Visiting the gun range should be an enjoyable experience for everyone. However, most first-timers at a gun range are hesitant and don’t know what to do. Yet, once they learn the ropes, in most cases it becomes a hobby for them.
Guns aren’t just there for fun, they’re also meant for self-defense. That’s only one of the many reasons why you should be careful with handling firearms, especially inside a gun range. Here are some tips to have a safe and enjoyable time at a gun range.
Safety should be your most important priority when you’re spending your time in a gun range. Guns should always be respected and you should never shy from asking help from firearms instructors and other shooters in the gun range. Use the following tips to have a safe and enjoyable experience during your time in the gun range.
Take a Firearms Safety Class
If you want to go to the gun range well-prepared, then you should consider taking firearms safety classes. Knowing how firearms work will make your shooting experience a lot safer and enjoyable in the gun range.
If you don’t have the time or money to take firearms safety classes, here are some pointers you can follow according to the National Shooting Sports Foundation:
- Always keep the gun pointed in a safe direction.
- Always keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to shoot.
- Always keep the gun unloaded until you are ready to use it.
- Always know your target and what is beyond it.
Following these safety pointers inside the gun range not only for your safety but for other people as well.
Get Yourself Protective Gear
While some gun ranges provide eye and ear protection, they usually give it out for a price. While it doesn’t amount to much, if you frequently visit the gun range then it can increase over time. Getting yourself your own eye and ear protective gear is cost-efficient. Additionally, it’s better to have one ready just in case the gun range doesn’t have one.
Also buying some firearm accessories can make your life easier in the gun range. Buying a backpack to use at the range will help you store your firearms and accessories in an organized manner will surely make your time in the gun range enjoyable.
Having a range backpack or a gun case also helps keep your firearms out of reach from children and other people. People might mistake you for an active shooter or a robber when you walk in carrying your gun. That’s why it’s better to have your gun stored inside a range backpack or gun case.
Ask for Help
Most gun ranges have experienced and professional firearms instructors that would gladly help you if you are having trouble with something. Especially if you’re a first timer, asking for help will make your experience in the gun range more enjoyable
This holds true if you’re renting out a gun and testing it out. You don’t know a thing or two about it, so it’s better to let a firearms instructor teach you the basics about it before firing them in the gun range.
Some people have accidents in the gun range because they think they know how to fire different guns but really don’t know how to properly use a gun. Don’t be one of those guys or it might cost you your life.
Wash Your Hands After a Shooting Session
Gun residue like lead and bullet dust are always present when you fire a gun. This residue can stick to your body, especially your hands. You might accidentally ingest it or let it touch your eyes, face, or mouth. Lead can be dangerous to your body so make sure you practice proper hygiene.
Make sure you wash your hands after you finished shooting in the gun range. Use soap and water to remove the gun residue in your hands. Include up until your elbows for good measure.
Some gun ranges offer lead-cleaning solutions like lead-cleaning hand wipes and soap that effectively remove lead particles. If they’re available in the gun range, make use of them. Additionally, the best gun ranges are diligent about keeping up with a lead maintenance cleaning program.
Conclusion
If you follow the tips above, you’re sure of a safe and enjoyable time at a gun range. Don’t be too tense and let other people help you out and make sure you come well-prepared before you go in the gun range.
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Not only if you want to own a gun, people in general should know about gun safety, even if to prevent accidental shootings.
Kevin-yes you are correct! Thanks for the comment!