Classification | percentage | minimum score in a
50 shot match |
minimum score in a
80 shot match |
High Master | 97% | 485 | 776 |
Master | 94% | 470 | 752 |
Expert | 89% | 445 | 712 |
Sharpshooter | 84% | 420 | 672 |
Marksman | up to 83.99% | 419 or lower | 671 or lower |
After your first match, (in which you are classified as "master-unclassfied") you can get a "temporary score book" from the match director which gives you a "temporary classification". After matches totalling 120 or more shots are reported the NRA, you will be issued a classification card. As scores totalling 240 rounds averaging in a higher classification are received, you will be reclassified.
Classification lasts as long as you continue to shoot or until you upgrade. There is a procedure to be downgraded. 3 or 5 years of inactivity eliminates the classification and you start over.
Classifications for smallbore are tougher, I'll post those later.
In a match with awards, you are competing against others in your class.