BrokenDreams,
I figure that these rules are in place to counter the stereotypical view of the gun owner. Since it is a private range, I can't really see anything wrong with it. If anything, I somewhat approve of these rules.
I know I might catch some flak, but let me explain.
The typical view of the gun enthusiast in this country, usually held by non-gun owners is that we are all either crazed, inbred, jimbo rednecks or crazed anti-gov't militia radicals with tinfoil hats. While we no that these assumptions are typically false, for the greater portion of the firearm-ignorant masses, perception is reality. If the news does a story at the range, and they see tacti-cool camo mall ninja types, the stereotype is reinforced. If someone happens to go to the range because they might be curious about firearms, and the next shooter over is proclaiming the glories of the militia or ranting against the gov't, the stereotype is reinforced and it might turn the person away. This is similar to the effect that survival commandos and WWII memorabilia (with real Nazi daggers and pins...
) dealers have at gun shows. These folks just go to further a negative stereotype that results in more fear and ignorance from the sheeplish masses.
If we want to be taken seriously as gun owners and responsible neighbors, we should start by projecting a serious and responsible image.
As far as sillhouette targets go, we all know what guns are really for, but there really shouldn't be an absolute need to advertise the fact at the range all the time. A paper plate makes a fine and inexpensive target that doesn't demonstrate that you are practicing putting your shots in a bad guy's center of mass.
If you have a friend out in the country with a private range, or there are other ranges where these rules don't apply, then break out all the fun stuff and sillhouette targets, no problem.
I'm not saying that I hate all that stuff, but simply that if we want to win people over to our side, we need to change their minds about who the gun owner really is. Take a look at the majority of Oleg's posters. They are nicely done, no threatening, and don't typically weird anybody out too much. Then, take a look at 1/2 the adds in a mainstream firearms magazine. Tell me that some of those adds don't leave you feeling a little embarrased.
Same as enjoying Star Trek as a television show, but then seeing TV coverage of a Star Trek convention costume contest.