The Rocky Mountain Airgun Challenge: A Thrilling Showcase of Precision and Skill

Nestled in the stunning Hobble Creek Canyon at the Garth Killpack Shooting Range in Springville, Utah, the Rocky Mountain Airgun Challenge (RMAC) is the crown jewel of airgun competitions. Since its debut in 2018, this annual event, hosted by Utah Airguns, has earned a reputation as the “world championship of airgunning,” drawing top marksmen from over 19 countries and captivating spectators with its high-stakes, action-packed events. If you’re an airgun enthusiast or a curious newcomer, RMAC is an unforgettable experience that blends precision, innovation, and camaraderie. Here’s a dive into what makes this event so special.

A Global Stage for Airgun Excellence

Held annually in June, the RMAC is a multi-day extravaganza that pushes the limits of precharged pneumatic (PCP) airguns. With over 200 competitors vying for a share of $100,000 in prize money—including a jaw-dropping $20,000 for the Benchrest Pro Class winner—this event is as intense as it is rewarding. Registration opens months in advance, and spots fill up in minutes, with a lengthy waiting list underscoring the event’s popularity. In 2022, 30% of competitors hailed from countries like South Africa, Sweden, Norway, Mexico, Spain, and England, proving RMAC’s global appeal.

The competition’s setting in Hobble Creek Canyon adds a unique challenge. The canyon’s unpredictable winds—howling in the morning and shifting midday—test shooters’ adaptability and skill, making every shot a battle against the elements. Combine that with a picturesque mountain backdrop, and you’ve got a stage that’s as beautiful as it is demanding.

Four Epic Events

RMAC features four distinct events, each highlighting a different facet of airgun mastery: the 100-Yard Benchrest, Precision Marksman Challenge (PMC), Speed Challenge, and Big Bore Slug Challenge. Here’s a closer look at each:

• 100-Yard Benchrest: This event is all about precision. Shooters have 30 minutes to fire one shot at each of 25 small paper targets at 100 yards, using pellet guns up to .35 caliber. The canyon’s swirling winds make this a true test of patience and marksmanship, with the top five from each relay advancing to a 20-person final.

  
  

• Precision Marksman Challenge (PMC): The heart of RMAC, the PMC mirrors NRL22 and PRS rimfire competitions but with airgun-friendly twists. Competitors shoot from varied positions—prone, kneeling, or off barricades—engaging steel targets from 25 to 190 yards under time pressure. Unique obstacles, like shooting from a light armored vehicle, add excitement and unpredictability.

  
  

• Speed Challenge: This is the crowd favorite, where shooters go head-to-head in fast-paced, high-energy matchups. Competitors race through stages, engaging steel targets as quickly and accurately as possible. The finals have spectators cheering as shooters battle it out in real time, making it one of the most thrilling events to watch.

  
  

• Big Bore Slug Challenge: Often called the most underappreciated event, this challenge showcases the power of airguns with a minimum energy requirement of 140 foot-pounds. Shooters engage steel targets from 75 to 300 yards, often at steep uphill angles, testing both equipment and skill. It’s a spectacle that highlights the cutting-edge capabilities of modern airguns.

Innovation and Community

What sets RMAC apart is its role in driving airgun innovation. The competition has influenced how airguns are manufactured, with advancements in slugs, barrels, and accessories like ARCA rails and high-end bipods mirroring those in precision rifle sports. Unlike traditional firearms, airguns require careful handling—a loaded pellet can’t be removed without firing, adding a layer of complexity to the sport.

The event also fosters a tight-knit community. From first-timers to seasoned pros, competitors share knowledge and camaraderie. Utah Airguns, founded by Justin Jacobson in 2016, is at the heart of this community, with staff who are passionate airgunners themselves. Stories of competitors like Jaiden Tuckett and Alex Hatfield, who went from practicing at the Utah Airguns indoor range to facing off in the pro series finale, highlight the event’s blend of fun and fierce competition.

A First-Timer’s Perspective

For newcomers, RMAC can be an eye-opener. One first-time competitor in 2022 described the Benchrest event as “very difficult and different,” citing the unpredictable canyon winds and the learning curve of airgun mechanics. Observers, too, come away inspired. One attendee in 2019 meticulously studied competitors’ techniques—breathing, rifle hold, optics settings—to prepare for future events, underscoring the depth of strategy involved.

Why RMAC Matters

RMAC isn’t just a competition; it’s a celebration of airgunning’s growth as a sport. Once dismissed as mere backyard tools, PCP airguns now rival centerfire rifles in price and customization, with some setups costing as much as high-end firearms. The event’s $275 entry fee is a small price for a shot at substantial prizes and the chance to compete on a world stage. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or a curious spectator, RMAC offers a front-row seat to the future of airgun sports.

Plan Your Visit

The 2025 RMAC ran from June 18-22, with top shooters like Chad Heckler and Francis Colon dominating the Precision Marksman field. If you’re inspired to join, mark your calendar for registration, which opens in early April and sells out fast—pro class spots were gone in under two minutes for 2025! Spectators are welcome, and the event’s vibrant atmosphere, complete with vendor booths from brands like Riton Optics and Umarex, makes it a must-visit.

For more details, results, or to plan for 2026, visit rockymountainairgunchallenge.com. Whether you’re there to compete or cheer, the Rocky Mountain Airgun Challenge is a thrilling showcase of skill, innovation, and the sheer joy of shooting sports.