subject: Beginners Guide To The Shooting Range [print this page] Going to the firing range is fun and easyGoing to the firing range is fun and easy. It can be a bit frightening if you have never been before.
The first thing we need to talk about it bullets. Before you go to the firing range call and ask what kind of ammo you are allowed to shoot there. Not all ranges allow all kinds of ammunition. Usually you want to use brass case full metal jacket rounds. A great number of ranges do not allow steel case rounds, which some people tend to buy because they are far more affordable. Also, you may want to test some personal defense rounds (jacketed hollow points, abbreviated JHP) instead of the firing range standard full metal jacket rounds (abbreviated FMJ). Call to verify that this is permitted at your range.
If you own a shotgun or rifle, call ahead to check that the range allows you to shoot a shotgun or rifle. Additionally, some ranges only permit you to fire slugs, when you shoot your shotgun (if they allow shotguns at all), so always call to verify.
You can always purchase ammunition from the firing range, but I find that range ammo is without exception more expensive than just heading to Wal-Mart or Academy to pick up ammunition. Most of my firing range ammo comes from Wal-Mart, and they are customarily the most low-cost.
The vast majority of ranges will loan or rent safety glasses and also hearing protection. I choose to bring my own. I bought some decent safety glasses at Wal-Mart in the gun department. I prefer to utilize double hearing protection (foam ear plugs and sound suppressing ear muffs). Each of them can be purchased at Wal-Mart or Academy.
When you visit at shooting range, let the person at the counter know that this is your first occasion at the range. They will have you sign a waiver and also make sure you get an opportunity to completely and thoroughly look over the range rules. Take your time doing this. ACTUALLY READ AND LEARN WHATEVER YOU ARE SIGNING.
The people at the counter will give you a target, and ask if you require eyes and ears, and allocate you a lane. Pay attention to the range rules continuously and follow the gun safety rules at all times. As soon as you pay for your lane, put your safety glasses and hearing protection on and approach the firing lanes. This is serious business, walk smartly to your lane and dont fool around.
Only manipulate and handle your weapon from your lane box. Do not take the weapon out of the shooting lane box. Install your target and drive it down range. If you do not fully grasp how to do this, there is customarily a range safety officer on duty patrolling or keeping tabs on the firing lanes. Get this persons attention and ask any requests you may have. Check your gun to ensure that it will function properly before shooting (look for jams or malfunctions). Load your firearm. Fire at the target only, and fire down range only.
If you are new to this, do not be too ashamed to let the staff members of the shooting range know that this is new to you. Ask questions about anything that you are uncertain of. You should always think safety first. Tell the staff right up front, This is my first time at the shooting range and I am new to shooting. What techniques can you offer me to ensure my safety here?
Safety is your most important concern here. Shooting is a lot of fun, when done safely.
