My original question may well have been clumsy but was certainly not intended to offend anyone, so I apologize if I have.
I was just surprised to find that the two categories had such different rules regarding what was and wasn't permitted. As both disciplines have the same objective, hitting the target, I wondered why more equipment/support/clothing was allowed for rifle compared to pistol?
Not sure if I have asked the question any more eloquently or not?
Cheers
Chris