Civilian Marksmanship Program: Comprehensive Guide To Get Started In 2024

The Civilian Marksmanship Program (CMP) is a unique, congressionally chartered organization dedicated to promoting firearms safety training and marksmanship for civilians. Founded with the goal of preparing American citizens to be proficient with rifles, the CMP has evolved into a vital resource for shooters of all ages and skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned marksman or a complete beginner, the CMP offers a range of courses, competitions, and resources to help you develop your skills.

Introduction to the Civilian Marksmanship Program

The CMP has a rich history dating back to 1903 when it was established as part of the War Department Appropriations Act. The initial purpose was to ensure that civilians were trained in marksmanship, which was deemed essential for national defense. Over the years, the CMP has expanded its mission to include a wide variety of programs and competitions, all aimed at fostering a culture of safe and responsible gun ownership.

Today, the CMP operates as a non-profit organization under the guidance of the Corporation for the Promotion of Rifle Practice and Firearms Safety. It is overseen by a Board of Directors appointed by the Secretary of the Army. The organization’s mission is to “promote firearm safety and marksmanship with an emphasis on youth.” Through a combination of educational programs, competitions, and sales of surplus military firearms, the CMP has become a cornerstone of the American shooting sports community.

Getting Started with the Civilian Marksmanship Program

If you’re interested in participating in the CMP, the first step is to understand the eligibility requirements. The CMP is open to all U.S. citizens of legal age who can legally own firearms. There are no membership fees, but participants must be members of a CMP-affiliated club, which includes most shooting sports clubs across the country.

How to Enroll:

Join a CMP-Affiliated Club: The first step is to become a member of a club that is affiliated with the CMP. This can be a local shooting club, a veterans’ organization, or another eligible group.
Obtain a Competitor Number (CT Number): Once you’re a member of a CMP-affiliated club, you can apply for a CT Number. This number is required for all CMP competitions and is your key to accessing the full range of CMP programs.
Complete a Firearms Safety Course: While not always mandatory, completing a CMP-sanctioned firearms safety course is highly recommended, especially for beginners. This ensures that all participants understand the fundamentals of safe gun handling.

Best Courses and Training Programs Offered by CMP

The CMP offers a wide variety of courses designed to meet the needs of shooters at all levels. From basic firearm safety to advanced marksmanship, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of the most popular courses:

Basic Courses:

Basic Rifle and Pistol Courses: These introductory courses are perfect for beginners. They cover the fundamentals of firearms safety, marksmanship, and maintenance. You’ll learn how to properly handle, load, and shoot a rifle or pistol, with plenty of hands-on practice.
Advanced Maintenance Class: For those interested in the technical side of firearms, this course offers in-depth instruction on the maintenance and repair of rifles and pistols. It’s ideal for gun owners who want to learn how to take care of their firearms properly.

Specialized Training:

Small Arms Firing Schools (SAFS): The CMP’s SAFS programs are some of the most popular offerings. Held annually at the National Matches, these schools provide comprehensive training in both rifle and pistol shooting. Participants receive classroom instruction as well as live-fire practice on the range, with guidance from experienced coaches.
Range Officer Training: If you’re interested in officiating at shooting matches, the CMP offers range officer training courses. These courses cover the rules and procedures for conducting safe and fair competitions, with specific programs for rifle and pistol events.
JROTC Marksmanship Instructor Course: This course is designed for Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC) instructors who want to teach marksmanship to their cadets. It includes both classroom instruction and practical training, with an emphasis on safety and proper technique.

Junior Programs: The CMP is particularly committed to promoting youth involvement in shooting sports. The organization offers a range of junior programs, including:

Junior Rifle Camps: These camps provide young shooters with the opportunity to receive expert instruction and compete in national-level matches. The focus is on developing skills and confidence in a supportive environment.
Three-Position Air Rifle: This program is one of the most popular junior shooting disciplines in the United States. It teaches young shooters how to compete in prone, standing, and kneeling positions, with an emphasis on precision and consistency.

