The Extreme Benchrest Competition 2025: A Showcase of Precision and Passion

Matt Hodges
15 hours ago
5 min read

The Extreme Benchrest (EBR) Competition, hosted by Airguns of Arizona, is a hallmark event in the world of airgun shooting sports, bringing together top marksmen from across the globe to test their skills, equipment, and precision in a thrilling multi-day showdown. Held annually at the Rio Salado Sportsman’s Club in Mesa, Arizona, the 2025 event—marking its 14th year—is set to take place from October 9-12, promising another unforgettable experience for competitors and spectators alike. Here’s a deep dive into what makes the EBR a must-attend event for airgun enthusiasts.

A Legacy of Excellence

Since its inception over a decade ago, the Extreme Benchrest Competition has grown into one of the most prestigious airgun events worldwide. Organized by Airguns of Arizona, a leading name in the airgun industry, the EBR was born from a desire to showcase the incredible advancements in high-power airgun technology and provide a platform for shooters to push the limits of long-range accuracy. Unlike traditional benchrest competitions, the EBR embraces a variety of disciplines, including benchrest, silhouette, field target, and big bore challenges, making it a dynamic and inclusive event that appeals to shooters of all skill levels.

The 2025 event continues this legacy, offering competitors the chance to vie for substantial cash prizes, high-value gear, and the coveted title of EBR champion. With a prize table valued at over $66,000 in 2024, this year’s competition is expected to raise the stakes even higher, attracting top talent from countries as far as Australia, South Africa, and Chile.

The Disciplines: Testing Skill and Precision

The EBR is renowned for its diverse range of events, each designed to challenge shooters in unique ways. Here’s a look at some of the key competitions that define the Extreme Benchrest experience:

75 and 100-Yard Benchrest

The signature events of the EBR, the 75 and 100-yard benchrest competitions, push airguns to their limits. Shooters fire at paper targets from significant distances, battling wind, temperature, and other environmental factors. The Pro Class, open to professionals and top-tier competitors, is particularly intense, with past winners like Claudio Flores (2024, 100-yard Pro Class) setting records with scores like 235/250 with 7 bullseyes. The Sportsman Class offers a welcoming entry point for newcomers, ensuring everyone has a chance to compete.

Speed Silhouette

A crowd favorite, Speed Silhouette tests shooters’ speed and accuracy as they aim to knock down 16 metal targets (chickens, pigs, turkeys, and rams) in the shortest time possible. The 2024 event saw remarkable performances, with Alex Hatfield completing the course in an astonishing 13.87 seconds. This high-energy event allows pre-loaded magazines in the Open and Pro Classes, adding to the excitement.

Extreme Field Target

The Extreme Field Target event challenges shooters to engage steel knockdown targets at varying distances without tripods, relying on skill and adaptability. Competitors move from station to station, aiming for precision under time pressure. This discipline emphasizes versatility, with shooters like Tom Adams excelling by using a single rifle across multiple events, as seen in his 2021 One Gun Challenge performance.

Big Bore Competition

The Big Bore event, designed for airguns with calibers from .25 to over .35, pushes the boundaries of airgun power. Competitors shoot at paper and steel targets up to 400 yards, requiring rifles with a minimum power level of 240 ft/lbs. In 2024, seven shooters earned “Heavy Hitters” patches for their outstanding performance, showcasing the growing capabilities of modern airguns.

50-Yard Benchrest and More

Additional events, such as the 50-yard benchrest and 25-meter matches, provide variety and opportunities for shooters to demonstrate their precision across different ranges and formats. The Pellet Challenge, where shooters aim for the center of a pellet image on the target, adds a fun twist, with winners like Augie Sotello claiming unique prizes like a bottle of whisky in 2024.

The 2025 Experience: What to Expect

The 2025 Extreme Benchrest Competition, running from October 9-12, will follow a packed schedule at the Rio Salado Sportsman’s Club. Registration opens on August 14, 2025, at 10:00 AM MST, and based on previous years, spots are expected to fill quickly—2024’s registration closed in record time due to overwhelming demand. Aspiring competitors are encouraged to visit the Extreme Benchrest website to secure their place and join the waiting list if needed.

The event kicks off with registration and sight-in sessions, allowing shooters to fine-tune their equipment. Vendor tables from top manufacturers like FX Airguns, Daystate, and American Air Arms will be open, offering a chance to explore cutting-edge airgun technology. Daily schedules include a mix of competitions, shooters’ meetings, and social events, fostering a sense of camaraderie among participants. Spectators are welcome, making it a great opportunity for airgun enthusiasts to witness world-class shooting and connect with industry leaders.

Standout Performances and Innovations

The EBR has a history of showcasing remarkable talent and technological advancements. In 2024, Claudio Flores made history as the first shooter to win the 100-yard Pro Class twice, using an American Air Arms EVOL HPS in .30 caliber. His score of 235 with 7 bullseyes highlighted the precision of modern airguns. Other notable performances included Fady Kiwan’s triple-medal haul in 2023 with a Daystate Alpha Wolf and Lauren Parsons’ strong showing as the top female shooter.

The competition also highlights the evolution of airgun technology. FX Airguns’ Smooth Twist barrels have dominated recent events, with 75% of top finishers in 2017 using FX rifles. Meanwhile, brands like Daystate, with models like the Red Wolf, and American Air Arms continue to push the boundaries of accuracy and power, rivaling rimfire firearms in performance.

Why the EBR Matters

The Extreme Benchrest Competition is more than just a shooting match—it’s a celebration of the airgun community. It brings together hobbyists, professionals, and industry leaders in a setting that encourages learning, innovation, and friendly competition. The event’s inclusive nature, with Sportsman and Pro Classes, ensures that everyone from beginners to seasoned shooters can participate. The presence of manufacturer representatives, such as Daystate’s Tony Belas and FX’s Fredrick Axelson, allows shooters to engage directly with the minds behind their equipment, fostering a unique connection between users and creators.

For spectators, the EBR offers a chance to witness the pinnacle of airgun performance, from the precision of benchrest to the fast-paced excitement of silhouette. The event’s welcoming atmosphere, supported by the Quail Creek Airgun Club and Rio Salado Sportsman’s Club, ensures a memorable experience for all.

How to Get Involved

Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or a curious newcomer, the 2025 Extreme Benchrest Competition is an event not to be missed. To participate, mark your calendar for registration on August 14, 2025, and visit www.extremebenchrest.com for details. Spectators can attend free of charge, and the event’s vendor tables and social gatherings provide ample opportunities to immerse yourself in the airgun world.

For those unable to attend, Hard Air Magazine and Airguns of Arizona’s blog offer detailed coverage, including results and highlights. Check out www.hardairmagazine.com or www.airgunsofarizona.com for updates post-event.

Conclusion

The Extreme Benchrest Competition, hosted by Airguns of Arizona, continues to set the standard for airgun shooting sports. With its blend of precision, innovation, and community spirit, the 2025 event promises to be a thrilling chapter in the EBR’s storied history. Whether you’re aiming for the podium or simply soaking in the atmosphere, the EBR is a testament to the passion and skill that define the airgun community. See you in Mesa!

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