By Travis Bader, founder of Silvercore Outdoors.
Last updated: 24 October 2026
Silvercore's path to precision rifle shooting in BC is two one-day live-fire courses taken in order: Rifle Marksmanship Fundamentals (RF1), then Rifle Marksmanship Intermediate (RF2). Each course is $470 plus tax and requires a valid PAL, and students bring their own centre-fire rifle and ammunition. The RF2 page describes that course as "A one-day precision rifle shooting range course that helps intermediate level shooters achieve accuracy at longer distances, for hunting, target practice, competition or work."
What do you need before you start?
You need a PAL. Both course pages state: "A valid PAL # must be provided when registering". Both pages add that exceptions may be made for active law enforcement officers.
The law sets the same baseline. Under section 91 of the Criminal Code, a person commits an offence by possessing a non-restricted firearm without a licence under which they may possess it. The exception covers a person under the direct and immediate supervision of someone who may lawfully possess the firearm, using it in a manner in which the supervising person may lawfully use it. If you borrow a rifle, section 33 of the Firearms Act allows the owner to lend it only if they have reasonable grounds to believe you hold a licence for that kind of firearm, or if you use it under their direct and immediate supervision in the same manner in which they may lawfully use it.
If you do not hold a PAL yet, start with the PAL course. The combined Canadian Firearms Safety Course (CFSC) and restricted PAL course (CRFSC) is $270 plus tax, and the course page states: "Neither course involves live fire." The licence steps after the course are in How to get your PAL in Canada.
You also need your own rifle and ammunition. The RF1 page states: "Please note that firearm rentals and ammunition are not provided by Silvercore for this live fire course". The RF2 page states that "neither firearm rentals nor ammunition are provided for this live fire course".
What does RF1 cover?
The RF1 page describes it as "a one-day range course that introduces novice and intermediate shooters to the fundamentals of centrefire rifle marksmanship for hunting, target practice, competition or work". The topics include:
- Shooting positions (bench, standing, kneeling, sitting, prone)
- Sighting in your rifle
- Discussing distance estimation and effect of wind
- Shooting from various distances and positions
- Zeroing at multiple distances
The kit list asks for a bolt action or semi-automatic centre-fire rifle chambered up to 7.62 or .30 cal, a scope "installed and MUST BE SIGHTED IN PRIOR TO CLASS (no iron sights)" of at least 1-6X magnification (1-10X preferred), an installed bipod or front shooting bag with a rear bag or sock, 100 rounds of centre-fire ammunition, a shooting mat, blanket or sleeping bag for prone, and wraparound glasses, a ball cap and hearing protection. Lunch is not provided.
What does RF2 add?
The RF2 page states that the course "builds on the skills taught in our Rifle Marksmanship Fundamentals class". The topics include:
- Building a Prone Shooting Position using Bags and/or Bipod
- Positional Shooting, including Shooting from a tripod
- Building a Shooting Profile in a Ballistic App
- First Focal Plane vs Second Focal Plane Scopes
- Bullet Selection, Ballistic Coefficient, Target vs Hunting Ammunition
- Adjusting for elevation and holds for wind
- Making groupings from 100 metres and beyond (maximum distance varies by range)
RF2 calls for 150 rounds of match or duty grade centre-fire ammunition, a cleaning kit, a sand sock or rear bags, an installed bipod and shooting bag or backpack, a 2 point sling and tools for adjusting your scope. A rangefinder, Kestrel weather station and spotting scope are listed as optional.
The RF2 page states: "Completion of Rifle Marksmanship Fundamentals RF1 is required before enrolling in this course." Its prerequisite list also accepts recognized certification of formal rifle training through an official agency.
Where are the courses held?
Range venues vary by course date. Silvercore's live-fire courses are typically held in Langley, Pitt Meadows and Chilliwack, and have run at ranges throughout BC. The range for your date is confirmed when you book.
Where can you shoot between courses?
Practice between courses happens at a range or wherever discharging a firearm is lawful. The rules for BC are in Legal shooting areas in British Columbia and Canada, and Lower Mainland drop-in options are in Where to shoot: drop-in ranges for the Lower Mainland.
If you have your PAL and a scoped centre-fire rifle, book RF1 to start the path.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a PAL to take RF1?
Yes. The RF1 page states "A valid PAL # must be provided when registering" and adds that exceptions may be made for active law enforcement officers, who should contact the office for details.
Can I skip RF1 and go straight to RF2?
No, unless you hold recognized certification of formal rifle training through an official agency. The RF2 page states that completion of RF1 is required before enrolling, and its prerequisite list accepts that certification as the alternative.
Can I use a .22 rimfire rifle in RF2?
No. The RF2 page states that ".22 Cal or rim fire ammunition is NOT suitable for this class" and asks for 150 rounds of match or duty grade centre fire ammunition.
How far do you shoot in RF2?
RF2 groupings start at 100 metres. The page lists "Making groupings from 100 metres and beyond (maximum distance varies by range)", so the farthest distance depends on the range used for your course date.
Does my scope have to be sighted in before RF1?
Yes. The RF1 kit list asks for a "Rifle scope, installed and MUST BE SIGHTED IN PRIOR TO CLASS (no iron sights)" and sets a minimum of 1-6X magnification, with 1-10X preferred.
