National Rifle Club of Scotland - Shooting Club in Glasgow
Established in 1872, a decade after the inaugural Elcho Match, the National Rifle Club of Scotland has been a driving force in promoting the art of small-bore or scientific rifle shooting. Originally founded with the aim of securing the best rifle representatives for Scotland in the Elcho Shield and other competitions, the club has evolved over the years while maintaining its commitment to excellence.
Horatio Ross, an esteemed and knowledgeable marksman, served as the club’s first captain. While his expertise was invaluable, his autocratic approach led to his resignation after the 1873 Elcho Match. Since then, the club has seen fourteen different captains at its helm, each contributing their expertise and vision during their varying tenures, ranging from one to thirty years.
Initially, long-range shooting took place across various locations in Scotland, including Irvine, Darnley, Cowglen, and Tillicoultry. However, with the onset of World War I, these long-range facilities were closed, and the club’s shooting activities were consolidated at Bisley. During the challenging years of the 1950s and 1960s, the club faced obstacles in assembling a full team. However, a turning point arrived in 1977 with the opening of the magnificent Jubilee range at Blair Atholl, nestled along the picturesque Tilt valley. Initially stretching back to 1000 yards, the range was later expanded to an impressive 1233 yards.
With the introduction of electronic targets, one for each of the six target frames, the Blair Atholl range has become both technically advanced and visually captivating. Utilizing electronic monitors linked via radio from the Butts, shooters on any of the firing points can benefit from this modern shooting infrastructure.
The National Rifle Club of Scotland takes pride in its enduring legacy and the continued growth of Scottish match-rifle shooting. The club’s dedication to excellence, coupled with the breathtaking Blair Atholl range, has revitalized its spirit and fostered a vibrant shooting community. Join the club to be part of this storied tradition and engage in the challenging and captivating world of Scottish match-rifle shooting.
National Rifle Club of Scotland is based in Lanarkshire
