In a dominant display of precision and consistency, Team Lapua’s Nate Guernsey emerged victorious at the 2025 South African Open, capturing the coveted Grand Aggregate title with an impressive score of 659-75V.
Held April 1-5 at the historic South African Bisley Union (SABU)—South Africa’s premier venue for long-range target shooting—the championship brought together top competitors from around the world. Guernsey delivered a standout performance, placing third in both the South African Championship and the State President’s Match (300-, 500- and 600-meter distances).
It was at the longer ranges, however, where Guernsey truly set himself apart. He claimed first place in the Colonel Bodley Match (900 meters), the Long-Range Aggregate and, ultimately, the prestigious Grand Aggregate. During the first stage of the State President’s Match, he set a record with a blistering 105-18V, further cementing his reputation among the sport’s elite.
Guernsey competes with Lapua’s .308 Winchester Palma brass—favored by elite shooters for its exceptional consistency and performance.
Commenting on the conditions and his equipment, Guernsey said: “The 2025 South African Bisley Championship had unusually mild winds, and with high scores, the Grand Aggregate was decided by two Vs. Having a bullet as accurate and forgiving as the Berger 155.5-grain meant that ammunition left over from the World Championship—and loaded for a different rifle—shot well enough to win the Grand Aggregate and the Long-Range Aggregate.”
Founded in the early 20th century, the South African Bisley Union (SABU) is the national governing body for fullbore target rifle, F-Class and .303 shooting in South Africa, with a legacy rooted in the evolution of local rifle clubs into a world-class organization for precision competition shooting.
With this win, Guernsey not only adds another major title to his name but also solidifies his position as one of the most formidable marksmen on the global precision rifle stage.
