SPORT BLOWPIPE COMPETITION GUIDELINES (6/2025)

Introduction and Purpose

The purpose of the sport of competitive blowpipe shooting is to provide a structured, fair, and exciting  environment for Blowpipe shooting athletes to demonstrate and improve their skills.  These guidelines outline the standards and procedures for all participants and officials.

1. General Safety

1.1. Safety Protocols:

1.  All participants must undergo a safety briefing before competing.
2. Blowpipes should be handled with the muzzle pointed in a safe direction at all  times.
3. A safety flag, indicator, storage stand or case should be used when the blowpipe is not in active use.
4. No physical contact or distractions should occur while an athlete is preparing or in  the process of shooting.

1.2. Safety Gear:

1. Mandatory use of protective eyewear for all athletes.
2. Optional ear protection, especially in noisy environments.

1.3. Range Safety:

1. The shooting range must be enclosed or have barriers to ensure safety.
2. A clear range identifier should be in place, indicating when it is safe to shoot and when the range is closed. Line judges or other designated officials may indicate active lanes.
3. Range Diagram

2. Equipment

2.1. Blowpipe Specifications:

1. Length: Barrel measurement parameters will be followed: Commencing at the beginning of mouthpiece to end of the pipe arrow exit. Competition and tournament barrel must not exceed 60”, Distance competitive shooting barrel must not exceed 72”.
2. Material: Blowpipes made from wood, aluminum, carbon fiber, or high-strength  plastic, PVC are permitted.
3. Diameter: Internal diameter not exceed 0.625 caliber 

2.2.  Aiming and Stabilization Aids

1. No external aiming devices are permitted in competition. This includes, but is not limited to: optical or electronic sights (e.g., red dot sights), leveling guides, range markers, scopes, or any form of measurement-assisting apparatus. The use of tripods, monopods, rests, or other external stabilization systems is strictly prohibited.
2. All athletes must physically support the blowpipe. No reset or mono-pod dual pod or tripod or other type of support may be used. Adaptations for Para-athletes may be authorized by the USBA Technical Committee on a case-by-case basis, provided they do not confer an undue competitive advantage and remain consistent with the principles of fair play.
3. Any athlete found using unauthorized equipment during competition may be subject to disqualification and nullification of scores. If such equipment is identified prior to the start of competition, the athlete shall be given the opportunity to make necessary adjustments to bring their equipment into compliance.
4. Sights: One, individual sight, may be attached to the end of the blowpipe.

2.3. Arrows:

1. Length: Arrows must be no longer than 5 inches (12.7 cm) in total length.  
2. Diameter: The Arrows should be fit to the internal diameter for optimum safety, accuracy and use
3. Material: Arrows should be made from lightweight materials such as aluminum,  plastic, wood, bamboo or carbon fiber with a pointed metal or plastic tip. Privately made arrows must be registered and disclosed prior to the tournament. Private arrows must  be approved by tournament director or representative  
4. Fletching: No fletching, attachments or riflings are allowed in the blowpipe or on the arrow.
5. Broad-head or hunting tip: Not permitted
6. Best efforts should be made to ensure the arrow is true and the cone is smooth and  round and free of imperfections that would cause the arrow to fly off path.

2.4. Maintenance:

1. Equipment should be maintained in good working order. Regular inspections are  recommended.
2. Any modifications to the equipment that affect performance or safety may be eliminated and disqualified from the tournament unless repaired and recertified.
3. Cleaning tools or materials during competition to clean debris from tube are  recommended and permitted. 

3. Shooting Position and Procedure

3.1. Shooting Position:

1. Athletes must stand behind a designated shooting line or marker.
2. The shooting position should be stable and allow for a clear, unobstructed aim.  
3. Athletes may use a single or double-handed stance but must follow the standard  competition position as described by event organizers.
4. Competition and Tournament events may elect to have competition positions including Standing, Sitting, Kneeling and Prone positions.

3.2. Loading and Firing:

1. Arrow should be loaded one at a time into the blowpipe.
2. Athletes are only allowed to use their breath to propel the arrow; the use of  additional devices or aids are prohibited.
3. After shooting, the blowpipe must be pointed downrange until the arrow has come to  a complete stop.
4. In the event of a double load, the shot will be counted as a dead shot and no score awarded.

