Being a good firearm shooter does not only mean having the ability to hit targets with precision, but shooters must also manifest proper gun range etiquette. This is a must especially if shooters want to practice firearm handling and shooting. Luckily, you can practice all these in a shooting range.
We listed some helpful tips that will serve as a guide for a beginner shooter looking to visit a firing range for the first time.
What To Prepare Before Visiting An Indoor Range
Know the basics of gun range safety.
Always treat your firearms as loaded gun.
Keep the muzzle pointed down range.
Make sure you know your target and what’s behind it.
Always check your ammunition for defects.
Keep your finger off the trigger and outside of the trigger guard unless you’re ready to shoot.
Unload the gun and keep the chamber/action open after using it.
Only point the gun to your target and away from any object, you don’t want to destroy.
Keep your firearm and ammunition in separate storage areas.
Know the language.
Cold Range – All guns must be unloaded and unaimed. The same can also be called as a “Cease Fire” command.
Clear – the shooting range is free from obstructions that could run the risk of hurting anyone or damaging something in the range.
Downrange – this is the area at the end of the gun range where targets are being hung.
Firing lane – this is where shooters stay to reload, work on their firearm and once they’re ready to aim and start firing.
Hot Range – shooters can start firing their gun.
Visit their website first.
Visiting the website of the range that you’re planning to visit for the first time will give you a heads up regarding the fees, rules and requirements before finally coming over to practice your shooting skills. Policies and regulations do vary from one range to another. Most ranges require that shooters must have their firearms placed in a proper casing upon entering the facility. Some ranges require you to purchase their ammunition instead of bringing your own.
We highly recommend looking for the best ranges in the city or state where you plan to go. This way, you will have greater chances of making your first visit totally worth your time! To see our list of ranges, click here.
Choose your company wisely.
Having your friend or loved one with you as you practice will make this “first time” less nerve-racking and more memorable. Ask questions if you are uncertain at the range. The range masters are there to help you and will gladly be of any assistance to make your day at the range safe and enjoyable.
Set aside enough time.
Know that shooting ranges can sometimes be crowded with people. So, make sure you take this into consideration when setting a schedule to visit the range for the first time. Better yet, check range reviews and their website to know the peak hours of operation.
Wear the right clothes.
It is best to wear pants and tight collared clothes when shooting. Avoid wearing V-neck, shorts, a low-cut shirt, and open-toed shoes. If you are not certain what to wear, you may call the range prior to visiting. The proper dress code is not only required for comfort, but also for safety reasons.
Double up on your ear protection.
Think of ear muffs and ear plugs. The range can be too loud, especially for a first-time visitor like you. Even though you know you’re already mentally prepared for the task, you may still find yourself surprised at how loud an indoor shooting range can be.
Consider shooting with a .22 caliber gun.
A .22 caliber firearm offers a quiet and soft shooting experience which allows you to better focus on practicing your grip, trigger control, and sight picture. Remember that you’re still learning how to shoot.
When you think you have already gotten the hang of it, schedule another day at the range. This time, you can choose to shoot with a bigger gun.
Set your target at a close distance.
Consider placing your target at 3-5 yards. The last thing you want is to get frustrated by not being able to hit your target well. And, as a first-time shooter inside an indoor range, you might need to muster as much courage and motivation as you can.
Pay attention to how you feel.
Shooting in an indoor range can be a bit stressful for first-time shooters. If you find yourself too stressed or pressure with being able to hit your target, take a break. Make sure that your first time at the range is going to be an awesome experience.
What to Bring to a Shooting Range
Firearm
If you don’t own any firearm yet, you may rent a gun from the range. Although this would mean an additional cost on your part. Some ranges also sell firearms if you are in the market for a new gun. Try shooting a .22 caliber first and then explore other options later.
Face Mask
Many ranges no longer require their patrons to wear face masks upon entering. But, some ranges might still require it. Check with their website or call prior to going if you are unsure.
Ammo
Most ranges sell ammunition. But, bringing your own ammo might help you save a lot on range costs. Consult an expert if you are not certain which ammo to buy.
Eye and Ear Protection
All indoor and outdoor shooting ranges require eye and ear protection. If you don’t have a pair of your own, chances are, you can rent it from the range.
Targets
Indoor shooting ranges usually have targets for sale. But if you are looking to practice shooting on a regular basis, you will be able to save money when you bring your own paper targets to the range.
What Not To Do At A Shooting Range
Don’t Ignore Safety Policies
Ignoring the safety rules in a shooting range can have dangerous consequences. If there is something that you are not certain about, better ask the range staff. Always follow the commands that every range safety officer says.
Do not ignore gun malfunctions.
In the event that your gun fails to fire, avoid making another attempt at firing it again. Instead, eject the round and if you are not sure how to do this, ask for help from the experts.
Do not focus on speed.
Remember that you are still a beginner in the field of shooting. Part of your goals when in an indoor shooting range must be to learn how to handle the firearm and how to shoot with greater precision. Think about achieving speed later, lest you run the risk of hurting yourself or anyone at the range.
Do not ignore calls for a cease-fire.
A cease-fire is often called when the range staff needs to set up new paper targets or for safety reasons. Failing to obey calls for a ceasefire could significantly increase your risk of firing accidentally at someone or you could have yourself banned for life from entering that indoor shooting range.
Do not leave your brass after your shooting practice.
Make sure you clean up the spent brass on the floor behind you because these could be a slip hazard. However, if range policies do not allow you to do it because they have a designated staff assigned to clean up all the brass, then you can leave the range as soon as you’re done with your shooting session.
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