Guns are lethal weapons and it is important that people feel comfortable when using them. The best way to insure your comfort and the comfort of the people you are shooting with is to understand and follow the rules,comands and etiquette for your shooting location.
If you are new to a shooting facility, take the time to ask about the facility’s rules and any local commands that are used. Any good facility will be happy to familiarize you with their rules and expectations.
Etiquette is the expected behavior of shooters, which shows respect to their firearms and the other shooters. When you behave as expected by other shooters, both they and you will be more comfortable on the firing line. A few common points of shooting etiquette are:
- Firearms should be transported to and from the range, unloaded with an inserted chamber flag in a suitable case.
- Do not carry uncased firearms behind the firing line
- Do not touch or handle other shooters equipment without permission.
- Be careful to not distract shooters while they are shooting, by talking with them or any loud or annoying behaviors.
- Only collect your own brass. Reloaders will want to collect their own brass. If you do not want your brass, collect it and place in the brass container available at the range.
- Take care to avoid hitting target supports or frames.
- When the range is cold, take your time but change your targets down range as swiftly as possible. Don’t make others wait on you.
- If you set out a target frame or support to hold your targets, make sure to put it away when you leave.
- Leave the range better than you found it. Pick up trash, clean your firing station, remove your targets and empty ammunition boxes.
- Wash your hands and face well with soap and cold water after shooting, not only to protect your own health but to prevent transferring the shooting residue to others.
Be a member in good standing of your shooting community. Follow the rules, commands and etiquette and enjoy!