4. Targets and Scoring

4.1. Target Specifications for Blowpipe Competition

1. Target Layout: The target is composed of three concentric scoring rings, each assigned a specific point value based on its proximity to the center.
2. Target Dimensions:

1. The bullseye (inner ring) has a diameter of 2.36 inches (6 cm) and is assigned 7 points.
2. The middle ring has a diameter of 4.72 inches (12 cm) and is assigned 5 points.
3. The outer ring has a diameter of 7.09 inches (18 cm) and is assigned 3 points.
4. Overall Target Diameter: The overall target diameter, including all three rings, is 7.09 inches (18 cm).
5. Scoring: Shooters are awarded points based on the ring in which their projectile lands:
6. 7 points for a shot within the bullseye,
7. 5 points for a shot within the middle ring,
8. 3 points for a shot within the outer ring.

3. Target Height: Center of target will be 160 cm or 63 inches above the floor. Height of  center is 125 cm for participants requiring special considerations for physical  adaptations adhering to ADA or Paralympic standards as outlined in Addendum 1.
4. Regulation Distance: Competition play target distance is 10m or 33ft. Junior and Novice competition play target distance is 5m or 16.4”.
5. Distance Competition: Target is a 24 cm (9 in) circle, and the firing line  begins at 20m (66 ft) and continues in distance by 2.5m (8 ft).

1. Each round consists of one attempt per athlete from the designated distance. Only those who achieve a valid scoring hit—defined as a projectile landing within the official scoring zones of the target—shall advance to the next distance. The process continues until no athlete achieves a scoring hit at a given distance. In such a case, the winner shall be declared as the athlete who successfully scored at the farthest previous distance.
2. If two or more athletes remain tied at the last successful distance, a shoot-off shall be conducted from that same distance. The shoot-off shall continue in single-round increments until the tie is resolved.

6. Special Targets: May be used in specific rounds to introduce unique challenges or  variations.  
7. Material: Targets should be made of materials that can absorb arrow impacts, such  as compressed foam or similar materials. To allow impact without passthrough.

1. Judges shall ensure that all targets are in good working order, properly positioned, and clearly visible prior to the start of each round. Any damaged or compromised targets must be replaced immediately to maintain fairness and consistency in competition.

8. Scoring Zones: Targets should be divided into concentric rings with clearly marked  scoring zones, as outlined in target specifications. No points are awarded for  outside the ring or off target, with 7 being the highest score.
9. Target Metal rings: Qualifying rounds require a metal ring separating the target  zones.

4.2. Scoring:

1. Points are awarded based on where the arrow lands within the target’s scoring zones.
2. The scoring area should be clearly defined and easy to read.
3. In case of an arrow impacting the boundary line between two zones, the higher score is awarded.
4. In the event of arrow contact with wire score ring, and score zone can be identified, the higher point value will be awarded.

5. Match Format

5.1. Rounds and Match:

1. Each round consists of: 5 arrow shot  (loosed) per competitor. Arrows scored and retrieved.
2. Once scores are certified, competitors may retrieve their arrow.
3. The line will be called by the official and the second round may begin.
4. The match is a total of 6 rounds or 30 shots.
5. Time limit for each series is 25 minutes total.
6. No time deducted for score dispute resolution.

5.2. Competition Structure:

1. Competitions include individual events, team events, and eliminations based on  the format chosen by the organizers.
2. Finals may be conducted in a knockout format or as a final series with top  qualifiers.
3. Private, Team or Club events, and the results, will not be validated unless an  application for open tournament is submitted prior to the event.  

6. Conduct and Fair Play

6.1. Sportsmanship:

1. Participants must conduct themselves in a professional sportsmanlike manner at  all times.
2. Unsportsmanlike conduct, including arguing with officials or other competitors, may  result in disqualification.

6.2. Dispute Resolution:

1. Disputes regarding scores or rules should be reported to the chief official or jury.  Official score disputes must be reported and concluded during the score round prior to arrow  removal. Once arrow or removed, no score dispute is valid.
2. Match appeals must be submitted in writing prior to the end of competition.

6.3. Integrity:

1. Any form of cheating, deliberate tampering or damaging competitor or event  equipment or falsifying scores, will result in immediate disqualification.
2. Multiple (3 or  more) recorded actions will be terms for removal from future competition.

