What is the difference between SH1 and SH2?
B · Beginner · Classes and equipment · 2 of 2SH1 shooters can hold the gun themselves; for rifle they meet the lower limb criteria, for pistol the lower or upper limb criteria. SH2 rifle shooters have an arm impairment and must use a spring support stand. SH-VI shooters are vision impaired and aim by sound. Shotgun has SG-S seated, SG-L and SG-U standing classes. A trunk score sets backrest height.
How it works
- SH1 rifle: lower limb criteria.
- SH1 pistol: lower or upper limb criteria.
- SH2: arm impairment; support stand compulsory.
- SH2 subclasses: a stronger, b weaker.
- SH-VI: vision impairment, acoustic aiming.
- Shotgun: SG-S, SG-L and SG-U.
- Trunk score: A, B or C.
- Not eligible: short stature, vision for rifle and pistol.
The glossary has the SH1 and SH2, the SH-VI, the SG-S, SG-L and SG-U, the trunk function score, the SH2 muscle power subclass and the eligible impairments (para shooting).
Tricky cases
Is there an SH2 pistol class?
No. Pistol events are SH1.
Is leg length difference eligible?
Only in shotgun.
Can a score A athlete shoot free-standing?
Yes.
Is wrist stiffness alone enough?
No. Ankylosis of the wrist alone does not qualify.
Why the rule exists
SH2 athletes cannot hold a rifle's weight, so the stand takes it. The trunk score decides how much back support is fair.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| SH1 | Holds the gun | CR A1 5.1 |
| SH2 | Support stand | CR A1 5.1, 3.9 |
| SH-VI | Acoustic aiming | CR A3 5.1, 7.1 |
From the rule book
World Shooting Para Sport, Classification Rules and Regulations (2017 and 2019 pages), Appendices One, Three and Four, with World Shooting Para Sport, Technical Rules and Regulations, version 1 (1 January 2026), articles 3.7.13, 3.9 and 6.2. Checked 14 October 2026. Official document: WSPS Technical Rules and Regulations 2026.