Still wish there was an “I actually hunt with this gun (and not from a blind)” class. Not sure how you would enforce it, but something to try and embrace the “Hunter” component versus gamer guns.
I kind of agree, but at the same time I know people would game whatever rules you put in place. And eventually the rules get outdated.
I’d say look at IDPA vs IPSC as an example. IDPA tries to be tactically relevant, but it’s based on some outdated concepts and I know they have had some recent changes, but as of a couple years ago, my daily carry set up wouldn’t be allowed in any category.
IPSC is more open about being a game. They have categories that try to make it accessible to guys buying factory guns and other categories that push the limits a lot more and allow you to make use of optics, comps, etc.
I think NRL hunter and some other smaller organizations are going to continue to evolve until a happy balance is found. Or at least the right handful of sub categories is made.
Like maybe put all the hard core gamer guns in an open category.
Have another category with a more balanced feature set. That could include weight limits, production rifle requirement, scope power or feature limitations, etc.
And then maybe one last category for very limited equipment to make the sport accessible to new shooters and hunters. Maybe like a sub $1500 rifle, 9x max scope power, no muzzle device or maybe a non-braked suppressor. Then make a max distance of 5 or 600 yards. I think that would get lots of regular hunting types to come try it out.