2026 Major Land Sniper Cup
The Major Land Sniper Cup is one of the nation's premier precision rifle competitions, bringing together military, law enforcement, and civilian marksmen for a unique weekend of learning, competition, and camaraderie. Held annually at Black Bear Shooting Complex in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, the event honors Major Edward James "Jim" Land Jr., widely recognized as the founder of the modern U.S. Marine Corps Scout Sniper Program.
Unlike a traditional PRS match, the Major Land Sniper Cup is designed as a true field-style sniper competition. Competitors navigate challenging mountain terrain and tackle realistic "seek and destroy" scenarios that require target detection, range estimation, observation, communication, movement, and precision engagement under time pressure. Targets range from close-range engagements to distances exceeding 1,500 yards, testing not only marksmanship, but also teamwork, problem-solving, and fieldcraft.
Guided by the motto "Learn • Compete • Connect," the Major Land Sniper Cup combines world-class instruction, industry networking, and elite competition while preserving and advancing the traditions of excellence established by Major Land and generations of precision shooters.
Match Format:
· 2-man sniper team
o Primary: Bolt Gun in .308, 6.5CM, .260, 6ARC, 300WM, 300NM
o Secondary: Bolt Gun or Carbine in .556, .308, 6.5CM, .260, 6ARC (No magnum calibers)
· Both Shooters will carry pistols (TGTs 0-100 yds); Level 2 retention holsters strongly recommended
· Competitors will carry all gear used for the duration of the course of fire
· Ammo
o Rifle: Approximately 100 rounds-ish per shooter per day
o Pistol: Approximately 100 rounds-ish per shooter per day
· Teams will be hiking between shooting areas in variable, hilly terrain. The average distance between shooting areas is 10 - 200 meters.
· Teams need to be prepared to encounter rapidly changing weather conditions on the course, as well as hazards that can occur on a natural terrain course.
· Additional details including rules and ammo approximations will be sent to competitors in advance of the match.