Team Vihtavuori member Francis Colon showcased exceptional skill, securing 2nd place in the Open Heavy division at the 2025 Nightforce ELR Steel Challenge. The prestigious annual competition, held June 6-8 at the Tillard 55 Ranch near Glenrock, Wyoming, is widely recognized as one of the most demanding long-range shooting events globally.
The 2025 Nightforce ELR Steel Challenge is defined by its extreme demands, with most targets spanning distances well beyond 1,000 yards, often reaching and exceeding 2,100 yards. These targets are primarily life-size animal shapes and 1.5-2.0 MOA steel plates, making precise hits at such vast distances incredibly challenging. Adding to this complexity, the notorious and unpredictable winds of Wyoming’s wide-open spaces constantly test competitors’ ability to accurately read and adjust for ever-changing conditions, making wind management the single most critical factor in achieving success.
“The details that go into engaging targets successfully from 800-2250yds in 5-20mph switchy winds is challenging to describe to those that haven’t had the opportunity to push out past a mile. Suffice it to say: Every. Single. Detail. Matters… A LOT,” said Colon “With 350+ competitors, it’s a hard match to earn a podium. Stretching the legs of this 300NM beast of a system and relying on the precision of Vihtavuori’s N565, I earned 2nd place in Open Heavy and third overall.”
Team Vihtavuori extends its sincerest congratulations to Colon in this impressive accomplishment.
