In brass and enamels; measures 30.7 mm in height x 31.1 mm in width; weighs 10.5 g not including the screw plate. Two-piece construction: the wreath and OSOAVIAKhIM emblem of the gas tank, propeller and rifle is a separate part attached to the bull's eye portion by three wires. Variation featuring a smooth reverse without counter-relief.

In excellent condition, absolutely extraordinary for any Soviet badge of the late 20s - early 30s vintage. The enamel has almost no wear visible to the naked eye: there are only a couple of microscopic hairlines to the white enamel just below the red star and a single pinpoint-sized chip in the same area next to the gas tank - all of it practically unnoticeable without magnification. The enamel is otherwise pristine and shows a beautiful luster throughout. The details of the emblem and wreath are nice and crisp. The parts of the badge are joined firmly; the wires are intact and tight. The original copper screw post is of full length of over 9.5 mm; it includes a period screw plate with a stamped serial number which fits the screw well, although it is not original to the badge.

Established in 1927, the OSOAVIAKhIM badge "For Shooting" was issued for achieving the qualification of Marksman 1st or 2nd level, or for winning a regional OSOAVIAKhIM shooting contest. Several versions are known, including those made in brass and silver. All of these badges are quite scarce, as they were awarded only until 1932, at which point the badge "For Shooting" was replaced by the Voroshilov Marksman badge (of the latter, some 10 million were issued prior to the Patriotic War.)

/Similar to Badges of Volunteer Organizations of the USSR A. Zak et al, p. 78, fig. 1.51 (middle); Avers 8, p. 1556, fig. 1556.b/

Please note, penny in our photo is for size reference.