Pole Pen 2026 Course Overview
This event is a long-range run-and-gun biathlon set in the Texas Hill Country. Competitors will navigate rugged terrain with moderate elevation changes while engaging multiple target arrays across a demanding course.
Teams will be provided coordinates for designated target areas and intermediate objectives. Engagement distances will vary throughout the course, requiring both precision shooting and effective movement under load.
Participants should expect rocky ground, uneven footing, and changing weather conditions. Proper footwear and terrain-appropriate gear are strongly recommended. Total course distance is subject to minor adjustment, but competitors should plan for a minimum of 10 miles on foot.
TEAM COMPOSITION & DIVISIONS
Teams consist of:
– 1 Designated Marksman (DM)
– 1 Carbine Shooter (CS)
An additional Lone Wolf division is available for solo competitors, who will be responsible for completing all team requirements independently.
Some stages will require coordination between teammates, including observation and communication to successfully complete target engagements.
ENGAGEMENT DISTANCES
Designated Marksman: engagements may extend out to 1,000 yards
Carbine Shooter: responsible for closer-range targets throughout the course
EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS
Designated Marksman (DM)
- Rifle not to exceed .308 caliber
- Bolt-action rifles permitted
- Pistol not to exceed .45 caliber
- 5.7×28 is not permitted
- Chest Rig
- Gun Belt
- Ranging tools
- Water (no resupply available)
Carbine Shooter (CS)
- Carbine not to exceed .308 caliber
- Pistol not to exceed .45 caliber
- 5.7×28 is not permitted
- Chest rig
- Gun Belt
- Ranging tools
- Water (no resupply available)
COURSE INFORMATION
Course maps and stage descriptions will not be released prior to the event.
There are no resupply points once competitors are on course.
Plan hydration, nutrition, and equipment accordingly.
Weather conditions may vary – dress and pack appropriately.
GEAR LIST
Competitors must carry all required equipment for the duration of the event. There are no resupply points once on course.
REQUIRED GEAR (ALL DIVISIONS)
- Primary rifle (per division caliber limits)
- Secondary pistol (per caliber limits)
- Chest rig or plate-style rig (plates not required)
- Gun Belt
- Eye protection (ANSI rated)
- Ear protection
- Ranging tools (laser rangefinder or equivalent)
- Navigation tools (map, compass, GPS – electronic devices allowed unless otherwise stated)
- Water (minimum recommended: 3 liters)
- Weather-appropriate clothing
- Sturdy footwear suitable for rocky terrain
DESIGNATED MARKSMAN (DM) SPECIFIC
- Rifle not to exceed .308 caliber
- Bolt-action rifles permitted
- Pistol not to exceed .45 caliber
- 5.7×28 is not permitted
- Ammunition sufficient to complete all stages
CARBINE SHOOTER (CS) SPECIFIC
- Carbine not to exceed .308 caliber
- Pistol not to exceed .45 caliber
- 5.7×28 is not permitted
- Ammunition sufficient to complete all stages
LONE WOLF DIVISION
- Must meet both DM and CS equipment requirements
- Responsible for all navigation, observation, and engagements without assistance.
STRONGLY RECOMMENDED (NOT REQUIRED)
- Gloves
- Knee protection
- Gaiters
- Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
- Nutrition for 10+ miles of movement
- Small first-aid or blister kit
- Data card / dope card
- Binoculars or spotting optic
Frequently asked questions
Will maps or stage descriptions be provided ahead of time?
No. Course maps and stage descriptions will be issued at the event. No prior disclosure
Is there water or ammo resupply on the course?
No. Competitors must carry everything they need from the start.
What is the expected course distance?
The course will be at least 7 miles. Exact distance may vary slightly.
What kind of terrain should we expect?
Rocky ground, uneven footing, and moderate elevation changes typical of Texas Hill Country.
Are bolt-action rifles allowed?
Yes. Bolt-action rifles are permitted within caliber limits.
Are suppressors allowed?
If legal in your jurisdiction and compliant with range rules, yes. No competitive advantage or disadvantage is applied.
Are electronic devices allowed?
Yes, unless otherwise stated in the stage brief. GPS devices and electronic rangefinders are permitted.
Is team communication allowed during stages?
Yes. Some stages will require coordination between teammates.
What happens if weather conditions change?
The event will proceed unless deemed unsafe. Competitors are responsible for preparing for heat, wind, rain, or cold.
Is this a tactical or military event?
No. This is a civilian run-and-gun biathlon competition focused on endurance, marksmanship, and navigation.
What happens if required gear is missing?
Competitors may not be allowed to start or may receive penalties at the discretion of match staff.