NRA Action Pistol (Bianchi Cup)
NRA Action Pistol combines accuracy and speed against paper or cardboard targets and falling plates, with shots fired from fixed positions within set time limits. Beginners can start with a suitable stock semiautomatic pistol or revolver rather than a specialized race gun. The four-event Bianchi Cup came under CMP in 2023; CMP publishes the rules governing that competition. [1] [3] [5]
Governing bodies: NRA Competitive Shooting · Civilian Marksmanship Program — Bianchi Cup
At a glance
- Firearms
- Semiautomatic pistols and revolvers; the NRA rulebook also defines .22 rimfire equipment. [13] [15]
- Match format
- The four Bianchi events are Practical, Barricade, Moving Target and Falling Plate. Each is 48 shots; the 2026 Cup program gives a highest possible aggregate of 1920 – 192X. Local NRA tournament courses are set by the match program. [28] [6]
- Scoring
- Paper hits score 10, 8 or 5 points. The X ring breaks ties; a falling plate must fall to score 10 points and 1 X. [11]
- NRA rulebook
- NRA Action Pistol Rule Book, revised February 2025. [2]
- Bianchi Cup rulebook
- CMP Action Pistol Competition Rules, 4th Edition, 2026. These govern CMP-sponsored and sanctioned matches, including the Cup. [5]
- Membership
- NRA membership is not generally required for Approved or Registered tournaments; Approved-match sponsors may restrict entry to members. CMP individual membership is not required for CMP matches. [21] [27]
- Next Bianchi Cup
- CMP lists June 15-19 2027 at Green Valley Rifle & Pistol Club in Hallsville, Missouri. [4]
How a match works
- The tournament program specifies the courses, entry conditions and whether you receive an assigned shooting group (relay) and firing point. A local NRA tournament need not use the full four-event Bianchi format. [6]
- At an NRA match, the Range Officer gives “Load and Make Ready,” “Ready,” “Stand By,” the event’s start signal, and “Cease Firing – Unload and Show Clear.” Each string has a specified number of shots and time allowance. [18] [7] [8] [9] [10]
- Practical: 48 shots at 10, 15, 25 and 50 yards, with three strings at each distance. Two-shot, four-shot and six-shot strings have different time limits. The final 10-yard string is weak-hand (non-dominant hand) only; standing is required at 10 yards, with prone (lying down) optional at the longer distances. [7]
- Barricade: 48 shots at 10, 15, 25 and 35 yards. At each distance, two six-shot strings are fired from opposite sides of a barricade, with time limits of 5, 6, 7 and 8 seconds respectively. All stages are standing; permitted use of the barricade depends on equipment division. [8]
- Moving Target, modified: 48 shots at 10, 15, 20 and 25 yards. The target travels 60 feet in six seconds. At 10 and 15 yards, each run is six shots; at 20 and 25 yards, each run is three shots. The target’s appearance, not an audible signal, starts the string. [9]
- Falling Plate: 48 shots at 10, 15, 20 and 25 yards, with two six-shot strings at each distance. The eight-inch plates must fall to count. Published time limits are 6, 7, 8 and 9 seconds respectively; the rulebook allows specified changes, including shorter limits at the National Championship. [10] [11]
- Keep account of your score alongside the scorekeeper. NRA paper-target ties are ranked first by total X count, then by X count at the longest distance, proceeding through the prescribed tie-breaking rules. [18] [11]
Where to compete
Shooting Sports USA lists NRA-sanctioned tournaments through a location search. The NRA club finder searches affiliated clubs; affiliation alone does not identify the events a club currently offers. Confirm Action Pistol dates, courses and entry conditions in the host’s program. For the Bianchi Cup, use CMP’s event page. [24] [25] [6] [4]
No upcoming events for this sport are listed here. Check the official match finder; our coverage is not a complete schedule.
