An open letter to Service Rifle Shooters:

I spent the better part of twenty-eight (28) years in the regular Marine Corps, and Marine Corps Reserve shooting the service rifle. I believe that the service rifle is very appropriate for course shooting. After all, the course that we use is little more than an adaptation of the Springfield qualification course from prior to World War II. I see the value of the Civilian Marksmanship Program matches, and appreciate what a good service rifle can do out to 600 yards.

However, starting long range shooting with the service rifle is in my opinion a quick trip to frustration. My opinion is shared by some remarkably capable shooters. Colonel Walter Smith, USMCR (retired), has won both the Farr and Porter trophies. He regards 1000 yards with a service rifle has at best a game of luck. If you had the opportunity to sit through a Long Range Firing School when Tom Whitaker was teaching, you quickly would have come to the conclusion that he believes them to be a waste of time.

My personal best score at 1000 yards with an M-14, using Marine Corps G-1 in a team match at Camp Perry was a 197-9X. I regard that score with my M-14 as pure luck, and little more.

The primer linked to this document was written as a means to provide encouragement to shooters entering long range rifle competitions. I believe that by entering this sport with a Palma Rifle or a Match Rifle that you will have the best opportunity to enjoy and progress in the sport.

Very truly yours,

L. L. Cebula

Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps Reserve (retired)

Marine Corps Distinguished 1976

President’s Hundred more than ten times, including one with a Model 70 (1968)

NRA Smallbore Position Distinguished 1976

NRA Smallbore Prone Distinguished 1983