Cessnock Pistol Club
Cessnock Pistol Club, 650 Maitland Rd, Cessnock NSW: ISSF, Action, Service, WA1500 and black powder pistol on eight ranges. Host of four PA Nationals.
About Cessnock Pistol Club
Cessnock Pistol Club shoots ISSF, Action, Service Pistol, WA1500 and black powder at 650 Maitland Road, Cessnock, in the lower Hunter Valley about 50 km west of Newcastle. The club has been on this site since 1969 and has more than 300 members, some of whom have represented Australia at the Olympic and Commonwealth Games.
The ground has eight ranges: five 25m ranges, two 50m ranges (also licensed for smallbore and black powder rifle) and a 25-bay 10m air pistol range. There is a large clubhouse with a kitchen, and an amenities block with showers.
Competitions
The club runs three open shoots each year: the Wine Country black powder open in February, the Vintage ISSF open in March and the Haywood Open in August. It hosted the Pistol Australia National Championships in 2009, 2012, 2014 and 2017, and the NSWAPA ISSF State Championships in October 2026.
Joining
New shooters aged 12 and over complete a supervised training course, including four safe-handling sessions before the probationary licence. There is currently a six-month wait to start training. Use the enquiry button on this page for general questions.
More shooting clubs in New South Wales, ISSF pistol, NSWAPA and Pistol Australia clubs.
Nearby on Find Shooting Clubs: SSAA Newcastle Branch (about 45 km), Camel Hill Gun Club Inc. (about 93 km), Blacktown Pistol Club (about 111 km).
Shoot and practice days
Photo gallery
Club information
Keen to join or want to find out more about this club? Send them a direct enquiry using the button below.
Affiliations
Frequently asked questions
Got questions about shooting clubs, safety, or getting started? We’ve answered the most common queries to help you find the right club and feel confident getting involved.
What are the rules for joining a NSW shooting club?
Most NSW clubs require you to complete a club application form, provide proof of identity, and either hold or be applying for a firearms licence. Some clubs also require safety briefings or probationary periods. Check each club’s listing or contact them directly for their specific joining process.
Read moreWhat types of shooting disciplines are popular in NSW?
In NSW, popular shooting disciplines include target rifle, pistol, clay target (shotgun), benchrest, IPSC, and field/hunting-based competitions. Many clubs are affiliated with organisations like SSAA, IPSC, PA, or TRA, and offer multiple disciplines for members to explore.
Read moreCan I try shooting in NSW without a licence?
Yes, many clubs in NSW offer try shooting days or supervised introductory sessions where you can handle and fire a firearm under the direct supervision of a licensed club member. These are perfect for beginners and are conducted under strict safety rules.
Read moreAre there shooting clubs in Sydney and regional NSW?
Yes — NSW has dozens of active shooting clubs, ranging from large metropolitan ranges in Sydney to regional clubs across the Hunter, Illawarra, Riverina, and Central West. Use our directory to find clubs by location, discipline, and licence requirements.
Read moreHow do I get a firearms licence in NSW?
To get a firearms licence in NSW, you must complete an approved firearms safety course, have a genuine reason (such as sport/target shooting), and apply through the NSW Police Firearms Registry. You’ll need to be over 18, pass a background check, and wait through a mandatory 28-day cooling-off period. Many shooting clubs can help guide you through the process.
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