HANDLOADING: MUZZLE ENERGY

Created on 29th May 2009

LAURIE HOLLAND explains what the new muzzle energy restrictions on Ministry of Defence ranges could mean for target shooters

AT THE moment there is a very topical subject around - possible restrictions on the use of many cartridges on Ministry of Defence ranges. This is due to a muzzle energy (ME) ceiling of 3,800J. The rules about the construction and use of such ranges are complex. The MoD has every right to say what is or is not used on its property, so I will only comment on the proposals insofar as how they might affect civilian shooting disciplines and the use of some cartridges and calibres. I'll also try to explain how ME is constituted and calculated, its variables and how their interaction impacts results. ME is of interest to other shooters too, because there are energy floors contained within the various Deer Acts that state rifle/cartridge combinations must produce a minimum amount of energy to be reasonably sure of producing a quick and
humane kill.

There are misunderstandings and misleading statements on the go about the MoD range issue - some from those â

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