Safety rules at a shooting range that are non-negotiable

A shooting range is a place where many people go to improve, practice or relax. And even though at first glance it might seem that the rules are clear to everyone, it never hurts to remind them. Because whether you are a beginner or an experienced shooter, safe shooting and handling of a weapon must always be an absolute priority. This article focuses on the basic safety principles that every visitor to a shooting range should respect.

1) Follow the rules of the shooting range

Each shooting range has its own specific rules, so always study them when you arrive at the shooting range and follow them. These measures are not set without reason – their goal is to protect everyone involved.

The most common rules include:

• Use of personal protective equipment (earphones, safety glasses).

• Strictly follow the instructions of the operator.

• Do not handle weapons outside of designated areas.

Quality protective equipment is an essential piece of equipment on the shooting range.

2) Do not handle your gun outside the firing line

One of the key safety rules at the shooting range is to not handle your gun unless instructed to do so by your shooting instructor or unless you are on the firing line. The gun must always be:

• Unloaded (unless in use) – after unloading, always perform a check and an aimed shot of safety in a safe direction.

• Always pointed in a safe direction, never at people.

• Stored or secured when not in use.

Remember that even a seemingly unloaded gun can be dangerous. Always treat it as if it were loaded.

3) Follow the rule “Never aim at what you don’t want to hit”

One of the most important rules of shooting safety is to always keep the barrel of your gun pointed in a safe direction at all times – ideally, at the target. Never aim at people, animals or other objects that are not intended for shooting or outside the firing range.

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4) Keep your finger off the trigger!

Always keep your index finger off the trigger until you are really ready to fire. This rule eliminates the risk of an unintentional shot. Naturally keep your finger along the trigger guard until you have the gun safely pointed at the target.

If you need to relax your hands during shooting, pull them towards your chest. But still aim for a safe area and keep your finger off the trigger (this is also a good time to visually check your surroundings).

5) Check your surroundings

When shooting, some shooters sometimes tend to be a bit blindsided and focus only on the target. This is something to watch out for. Always keep an eye on what is happening around you and in the firing area. Always visually check the target area and its surroundings before starting to shoot. Make sure the target is facing a safe zone where there is no risk of personal injury or property damage.

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6) Listen to the instructions of the instructors and shooting range staff

The instructors and shooting range staff are there to ensure your safety and the correct course of shooting. Therefore, always respect their instructions. If you do not understand something, do not hesitate to ask them right away – it is better to clarify your doubts than to make an unnecessary mistake.

7) Alcohol and guns don’t fit together!

The combination of alcohol or other addictive substances and guns is extremely dangerous and unacceptable at shooting ranges. Keep your mind clear and focused.

8) Safe storage and transportation of guns

If you bring your own gun to the shooting range, make sure it is properly stored and secured during transport. When entering the shooting range, inform the staff that you have your gun and respect their instructions.

Always keep your belongings well organized.

9) Respect other shooters

The shooting range is a shared space. Be considerate of other shooters, do not overtake, do not interrupt, and respect the personal space of others. Keep your shooting position neat and organized, and clean up after yourself when you are finished shooting.

10) Safe handling

Before you go shooting on your own, learn how to handle a gun safely, preferably under the supervision of an experienced instructor. Safe handling should be ingrained in every shooter. Handling a gun is also a huge responsibility. Every step you take should be well thought out and executed with safety in mind. Keep educating yourself, practicing, and never underestimate the risks associated with careless handling.

11) Emergency situations

If an accident or injury occurs, immediately notify the range staff and provide first aid if possible.

If you notice someone violating safety rules or behaving in a risky manner, do not hesitate to report it to the range staff immediately.