DIVISIONS & RULES

Divisions

 

Elite Division (Rx+):

The highest standard of competition. Expect the heaviest weights, strictest standards, and zero substitutions or scaling. What you see is what you get—this is where the best come to prove themselves.

Intermediate Division (Rx):

Designed for athletes seeking a serious challenge. Loads are heavy, movements are strict, and the competition is fierce. No substitutions or modifications allowed. This is the testing ground for disciplined and prepared athletes.

Novice Division:

The entry-level division, open to competitors of all ages. Built for those who are new to the sport or simply want to push themselves while enjoying the experience. Expect lighter loads and more flexible standards. Substitutions are allowed to keep you in the fight. A plate carrier is optional, but required to be eligible for prizes. Only first place will be recognized in this division, and once you win first place, you are expected to move up to the Intermediate Division in future competitions.

Masters 40–49 Division:

Same standards and weights as the Intermediate (Rx) Division, but limited to competitors ages 40–49. This is where seasoned athletes test themselves against their peers.

Masters 50+ Division:

Tailored for competitors ages 50 and above. Standards mirror the Masters 40–49 Division, but loads are scaled accordingly to allow athletes to compete safely while still being challenged.

Rules

The rules of The Patriot Games will evolve and be updated over time. All changes will be reflected here and it is the athletes responsibility to be familiar with all current rules prior to competing. Violation(s) of any of the rules is grounds for up to disqualification and or removal from the event site. Disqualifications due to violations of the rules will not receive a refund. It is the competitors responsibility to know and understand all Federal, State and Local laws and regulations regarding the use and transportation of firearms, including all national Firearms Act (NFA) regulations related to the construction, transportation and use of any firearm regulated by the NFA.

 

Firearms & Equipment

  • All firearms used at The Patriot Games must be serviceable and safe for use. Event staff may inspect a competitors firearms at any time to ensure that meet this requirement.

  • Only Semi-Automatic firearms may be used. Fully-automatic firearms may not be used unless in Semi-auto mode for the duration of the competition.

  • You may choose to check in two (2) pistols for the event. If you choose to do so, one pistol must be a compact or subcompact model.

  • The compact or subcompact model, may be outfitted with an optic. This pistol will only be allowed on the concealed carry challenges.

  • Optics are permitted on pistols.

  • Firearms must be in factory configuration. Modifications to the internal and external components are permitted as long as original function is not altered.

  • Competitors must use the same firearms configured in the same manner as was inspected and signed for at check in.

  • Unless specifically stated, firearms will remain unloaded until you have reached a designated firing line and will be unloaded and shown as clear prior to leaving the firing line.

  • Chamber flags are REQUIRED

  • Holsters must be able to safely retain the handgun during various physical challenges and must fully cover the trigger. This applies to on and off-body concealed carry holsters. Shoulder holsters, cross draw holsters and ankle holsters are prohibited.

  • Permitted Pistol calibers are: 9mm, .40S&W and .45acp

  • Permitted Rifle calibers are: .223/5.56, .300BLK

  • Pistol Caliber Carbines (PCC) are not permitted as a rifle substitution.

  • Rifles may have 2 optics. Iron sights are not required.

  • Muzzle devices must be A2/Birdcage or 3-or 4 prong. No compensators or brakes are permitted. Suppressors are permitted.

  • Supporting or stabilizing devices such as mono, bi or tripods are prohibited.

  • Ammunition must be “factory fresh”.

  • Incendiary, Tracer, Armor Piercing (Green Tip/ M855), Steel Jacket, Steel Core, Bi-metal, Penetrator rounds are prohibited.

  • Violation(s) of the rules may cause the competitors to be assessed a penalty up to disqualification or removal from the event.

  • Plate carriers will be required for some challenges. Plate carriers will be weighed at check in and must weigh a minimum of 12 pounds for ladies divisions and 15 pounds for mens division. Weighing will be done with no magazine or ammo on board the plate carrier and the carrier weight must maintain minimum weight throughout the entire event.

Safety

All safe handling rules for firearms apply.

  • All competitors firearm’s will remain unloaded until directed by Patriot Games staff or at designated firing lines during the course of the event.

  • Firearms will be rendered safe and shown clear to Patriot Games staff prior to advancing in a challenge and before exiting the field to “safe/secure” areas. Safe/Secure areas are anywhere behind a designated firing line.

  • Movement in safe/secure areas is to be done with unloaded, holstered, cased or secured firearms with magazines removed and actions open. Rifles may be transported slung or in a cart muzzle up or down provided the above conditions are met.

  • Eye protection is mandatory for all competitors, staff and spectators at the event site.

  • Ear protection is mandatory for all competitors, staff and spectators while on or near an in progress challenge.

  • No competitor or spectator shall consume or be under the influence of alcohol or non-prescription drug during the course of the event.

  • Competitors clothing must provide adequate enough coverage to protect them against minor scrapes, abrasions, hot brass etc…

  • Cheating in any form or manner or acting in a manner contrary to good sportsmanship, fair play and spirit of The Patriot Games is a disqualifying offense.

  • Disruptive, threatening or otherwise violent behavior will not be tolerated. Anyone disqualified or removed from the event site for these actions will be barred from any further Patriot Games competitions.

  • Any act, omission or action not specifically stated by this document may be considered a rule violation, unsportsmanlike or prohibited and will be resolved by the match director or designee at the time of its discovery. Rulings by the match director will be final and will serve as precedent for the duration of the event.