Horizontal aiming-point variability differs between reduced-distance and regulation-distance shooting conditions among Olympic rifle shooters

Reduced-distance dry-firing is widely used in rifle shooting when access to regulation-distance ranges is limited. However, even with adjustments to target size and height, it alters the geometric relation between translational and rotational control demands, potentially affecting the comparability of aiming-related performance indicators. This study examined whether the magnitude of horizontal aiming-point variability differs between reduced-distance dry-firing and regulation-distance live-firing in Olympic 50 m small-bore rifle shooting in the standing position. Routine training-monitoring data from 5 national-squad athletes were retrospectively analysed. The athletes provided reduced-distance dry-fire data during the COVID-19 lockdown and regulation-distance live-fire data before or after lockdown. Aiming-point kinematics were recorded using the SCATT MX-02 system, and horizontal aiming-point variability was quantified within the hold phase. Across 2484 shots, the magnitude of horizontal aiming-point variability was lower under regulation-distance conditions (M = 6.91 mm, SD = 2.40) than reduced-distance conditions (M = 10.00 mm, SD = 4.10). A linear mixed-effects model showed a significant increase in horizontal aiming-point variability under reduced-distance conditions, with an estimated difference of 1.6mm (95% CI [1.02, 2.18], p < .001). Reduced-distance dry-firing was associated with greater horizontal aiming-point variability than regulation-distance live-firing. Explanations include geometric scaling and distance-specific compensation. Controlled studies are needed to clarify these effects.