable to modern black powder.

513 In the event of a misfire the competitor must keep the firearm pointing towards the target for at least 10 seconds. After that it should be kept pointing at the target when possible, and never turned towards another shooter or spectator.

514 If an incident or malfunction cannot be cleared by the competitor, he or she must inform the Range Officer before taking further action.

515 In flintlock and matchlock events, the organisers should ensure that protection from vent flashes is installed between shooters.

516 Matchlocks:

a) During loading, the lighted end of the match must be kept in a safe container.

b) When shooting, the match should be secured so that it does not fly about on firing.

517 Spectators must remain at least three metres behind the firing point and remain quiet when shooting is in progress. No one, other than the Range Officers, shall be permitted to speak to competitors during competitions.

518 In the event of a loading incident (e.g. bullet without powder, two bullets loaded etc) the shooter should seek the permission of the Range Officer before clearing the firearm.

519 Each shooter is responsible for the proper functioning of his or her firearm and equipment.

520 Only factory made black powder may be used. No black powder substitute may be used.

521 It is mandatory to seal the chambers of revolvers with grease after loading the projectiles.

RULE 600 IS INCLUDED IN THE 'COMPETITIONS' PAGE

APPENDIX 1

CLAY TARGET SHOOTING LAYOUT – PLAN AND ELEVATION

APPENDIX 1A

CLAY TARGET SHOOTING LAYOUT – DIMENSIONS IN METRES

APPENDIX 2

HISTORICAL SHOOTING EVENTS

The following Historical Shooting Events are not MLAIC competitions, but may be held during MLAIC Championships at the discretion of the organisers and subject to ratification at an MLAIC Meeting.

All Historical Shooting Events shall be conducted in accordance with the MLAIC Rules, modified as follows:

Rule 352 Originals: Any alteration to an original firearm which would spoil its historical value or be out of keeping with the construction techniques of the period, would disqualify the arm from use in Historical Shooting Events. In particular the following items are disallowed:

Bedding of the barrel into the stock, irrespective of the manner in which it is done.
Sleeving of the barrel.
Lightening of lock springs by filing, annealing or any other method.
The reduction in the weight of trigger pull by means of filing, or other means of removal of material, to modify the original profile of the tumbler or seal.
The entire replacement of the barrel or lock.
The use of diopters, palm rests or another accessories on firearms not originally intended for their use.
Barrels may not be bent to alter their point of aim.

NB Reducing the depth of the firing notch by welding a lining to the tumbler is permitted.

Military Longarms: - Service rifles and muskets of any calibre and model for use in disciplines Leipzig, Austerlitz, Gettyburg and Inkermann. The following shall apply:

Arms should be of a genuine military service pattern as adopted by a Government and be in an unaltered as-issued condition with military pattern sights.

Limited alterations to the point of aim are permissible by the use of a replacement blade or sight bearing the same configuration and profile of the original.

Set triggers are only permitted on arms originally designed with this feature, (eg Swiss Federal Carbine Model 1851, Bavarian Jagerstutzen Model 1854).

Butt or cheek pads, the wiping out of the barrel between shots, and the use of a loading funnel are prohibited.

Repair of Arms: Any repair or restoration work to firearms must be in accordance with MLAIC Rules.
The use of any material unknown or not used by gunmakers of the period in which the arm was made, is not permitted.

The use of minor replacement parts, such as screws or springs, is permitted provided the parts are of identical design and material to the original.

Loading of Arms: Loading must always be carried out in accordance with the original military procedure laid down for the model of arm in the country of origin (including paper cartridges) and with the use of the original ramrod or an identical reproduction thereof.

When the original loading procedure required the use of a powder flask, this shall be used to fill a separate single-charge container, which will, in turn, be used to load the powder into the muzzle.

For safety reasons, flintlock muskets must be loaded either unprimed (with a copper or brass pin plugging the touch-hole) or primed with a leather covering to the frizzen face.

Ammunition: The use of any material unknown or not used in the manufacture or loading of ammunition during the period in which the arm was originally used, (eg aluminium foil, plastic) is not permitted. Cartridges must be made as identical as possible to the original pattern for the model of arm in the country of origin.

