Hello everyone.
I'm planning my first visit to a shooting range and would like to hear from experienced shooters. What are the most important safety rules every beginner should know before arriving? Are there any common mistakes that first-time visitors often make?
Should I rent equipment or bring my own if I have the option? I'd also appreciate recommendations on proper etiquette while sharing lanes with others.
Any advice on how to prepare mentally and physically for a safe and enjoyable experience would be greatly appreciated.
What lessons did you learn during your first visit?
Start with the 4 Rules:
- Treat all guns as if they are always loaded.
- Never let the muzzle point at anything that you are not willing to destroy.
- Keep your finger off the trigger until your sights are on target and you have made the decision to shoot.
- Be sure of your target and what is beyond your target.
Some other items:
- I think it goes without saying but you'd be surprise: Don't go shooting intoxicated or high.
- Cooperate with others as to cease fire for target placement.
- Obey all range/RSO commands.
- Shoot only in the appropriate direction from the designated firing lines (and only at authorized targets if the range provides stands/does not allow for personal target stands)
- Fire only on designated ranges.
- Fire only authorized firearms and ammunition. Some ranges may not allow steel core or steel cased ammo; some may not allow above a certain caliber; some may only allow pistol calibers on some bays, rifle on others.
- Use appropriate ear and eye protection for all shooters, visitors and spectators.
- Call for a “Cease firing” or “Stop” and make safe all firearms when observing any unsafe condition or when a shooter moves forward of the firing line.
- Notify the Range Safety Officer (RSO) of any safety infractions.
- Ask an RSO for any clarification on rules if you are unsure. Do not make assumptions that could ruin your day, other shooter's days, or range assets.
- If allowed, children should always be supervised and under the control of an adult. Check with the range office/RSO for any age restrictions. Some outdoor ranges may allow pets; get clarification on what, how many, and handling before you show up.
It is not clear if this is your first time shooting a gun, or just your range trip. If it is you first time shooting a gun I would highly recommend either (1) a introduction class or (2) an experience shooter accompany you for handling and instructions, or (3) work with an RSO if one is available and can assist you with the basics.
As far as rentals: Lot of variable here, but I think a few questions are in order first:
- What experience do you have with firearms?
- What is the purpose of the range trip?
- Do you have your own ammunition for your own firearms (if you currently own firearms)?
- Do you want to 'try something new' or are looking to buy something you've never shot before?
As far as sharing bays some will depend on the setup of the range. Indoor ranges are almost all restricted from moving downrange past the firing line and have automated/mechanical target send/retrieve systems. Outdoor 'bays' where you can walk down to you target may only have 2 or 3 shared stations, or may have an entire line of shooters. Each of those situations is different in how they may be handled and specific rules for the range should be followed.
In general, however, when sharing shooting bays:
- Be mindful of other shooters
- Avoid unnecessary conversation while on the firing line
- Only offer advice if asked
- Always follow safety rules and respect the space and time of fellow shooters
I am sure many here could provide horrifying anecdotes of 'stupid range people' who seem to be entirely clueless of both their own safety and the safety of others, and little or no awareness or consideration of what other shooters on a bay or line are doing. I've had more than a few where I've just packed up and left a bay when foolish people roll in and start in with poor safety practices, grab ass, or want to start chatting me up when I'm in the middle of a string, data logging, etc. I've literally had one idiot start walking his target down range while I was shooting a string. There he went, like the last dodo walking himself right into extinction.
That's enough for me. I am sure others can contribute additional information.
