What Are the Requirements To Shoot at a Gun Range?
Gun ranges (also called shooting or firing ranges) are specialized establishments designed specifically for the usage and practice of firearms. These types of facilities are ideal for first time and experienced shooters alike. They offer a safe space to familiarize yourself with proper handling and hone your firing skills.
As with any facility designated to practice sports or hobbies, gun ranges come with their own set of requirements. Some of these gun range requirements need to be met prior to even setting foot onto the range’s property. Others must be strictly adhered to throughout the duration of your visit. These requirements are put in place to ensure the safety of all staff and visitors and are taken seriously by all involved parties.
Visiting a gun range is an enriching activity meant to provide support throughout your shooting experience. Here’s what you need to know about the requirements to shoot at a gun range and enjoy the amenities it has to offer.
Waivers
Most gun ranges will require you to fill out a waiver prior to using their facilities. The waiver is an acknowledgment of the range’s policies, risks involved with shooting, and a review of the do’s and don’ts. You should familiarize yourself with this waiver and keep a personal copy for your records. The range should keep your waiver on file following your first visit.
Age Requirements
All shooters who are 18 years or older must provide a valid ID when checking into the range. Typically, minors of at least 12 years old (10 years old for some ranges) are allowed to shoot provided they are with a parent or guardian at all times.
First-Time Shooters
First time shooter policies will vary based on the shooting range. In some cases, first-time shooters are not required to have any instruction prior to shooting at a gun range. However, it is courtesy to notify range personnel that they will be shooting for the first time. This allows trained staff members to review firearm operation and safety with the shooter before entering the shooting facilities. In other cases, first time shooters must notify the range and obtain approval before using the range. Some ranges will not allow first-time shooters into their facilities without prior instruction.
Permits
You are not required to have a special permit to shoot at a gun range. Typically, most ranges do offer resources for obtaining a handgun carry permit if that is something you are interested in.
Dress Code
Gun ranges have strict dress codes in place for best safety practices. Be sure to review the dress code for your specific range and check that you meet all requirements prior to arrival, otherwise you will not be allowed to shoot. Dress codes may vary from range to range, but common restrictions include:
Flip-flops, sandals or open footwear of any kind
Tank tops, muscle shirts, and low-cut tops
Any type of clothing depicting drugs, obscenities, or other disruptive references
Torn or ragged clothing
Firearm Ownership
Depending on the range you visit, they may offer firearm rental services. Therefore, it is not always required for you to have your own firearm to use the range facilities. Be sure to call ahead to understand the specifics of the range you are interested in visiting. If you are allowed to rent firearms at your local facility, familiarize yourself with their rental requirements.
Firearm Handling
Firearms entering and exiting gun ranges are universally required to be treated with the utmost safety precautions in mind. Any firearm that is not holstered must always be cased in an unloaded condition. You will need to meet the counter attendant to verify your firearms and submit them for a brief inspection (along with ammunition, if you are not purchasing it from the range). ALWAYS treat firearms as if they were loaded, even if you know that they are not.
Types of Firearms
Every range is set up for different types of firearms. Some ranges have multiple lanes and separate facilities designated for different types of weapons. For example, a range may have 2 separate areas for pistol vs. shotgun firing. Verify the types of firearms allowed at your range and any regulations that may be attached with them.
Ammunition
Most ranges do not require that you purchase ammunition on site to use the facilities. However, they may regulate which types of ammunition you are allowed to use. Common regulations include hand-loaded ammunition and factory-reloaded ammunition, so check your gun range’s requirements prior to arrival to be best prepared.
Safety Equipment
Shooting ranges will require you to wear protective eye and ear equipment in addition to adhering to their dress code. Most often, this type of equipment may be rented directly from the range if you are unable to supply your own. Ask the range ahead of time to verify they can accommodate you, otherwise you may need to invest in equipment prior to your visit.
Adhere to Range Rules
Obtain a list of the gun range’s rules prior to your visit. Study this list and grow familiar with the requirements you will need to meet once you are at the facilities and preparing to shoot. Specific rules may vary, but common requirements include:
You may only load/unload firearms at your shooting stall
Keep your muzzle pointed downrange
Do not remove your ear and eye protection
Only one person may shoot at a time per stall
Limit your rapid-fire
Do not shoot cross-lane
No eating or drinking is permitted
You must never be under the influence of drugs or alcohol prior to or while shooting
Do not leave children unattended
ALWAYS listen if a “ceasefire” is called
Most gun range requirements are very similar in structure, but calling ahead to discuss any concerns or questions with the range staff will always give you access to the most updated information.