Your first match
- Find a match and contact the host. Use Shooting Sports USA’s Coming Events location search or the NRA-affiliated club finder. Ask for the tournament program: it determines which events are fired, entry conditions and squadding. [24] [25] [6]
- Confirm NRA or CMP rules. NRA matches use the NRA Action Pistol book, revised February 2025. The Bianchi Cup and other CMP matches use CMP’s Action Pistol rules, 4th Edition, 2026. The two books have different equipment and classification provisions. [2] [5] [14] [27] [26]
- Arrange the newcomer check. Tell the host you are new and arrange the mandatory NRA equipment and match-procedure check. Ask how the club handles the Tyro Course or equivalent-proficiency requirement. The Tyro Course is 24 shots at 10 yards; progressing requires 70% of the possible score (168 out of 240) and passing the officials’ safety observation. [17]
- Match equipment to the program. Confirm your division with the host, then bring the eligible pistol, holster and ammunition. Check the program’s reload requirements and bring the magazines or speedloaders and carriers needed for those events. Confirm the ammunition power floor and protection requirements. [1] [16] [14] [18] [27]
- Check your class and shooting group. If you have no NRA assigned, temporary or official class, expect to compete in Master. Obtain a Score Record Book at your first NRA tournament for temporary classification. If the program assigns a shooting group (relay) and firing point, report for that assignment. [19] [6]
Never fired a gun at a range? Start with your first range visit.
What to bring
Bring eye and hearing protection to your first match, even where a league only recommends it. Check the host’s requirements before you arrive.
- Eligible pistol or revolverRequired
- A suitable stock gun can be enough to start. Have the host check the gun against the equipment rules for your chosen division, especially if it has an optic or modifications. NRA novices must undergo equipment inspection. [1] [17] [14]
- HolsterRequired
- The NRA requires a safe, serviceable holster that retains the pistol throughout the course. Production requires a top-draw holster. [16] [14]
- Magazines or speedloaders and reload carriersOptional
- The beginner guide lists magazines or revolver speedloaders and carriers. They are useful starter equipment, not a blanket requirement for every revolver match. NRA events with mandatory reloads require belt-mounted holders; magnetic retention alone is not allowed. [1] [16]
- Ammunition for the match programRequired
- NRA centerfire ammunition has a lower caliber limit of 9mm and must meet the power floor: bullet weight in grains × muzzle velocity in feet per second = not less than 120,000. Chronographs are mandatory for checks at Registered tournaments. Rimfire has separate ammunition rules. [16]
- Eye and hearing protection for CMP matchesRequired
- CMP requires both on firing lines during pistol firing. For an NRA match, protection is strongly recommended and the host may require it; confirm the host’s policy. [18] [27]
- Waist beltOptional
- The NRA beginner guide recommends a quality waist belt to limit holster movement. [1]
What it costs
- NRA match entry
- The NRA rulebook lists a $4.50 per-competitor registration fee for Approved tournaments and $5.50 for Registered tournaments. These are not the total entry price: the sponsor sets its own entry fee and must state it separately in the program. [21]
- NRA membership
- The NRA membership FAQ lists one year at $45. Membership is not generally required for Approved or Registered tournaments; an Approved-match sponsor may restrict entry to members. [23] [21]
- 2026 Bianchi Cup entry example
- The 2026 program listed Adult - $295.00 and Junior - $110.00 for the championship, Rimfire Division - $50.00 and Second Gun - $50.00. These are the published 2026 fees, not a quote for the 2027 event or a local match. [28]
- 2026 Cup practice-range example
- For May 4-May 24 practice access, the 2026 program listed Limited Range Membership at $75.00, a Daily Range Pass at $20.00/per day, and targets at $1.50 each or 4 for $6.00. [28]
How scoring works
The four principal events reward points scored within a fixed time allowance, not simply the fastest finish. The 2026 Bianchi Cup program lists a highest possible aggregate of 1920 – 192X. [1] [28]
- An X is a center hit used for tie-breaking, not an extra point above 10. On paper targets, a shot touching a scoring ring receives the higher value. [11]
- A plate hit counts only if the plate falls within the authorized time. Each counts 10 points and 1 X. There are no free make-up shots: firing beyond the prescribed number is penalized. [11] [12]
