Tips for Proper Shooting Range Etiquette

Understanding and following shooting range etiquette allows all shooters a safe and enjoyable shooting experience. Let’s look at shooting range terms, safety rules, and general etiquette to help you navigate the range confidently and responsibly. 

Shooting Range Terms Everyone Needs to Know

Before stepping foot on a shooting range, you must understand the common terms you’ll hear. Familiarizing yourself with these terms and their meanings will help you understand range commands.

Here are several key terms to know:

• Backstop: The barrier behind the targets is designed to stop bullets. Never shoot without a proper backstop.
• Ceasefire: A command to stop all shooting immediately. Firearms must be unloaded and placed down safely.
• Cold range: No shooting is allowed, and shooters have stepped away from their guns and the firing line.
• Commence fire: A command indicating that shooters may begin firing.
• Downrange: The direction in which the targets are placed. Always keep the muzzle of your gun pointed downrange.
• Firing line: The designated line where shooters stand to fire their weapons. Always stay behind this line unless it’s your turn to shoot.
• Hot range: Indicates that shooting can start and you cannot go past the firing line.
• Lanes: Individual shooting areas marked for each shooter to maintain order and safety.
• Range Safety Officer (RSO): An individual responsible for ensuring safety and enforcing rules at the range. 
• Ricochet: A bullet or projectile that bounces off a surface.
• Shooting bench: A platform or table where shooters place their firearms and equipment.

Safety Rules Every Shooter Must Follow

Following shooting range safety rules guarantees a safe shooting experience. Here are several fundamental safety rules to follow:

Learn the shooting range’s safety rules.

Each range may have unique regulations and procedures, so understanding them is essential to ensure safety and compliance. This information is often available on the range’s website or at the facility.

Respect the RSOs.

Range Safety Officers are there to maintain order and keep everyone safe. Always follow their instructions promptly and respectfully. They have the authority to enforce rules and address safety concerns, so listening and complying with their directions is crucial.

Bring your firearms unloaded and in a secure case.

Only take them out once you are in your designated lane. This practice minimizes the risk of accidental discharge during transportation.

Be aware of your surroundings.

Monitor the people and activities around you. Awareness of your environment helps you avoid potential hazards and allows you to respond to any changes or instructions from RSOs.

Do not load or handle firearms behind the firing line.

This prevents accidental discharges and guarantees firearms are handled in a controlled and safe environment.

Know what to do during cease-fires.

When a cease-fire is called, stop shooting immediately, unload your firearm, and place it down safely. Step back from the firing line and await further instructions from the RSO. This allows everyone to check or adjust their targets safely.

Treat every firearm as if it’s loaded.

Always handle firearms with the assumption they’re loaded. This mindset helps prevent negligent handling and accidental discharges, building a safer environment no matter where you are.

Keep your muzzle pointed downrange.

Never point your firearm at anything you do not intend to shoot. Keep the muzzle pointed downrange (even when not actively shooting) to prevent accidental injury or damage.

Keep your finger off the trigger until ready to fire.

This practice reduces the likelihood of accidental discharges caused by premature trigger contact.

Be sure of your target and what’s beyond it.

Always confirm your target and know what lies beyond it to prevent accidents. This vigilance ensures you do not hit unintended objects or people, which is crucial in maintaining a controlled and secure shooting environment.

Never shoot at flat, hard surfaces or water.

Avoid shooting at surfaces that can cause ricochets. Bullets can bounce off hard surfaces or go in unintended directions in water, potentially causing injury or damage.

Always wear ear and eye protection.

Protect yourself from noise and debris with appropriate safety gear. Ear and eye protection are essential to prevent hearing damage and protect your eyes from hazards.

General Shooting Range Etiquette

Understanding and following gun range etiquette helps all shooters maintain order, safety, and respect.

Before You Arrive

Research the range and its rules.

This might include reading the range’s website, reviewing posted guidelines, and understanding the expected behaviors. Indoor shooting ranges and outdoor shooting ranges can have different rules based on location and size.

Dress appropriately.

Wearing the right attire is crucial for safety and comfort. Opt for long sleeves and closed-toe shoes to protect your skin from hot brass and other hazards.

