It was the second Olympic free pistol competition to feature final shooting, after an abortive attempt in 1960.

Sweden and the United States each made their 15th appearance, tied for most of any nation.

The competition featured two rounds, adding a final to the event.

[2][5] Prior to this competition, the existing world and Olympic records were as follows.

Sorin Babii set the initial Olympic record for the final format at 660 points.