- For the NRA Practical event, premature starts, procedural errors, extra shots and overtime shots carry a 10-point penalty. When penalties are applied to paper targets scored with Xs, each removes 10 points and 1 X. [12] [11]
- Plate penalties have a specific late-shot rule. The NRA example of six shots, with a late sixth shot knocking down the sixth plate, scores 50-5x; if the late shot misses the last plate, it is also 50-5x, with no additional penalty assessed. [12]
Divisions and classes
- Open
- NRA Open accepts safe, serviceable semiautomatic pistols or revolvers. Its general minimum trigger pull is 2 pounds. The tournament program specifies whether sights are unrestricted or optical sights are prohibited. [13]
- Metallic Sight
- NRA Metallic Sight uses iron sights, with a minimum caliber of 9x19mm. Optical or electronic sights, compensators and ported barrels are prohibited. Rule 3.2 also limits barrel length, sight radius and grips; the general minimum trigger pull is 2 pounds. [13]
- Production
- NRA Production accepts commercially cataloged semiautomatic pistols or revolvers with factory notch-and-post iron sights, subject to permitted changes. Single-action-only pistols are prohibited. Barrel limits are 5.35 inches for semiautos and 6.5 inches for revolvers; the minimum trigger weight is 3.5 lbs. Semiautos fire each string’s first shot double action; revolvers fire every shot double action. A top-draw holster is required. [14]
- Production Optic
- NRA Production Optic uses the Production configuration with an optic attached only to the slide between the ejection port and the rear of the slide. The pistol must fit the Production box with the optic removed. Revolvers are not allowed in this NRA division. [14]
- Rimfire alternatives
- The NRA book defines Open Rimfire, Metallic Sight Rimfire and Production Rimfire equipment. When centerfire and rimfire are offered in one tournament, separate aggregate awards are required. Check the program for the equipment and awards actually offered. [15]
Classification
NRA classes use six-shot score averages: High Master 59.40–60.00 (99%–100%); Master 57.60–59.39 (96%–98.99%); Expert 54.00–57.59 (90%–95.99%); Sharpshooter 48.00–53.99 (80%–89.99%); Marksman below 48.00 (below 80%). Unclassified competitors without an assigned or temporary classification compete in Master. A Score Record Book can establish a temporary class after a tournament; official classification requires at least 144 reported shots. Upward reclassification is considered after at least 288 subsequent shots. Centerfire and rimfire scores are not combined. CMP has its own classification system; do not confuse an equipment division with a skill class. [19] [26]
Safety rules
- At NRA matches, do not load until directed by tournament officials. Handling a pistol while not firing is restricted to designated areas. The muzzle must point downrange during loading, unloading and malfunction handling. Do not pick up a dropped pistol except under an official’s direction. NRA officials may disqualify a competitor for rule violations or unsafe conduct. [30]
- At CMP matches, handling is limited to the firing line after “LOAD AND MAKE READY” or a designated handling area. Loading and firing before that command disqualifies the competitor from continuing in that event. If a malfunction cannot be cleared safely, keep the pistol pointed downrange and notify the Range Officer. [31]
- CMP’s end-of-stage command is “CEASE FIRE, UNLOAD AND SHOW CLEAR.” An emergency “CEASE FIRE” also requires an immediate stop; the Range Officer gives further instructions. NRA firing must also stop immediately at “Cease Firing.” [31] [30]
- CMP requires eye and hearing protection on firing lines during pistol firing; refusing a warning to comply is grounds for disqualification. NRA hosts may require protection. Check the range’s rules before arrival. [27] [31] [18]
Match levels and major events
- NRA sanctions leagues and Approved and Registered tournaments. Registered competition is the route for national records; Approved-match scores may still be used for classification when the required courses are fired. [20] [6]
- NRA State Championships and Regional and Sectional Championships are Registered tournaments. State associations and local sponsors provide the programs for those events. [20]
Major events
- CMP Bianchi Cup International Pistol Tournament
- CMP lists June 15-19 2027 at Green Valley Rifle & Pistol Club, 4350 E Academy Road, Hallsville, Missouri 65255. Its event page links the program, registration information, results and official videos. [4]
Common questions
Is NRA Action Pistol the same as the Bianchi Cup?
