Jacob Parsons: Excelling in Product Design and Target Rifle Shooting

By day, Jacob Parsons is a skilled product design engineer for VIP-Polymers, creating innovative solutions with precision and attention to detail. By night and on weekends, he channels those same qualities into his passion for target rifle shooting. Jacob’s expertise in both fields recently earned him a sponsorship from VIP-Polymers.

From Engineering to Shooting

Jacob’s work as a product design engineer withing the company and his target rifle shooting shares a common trend: Precision. In his engineering role, he meticulously designs products, ensuring every detail is perfect. This same focus and care are evident in his shooting, where accuracy and control are crucial.

Jacob started shooting aged 14 with the Cadets, where he quickly got involved in competitive shooting and has since gone on to represent Great Britain on several occasions as a junior.

About Target Rifle Shooting

Target rifle shooting is a challenging sport which involves prone single shot precision shooting at targets set distances between 300 to 1200 yards (275 to 1100 meters). Jacob uses a specialized rifle, a System Gemini (7.62×51mm NATO), single-shot, bolt-action rifle ideal for both short and long-range shooting, built here in the UK.  As well as being able to hold a steady aim, the key challenge is being able to judge and allow for the direction and strength of the wind and other weather conditions especially at the longer ranges.

Recent Competitions and Achievements

Jacob has recently competed in two major events, showcasing his skill and dedication:

UK NRA Inter Counties Challenge Trophy (June 8-9)

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Held at the National Shooting Centre in Surrey, this event tested shooters over two days:

• Day 1 focused on short-range shooting.
• Day 2 moved to long-range targets.

Jacob represented Sussex; a county known for its strong shooting teams. The Sussex team, consisting of 8 shooters, 2 wind coaches, and a captain, competed against 21 other teams from 25 counties, totaling around 250 competitors. Despite tough, windy conditions, Jacob and his team performed exceptionally well, securing the bronze medal. This was a significant achievement, given how competitive it is to get a place in the Sussex team, which includes world champions, Queens Prize winners, and a Commonwealth Games medalist.

Scottish Open Championships (June 14-16)

Jacob traveled to the Scottish Highlands to compete in the Scottish Open Championships at Jubilee Range, Blair Atholl. Despite challenging wet weather, the competition saw very high scores. Jacob stood out as one of the top English shooters at the event:

• During the long-range competition on Sunday, he achieved the joint top score, not dropping any points.
• Overall, he placed 14th in the Association Gold and Silver Medal match at short range, highlighting his consistent performance across different conditions.

VIP-Polymers Sponsorship: A Boost to Excellence

VIP’s sponsorship is a game-changer for Jacob. It provides him with the resources to enhance his skills, upgrade his equipment, and compete in more prestigious events. This support is crucial as Jacob continues to balance his career in product design with his passion for shooting.

Looking Ahead

With VIP-Polymers backing him, Jacob is poised to reach new heights in both his engineering career and his shooting sport. He embodies the precision and dedication required to excel in both arenas. Whether he’s crafting the next innovative product or aiming for a distant target, Jacob is a model of excellence.

Stay tuned for updates on Jacob’s progress in upcoming competitions and his ongoing journey with VIP-Polymers sponsorship.

Learn More About Target Rifle Shooting

If you’re interested in learning more about target rifle shooting, check out the following resources:

• • National Rifle Association of the United Kingdom (NRA UK)