7.0. Anti-Doping Policy for Blowpipe Competitions

The integrity of blowpipe competitions is of paramount importance. In alignment with international standards and best practices, we have adopted a strict Anti-Doping Policy to ensure that all competitors participate in a fair, safe, and clean environment. This policy is designed to protect the health and well-being of athletes and maintain the spirit of the sport.

7.1 Prohibited Substances and Methods

1. Athletes are prohibited from using any substances or methods that enhance performance, impair judgment, or present a safety risk. This includes the use of recreational drugs, alcohol, and performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs).
2. The use of prescription medication is allowed only if it does not impair an athlete’s ability to compete fairly and safely. Athletes using prescription drugs that may affect performance must disclose this to competition officials prior to the event

7.2 Alcohol and Drug Use

1. Competitors are strictly prohibited from competing under the influence of alcohol, recreational drugs, or any other substances that may impair cognitive or physical function during competition.
2. Any athlete found in violation of this policy will face disqualification from the event, and further disciplinary action may be taken, including potential suspension from future competitions.

7.3 Testing and Compliance

1. Blowpipe competitions adhere to anti-doping standards, and athletes may be subject to random testing during events. This ensures compliance with the established regulations and deters the use of prohibited substances.
2. The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) Prohibited List serves as the basis for identifying banned substances and methods.

7.4 Consequences for Violations

1. Any athlete found in violation of the Anti-Doping Policy will be disqualified from the event and may be banned from future competitions depending on the severity of the infraction.
2. The offending athlete may also face legal and administrative sanctions, including suspension from the sport.

8. Officials and Jury

8.1. Officials:  

1. A chief referee and supporting officials must be present to ensure adherence to  rules and fair play.
2. Officials are responsible for scoring, timing, and range management.

8.2. Jury:

1. An independent jury may be appointed to handle appeals and make decisions on  any disputes.
2. The jury's decisions are final and must be respected by all participants.

8.3. USBA Judge Certification:

1. Officials to be certified and knowledgeable with USBA standards and rules of Blowpipe competition. Certified Judges are State representatives and National Directors. For local events, a substitution for a State Representative judge may be approved by the State or Regional Director.

9. Ranking and Classification

Blowgun Competition Ranking System

To ensure fair competition and provide a structured pathway for progression, the Blowpipe Competition Ranking System classifies competitors based on age divisions and proficiency levels. This system allows participants to compete against those of similar experience while maintaining a path toward open competition for top-performing athletes.

9.1. Age Divisions

Blowpipe competitors will be classified into the following age groups:

1. Youth I (8-12 )
2. Youth II (13-16)
3. Junior (17-20)
4. Open (21-49)
5. Senior (50 & Over)
6. Para-Athlete (all Ages)

9.2. Proficiency Rankings (See attachment A)

Youth advancement consideration - Youth who acquire proficiency of scoring in 3 consecutive contests as a State Ranking, will automatically be advanced to the National classification.

1. Athlete Classification and Advancement Procedure
   All newly registered athletes shall be assigned to the Developmental Class upon entry into the sport, regardless of age group or division.
2. To obtain an official USBA classification, an athlete must achieve a minimum of three (3) consecutive qualifying scores within the designated scoring range of a classification tier (e.g., Developmental, State, National, Elite Class). These scores must be obtained in sanctioned competition and verified by a USBA-certified judge or official.
3. To be considered as an International Class Athlete, a Blowpipe Athlete must compete at 5 or more international events (online or other) and achieve National class scoring, or higher, for their age range

Example: An athlete seeking to be classified as National Class in the Open Division must record three consecutive scores within the 140–159 point range, under official match conditions.

Classifications are awarded only upon meeting the above criteria and are subject to confirmation by the USBA Ranking Committee.

(NOTES)

Youth I, Youth II, Junior

Development Class                0–89        (60 ave)        30 arrows = 2 points per arrow average

State Class                        90–129 (112 ave)        30 arrows = 3.7 points per arrow average

National Class                        130–149 (136 ave)        30 arrows = 4.5 points per arrow average

Elite Class                        150+ (165 ave)        30 arrows = 5.5 points per arrow average

Open, Senior, Para Athlete

Development Class                0–89                        30 arrows = 3 points per arrow average

State Class                        90–139                30 arrows = 4.6 points per arrow average

National Class                        140–159                30 arrows = 5.3 points per arrow average

Elite Class                        160+                        30 arrows = 5 points per arrow average

9.3. Competition Structure

1. Competitors must participate in at least three sanctioned events for ranking evaluation.
   Advancement to higher proficiency levels is based on an average score from the three most recent sanctioned events.
2. Qualified State or National events must be certified by two or more State or National USBA representatives.
3. Local or community events, seeking certification as a sanctioned event, Organizer must submit a request to State or National Rep, prior to event.

