Outdoor Range Question

[CTGunner]

I have never been to an outdoor gun range, only indoor ranges. I will be visiting an outdoor range for the first time next week - I just found out that my town has a free outdoor range. I am embarrassed to say that I have no idea how an outdoor range works or if the safety rules differ.

How does target placement work at an outdoor range? All of the indoor ranges I have visited have an overhead/electric track that allows the shooter to set target distance from where the shooting actually takes place. The range I am visiting says that I must bring my own targets and a stapler. Do you actually walk out onto the range to set up your targets and retrieve them at an outdoor range? If this is how it works, how do I ensure that my shooting neighbor doesn't accidentally shoot me.

Is there anything else I should be aware of before going out?

Thanks for your help.

 

[robriboflavin]

Outdoor ranges are alot more "freestyle" than your typical indoor range. Yes, you will have to walk downrange and put up/take down your targets. There will probably be some range rules posted, and most likely there won't be a range officer.

If you're the only one there, just set up and shoot. If others are present, introduce yourself and communicate to make sure everyone knows when the line is cold and hot.

A little courtesy goes a long ways - when you're done, clean up your targets & brass. I always try to leave the place a little cleaner than when I arrived. And other shooters will probably appreciate it if breaks in the action to change targets are limited.

Have fun!

 

[Loanshark]

Our local outdoor range has a guard. He calls a cease fire every so often. Everyone removes their mags/ ammo, locks open the action, sets their firearms down steps behind the line on the ground then those that want to collect/ change targets go down range to get it done...

If there is a guard, stop and chat with him/her for a minute.

 

[oneounceload]

When I lived out West, we had a pubic open range. When someone was ready to go and change targets, he would open his action and move back from hid bench. If it was crowded, you would wait for a lull in the shooting and ask for a "Clear" range. If everyone agreed, EVERYONE would open their actions and go change targets.

One thing I did to make it easier for myself was to bring my own target stand that I could put multiple targets up and not have to wait for a ceasefire every time

Use common sense, make sure everyone heard the call for a cease fire, and just be careful

 

[scottaschultz]

You may have to provide your own targets so be sure and buy some. The other thing you will need is a heavy duty stapler to staple your targets to the backstop.

There are open ranges (with no range officer) in my area, but I actually prefer the one with an officer to call cease fires. I have been to open ranges where there have been shooters who like to check their targets after only a few rounds and this can get aggravating. Calling a cease fire about every 15 minutes or so should be sufficient.

And to be quite honest, I am not always sure I can always trust my fellow shooters at an unmanned range. I know I should, but...

Scott

 

[CTGunner]

Great responses. Thanks very much. Now I know what to expect.