Going to the firing range is fun and simple. It can be a bit daunting if you have never been before.
The first thing we should talk about is ammo. Before you go to the range call and ask what kind of ammunition you are authorized to shoot there. Not all ranges permit all kinds of ammo. As a rule you want to fire brass case full metal jacket bullets. A bunch of ranges do not permit steel case rounds, which some people tend to purchase because they are more economical.
Also, you may want to test some personal defense rounds (jacketed hollow points, abbreviated JHP) instead of the firing range standard full metal jacket bullets (abbreviated FMJ). Call to verify that this is authorized at your firing range.
If you own a shotgun or rifle, call ahead to check that the range allows you to operate a shotgun or rifle. Additionally, some ranges only allow you to fire slugs, when you fire your shotgun (if they allow shotguns at all), so you should always call to verify.
You can always buy ammunition from the range, but I find that range ammo is always more expensive than just heading to the store or Academy to obtain ammunition. Most of my range ammunition comes from Academy Sports, and they are typically the most reasonably priced.
A large number of ranges will loan or rent safety glasses as well as hearing protection. I really like to bring my own. I bought some quality safety glasses at the sporting goods store in the gun section. I prefer to wear double hearing protection (foam ear plugs and sound suppressing ear muffs). Both can be bought at your local hardware store.
When you arrive at the shooting range, let the man or woman at the counter know that this is your first time at the range. They will have you sign a release and also make sure you get the chance to completely and thoroughly read the range guidelines. Take your time doing this. Absolutely be certain that you comprehend anything you sign there.
The man or women at the counter will give you a target, and ask if you require "eyes and ears," and allocate you a lane. Implement the range rules continuously and pay attention to the gun safety rules at all times. As soon as you pay for your lane, put your safety glasses and hearing protection on and head into the firing lanes. This is serious business, walk smartly to your lane and don't horse play.
Only operate and handle your gun from your lane box. Do not take the pistol out of the shooting lane box. Drape your target and dispatch it down range. If you do not have an understanding of how to do this, there is usually a range safety officer on duty patrolling or monitoring the firing lanes. Get this person's attention and ask any requests you may have. Check your weapon to ensure that it will function properly before shooting (look for jams or malfunctions). Load your gun. Fire at the target only, and fire down range only.
If you are new to this, do not be shy to let the employees of the shooting range know that this is new to you. Ask questions about all things that you are unsure of. Constantly think safety first. Tell the employees right up front, "This is my first time at the firing range and I am new to shooting. What secrets and techniques can you give me to guarantee my safety here?"
Safety is your primary concern here. Shooting is exhilarating, when done safely.
The first thing we should talk about is ammo. Before you go to the range call and ask what kind of ammunition you are authorized to shoot there. Not all ranges permit all kinds of ammo. As a rule you want to fire brass case full metal jacket bullets. A bunch of ranges do not permit steel case rounds, which some people tend to purchase because they are more economical.
Also, you may want to test some personal defense rounds (jacketed hollow points, abbreviated JHP) instead of the firing range standard full metal jacket bullets (abbreviated FMJ). Call to verify that this is authorized at your firing range.
If you own a shotgun or rifle, call ahead to check that the range allows you to operate a shotgun or rifle. Additionally, some ranges only allow you to fire slugs, when you fire your shotgun (if they allow shotguns at all), so you should always call to verify.
You can always buy ammunition from the range, but I find that range ammo is always more expensive than just heading to the store or Academy to obtain ammunition. Most of my range ammunition comes from Academy Sports, and they are typically the most reasonably priced.
A large number of ranges will loan or rent safety glasses as well as hearing protection. I really like to bring my own. I bought some quality safety glasses at the sporting goods store in the gun section. I prefer to wear double hearing protection (foam ear plugs and sound suppressing ear muffs). Both can be bought at your local hardware store.
When you arrive at the shooting range, let the man or woman at the counter know that this is your first time at the range. They will have you sign a release and also make sure you get the chance to completely and thoroughly read the range guidelines. Take your time doing this. Absolutely be certain that you comprehend anything you sign there.
The man or women at the counter will give you a target, and ask if you require "eyes and ears," and allocate you a lane. Implement the range rules continuously and pay attention to the gun safety rules at all times. As soon as you pay for your lane, put your safety glasses and hearing protection on and head into the firing lanes. This is serious business, walk smartly to your lane and don't horse play.
Only operate and handle your gun from your lane box. Do not take the pistol out of the shooting lane box. Drape your target and dispatch it down range. If you do not have an understanding of how to do this, there is usually a range safety officer on duty patrolling or monitoring the firing lanes. Get this person's attention and ask any requests you may have. Check your weapon to ensure that it will function properly before shooting (look for jams or malfunctions). Load your gun. Fire at the target only, and fire down range only.
If you are new to this, do not be shy to let the employees of the shooting range know that this is new to you. Ask questions about all things that you are unsure of. Constantly think safety first. Tell the employees right up front, "This is my first time at the firing range and I am new to shooting. What secrets and techniques can you give me to guarantee my safety here?"
Safety is your primary concern here. Shooting is exhilarating, when done safely.
About the Author:
Learn more about gun safety. Stop by Dustin Aaron's site where you can find out all about his Krav Maga DVD and other self defense material.
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