Not exactly. NRA Action Pistol includes several courses selected by the tournament program. The Bianchi Cup uses the four featured events: Practical, Barricade, Falling Plate and Moving Target. CMP took over the Cup in 2023 and its own rulebook now governs the event. [6] [3] [5]
Do I have to move while shooting?
The four featured events use fixed firing positions within set time limits. In the Mover, the target travels while you remain in the firing area. You change firing distances between stages. [1] [9] [7]
Do I need a custom competition pistol?
No. The NRA beginner guide says an out-of-the-box semiautomatic pistol or revolver can be used. It still has to satisfy the chosen division’s rules; Production, for example, specifies sights, action type, trigger weight and holster restrictions. [1] [14]
Can I use a red dot?
NRA Production Optic allows an optic on a qualifying Production pistol, attached to the slide between the ejection port and the rear of the slide; revolvers are excluded. Metallic Sight prohibits electronic and optical sights. Open sight permissions are stated in the program. [14] [13]
Can I compete with a .22 rimfire pistol?
The NRA book defines rimfire equipment and requires separate centerfire and rimfire aggregate awards when both are offered. CMP recognizes Open, Metallic Sight, Production and Production Optic categories in centerfire or rimfire, as offered by the match program. Confirm what your chosen match offers. [15] [27]
How many rounds does a Bianchi-style match require?
Each of the four featured events uses 48 shots. That is the competition course, not a practice-ammunition allowance. A local NRA tournament may offer different courses; check its program before packing ammunition. [28] [6]
Will my NRA classification work at a CMP match?
CMP permits a competitor without a CMP classification to elect to use their current NRA class. Once a CMP class is established, the NRA class may still be used if it is higher, but not if it is lower. CMP classification starts with a minimum of 96 recorded shots after 1 January 2023, rather than the NRA minimum of 144 reported shots. [26] [19]
Are NRA and CMP equipment rules interchangeable?
No. The NRA Production minimum trigger weight is 3.5 lbs., while the 2026 CMP book gives all pistols a 2.0 lbs. minimum and expressly permits striker-fired Production pistols. The NRA Production Optic rule excludes revolvers. Use the book governing your match, not the division name alone. [14] [27]
Is there a shorter-distance option for beginners?
The NRA Probationary Program condenses longer courses: in its Practical example, the 10- and 15-yard strings are fired at 10 yards, and the 25- and 50-yard strings at 15 yards. Its classification is separate from standard NRA Action Pistol. Short Course events may also be used in Approved, but not Registered tournaments, and do not count for national records or classification. Ask the host whether either is offered. [22]
Do I need to join the NRA before my first match?
NRA membership is not required for Approved tournaments unless the sponsor restricts entry to members; Registered tournaments encourage membership but do not require it. The sponsor’s program states the entry conditions. CMP individual membership is not required for CMP matches. [21] [6] [27]
What is the minimum age for CMP Action Pistol?
CMP Action Pistol matches are open to competitors aged 14 or older; .22 rimfire matches are open to those aged 12 or older. CMP or the match sponsor may waive the age requirement with evidence that a younger applicant can safely complete the course, from suitable live-fire training or similar competition experience. For an NRA match, arrange the host’s mandatory novice equipment and procedure check and confirm the program’s entry conditions. [29] [17] [6]
Which NRA junior and senior age categories apply?
