If change is a constant, then shooting, as a sport, is trying out different things to stay relevant in the Summer Olympic programme. With Los Angeles allotted the 2028 Olympics, at one point of time there were doubts if shooting would make the cut. It has, and the sport is in for some adjustments as well.

Keeping in sync, changes are made by the world shooting body (ISSF), which also have to be implemented by national federations. Recently, the first set of selection trials were held at the Dr Karni Singh Ranges in New Delhi, where rifle shooters had to adjust to new gear. The weight of the heavy jacket and trousers, earlier made of thick leather has been cut. The focus now is on lighter material, which means a shooter finding the right balance is more about the athlete’s own efforts and adaptability.