When an athletes considers participating in biathlon, one of the first questions asked is, ”Do I need my own rifle?” Obviously the answer is no. Anyone can come to any of the NY Biathlon events, go through a safety clinic, and use one of the club rifles during the event. For a competitor’s first few events, this is a great option. They can participate and learn about the sport without any commitment. However, the athlete faces some challenges using the club rifles. They are not sighted for the athlete and at each shooting stage they might use a different rifle. As a result, the number of targets hit would be limited and the athletes may get frustrated and discouraged and not continue with biathlon.


In an attempt to address this problem, the Western NY Biathlon Club has a rifle lease program. Any club member can lease a rifle for a year. Having a rifle allows the athlete to practice and become familiar with the rifle they will use in an event. They will learn about sighting the rifle for particular condition, learn how to use a sling and a cuff, and get a feel for how it works. Hopefully, this will increase the number of targets hit at an event and help them become more competitive.


Also these rifle are set up with harnesses. The athlete will be able to carry the rifles during the events, opening up the possibility of competing at the Empire State Games and the NY Biathlon Championships at the end of the season.


It is also a great option for a young athlete. Many times a scholastic athlete’s family is not all that comfortable with a firearm. Parents need to see that their daughter or son can safely handle a rifle not only at events but in between events as well. The parents also want to see if their child is really committed to the sport before taking the step of allowing them purchase of a rifle. Leasing a rifle provides on opportunity to address all these concerns.


The Club has two types of rifles available. There are 6 Mossberg and 5 Izhmash. The Mossbergs are older, World War II vintage, rifles but they shoot amazing well. They have been fitted with a harness and sling and cuffs are available. These lease for $50 for the year that goes from September to August. The Izhmash is a Russian made rifle with a very nice lever type bolt action. These come with a factory made harness, sling and cuff. These lease for $100 for the year but scholastic athletes get a 25% discount ( a $75 fee) to make it easier on their budget.


If you would like to take advantage of this program, contact Bill Lilly (wlilly@rochester.rr.com) for more details.