By Chris “Ranger” Gay
The cooler weather is finally coming, and it is time to get out there and enjoy a beautiful outdoor range.
Nothing quite compares with the fresh air and open space to spread your freedom. Earlier I spoke of Range Preparations so that you have a plan when you get to the range, now we will talk about some things to keep in mind when you are actually at the range.
As we discussed in prep, what weapon are you working with today? Pistol, Shotgun, Rifle, or a combination? It is important to inspect and prepare each weapon for the range.
It may seem obvious, but ensuring the firearm is completely unloaded is something I do every time I touch it, including when packing it up in my range bag.
Second, make sure you have plenty of ammo. I like to pre-load all my empty magazines so that when I get to the firing line, I am ready. Remember, if you are shooting multiple platforms, ensure that you keep the ammo separate so that you do not run into issues. This usually is only a problem when you have similar calibers and magazines with which you are working.
Next, when you get to your station/platform/table, check the area to ensure there are no “leftovers” from the person there before you and lay your firearms with the breach/action open and facing up. Range safeties really do not like it when they cannot see that your firearm is “clear.”
After that, follow all instructions from the range cadre. You may have to wait for the next “cease fire” to go set up your targets. When going to any range, be sure to follow their posted range rules. Every range will have them, but just for a refresher, here are some basic ones that I have seen on every range I have ever shot at:
- ALWAYS keep the weapon pointed down range.
- ALWAYS keep your finger off the trigger until it is time to squeeze it.
- ALWAYS keep the firearm unloaded until the range is hot.
When you hear “CEASE FIRE,” lock and clear all weapons and step away from them.
COLD RANGE means to keep away from the firearms.
HOT RANGE means it is time to shoot or touch your weapon if there is an issue.
Once you are all set up and the range goes hot, focus on your plan you made during “range prep.” It is quite easy to get there and forget what your plan was, especially when your buddies just want to “shoot” all your ammo.
As you practice your skills, make sure that you analyze your target and look for things on which you can improve. Simple things like if your rounds are missing up and down, you may be breathing during your shots.
A simple technique is to squeeze the trigger on the natural pause after exhaling. If your rounds are missing left & right, you may be jerking your trigger. Focus on a smooth trigger squeeze so that the round surprises you when it goes off.
Finally, when you are done shooting, clean up behind yourself and be sure to leave the bench better than you found it.
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EDITOR’S NOTE: Chris “Ranger” Gay is a U.S. Army veteran and the owner of 2nd Amendment Armory in Brandon, Florida.