When I first started going to the shooting range, I wasn’t sure what to bring with me. I had a general idea of the essentials like my firearm and ammunition, but I quickly realized that there were other items that would make my experience more comfortable and enjoyable.
In this article, I’ll outline some of the things that I’ve found to be helpful when going to the shooting range and improving your shooting skills.
Safety Gear
When it comes to shooting, safety should always come first. That’s why it’s important to bring the right safety gear to the shooting range. Here are some items that I always bring with me:
- Ear Protection: Shooting can be loud, and prolonged exposure to loud noises can cause permanent hearing damage. That’s why I always bring a pair of earplugs or earmuffs to protect my ears.
- Eye Protection: Shooting can also be dangerous for your eyes, as hot brass can fly back and hit you. That’s why I always wear a pair of safety glasses to protect my eyes.
- Close-Toed Shoes: Wearing closed-toed shoes is important to protect your feet from hot brass that may fall to the ground. Sandals or flip-flops should never be worn to a shooting range.
- Appropriate Clothing: It’s important to dress appropriately for the shooting range. Avoid loose clothing that may get caught on the gun or accessories. Wear clothing that is comfortable, but also provides some protection from the elements.
By bringing the right safety gear to the shooting range, you can help prevent accidents and ensure a safe and enjoyable shooting experience for everyone.
Firearms and Ammunition
Firearms
When heading to a shooting range, it’s important to bring your own firearm. I always make sure to bring at least one, but sometimes I bring a few different types to try out. It’s important to check with the range beforehand to ensure they allow the type of firearm you plan to bring.
If you’re new to shooting, consider renting a firearm from the range. This can be a good way to try out different types of firearms before making a purchase. Additionally, some ranges offer classes or instruction on how to properly handle and shoot a firearm.
Ammunition
It’s important to bring enough ammunition for your firearm. I typically bring at least 100 rounds, but it’s always a good idea to bring extra just in case. Again, check with the range beforehand to ensure they allow the type of ammunition you plan to bring.
When purchasing ammunition, make sure to choose the correct caliber for your firearm. Using the wrong caliber can be dangerous and cause damage to your firearm.
It’s also important to properly store your ammunition. Keep it in a cool, dry place and away from any heat sources or flames. Additionally, make sure to dispose of any damaged or corroded ammunition properly.
Accessories and Tools
Here are a few items I always bring with me:
Ear and Eye Protection
First and foremost, it’s crucial to protect your eyes and ears when shooting. I always bring along a pair of earplugs or earmuffs, as well as safety glasses or goggles. This protects my hearing and vision from the loud noises and debris that come with shooting.
Ammunition
Of course, you can’t shoot without ammunition! I make sure to bring along enough ammunition for the guns I plan on shooting. It’s also a good idea to bring along a few extra rounds, just in case.
Cleaning Kit
After shooting, it’s important to clean your guns to keep them in good working order. I always bring a cleaning kit with me to the range, including a cleaning rod, brushes, and lubricant. This helps ensure that my guns stay in top condition.
Targets
While many shooting ranges provide targets, I like to bring my own as well. This allows me to practice with targets that are more specific to my needs, such as silhouette targets or targets with smaller bullseyes.
Range Bag
Finally, I always bring along a range bag to carry all of my accessories and tools. This helps keep everything organized and easily accessible, so I can focus on shooting instead of searching for my gear.
Conclusion
As a regular at the shooting range, I have found that bringing the right gear can make all the difference in having a successful and enjoyable experience.
Don’t forget to bring snacks and water to stay hydrated and energized throughout your time at the range. With the right gear and mindset, a trip to the shooting range can be a fun and rewarding experience.