Bullets must be as identical as possible to the original pattern for the model of arm in the country of origin, and must function in accordance with the original design principle of the arm (e.g. Minie, pillar breech, compression).
Combustible or nitrate paper cartridges are forbidden for safety reasons.

Uniforms: Historical uniforms, either original or replica, appropriate to the arm being used in competition, are to be worn. A penalty of two points will be deducted for each shooter not in correct uniform.

Clothing: In competition, it is forbidden to wear clothing designed for modern shooting disciplines, such as shooting shoes, shooting trousers, shooting gloves etc.

Shooting spectacles, with or without an iris, are permitted.

Targets: The target used shall be the C N D A 1/1993 HS (54 cm x 84 cm) having a black stripe in the middle, oval scoring rings of increasing width from '10' out to the '3'.

Historical Shooting Disciplines:

1) No 50 LEIPZIG: Individual - 50 metres - Standing Offhand (Elbow of supporting arm far from body) 13 shots in 30 minutes - best 10 shots to score. Flintlock smooth-bore military muskets of any type or calibre.

2) No 61 AUSTERLITZ: Teams of four shooters as Leipzig, except 10 shots per shooter. One target for each team member. Each shot to be fired on command from the Range Officer as follows
'Load' - each shooter loads his arm and assumes the 'Ready' position;
'Aim' - given when all shooters are seen to be in the 'Ready' position;
'Fire' - following which shooters have 10 seconds in which to fire.
Misfires count as zero. Ties decided as with MLAIC team events.

3)No 52 GETTYSBURG: Individual - 100 metres - Standing Offhand - 13 shots in 30 minutes - best 10 shots to score. Percussion military rifles over 13.5 mm bore.4)

No 62 INKERMANN: Teams of four as Gettysburg. Shooting as Per Austerlitz.

APPENDIX 3 MLAIC APPROVED CHAMPIONSHIPS

Besides World and Zone Championships, the MLAIC is pleased to give official recognition and approval to international championships run in accordance with MLAIC rules. Application for such approval, stating any deviation to the rules that may be necessary due to local conditions (such as a reduction in the number of entrants) should be made to the Secretary-General in ample time for consultation with Member Countries.The following international championships are currently approved by the MLAIC:

1) ANZAC Zone (The New Zealand Black Powder Shooters Federation)

2) ICMLA (Koninklijke Nederlandse Schutters Associatie)

3) MLAIC GRAND PRIX.
MLAIC Grand Prix Championships may be held each year in addition to Zone and World Championships, to include two (2) to ten (10) nations (ideally two to four within a specific geographic area). These events must be conducted under MLAIC rules and the program must be approved by the Secretary-General prior to its being designated “sanctioned” or “approved.” Any or all of the events included in a full MLAIC program of competition may be included in the Championships, and regional records shall be kept, separate from Zone and World records.

APPENDIX 4 to the Constitution, Rules & Regulations of The Muzzle Loaders Associations International Committee (adopted 15 August 2000)

1.00 RULES AND COMPETITION CONDITIONS FOR LONG RANGE RIFLE SHOOTING CHAMPIONSHIPS

1.01 GENERAL Championships are to be organised as an MLAIC event under the current Constitution, Rules and Regulations of the MLAIC supplemented by the additional rules below. In the event of an omission or a discrepancy the rules of the MLAGB/NRA of GB for mid and long range shooting, modified as necessary to comply with established shooting practices of the host nation, apply, but in all cases the decision of the Arbitration Committee shall be final and binding.

1.02 SQUADDING A competitor must shoot at the time and at the target for which he has been squadded, and in sequence with the other shooters squadded on the same target. The competitor must fire from a position on the left of his allocated target peg and allow other shooters sharing the same firing position to compete with the minimum of hindrance.

1.03 COACHING Competitors may spot for or coach each other, but must keep noise to a minimum so as not to disturb other shooters. No coaching or assistance from others is permitted. Communications with the butt markers will be through the Range Officer only and limited to queries on standard messages as in section 5.00.

1.04 FOULING SHOTS Unlimited fouling shots/warming shots may be fired in to the stop butt, but only during the permitted detail time. These shots must be fired from the prone/supine position.

