What exactly is the RECCE Challenge?

The RECCE Challenge is an outdoor sports competition that combines elements of precision marksmanship, physical fitness, and stealth tactics to simulate the experiences and duties of a sniper-observer team in a combat scenario.

Can you explain the meaning of ‘Recce’?

‘Recce’ comes from the term reconnaissance, which refers to a military strategy for gathering intelligence. Shortened from ‘RECON’ to ‘RECCE’ and pronounced as “Reckie,” it represents the core activities and spirit of the RECCE Challenge.

Is participation restricted to bolt-action rifles only?

Yes, the event adheres to New York State regulations, where a permit is not required to possess a bolt-action rifle. Our rules make the event compliant with state laws, ensuring that everyone has an unforgettable experience within legal boundaries.

What is the policy on magazine capacity at RECCE Challenge Events?

We strictly follow the firearm laws of the state where each event is held. In the case of New York State, we are limited to 10-round magazines.

If held in a state where high-capacity magazines are legal, may participants use magazines deemed as large capacity in the Recce Challenge?

Yes, participants may use larger capacity magazines where it is legally permissible to do so.

Are there restrictions on the type of rifle caliber that can be used at the event?

Yes, the event limits participants to the 30 Caliber series of rifles, which includes but is not limited to calibers such as .308, .300wm, .3030, and 6.5cm. We do not permit calibers like .50 or .475 as they can cause excessive damage to our targets. And no sub-calibers such as .25, or .22.

How is RECCE Challenge different from other precision shooting events?

Other precision shooting events may only test shooting ability. RECCE Challenge allows a person to step into the mission of a sniper-observer and move overland, observe ‘enemy activity’ and report on it, and perform a sniper stalk/sneak using field craft and stealth techniques such as terrain masking and camouflage.

What is the RECCE Challenge Triad?

The RECCE Challenge Triad is the tapestry of three core disciplines, precision shooting, fitness and overland movement, and sniper stalk/sneaking.

What can I expect on the day of the event?

You can expect to arrive around 0630-0700 for an event briefing. The Event will begin immediately following the briefing. The day will be split up into three distinct activities; shooting phase, movement/fitness phase, and stalking phase.

What is the mission of RECCE Challenge?

To provide participants with an immersive and challenging experience that celebrates your individual journey and level of proficiency. The goal is to challenge personal limits and promote your personal-growth journey.

Do I have to be an experienced shooter to participate in RECCE Challenge?

Not necessarily. We require that you are safe with your firearm. Beyond that, you will learn and grow as you are involved and around the participants. Obviously, the more shooting experience you have, the more comfortable you will be.

If I sign up and then cannot attend, can I get a refund?

We will push your entry fee to another event in the future if you cannot attend the event for which you signed up.

Can I be disqualified from a RECCE Challenge event?

Yes. If you violate a safety rule, prove to be unsafe with your firearm, or commit an honor code violation, your challenge will stop. If you commit a safety violation, you will be welcome to stay and enjoy the community of amazing people. If you commit an honor code violation, you will be asked to leave and not to return.

What is an honor code violation?

An honor code violation is lying, cheating, stealing, or in some way acting unethical or immorally while on site. This can include, but is NOT limited to, failure to do right, tampering with another participants firearm or equipment, taking something without permission, etc.

What is a safety violation?

Breaking any of the four fundamental safety rules;

  1. Treat all firearms as if they are loaded.
  2. Never point your weapon at another participant or support person.
  3. Keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to shoot.
  4. Know which target is yours, what is in front of it and what is behind it.

How do I volunteer?

Simply go to Practiscore and sign up by using our volunteer form. Every participant and volunteer must sign the form before coming to RECCE Challenge.