PCC has been around for a long time now, but we still get inquiries that make us want to respond with, “PCC is not a crime.” The latest was asking what is considered to be reasonably vertical while a competitor is waiting at the start position. Let’s discuss that and do a refresher about PCC handling.
“Reasonably vertical” is used three times in the Competition rules, rules 5.2.1.5, 5.2.1.6, and 8.3.7.3. Before we delve into those rules, you will note that they don’t say perfectly vertical or put a degree range on that term. Basically this term means the muzzle is generally pointing at the sky or ground and not sweeping anyone, but let’s look at the relevant rules.
Rule 5.2.1.5: Un-cased pistol caliber carbines must be carried reasonably vertical, whether slung or held in the hands, with a chamber flag in place. Match Directors may require this to be “vertically upwards” or “vertically downwards” providing this is made clear to all competitors in a reasonable manner.
This rule covers flagged PCCs being carried without a case either in the competitor’s hand(s) or hanging on a sling. Yes, slings are allowed, but very rarely seen. Some ranges require PCCs to be carried muzzle down, and if this is the case the match director needs to let competitors know.
Rule 5.2.1.6: If stored in a mobile rack or carrier, the PCC must be reasonably vertical whenever the firearm is not in a case or sleeve. Uncased horizontal carry/transport is prohibited. The muzzle of any such firearm, if oriented down, must point to a spot within 3 feet of the conveyance. If pointed up, it must be oriented such that a person walking around the conveyance will not be covered by the muzzle if they are more than 3 feet away from the conveyance. All such measurements shall be taken while the conveyance is situated on flat, level ground. In the event of disagreement on how the firearm is being transported, the Range Master shall be the final authority as to the acceptability of such orientation.
This rule deals with PCCs on carts and racks. If uncased (and flagged) PCCs must be reasonably vertical. Think about the typical carts you see on the range. Either they hold the PCC vertically muzzle up or down, or hold the PCC at an angle, usually muzzle down. Carts that hold the PCCs at an angle must not allow the PCC to point more than 3 feet away from the cart when the muzzle points down. If muzzle up, the muzzle can’t sweep anyone more than 3 feet away from the cart. Note that the 3 ft rule only applies to PCCs on carts.
Rule 8.3.7.3: If the gun proves to be clear, the competitor must holster/flag his firearm. A carbine must then be transported with the muzzle reasonably vertically up or down, while scoring is done, and then off the stage to a rack or case. Flagged carbines may also be cased at this time and transported off the stage in the case. When casing PCC’s, the muzzle must point at a side berm, backstop, or up/down. Failure to point the muzzle at a side berm, back stop, or up/down during casing will result in a DQ per 10.5.18.
This final rule deals with PCCs during the range command, “If clear, hammer down, flag”. Basically, after this range command the competitor will flag the PCC and point the muzzle up or down before the RO gives the final range command of “range is clear.” During scoring the competitor can walk along and observe targets being scored as long they keep the PCC reasonably vertical (yes, they can rest it on their shoulder) and don’t sweep anyone with the muzzle of the PCC (see 10.5.5.2).
Just remember that reasonably vertical does not mean perfectly vertical at 90 degrees or any other set angle. It just means pointing to the sky or ground and not sweeping anyone.