Power Factor

The power factor of a firearm for IPSC competition is calculated using the following formula:

Bullet Weight (grains) X Velocity (feet/second)

___________________________________
1000

Here are two examples on how this formula is used:

A 38 super bullet weighing 124 grains and traveling at a velocity of 1350 fps would have a power factor of 167.4.

124 (grains) X 1 350 (feet/second)
________________________________= 167.4
1000

A 40 S&W bullet weighing 180 grains and traveling at a velocity of 970 fps would have a power factor of 174.6

180 (grains) X 970 (feet/second)
________________________________= 174.6
1000

Major/Minor

Two power factors floors are recognized in IPSC. Major and Minor.