Can I come and have a look at the club?
Absolutely. The club is open Wednesday night from 7.00pm and Saturday from 9.15am. Always a good idea to make contact before hand so that there will be a committee member allocated to meet with you, for a tour and overview.
Can I just visit and hire a gun on a casual basis?
Beaudesert Pistol Club is not a range gallery where people can casually visit to fire a number of different hand guns. Our members compete, weekly in ISSF pistol competitions.
What does ISSF stand for?
The International Shooting Sport Federation is the governing body of the Olympic shooting events. It also regulates several non-Olympic shooting sport events. BPC offers several ISSF pistol matches.
Can I come to the club and learn how to shoot a handgun?
The club has a level one coach and trains new members in the rules, safety procedures and the basic pistol shooting techniques. Coaching also available by a level 2 qualified coach from the State Organisation (PSQ).
Is it easy to join a pistol club?
Visitors are allowed to visit the range and complete QPS form 33 on the first visit. For ongoing visits, they are to complete form 33A They are allowed to on three occasions fire a hand gun. Exclusively supervised. If they then wish to join the club, they are required to complete a Weapons Licencing Branch QP515 application. If the Police deem an applicant a suitable person, they will issue form 36 which needs to accompany the membership application. Upon payment of the joining fee and annual subscription the club committee will discuss the application and PSQ will also be involved. Once approved the applicant is covered by insurance and can start their 6-month probation.
Can I just turn up and shoot by myself?
All new members during their 6-month probation must be exclusively supervised by a cat H license holder. After which time they can join the main members and compete or train. But there must always be a range officer present on any of the outdoor ranges.
If I join the club, can I shoot at other clubs?
As all BPC members are affiliated with PSQ they are allowed to visit other ISSF affiliated clubs around Australia and shoot in Open Tournaments and during general range days. Subject to a visitor fee or competition fee.
Can new shooters win competitions?
ISSF has a grading system and members compete within their grade for each event. So, there is a level playing field.
How many events are there?
BPC offers 25m Rapid Fire/ 25m Pistol / 25m Centre Fire / 50m Pistol / 10m Air / 50m & 25m Black Powder. Plenty of competitions, each with there own skill sets.
Can I shoot action matches?
BPC does not offer action and service matches.
Can I use my 45-cal pistol?
The range is approved for ISSF matches. The centre fire match can be shot with calibres up to .38 cal and Black Powder up to .46 cal.
Can I use full jacketed ammunition?
Only lead or polymer coated projectiles are allowed.
Can I use factory loads?
Factory loads are generally not ideal but are allowed if they are with lead or polymer coated projectiles. Many members load their own for the center fire match.
Is the range indoors?
The 15 bay ‘Air’ range is indoors. The other 25m and 50m ranges are outdoors. But the shooting bays are covered.
Is it a safe sport?
Shooting is safe as long as everyone understands the match rules and gun handling rules. The appointed range officer also manages the shooting process. So as long as competitors listen to the commands, it is safe.
How do I learn the rules?
Once you are allowed to handle a pistol you will be taught the rules. All new members undergo an induction and then during their initial 6 months’ probation the trainer will progressively teach you the rules.
What gun will I be using during my introduction and probationary period?
New members who have no pistol shooting experience will start with a .177 air pistol. It has virtually no recoil and ear protection is not required making it possible for the trainer to talk and address the finer art of single-handed pistol shooting. Once a level of competency has been achieved, the trainer will introduce students to a .22 cal pistol.
How long is it before I can buy my own pistol?
After the 6 month probationary period members can apply for their Cat H licence. Once issued they can purchase their first pistol. There is some paperwork involved.
I have a rifle license so can I just join and start shooting with the main members?
Single handed pistol shooting is very different to rifle events and for this reason you will have to undergo the induction course and be supervised and under training by the club trainer using a .177 cal pistol, until such time you have achieved a level of competence and are allowed to handle a .22 cal pistol. In year two of your membership, it is possible for those wishing to shoot centre fire to buy a suitable pistol.
Is there a cost to use a pistol?
The club pistols are a hire item. Your trainer will discuss costs with you. It’s not expensive.
Can I shoot using both hands?
ISSF match rules state that for competitions athletes are to compete using a single hand. The insurance policy also dictates athletes are to compete to the rules of the match. However, with a doctors certificate or a statutory declaration members who have a disability can engage in club level shooting using both hands.
Senior members who find holding a pistol in one hand taxing can compete in Air and 50m pistol events using a supported rest. More about ‘supported rest‘ under disciplines.
Can people with a disability join the club?
Within ISSF pistol there are many athletes, in wheel chairs and amputees who compete at high levels. The Para Olympics has ISSF pistol and rifle events.