1.05 CONVERTIBLE SIGHTERS The first scoring shot on the target will count as the first convertible sighter. The decision to convert sighters must be made after all the sighters have been fired and before firing any further shots. Sighters can only be converted in reverse order of firing, so that they form a continual sequence with the following scoring shots. It is therefore not possible to convert a sighter without including all the subsequent sighters. When sighters are converted the number of subsequent shots shall be reduced accordingly to give the correct total of shots for the competition.

1.06 AMMUNITION Only factory made black powder may be used. Bullets may be lead or lead alloy, greased or paper patched and of a contemporary style. Gas checks are not permitted.

1.07 MARKING The position and scoring value of each shot will be separately signalled. In addition to a spotting disk placed in the shot hole, the value of the shot will be indicated by a coloured maker positioned along the lower edge of the target frame as follows

No marker, miss.

1.08 SCORING When a shot touches the line between the scoring divisions on a target, the shooter shall be accredited with the higher score.

1.09 REGISTER KEEPING The recording of scores will be carried out by range officers. Protests over the value of the score or a challenge in the event of a miss, must be made to the range officer by the competitor before the next person on that target fires.

1.10 TIES In the event of a tie the winner will be decided by the highest number of V Bulls. If still a tie, the winner shall be determined by having the higher score on count back (for example, a shooter whose final shots are 4, 3, 5 beats someone who finishes 2,3, 5).

1.11 BUTT MARKING DUTIES Competitors must share butt marking duties if required to do so. Anyone failing to carry out butt marking duties conscientiously shall have his score in the event deleted.

1.12 MEDALS In respect of Long Range Rifle Shooting Championships medals shall be awarded for the first three places in each individual event in each category O and R and to each member of the first three places in each team event, as follows:

Winner – Gold Medal
Second – Silver Medal
Third – Bronze Medal

Diplomas shall be awarded to fourth, fifth and sixth places in each individual event. A gold medal shall be awarded for the highest aggregate score in original and replica categories for competitions one, two and three (mid-range aggregate), four and five (long-range aggregate) and for the highest overall aggregate for competitions one, two, three, four and five (the grand aggregate).

200 COMPETITIONS

2.01 No 1 - 300 Yards Whitworth - Individual O or R
A) Firearm: Free percussion rifles (MLAIC definition), maximum weight 15 lbs (6.81 kgs), no distinction between originals and replicas.

B) Sights: Contemporary sights, including original style replica sights. Aperture sights (front and rear) permitted if consistent with the period. Magnifying or telescopic sights not permitted.
C) Target: NRA 300(or nearest equivalent on metric ranges)
D) Position: Prone
E) Distance: 300 yards (or nearest equivalent on metric ranges)
F) Shots: 3 convertible sighters, 10 shots to count
G) Duration: 1 hour detail

2.02 No 2 - 500 Yards Whitworth - Individual O or R
A) Firearm: Free percussion rifles (MLAIC definition), maximum weight 15 lbs (6.81 kgs), no distinction between originals and replicas.
B) Sights: Contemporary sights, including original style replica sights. Aperture sights (front and rear) permitted if consistent with the period. Magnifying or telescopic sights not permitted.
C) Target: NRA 500 (or nearest equivalent on metric ranges)
D) Position: Prone
E) Distance: 500 yards (or nearest equivalent on metric ranges)
F) Shots: 3 convertible sighters, 10 shots to count
G) Duration: 1 hour detail

2.03 No 3 - 600 Yards Whitworth - Individual O or R
A) Firearm: Free percussion rifles (MLAIC definition), maximum weight 15 lbs (6.81 kgs), no distinction between originals and replicas.
B) Sights: Contemporary sights, including original style replica sights. Aperture sights (front and rear) permitted if consistent with the period. Magnifying or telescopic sights not permitted.
C) Target: NRA 600 (or nearest equivalent on metric ranges)
D) Position: Prone
E) Distance: 600 yards (or nearest equivalent on metric ranges)
F) Shots: 3 convertible sighters, 10 shots to count
G) Duration: 1 hour detail

