General Information
What is target pistol shooting? Target pistol shooting is a precision sport where participants shoot at paper or electronic targets at various distances. It requires discipline, concentration, and technical skill.
Do I need experience to join? No experience is necessary. WPIPC welcomes beginners and provide introductory courses and coaching to help you develop proper technique and safety practices.
What age do I need to be to participate? You must be at least 12 years old to shoot under supervision (Junior), and 18 years old to obtain your own pistol license.
How can I get started? Contact WPIPC’s Secretary at secretary@wpipc.asn.au for more information.
How can I you shoot? The Club is open Tuesday morings, Wednesday evenings, Saturday afternoons and Sunday mornings.
Licensing and Legal Requirements
What license do I need? You need a Competition license issued by your state or territory police firearms registry. Club membership is a prerequisite for this license.
How long does it take to get a pistol license? The process typically takes 6-12 months. You must first join a club as a probationary member, complete a safety course, and participate in club shoots for a minimum probationary period (usually 6 months) before you can apply for your license.
What are the genuine reasons for owning a pistol in Australia? Target shooting sport is a recognised genuine reason. You must maintain active club membership and meet minimum participation requirements.
Club Membership
What does membership cost? WPIPC’s current adult membership cost is $350 PA. Visiting shooters may shoot on WPIPC’s ranges after paying a range fee.
What are my obligations as a member? You must attend minimum participation requirements (6 shoots per year per discipline), follow all safety rules, ensure your scores are recorded for each shoot, and maintain your license conditions.
Can I try shooting before committing to membership? Contact our secretary at secretary@wpipc.asn.au for a chat. Note that under current firearm laws, you will need to commit to the club firearm training course in order to shoot with our club pistols.
Equipment and Costs
Do I need to buy my own pistol immediately? No. During your probationary period, you can use club pistols to complete your training and determine which matches interest you most.
How much does equipment cost? Entry-level pistols start around $800-$1,500, while competition-grade pistols can cost $2,000-$4,000+. You’ll also need a secure firearm cabinet meeting WA firearms law requirements, ammunition, cleaning supplies, and range bag.
Where can I store my pistol? Pistols must be stored in an approved cabinet, meeting requirements set by WA police. The club does not have facilities to store members firearms. See link for more information
What caliber of pistols are used? Different matches use different calibers, from .177 air pistol through to .45 black powder percussion.
Safety and Range Rules
How safe is pistol shooting? Target pistol shooting is extremely safe. WPIPC has strict safety rules, and range officers supervise all shooting activities.
What safety equipment do I need? Eye protection and hearing protection are mandatory. Closed-toe shoes and appropriate clothing are also required.
Competition and Progression
What matches are available? The club shoots matches supported by the WA Pistol Association (WAPA) and Target Pistol Australia (TPA). These matches include ISSF, Service, WA1500, Black Powder, Action and Metallic Silhouette. Each has different rules and equipment requirements.
Can I compete in Opens/Competitions? Yes, once you’re a licensed member, you can compete at club, state, national, and potentially international levels depending on your skill development.
Is coaching available? Our initial safety course offers guidance on the proper technique of target pistol shooting. Coaching is available on request to help shooters refine their skills.