Griffith Pistol Club Inc. is a sports club located in Griffith City Council, Australia. Established in 1975, the club spans over 14. 71 hectares of land, featuring two 25-metre ranges and one 50-metre range nestled into McPherson's Range.
The primary objective of the club is to provide a safe environment for its members and anyone interested in trying the sport of pistol shooting.
The club organises scored matches on the first and third Saturday of each month at their Myall Park range. Additionally, larger calibre events are held every second Sunday at the Rankins Springs Range. The 2023 programme contains more detailed information about upcoming matches and events.
Target shooting with a pistol is a family-friendly sport that can be enjoyed by individuals aged 12 and above. It is an international discipline where handguns of various calibres and categories are used in different matches to hit targets placed at distances of 25 and 50 metres, with varying time restrictions. The club also offers matches involving shooting at metallic targets up to 200 metres, as well as practical shooting events.
To join the Griffith Pistol Club, individuals must complete an Application Form and attach two written character references. Applications are reviewed at the monthly club meetings, usually held on the first Saturday of each month at 1:00 pm at the Clubhouse. New members will also need to complete a SSAA Membership Application form if they are not already SSAA members, as it provides association affiliation and insurance coverage.
Upon acceptance into the club, new members must pay the appropriate club fee and complete a NSW Firearms Registry Declaration Form (P650). They will also receive basic instruction on the safe handling of target pistols. To commence the Firearms Safety Training Programme, new members must apply for a Probationary Pistol licence (Category H Target Shooting) from the NSW Police Firearms Registry within the first six months of membership. This programme must be successfully completed during this probationary period.
During the first six months, new members are not allowed to acquire pistols of their own, but they can use club pistols and shoot under the direct supervision of experienced members. After holding a Category H licence for six months, they can apply for a permit to purchase two target pistols. It is important to note that target pistols can be of rimfire, centrefire, air, or black powder varieties, but not rimfire and centrefire simultaneously. After 12 months, new members can apply for a full Category H licence and can purchase additional pistols.
Before acquiring their first target pistol, new members must instal a NSW Police-approved pistol safe that meets current regulations for the safe storage of firearms. The safe must be inspected by the NSW Police to ensure compliance.
Griffith Pistol Club Inc. provides a supportive and inclusive environment for pistol shooting enthusiasts of all ages. With a commitment to safety and a range of programmes and matches, the club offers a great opportunity to experience the exciting sport of target shooting in the Griffith City Council area.