Howdy cowboys and cowgirls.  The MCP officers would like to share some information with you about “Power Factor” in your hand-loads.  This article’s purpose is to ensure our MCP members’ safety.  Note: This article only applies to smokeless powder loads.

Power Factor Definition

The Cowboy Action Shooting Power Factor definition from the Glossary of the SASS Cowboy Action Shooting Shooter’s Handbook Version 27.5:

Power factor – Bullet weight (in grains) times the velocity (in feet per second); divided by 1000. The minimum standard in all SASS matches for smokeless categories is not less than 60 and no velocity less than 400 fps. Maximum velocity for revolvers is 1000 fps. Maximum velocity for rifles is 1400 fps.

The Wild Bunch Action Shooting Power Factor definition from the Glossary of the Wild Bunch Action Shooting Shooter’s Handbook:

Power Factor – Bullet weight (in grains) times the velocity (in feet per second) divided by 1000. The minimum standard in all Wild Bunch™ Action Shooting matches is not less than 150. Maximum velocity for pistols is 1000 fps. Maximum velocity for rifles is 1400 fps.

Voluntary, Unofficial Power Factor Checking Station

At the December 2024 and January 2025 matches, MCP will have a voluntary, unofficial Power Factor Checking Station available to competitors. The station will be manned by a MCP Range Officer. The Station will be available to you approximately 1/2 hour before the match (8:30 a.m.). Results will be unofficial and will not affect that day’s Cowboy Match.

Official Power Factor Checking

Beginning in February 2025, our club’s Range Officers will, at their discretion, begin Official Power Factor Checking. What do we mean by “Official Power Factor Checking?” Please point your browser to pages 23 and 25 of the SASS Cowboy Action Shooting Shooter’s Handbook Version 27.5 to find out the official SASS rules regarding Power Factor. MCP is a SASS-affiliated club that abides by the SASS Cowboy Action match rules.  Using ammo that does not meet the Power Factor requirement is not only SASS-illegal, it’s also dangerous to you and others.  Let’s all be safe while we enjoy our Cowboy Action shooting hobby.

MCP Officers