Junior eligibility extends through December 31 of the year of the twentieth birthday. Intermediate Junior covers the calendar years of the 15th through 17th birthdays; Sub-Junior extends through the year of the fourteenth birthday. Senior eligibility starts January 1 of the year of the 60th birthday; Grand Senior starts January 1 of the year of the 70th birthday. National Guard, Reserve or active-duty competitors receiving support defined in rule 2.2 cannot compete as juniors. These are competitor categories, not equipment divisions or skill classes. [32] [19] [13]
Can another NRA pistol classification give me an assigned class?
Yes. If you have neither a regular nor temporary Action Pistol class, NRA rule 19.6 assigns the highest class you hold in Outdoor Pistol, Indoor Pistol, Police Pistol Combat or the listed International Pistol categories. That assigned class lasts until replaced by a temporary or regular Action Pistol class. It does not remove a sponsor’s Tyro requirement. [33]
Glossary
- Par time
- The fixed time allowance in which the required shots must be fired. A shot after the allowance can incur a penalty. [1] [12]
- String
- A group of shots within a stage, with its own time allowance. For example, the Practical event has three strings in each stage. [6] [7]
- Aggregate
- The combined scores from two or more matches specified in the tournament program. [6]
- AP-1
- The paper or cardboard precision target with X, A, B and C scoring areas. [11]
- X count
- The number of center hits used for tie-breaking. Falling-plate hits also score an X. [11]
- Mover
- The Moving Target event. The 48-shot modified version uses a target traveling 60 feet in six seconds. [9] [28]
- Division
- An equipment grouping such as Open, Metallic Sight, Production or Production Optic, rather than a measure of skill. [13] [14] [19]
- Classification
- A score-based skill grouping, from Marksman through High Master. NRA centerfire and rimfire averages are kept separate. [19]
- Tyro Course
- The NRA newcomer course: 24 shots at 10 yards, with a score and safety-observation requirement. Officials may accept equivalent proficiency. [17]
- Squadding
- Assignment to a definite relay and target or firing position for a match. [6]
- Power floor
- The NRA centerfire ammunition minimum: bullet weight in grains × muzzle velocity in feet per second = not less than 120,000. CMP expresses its minimum power factor as 120. [16] [27]
- Stage
- A portion of a match with one or more strings, defined by its position, time allowance or target. The Practical event has four distance-based stages. [6] [7]
- Production box
- The NRA size-check box: 8-15/16” x 6” x 1-5/8”. Production semiautos must fit with an empty magazine inserted; revolvers are exempt. NRA Production Optic pistols must fit with the optic removed. [14]
Watch and read
- CMP Action Pistol videos with Julie Golob Page · Civilian Marksmanship Program
- 2025 CMP Bianchi Cup video highlights Video · Civilian Marksmanship Program
Sources
Facts checked October 4, 2026 against the sources below. Each bracketed number on the page links to its source.
- Getting Started: Introduction to NRA Action Pistolcompetitions.nra.org
- NRA Official Rule Bookscompetitions.nra.org
- CMP Bianchi Cupthecmp.org
- NRA Action Pistol rules, revised February 2025 — Practical event (7.6 and 10.22)competitions.nra.org
- NRA Action Pistol rules, revised February 2025 — Barricade event (7.7)competitions.nra.org
- NRA Action Pistol rules, revised February 2025 — penalties (10.22 and 14.3(h))competitions.nra.org
- NRA Action Pistol rules, revised February 2025 — tournament levels (1.6)competitions.nra.org
- NRA membership FAQmembership.nra.org
- Shooting Sports USA Coming Eventsssusa.org
- Find Your Clubexplore.nra.org
- NRA Action Pistol rules, revised February 2025 — assigned classification (19.6)competitions.nra.org
- Terminology: Trigger-Cockingamericanrifleman.org
Inclusion is not an endorsement. Send a source or correction.