1st US Infantry of Ft Randall

Local man sets New National Shooting Record

Don Wiechmann of Wagner has broken the National Rifle Association Black Powder Cartridge Rifle Mid-range record. The previous record was set last year, by Don Wiechmann, at the 1st US Infantry of Ft Randall yearly shooting contest held at the Robert Wiechmann shooting range. The course of fire consists of one 200 yard offhand ten shot event, one 200 yard event of sitting or kneeling cross-stick, ten shot event, and one ten shot 200 yard event of prone cross sticks. All firing is done with antique or replica Black Powder Cartridge Rifles single shot rifles of the late 1800s era. Iron sights only, no scopes, allowed. Don shoots a Shiloh Sharps reproduction rifle.

Competitors from Pennsylvania, Iowa, Wyoming, California, and South Dakota participated. The competition was held August 7, 2005. Don’s winning score of 286 5x of a possible score of 300 beat his old record by 5 points over the previous record. Award plaques and medals were given out to the top competitors in each event. Recognition of Don’s new record by the State and National NRA organizations will be forthcoming.

The SD NRA Mid-range Championship was held on August 7, the day following the 1st US Infantry of Ft Randall’s yearly “Trapdoor Shoot”, also held at the club’s range on the Robert Wiechmann’s property, on August 6th.

The 1st US Infantry of Ft Randall is an Indian War period re-enactment group that participates in local parades, Memorial Day observances, Historical Festivals, flag raising ceremonies, and historical demonstrations. The group owns two replica 1841 Mountain Howitzers that are fired as part of the demonstrations. The group holds monthly rifle shoots at the range, year around, weather permitting. Membership in the group is open to anyone who has an interest in historic reenactment or old Black Powder Cartridge Rifle shooting. Contact Jim Leines 605-384-3797or Don Hubbard 605-384-5743 for more information.