The rifle team has a long, distinguished tradition at Hargrave. The team competes against two other teams sponsored by other Virginia military boarding schools. The spirit of the competition is serious and determined, but fun. The competitions also have historic significance to each of the participating military schools.

The primary rifle team consists of four members using a .22 caliber competition rifle. In competition, they shoot prone, kneeling and standing. The score of each team member is added together for the final team score. The higher score wins.

The individual score is determined by were each rifleman places his shot on the target. A bull’s-eye is important. Individuals also compete against each other for top honors in normal competition.

The Hargrave team trains in the indoor Walter S. Cox II Rifle Range under direct supervision of the rifle coach. As with all firearms, safety is the first and foremost concern for both the coach and the team members. A team member won’t remain on the team very long if the rules of the range are not followed.