Bring essential range gear.

Pack all necessary safety and comfort items. Ensure you have extra ear and eye protection, your battle belt, and spare magazines. If you’re at an outdoor range, bring water bottles, sunscreen, and bug spray. 

Read Beginners Guide to Shooting Range Gear to have everything you need for a successful range visit.

Check-in at the range.

When arriving, inform the range officer if you are a beginner. This allows them to provide you with specific guidance and support. Follow their instructions carefully and pay any required fees.

Reserve range time in advance if required.

To avoid delays and guarantee a designated slot, check if the range requires reservations and book your time. This is especially important for busy ranges or special events. 

At the Shooting Range

Respect fellow shooters’ personal space and equipment.

Avoid touching or moving others’ gear without permission. Always be mindful of where others have placed their belongings, and try not to encroach on their setup.

Don’t try to correct someone else’s safety issues.

If you notice a safety issue, notify an RSO rather than trying to correct it yourself. Range officers are trained to handle safety concerns and can address them without causing additional problems.

Stay in your lane.

Maintain your designated shooting position and avoid encroaching on others’ lanes. This helps keep the range organized and ensures everyone has the space to shoot safely.

Don’t goof off or be obnoxious.

Avoid unsafe or disruptive behavior, such as shooting from the hip, yelling, or criticizing other people’s shooting. Such actions can be distracting, dangerous, and annoying.

Ask for help if needed.

If you encounter any issues or jams with your firearm, notify an RSO instead of attempting to fix it yourself. RSO can provide assistance to resolve problems safely.

Be respectful.

Use polite language, wait your turn, and respect shared supplies and spaces. Politeness builds a positive environment where everyone can enjoy their time at the range.

Organize your stuff.

Keep your area tidy so your belongings don’t clutter shared spaces. This helps maintain a clean and efficient range environment and makes it easier for everyone to move around and find their gear.

One way to do this is with a gun case or a Blue Alpha Battle Belt, which can help you keep all your shooting items in one place.

Don’t interrupt people while they’re shooting.

Wait until others have finished firing before starting a conversation or making requests. Interrupting can be distracting, potentially unsafe, and annoying.

Don’t assume people want your help.

Offer assistance only if asked. Unsolicited advice or help can be intrusive or patronizing.

Don’t shoot loud magnums or rifles with brakes when others are on the range.

Be considerate of others by avoiding excessively loud firearms that can disrupt their concentration and enjoyment.

Never touch someone else’s firearm without permission.

Always respect others’ property and never handle someone else’s firearm without explicit permission.

Don’t ask to shoot a stranger’s gun.

Avoid making others uncomfortable by asking to shoot their firearm. Such requests are annoying and unwelcome.

Never shoot someone else’s target.

Stay focused on your target to prevent confusion and ensure everyone can accurately assess their performance.

Take your time and be honest with yourself.

Focus on accuracy and safety over speed. Rushing will lead to mistakes and unsafe practices. Always work to improve your skills thoughtfully and carefully.

Before You Leave

Clean up after yourself.

After your session, sweep up brass, throw away targets, and pick up any litter you’ve generated. This keeps the range clean and shows respect for other shooters and the facility staff.

Wash your hands after shooting.

Wash your hands and face after handling firearms and ammunition to prevent lead contamination. Use soap and water, and consider using a lead-removal wipe if available. Avoid eating or drinking until you have cleaned up to reduce the risk of ingesting lead particles.

Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions or Seek Guidance!

Asking questions will help you gain confidence and keep everyone safe at the shooting range.

If you need more clarification about any procedures or rules, ask an RSO or an experienced shooter. It’s better to ask than to risk making a mistake. Watch how experienced shooters handle their firearms and follow range protocols. Observing others can provide valuable insights into proper behavior and techniques.

Many ranges also offer beginner classes or one-on-one instruction. These resources are incredibly beneficial for learning safe handling practices and improving your skills.

The Importance of Shooting Range Etiquette

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced shooter, practicing good etiquette allows everyone to enjoy themselves. Stay informed, stay safe, and enjoy your shooting experience.