A standard target rifle is expected to shoot less than or equal to how many MOA?

A standard target rifle is typically expected to have a level of accuracy that can be measured in minutes of angle (MOA). The benchmark of 1/2 MOA represents the capability to keep shots within half an inch at 100 yards, which is a high standard for precision in competitive shooting. This level of accuracy is generally required for various precision shooting disciplines, making it suitable for target rifles specifically designed for this purpose.

Achieving accuracy better than 1/2 MOA, such as 1/4 MOA, is often seen in specialized rifles or when using highly refined ammunition, but this is not the standard expectation for most target rifles. Thus, while achieving 1/4 MOA would demonstrate extraordinary precision, it is more common for standard target rifles to be assessed with a threshold of 1/2 MOA.