Ammunition Limitations
Due to the presence of our electronic flashers, there is a limit on the muzzle energy permitted on the LRP. Ammunition exceeding a muzzle energy of 5,000 ft-lbs are not permitted to engage any target at a distance of less than 1,000 yards. Use of the .50 BMG cartridge or its derivatives (such as .416 Barrett) is not permitted on the LRP at any time.
You can calculate your ammunition’s muzzle energy as follows:
Velocity X Velocity X Bullet Weight = Muzzle Energy in ft. lbs.
450,240
Where the Velocity is given in feet per second and the Bullet Weight is in grains. This information is typically provided on the box. Cartridges of .338 Lapua or less are usually OK.
The table below shows the velocity limits for a variety of bullet weights:
LRP Velocity Limit | |
Muzzle Energy = 5,000 ft-lbs | |
Bullet Weight (gr) | Max Velocity (fps) |
100 | 4745 |
125 | 4244 |
150 | 3874 |
175 | 3587 |
200 | 3355 |
225 | 3163 |
250 | 3001 |
275 | 2861 |
300 | 2739 |
325 | 2632 |
350 | 2536 |
375 | 2450 |
400 | 2372 |
425 | 2302 |
450 | 2237 |
475 | 2177 |
500 | 2122 |
Armor-Piercing, Tracer and Penetrator Ammunition
Conditions on the LRP tend to be very dry, and while fire mitigation has been performed, it is essential that the types of ammunition allowed do not pose a threat of fire. It is especially important to remember that no tracer, incendiary, armor-piercing (black tip) or penetrator (green tip) ammunition is permitted on the ranges at CSEC as they constitute a fire hazard. This includes M855 surplus ammunition.
Armor-piercing and penetrator rounds have steel cores which cause sparks when they impact steel targets. Additionally, these rounds damage our steel targets, requiring their replacement.
Generally, if the projectile in the round attracts a magnet, it is not permitted. If you have any questions regarding the suitability of your ammunition, please ask the Range Safety Officer or inquire at the range office.
Please take note: Not all steel-cored penetrator ammunition is marked. Recent 5.56mm Australian imports look just like conventional rounds. Know your ammo!