Being at a shooting range involves certain rituals, some of them explicit, others unspoken.
If you don’t want to be an unwelcome person at your practice location, check out the 7 rules we’ve selected today that would make the environment much more pleasant and safe for shooters and enthusiasts:
- Follow the 4 fundamental safety rules.
There’s no negotiation here. If you put your colleagues or yourself at risk, no one will want you around.
If you’re not familiar with the 4 fundamental safety rules, click here to learn more.
- Follow the range rules
Shooting ranges usually have their own safety and administrative rules and procedures. They are private entities and have the freedom to decide how they operate. Familiarize yourself with these rules, and if you have any doubts, ask a staff member.
- Respect others’ privacy
Sometimes, you might encounter people doing different training or using exotic firearms on the shooting lanes. Resist the temptation to stare incessantly.
Of course, there’s no problem starting a conversation after the training session.
4. Cease-fire means ‘do not touch your firearm’
Range officers may need to call for a cease-fire. Usually someone needs to go down range and there is nothing more frightening than hearing a gun being racked behind you.
During a cease-fire, especially when someone is downrange, do not touch your firearm.”
- Watch out for jokes
Many times people go to shooting ranges for entertainment rather than training. That’s okay: shooting can indeed be a lot of fun. However, make sure your jokes don’t disturb the concentration of those who are training seriously.
- Organization
It’s exciting to have the opportunity to bring all sorts of equipment to the firing line. Most people don’t get the chance to test them elsewhere and take the opportunity to bring everything they can.
In shared environments with other shooters, make sure your belongings aren’t invading others’ space.
- Don’t confuse a range visit with a guided shooting course or training
When you go to the shooting range on your own, you can choose the processes of your session. When to shoot, how much to shoot, and how to shoot. However, in a shooting course, it is expected that the trainee exclusively follows the instructor’s commands, which ensures the proper and safe course of the event.
In a shooting course, strictly and exclusively follow the instructor’s orders.
Final Thoughts
Etiquette rules at the shooting range are desirable behavioral standards that foster a good relationship between visitors and the local shooting community. They ensure safety and proper manners that make the day-to-day experience in this environment enjoyable.
The above list is illustrative and does not exhaust the topic, as there may be other aspects deserving of your attention. Do you know any of them? Leave a comment.”
