Cadets at all levels in the Air Cadets are given the opportunity to participate in rifle shooting. Cadet shooting is done under controlled conditions on special indoor and outdoor ranges. Shooting is a highly rewarding activity for cadets. It teaches them patience, commitment and self-discipline. Shooting also allows cadets to participate in competitions as part of a team and individually.
There are two types of rifle presently used in the Air Cadets:

The bolt action No 8 rifle
The L98 rifle

Each cadet is fully trained before taking part. During the basic training phase of cadet classification, new recruits are taught about the no 8 rifle, its parts, safety precautions and are given a practical weapons handling test before being allowed to participate in live firing. New cadets are supervised on a one-to-one basis with a coach until they are confident enough to fire on their own.
Cadets must become proficient with the No 8 rifle before being allowed to fire the L98. There are three qualifications that cadets can aim for.

The Cadet 100
An extremely high level of shooting must be achieved for a cadet to attend this Annual tri-service competition in which the top 100 cadets are awarded a badge. Any cadet who reaches the standards set out for one of these qualifications is given a badge to wear on their uniform as a symbol of their achievement and hard work.
The RAF marksman
Using the L98 rifle the cadet must acheive 5 rounds grouping, 20 rounds application and 10 rounds snap.

The ATC marksman
Using the No 8 rifle the cadet must acheive 5 shots in a 2.5cm group done on a 25m range.