There is a product called a
"Plastic Training Cartridge" which uses actual cartridge cases and is filled with an inert hard poly shaped like a projectile. We use them every week at the Academy and they last forever. Of all the different types on the market to purchase (we've tried them all) this one works the best, is most realistic, and has an extensive life - unlike most of the others. These Training Cartridges are filled with a highly visible colored poly (usually bright safety orange or yellow) so you won't confuse it with a live cartridge and they are a 1000% times easier to find on the range deck.
To purchase them go to
www.ofagear.com and choose from the menu on the left "Training Cartridges" and then select which handgun or rifle caliber. They can be used for a variety of firearm related tasks including inducing unscheduled malfunctions and/or practicing combat or tactical reloads.
"Dummy Rounds" are technically real cartridges without a primer or propellant and are
not recommended because they can, and will, become easily mixed with live cartridges. Many range related accidents and instructional demos blunders have been caused because the individual using a "dummy" cartridge "thought or assumed" is was inert - and it wasn't.