Rule Overview

Skiing

All skiing techniques are permitted in biathlon, but no other equipment than skis and ski poles may be used. The minimum length of the skis is the height of the skier, less 4 cm.

Shooting

The biathlete carries the 3.5 kg rifle including ammunition in magazines on their back during the race. The rifles are 5.6 mm (.22) calibre and may not be automatic or semi-automatic; loading must be done manually by the biathlete.

The target range shooting distance is 50 m. Prone shooting target diameter is 45 mm, standing is 115 mm. The five targets are self-indicating, in that they flip from black to white when hit, giving the biathlete instant visual feedback for each shot fired.