A shooting range can be an ideal practice location for new gun owners, but without proper training, it can be equally dangerous. When guns are involved, safety is first and foremost. As a new gun owner, you need to be prepared before going to the shooting range. That means understanding the rules and regulations and capably handling your firearm.
We compiled a list of important shooting range tips for beginners. Review this information so you’ll be better prepared, safer and get more out of your shooting range practice.
Ideally, all firearms beginners should seek training before purchasing a firearm and before heading to the shooting range. Without proper firearms training, a gun owner can be a potential safety risk to themselves and others at a range. Too often, we see people at the range who fail to keep their firearm pointed in a safe direction, walk outside of a shooting stall with their firearm in hand and other cringeworthy actions. Some are unable to deal with a firearm malfunction.
A range is no place for an ego! If you’re a beginner or have no firearms training, let the range manager or Range Safety Officer (RSO) know you’re new and need some help. Don’t be shy or falsely overconfident; ask for help. This is not the time to overestimate your skills.
Have a purpose in mind. Don’t just go to the range to blast through ammunition. Shoot based on your skills and be sure to train on the skills you need to improve. If you want to be effective in an emergency situation, you need ongoing practice – and training. At Academi Tactical Solution, we believe firearms training, like any type of learning, is ongoing. This even applies to instructors. Shooting is a perishable skill.
Know what is allowed at a gun range. Most ranges have strict requirements. If you’re training for home security or concealed carry, keep in mind most ranges do not permit shooting from a holster, moving and shooting or rapid firing. There are, however, options for that type of practice, which you will need if you own a gun for home defense.
Many ranges offer special events where individuals can practice drawing from a holster, moving and shooting and dealing with firearm malfunctions. Two of the most common are International Defense Pistols (IDPA) and United States Practical Shooting Association (USPSA). These are inexpensive ways for monthly reinforcement of training and shooting.