2.04 No 4 -900 Yards Whitworth - Individual O or R
A) Firearm: Free percussion rifles (MLAIC definition), maximum weight 15 lbs (6.81 kgs), no distinction between originals and replicas.
B) Sights: Contemporary sights, including original style replica sights. Aperture sights (front and rear) permitted if consistent with the period. Magnifying or telescopic sights not permitted.
C) Target: NRA LR (or nearest equivalent on metric ranges)
D) Position: Prone (wrist rests permitted) or supine (back position)
E) Distance: 900 yards (or nearest equivalent on metric ranges)
F) Shots: 5 convertible sighters, 15 shots to count
G) Duration: 1½ hour detail

2.05 No 5 - 1,000 Yards Whitworth - Individual O or R
A) Firearm: Free percussion rifles (MLAIC definition), maximum weight 15 lbs (6.81 kgs), no distinction between originals and replicas.
B) Sights: Contemporary sights, including original style replica sights. Aperture sights (front and rear) permitted if consistent with the period. Magnifying or telescopic sights not permitted.
C) Target: NRA LR (or nearest equivalent on metric ranges)
D) Position: Prone (wrist rests permitted) or supine (back position)
E) Distance: 1,000 yards (or nearest equivalent on metric ranges)
F) Shots: 5 convertible sighters, 15 shots to count
G) Duration: 1½ hour detail

2.06 Team Events

No 6 - Mid Range Aggregate: Teams of four, concurrent scores from Competitions 1, 2 & 3 (O &/or R Open)

No 7 - Long Range Aggregate: Teams of four, concurrent scores from Competitions 4 & 5 (O &/or R Open)

3.00 PARTICIPATION & TEAMS

3.01 Sixteen shooters using replica rifles may enter each individual event (per country). In addition an unlimited number of shooters using original rifles may enter each individual event (per country). Each MLAIC Member Country will be allowed one team of four competitors in each of the team events.

3.02 All Delegates must register and pay their team's entry fees in before any member of the team participates in practice or competition.

3.03 The Team Captain shall notify the organisers, by close of play on the previous day, of the names of the shooters whose scores should be used for team events.

4.00 SAFETY

4.01 Smoking is absolutely forbidden on the range.
4.02 No competitor may move himself or his equipment forward onto the Firing Point until authorised to do so by the Range Conducting Officer.
4.03 The snapping of caps or loading of firearms before the 'Open Fire' signal is not permitted. Firearms may only be capped with the barrel pointed down range.
4.04 Fouling/warming shots must be fired from the prone/supine position.
4.05 Powder charges must be in pre-measured single charge containers.
4.06 The use of safety spectacles and hearing protection is mandatory.

5.00 MID RANGE AND LONG RANGE RADIO MESSAGES. The following Code Messages will be used to communicate between the Range Officers on the firing point and the butts. The target number will be given, followed by the message number, viz
Message 1 Firing is about to start - raise targets.
Message 2 No spotting disc is visible.
Message 3* The spotting disc unmistakably disagrees with the value shown. Re-signal correct value.
Message 4* Examine the target for a shot and signal the shot of found or a miss.
Message 5* Challenge for a higher value.
Message 7* Challenge for a hit after a miss has been signalled.
Message 9 (From firing point) Unduly slow marking; (From butts) Unduly slow firing.
Message 10 Stand easy; half mast target and patch out.
Message 11* The wrong shot may have been patched out

.* The butts supervisor must radio the result to the firing point.
For messages 5 and 7, the butts supervisor must, and for 11 should, personally check the target.

6.00 VENUES. Because of the limited number of countries with ranges capable of hosting a long-range championship, the venue will rotate among the United Kingdom, the United States and South Africa. This will continue until such time as additional nations are able to host such championships, and at that time these nations will become part of the rotation procedure.

7.00 NRA TARGET DIMENSIONS

The V Bull is indicated on the target by a broken line.

At 600 yards, shots clear outside the lines drawn 6" inside the top and bottom of the target and 1" inside on each side of the target count as misses. At Long Range, shots clear outside the lines drawn 1" inside the edges of the target count as misses.

Adoption of Rules and competition conditions for long range rifle shooting used for the 1st MLAIC Long Range Muzzle Loading Rifle World Championships at Bisley in October 1999.

