Why ammunition rules matter
Our range approval and safety depend on controlling the types of ammunition used. The By-Laws specifically prohibit Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) ammunition and set limits on power factor and calibres to protect range infrastructure and minimise risk.
Approved calibres for use at CDPC
The following calibres are approved for use at CDPC (subject to discipline-specific rules and VicPol requirements):
– .22LR
– .22LR Short
– 9mm Luger / 9mm Long Colt
– .38 Special
– .38 S&W
– .38 Super / Super Comp
– .44 Magnum (Range 2 only)
– .45 ACP
– .357 Magnum
– .357 SIG
– .40 S&W
– 12 Gauge (Range 2 only)
– .410 Gauge (Range 2 only)
Maximum power factor
– Maximum power factor at CDPC is **190.9**
– Power factor is calculated as: **bullet weight (grains) × velocity (fps) ÷ 1000**
Shooters are responsible for ensuring their loads comply with this limit.
Permitted projectile types
The following projectile types are permitted at CDPC:
– Lead Round Nose
– Wadcutters
– Semi-Wadcutters
– Semi/Jacketed Hollow Point
– Semi/Jacketed Soft Point
– Conical Flat Nose / Flat Nose
Copper-washed and copper-plated variants of the above styles are also permitted.
Prohibited projectile types
The following projectile types are **not permitted** to be used at CDPC:
– Full Metal Jacket (FMJ)
– FMJ bullets have a soft core (often lead) completely encased in a harder metal jacket (e.g. gilding metal, cupronickel, or steel).
– Slugs (shotgun slugs made of lead, copper or other materials)
A note on jacketed ammunition
The By-Laws specifically prohibit **Full Metal Jacket** ammunition. Not all jacketed ammunition is automatically banned. Some copper-washed or plated hollow points and similar projectiles may be acceptable, provided they are not fully jacketed in the FMJ sense. When in doubt, check with a Range Officer or the Chief Range Officer before use.
Member responsibilities
– Use only calibres and projectiles approved for CDPC
– Ensure your loads remain under the maximum power factor
– Never use FMJ ammunition or prohibited slugs on the range
– Consult the Chief Range Officer or a Range Officer if you are unsure about ammunition suitability
Failure to follow ammunition rules may result in immediate suspension from shooting and disciplinary action under the Constitution and By-Laws.