INTRODUCTION: Testing biathlon athletes in real shooting situations can be challenging. While laboratory environments offer numerous testing sites, ecologically valid ranges are scarce. In 2023, a biathlon shooting testing range with electronic biathlon targets was built in Vuokatti, providing the possibility to measure several shooting-related variables from both the athlete and the rifle, either inside a shooting cabin or outside in real-world conditions. METHODS: The shooting cabin was built from a repurposed 8-meter sea container, while the target container was built by combining two 12-meter sea containers together, with one side opened towards the shooting range (Fig.1). All lead waste is collected. Suomen Biathlon Oy delivered the electronic targets with bullet traps and displays. Bullet protection was built exceptionally from 8 mm transparent carbonate plates, which can be adjusted individually for every track (Fig 2). The protective system was approved by the Finnish Police Government and is also suitable for small and residential areas. Noise tests were also conducted and approved by the local authorities. The range consists of six outdoor tracks with two indoor tracks. The shooting cabin is equipped with balance, force and aiming point movement measuring equipment, as well as cameras, all of which can be measured synchronously along with the target data and are collected to the Coachtech database for storage and analysis. RESULTS/DISCUSSION: Athletes have adopted the testing range well. The only change from a "normal" range is the compulsory use of ear protection. This is because the protection sheet bounces the sound backwards, opposite of what happens in a normal range. The electronic targets enable immediate feedback from the point of impact and trainers can focus on the athlete`s performance instead of tracking the shots through a scope. For research, the new facility opens possibilities to study the biathlete with different training situations and shooting positions. The electronic targets were in use for the first time on a biathlon track. During the summer, the manufacturer made modifications to the target system, and the next generation targets will be expected for further testing this Autumn. CONCLUSION: The new shooting range enables new possibilities for training and research particularly in biathlon shooting.
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