APPENDIX 5 to the Constitution, Rules & Regulations of The Muzzle Loaders Associations International Committee (adopted 24 August 2004):

MLAIC JOB DESCRIPTIONS

Note: Throughout this document the references to “he,” “his” or “him” shall also mean he/she, his/her, him/her.

SECRETARY-GENERAL

Shall be elected at the end of each World Championships Committee Meeting by a simple majority of the voting delegates and have the following duties:
1. Preside over all MLAIC meetings during the following two years but have no vote on considered items during those meetings.
2. Chair all technical and committee meetings.
3. Be responsible for the day-to-day administration of the MLAIC and enforcement of MLAIC Rules and committee decisions.
4. Receive correspondence from member associations and distribute pertinent information to delegates.
5. Set and send the agenda for Committee Meetings to all delegates at least three months prior to the meetings.
a. Any matters for inclusion on the agenda must be received by the Secretary-General at least four months prior to the meetings.
6. Edit, print and circulate newsletters.
7. Appoint Recording Secretary, Webmaster and Small Arms Committee, and monitor their activities as well as those of the Commission.
a. Has authority to appoint appropriate ad-hoc advisory committees as necessary.
8. Edit amendments and voted alterations to the MLAIC Rules.
9. Edit and maintain World and Zones Records lists and mail same to all delegates in the first newsletter following the World or Zone event.
10. Develop a list of individuals who have expertise in working with MLAIC rules and regulations.
a. This list should be utilized to assist the host country to obtain properly qualified individuals to serve on the MLAIC Firearms Control and Arbitrations Committees.
11. Assist delegates and their match directors with information helpful to their operation of upcoming matches.

The Secretary-General’s travel expenses (economy class air, rail and auto plus hotel and food) for attendance at World and Zones Championships are to be reimbursed by the host country except where low attendance makes this impractical.

PRESIDENT

Shall be the delegate of the host country accepted by the MLAIC to serve as the host/organizer of the upcoming World Championships and to serve as the President of the MLAIC from the day after the preceding World Championships until the last day of his championships. He shall be responsible for:
1. Presenting a proposed program for his championships to the MLAIC Delegates’ meeting at the preceding championship.
2. Maintaining contact with the Secretary-General providing information on the progress of the planned championships.
3. Transmitting all necessary information and forms for the event to all member countries within the prescribed time limits.
4. Overseeing the organization and the conduct of his World Championships, including the appointment of appropriate staff.

VICE PRESIDENT(S)

Shall be the delegates of the host/organizing countries of the upcoming Zone Championships and to serve as Vice Presidents of the MLAIC from the day after the preceding Zone Championships until the last day of his championships.

He shall be responsible for:
1. Presenting the proposed program for the upcoming Zone Championships to the MLAIC delegates.
2. Maintaining contact with the Secretary-General providing information on the progress of the planned Zone Championships.
3. Transmitting all necessary information and forms for the event to all member countries in the applicable zone within the prescribed time limits.
4. Organizing and assuring the proper conduct of the appointed Zone Championships, including appointing all necessary staff.
5. Appointing a Firearms Control Committee from participating members of at least three different countries and appointing an Arbitration Committee to serve during his championships.
6. Assuring finalization and publication of the Zone Championships results that are to be presented to the Secretary-General and to all delegates prior to their departure from the Zone Championships.

TREASURER

Shall be appointed by the Secretary-General, with the approval of the MLAIC delegates, and shall be responsible for:
1. Collection of dues and assessed fees from member organizations and payment of appropriate expenses.
2. Presenting a current MLAIC financial report to be distributed by the Secretary-General along with the meeting agenda at least three months prior to the World Championships.
3. Supplying, as appropriate, updated reports during the World Championships meetings and to the Secretary-General upon request.

RECORDING SECRETARY

Shall be appointed by the Secretary-General, with the approval of the MLAIC delegates, and shall be responsible for:
1. Attending the World Championships at his own expense.
2. Recording the minutes from each meeting and presenting them to the Secretary-General for review and distribution.
3. Performing other meeting duties as directed by the Secretary-General.
4. As the operational language of the MLAIC is English, the Recording Secretary should be fluent in at least that language.