Competition Opportunities in the Civilian Marksmanship Program

For those looking to test their skills in a competitive setting, the CMP offers a wide range of opportunities. Whether you’re interested in local matches or national championships, there’s something for everyone.

National Matches: The CMP National Matches, held annually at Camp Perry, Ohio, are the pinnacle of competitive shooting in the United States. These matches include events for both rifle and pistol, with categories for beginners, intermediates, and experts. Some of the key events include:

The President’s Rifle Match: One of the most prestigious events at the National Matches, this competition attracts top shooters from around the country. The winner earns the title of “President’s Hundred.”
National Trophy Individual Rifle Match: Another highly respected event, this match is open to all CMP participants and offers the chance to compete for national recognition.

Local and Regional Matches: If you’re not ready to compete at the national level, the CMP also sanctions a wide variety of local and regional matches. These include:

Rimfire Sporter Matches: These matches are designed for shooters of all skill levels and feature a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. They’re a great way to get started in competitive shooting.
Air Gun Matches: The CMP operates several air gun centers around the country, offering regular matches for air rifle and air pistol shooters. These matches are perfect for those who prefer indoor shooting or want to hone their skills in a controlled environment.

Distinguished Marksman Badges: One of the highest honors in the CMP is earning a Distinguished Marksman Badge. These badges are awarded to shooters who consistently perform at a high level in CMP competitions. To earn a badge, you’ll need to accumulate points by placing in the top ranks of designated matches.

Resources and Support from the Civilian Marksmanship Program

The CMP is more than just a place to learn how to shoot—it’s a community of shooters who support each other in their pursuit of excellence. The organization offers a wealth of resources to help you improve your skills and stay connected with other participants.

Training Materials: The CMP provides a wide range of training materials, including books, videos, and online courses. These resources cover everything from basic marksmanship to advanced shooting techniques. Whether you’re looking for tips on improving your accuracy or guidance on maintaining your firearm, the CMP has you covered.

Online Forums and Communities: The CMP maintains an active online presence, with forums where participants can share advice, ask questions, and discuss their experiences. These forums are a great place to connect with other shooters, learn from their experiences, and find support as you progress in your training.

Equipment and Firearm Sales: The CMP is also known for its sales of surplus military firearms, ammunition, and shooting accessories. These sales are open to eligible participants and offer a unique opportunity to purchase high-quality firearms at reasonable prices. The most popular items include:

M1 Garand Rifles: The CMP is one of the few places where you can purchase an authentic M1 Garand, a rifle that played a significant role in American military history.
Ammunition: The CMP offers a variety of ammunition for sale, including .30-06 rounds for the M1 Garand and .22 LR for smallbore competitions.

Benefits of Participating in the Civilian Marksmanship Program

There are many reasons to get involved in the CMP, whether you’re interested in improving your shooting skills, competing in matches, or simply enjoying the camaraderie of the shooting sports community.

Skill Development: The CMP offers unparalleled opportunities for skill development. With access to expert instruction, top-notch facilities, and a wide range of competitions, you’ll have everything you need to become a proficient marksman.

Community Building: The CMP is more than just a shooting organization—it’s a community. Participants often form lasting friendships and find support from fellow shooters as they work toward their goals.

Path to Competitions: For those with a competitive spirit, the CMP provides a clear path to high-level competition. Whether you’re aiming for a Distinguished Marksman Badge or just want to see how you stack up against other shooters, the CMP offers plenty of opportunities to test your skills.

Conclusion

The Civilian Marksmanship Program is a fantastic resource for anyone interested in firearms safety, marksmanship, and competitive shooting. With a wide range of courses, competitions, and resources available, the CMP has something to offer shooters of all ages and skill levels. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take your skills to the next level, the CMP is the perfect place to begin your journey.

If you’re ready to get involved, the first step is to join a CMP-affiliated club and register for a course or competition. From there, you’ll have access to all the resources and support you need to become a skilled and responsible marksman. So why wait? Start your journey with the Civilian Marksmanship Program today!

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