10. General Provisions

10.1. Rule Interpretation:

In cases where rules are ambiguous or not explicitly covered, decisions should be  made based on the principles of fair play and the spirit of the competition, by event  officials.

10.2. Event-Specific Rules:

1. Event organizers may modify local and regional rules and regulations, provided  they do not conflict, pose a safety risk or an unfair advantage or to these basic  standards.
2. Participants should familiarize themselves with event-specific rules

prior to the  competition.

11. Para Athlete:

The sport of blowpipe shooting is committed to providing an inclusive and accessible environment for all athletes. To ensure fair and equitable participation, the following accommodations are established for athletes with disabilities:

11.1. Accessible Competition Venues

1. All competition areas, including shooting stations, waiting zones, and restrooms, must be accessible to athletes with disabilities.
2. Venues should include ramps, handrails, and adequate space for mobility devices where necessary.

11.2. Adaptive Equipment Allowance

1. Athletes may use assistive devices to support their participation, including:

1. Modified blowpipes (e.g., adapted mouthpieces or stabilizers).
2. Stands or supports for competitors with upper-body impairments.

2. All adaptive equipment must be pre-approved to ensure fairness and compliance with safety standards.

11.3. Classification for Fair Competition

1. Athletes requiring accommodations may compete in a Para-Blowpipe category, which will classify participants based on functional ability rather than age or standard ranking alone.
2. Classification should be conducted in consultation with medical professionals or experienced adaptive sports officials.

4. Inclusive Participation Policies

1. Event organizers should provide registration assistance, accessible competition materials, and trained volunteers to assist athletes as needed.
2. Adaptive competition formats (such as seated or assisted shooting) should be made available in official events.

5. Open Division & Competitive Advancement

1. Adaptive athletes who consistently meet the 140+ score threshold are eligible to compete in the Open Division, alongside standard competitors, in a format similar to ISSF shooting sports.

ATTACHMENT A - Proficiency Rankings

Division        Age Range        Distance        Performance Class                Average Score

Youth I                8–12                5 M                Development Class                0–89

Youth I                8–12                5 M                 State Class                        90–141

Youth I                8–12                10 M                National Class                        142–179

Youth I                8–12                10 M                Elite Class                        180+

Youth I                8-12                10 M                International Class                180+ (5 international competitions)

Youth II        13–16                5 M                Development Class                0–89

Youth II        13–16                5 M                State Class                        90–121

Youth II        13–16                10 M                National Class                        122–174

Youth II        13–16                10 M                Elite Class                        174+

Youth II        13-16                10 M                International Class                174+ (5 international competitions)

Junior                17–20                10 M                Development Class                0–120

Junior                17–20                10 M                 Regional Class                90–131

Junior                17–20                10 M                National Class                        132–185

Junior                17–20                10 M                Elite Class                        186+

Junior                17-20                10 M                International Class                174+ (5 international competitions)

Open                21–49                10 M                Development Class                0–100

Open                21–49                10 M                State Class                        101–138

Open                21–49                10 M                National Class                        139 - 173

Open                21–49                10 M                Elite Class                        174+

Open                21-49                10 M                International Class                173+ (5 international competitions)

Senior                50+                10 M                Development Class                0–100

Senior                50+                10 M                State Class                        101 –138

Senior                50+                10 M                National Class                        139 –173

Senior                50+                10 M                Elite Class                        174+

Senior                50+                10 M                International Class                173+ (5 international competitions)

Para-Sport        All ages        5 M                Development Class                0–100

Para-Sport        All ages        5 M                State Class                        101–138

Para-Sport        All ages        10 M                 National Class                        139–173

Para-Sport        All ages        10 M                Elite Class                        174+

Para-Sport        All ages        10 M                International Class                174+ (5 international competitions)