The AR-15 has become America’s most popular rifle, and the NRA America’s Rifle Challenge (ARC) program offers a new, accessible way for owners to put their rifles to use—safely, competitively and enjoyably. The ARC program blends marksmanship training with competition, aiming to appeal to both beginners and experienced shooters alike.
Fun & Accessible
NRA ARC gives shooters a welcoming, structured environment to develop skills with their AR-15s. Whether someone is new to shooting or a seasoned competitor, ARC offers stages that range from simple to complex.
“It’s really a game for everybody,” said Josh Savani, NRA’s executive director of General Operations. “Whether you’ve just bought your first AR-15 or you’ve been shooting 3 Gun for years, there’s a place for you in the NRA ARC program.”
Gear requirements are minimal—just a safe, functional AR-15, a sling, two magazines and eye and ear protection. The idea is to break down the barriers that typically deter newcomers from competitive shooting.
ARC Levels
Level One is designed for basic square ranges and emphasizes safety, positional shooting and marksmanship fundamentals. Participants shoot from standing, kneeling, sitting and prone at distances up to 100 yards, using steel targets and NRA’s new ARC-L1R cardboard targets.
Level Two ups the ante with movement, barricades and targets at distances up to 500 yards. Matches are held on more dynamic ranges and require more complex stage planning and increased round counts.
Two-Gun is aimed at more advanced shooters and adds handguns to the mix. Transitions between firearms are carefully managed under the supervision of range officers. Two-Gun stages are similar to those found in Level Two. Steel targets are used at closer ranges to keep things fast-paced and fun while maintaining safety protocols.
To prepare newcomers, the NRA is developing ARC-specific training courses. This ensures shooters can walk into their first match feeling confident.
Suppressor-Friendly
The ARC competition welcomes suppressor use in states where it is legal. Suppressors not only make shooting more pleasant but also reduce noise complaints in urban areas—a benefit for both ranges and local communities. The NRA continues to advocate for the deregulation of silencers due to their safety and environmental benefits.
Camp Atterbury Match
In April, ARC made its public debut at Camp Atterbury, Ind., with Level One, Level Two and Two-Gun stages. The weather was challenging, but spirits were high. Among many others in attendance, outdoor personality Michael Bane praised the format. “It is a great and fascinating match. You’re really going to like it,” Bane said. “When I first talked to NRA EVP and CEO Doug Hamlin, I told him the National Rifle Association would be judged not by what it said, but what it does. America’s Rifle Challenge is an important part of that new commitment. ARC tests all the basic skills of shooting a rifle—standing, kneeling, sitting, prone, barricades—and sometimes up-close. More than that, it’s fun.”
The event also featured a complimentary BBQ lunch, helping foster a sense of camaraderie. Media coverage included camera crews from “American Rifleman Television,” “Shooting USA” and others.
Why Shoot ARC?
If you’re on the fence, NRA’s new ARC offers a fun and safe way to enjoy your rifle, meet fellow shooters and improve your skills. The format encourages growth through friendly competition and community support. The America’s Rifle Challenge isn’t just a match—it’s a movement that offers millions of AR-15 owners a structured way to engage in the shooting sports and exercise their Second Amendment rights.
The NRA plans to release the full ARC rulebook, hosting requirements for clubs and target-ordering information later this year. Learn more at arc.nra.org.
