How do para shooters shoot prone from a chair?
I · Intermediate · Shooting · 3 of 4In prone, shooters do not lie down: they sit with elbows on the table, forearms at least 30 degrees up, leaning on the backrest or the table but not both. In kneeling, one elbow rests on the table. In standing, the chair's arms and table go, and the rifle is held by the arms alone. Score A athletes may shoot free-standing.
How it works
- Prone: chair and table, no lying down.
- Prone lean: backrest or table, not both.
- Forearms: at least 30 degrees above horizontal.
- Kneeling: one elbow on the table.
- Standing: chair arms and table removed.
- SH1 standing: arms only, no chair contact.
- Free-standing: score A rifle, SH1A pistol.
- Pistol: non-shooting arm gives no support.
The glossary has the prone position (para shooting), the kneeling position (para shooting), the standing position (para shooting), the free-standing, the de-shouldering and the firing line and firing point.
Tricky cases
Can an SH2 shooter use a sling in prone?
No.
Can an SH1 standing shooter rest elbows on the wheel?
No.
Can an amputee kneel with a stool?
Yes, up to 35 cm, if SH1A.
Must free-standing shooters use no support?
Only a certified prosthesis or orthosis.
Why the rule exists
Each position replaces what the able-bodied stance gives, without adding extra support. The angle rules stop the table becoming a rest.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Prone | Chair and table | 4.2.2 |
| Kneeling | One elbow on table | 4.2.1 |
| Standing | No chair contact | 4.2.3 |
From the rule book
World Shooting Para Sport, Technical Rules and Regulations, version 1 (1 January 2026), articles 4.2 and 5.2. Checked 14 October 2026. Official document: WSPS Technical Rules and Regulations 2026.