WEBMASTER

Shall be appointed by the Secretary-General, with the approval of the MLAIC delegates, and shall be responsible for Preparing, monitoring and maintaining on a current basis the content of the MLAIC official website under the direction of the Secretary-General. The yearly cost of the website shall be reimbursed to the Webmaster by the MLAIC.

SMALL ARMS COMMITTEE

1. Shall be appointed by the Secretary-General and consist of six highly-knowledgeable black powder arms collectors, curators, historians, etc., and shall be responsible for:
a. Reviewing and evaluating submitted replicas of antique arms for appropriate use in MLAIC competitions. These arms may be submitted by manufacturers or private individuals.
b. Preparation and publishing of updated lists of approved arms.
2 These lists to be distributed by the Secretary-General to the delegates of MLAIC member countries, the Firearms Control Committees at scheduled matches and to interested arms companies upon request.

DELEGATE

Shall be duly elected or appointed by each country’s authorized National Association to act as its representative and have the following duties:
1. Attend and participate in all World Championships Committee and appropriate Zone Championship meetings, where he shall have one vote on each matter for consideration.
a. May, if unable to attend, authorize a deputy to attend and vote in his place.
b. May, alternatively, authorize the delegate from another nation to carry his proxy vote(s) on matters to be considered at meetings where he cannot attend. Such a proxy must be made in writing to the attending delegate, with a copy to the Secretary-General.
2. Responsible for all his organization’s correspondence, championship registrations, etc.
3. Responsible for maintaining regular contact with the Secretary-General.
4. Reporting any pertinent MLAIC information to his own country’s organization.
5. When the delegate’s country is appointed to host a championship, he must explain at the preceding Championship Meeting any political problems that may prevent the attendance of any other MLAIC country.
a. In such cases where federations must comply with their government’s policies it is permissible to allow the entry of an MLAIC International Team, made up from shooters from non-member countries or shooters from member countries not sending an official team. This alternative is subject to the approval of the affected country.
6. When acting as the host country for World Championships or Zone Championships, he shall oversee and assign appropriate responsibilities for operation of said matches.
a. Should endeavor to minimize the cost to all shooters by limiting the duration of the Championships to six days or less.

FIREARMS CONTROL COMMITTEE

Shall be appointed by the President of the MLAIC (for World Championships) or the applicable Vice President (for Zone Championships) from participating members of at least three different countries.
1. The organizers should, in advance, seek volunteers from participating countries and notify those appointed before the start of the championships.
A member of the Firearms Control Committee shall not make any decisions regarding the firearms of his own national team. The committee shall have the following duties and responsibilities:
1. Inspect and certify all firearms to be used in the championships prior to the start of competitions.
a. The committee shall make use of the latest updated MLAIC Approved Arms List as prepared by the Small Arms Committee.
b. Any firearm of questionable authenticity should be presented to the Firearms Control Committee with any available substantiating documentation. The arms shall be accepted with normal reserves or rejected. “Normal reserves” means that the committee accepts the firearm as complying with the rules but without any implication of authenticity.
c. Any bullet design of questionable originality (especially those of a non-standard design) should be presented to the Firearms Control Committee with any substantiating documentation.
2. Identify and mark, in a readily visible manner, all firearms certified for competition and their Original or Replica status.
3. Have available on the shooting range all instruments and gauges necessary to competently perform inspections.
a. Calipers, micrometer, magnifying glass, metric screw gauges, lists of specifications for most arms, etc.
4. Disqualification of any unacceptable firearms or bullets should be done prior to the start of the applicable event.
a. Disqualified arms or bullets may be appealed by the competitor and/or team captain or delegate, in writing, to the Arbitration Committee, whose decision shall be final.
5. The Firearms Control Committee may carry out a check of any firearm, its sights, bore bedding, bullets, etc., at the firing point immediately after the competitor has completed the match.

ARBITRATION COMMITTEE

Shall be composed of three members and three alternates selected from at least three different MLAIC nations. Shall be appointed by the President of the MLAIC (for World Championships) or the applicable Vice Presidents (for Zone Championships) and shall be chaired by a Chief Arbitrator/Foreman. These committee personnel shall have the following responsibilities:
1. The Chief Arbitrator shall draw up and post a schedule of Arbitration