New To the Range

[Wasz]

After reading here for a while Ive come to realize that the shooting Ive done is far different than shooting at an active public range. This is probably because Im new to handguns and just got my first one in June for my 21st birthday. Suddenly Im going to be shooting at an indoor range this sunday for roughly an hour with a group of guys who are trying to start a club at this range. My father is friends with most of them (but hes never shot at a public range either) so they'll be pretty understanding im sure. I realize that the only time problems really come up is when there is safty issues. I know better then to load a gun and lay it down and always watch my muzzle the basics. I dont want anyone hurt and Im always careful. But what are the other faux pas if you will of being at the range with people. I dont want to load at the wrong time or dump my brass in the wrong place. I dont mind being new, but Id still like to look like I have half a clue. Suggestions or advice?

 

[realmswalker]

I have been shooting at and indoor range for a few years. The 4 rules are of course standard procedure to follow. About where you dump your brass, at my range a I let them fly, and when It's time to leave I use the broom and dustpan provided to pick up the brass. I reload, so the issue about where to dump your brass depends on the range. At my range there are metal containers clipped to the wall of each stall where you can dump the brass. The gentlemen at my range relaod their own ammo.

About the issue of loading. In all the indoor ranges I have frequented, all of them have a sign saying "Do not reload at the rear bench". Which is of course the bench directly to the rear of you when you are facing down range. So load at the small platform in between the walls of the stall.

Double up on hearing protection, It gets loud indoors. Most caliber restrictions are are .44 mag for indoor, and no shotgun indoor.

Besides that, be safe and have fun.

 

[Alex45ACP]

When you get there, if the line is cold wait till everyone gets back from fixing their targets before you bring your guns into the range.

 

[Wasz]

Thank You

Thanks for the replies.

 

[poortrader]

Don't worry. You should do fine as long as you stay alert. Keep you gun unload until you get to the line. A lot of places don't you load your gun unless you're at the line. Treat everyone else as if their guns are loaded, and have fun.

 

[SamV]

Actually, you should just ask the staff what the rules are. They would be more than happy to go over them with you. I have never been to a range where the staff hasn't always asked anyone who is not a regular, to review the rules and policies of tha range. And yes, I have found that some ranges have a few different rules than others. Some will let you bring more than one firearm into the booth, some limit you to one firearm and you must leave the booth to change firearms. Loading rules vary. Just ask. The staff will glad to help. Not asking but guessing the "right " way could get you in trouble.

 

[AirForceShooter]

tell the RO's you're new at it.
They will certainly appreciate it and most will watch out for you until they figure out you've got it.
I know if I take a new shooter to my range I always tell the RO I have a newbie with me.
We were all new in the beginning.
Even us old guys screw it up accidently.
There are no stupid questions.
Have lots of fun

AFS

 

[P0832177]

Your best bet is to ask the range officer on duty for an explanation. That way things are crystal clear in your mind! No inferences anyone! Step up and ask! There is no such thing as a stupid question! Well, "Are We There Yet?" does resemble that remark.