Rifle Qualification (M4/M16) — Record Fire
The classic record-fire course: automated pop-up E-silhouettes engaged at ranges from 50-300 meters, exposure time shrinking as range and difficulty increase.
Military
40 rounds
23/40 (58%) minimum
Read this first
Representative structure based on the traditional Army record-fire range. Real ranges use randomized pop-up target computers; exposure windows and target order vary by range and current doctrine — confirm with your unit before a record attempt.
Course of Fire
| Distance | Rounds | Position | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 50-100 m | 10 | Prone, supported | ~5-6 sec exposure each | Closer, easier targets |
| 150-200 m | 10 | Prone, unsupported | ~6-7 sec exposure each | |
| 250-300 m | 10 | Kneeling, supported | ~7-8 sec exposure each | Longest range, hardest |
| 50-300 m mixed | 10 | Kneeling/standing, unsupported | ~5-8 sec exposure each | Final mixed table |
Scoring Tiers
| Tier | Score Range |
|---|---|
| Expert | 36-40 hits (90-100%) |
| Sharpshooter | 30-35 hits (75-87%) |
| Marksman | 23-29 hits (58-72%) |
| Unqualified | 22 or fewer hits |
Frequently Asked Questions
- How many rounds are fired in the U.S. Army Rifle Qualification (M4/M16) — Record Fire?
- This course of fire totals 40 rounds across 4 stages, fired at 50-100 m, 150-200 m, 250-300 m, 50-300 m mixed.
- What score do you need to pass the U.S. Army Rifle Qualification (M4/M16) — Record Fire?
- The minimum passing standard is 23/40 (58%) minimum. Higher hit percentages earn higher classifications: Expert (36-40 hits (90-100%)); Sharpshooter (30-35 hits (75-87%)); Marksman (23-29 hits (58-72%)); Unqualified (22 or fewer hits).
- Is this the official course of fire?
- Representative structure based on the traditional Army record-fire range. Real ranges use randomized pop-up target computers; exposure windows and target order vary by range and current doctrine — confirm with your unit before a record attempt.
Practice toward this standard
Log shot groups, check your stance, track drills, and print practice targets built for qualification-style scoring — free in the Range Coach app.
Open Range Coach Printable Targets