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larphillips | 05-12-2009 01:40 PM
Range / practice fire questions Please excuse my n00b questions here, but I'm new to gun ownership and never had a positive male influence/roll model in my youth. What are some general range rules, both indoor and outdoor, concerning the types of firearms and ammunition allowed to be fired? What rules, both written as well as common sense, need to be followed when shooting out in the wilderness? How much space should you allow? What kinds of wilderness areas can be shot in without getting yourself into trouble or endangering others? What are good rules of thumb regarding targets outdoors, outside of a range situation? In general, aside from general gun safety, what are some of the general courtousies that other shooters would appreciate as well as some of the things to avoid? For clarity sake, I'd be talking about Ohio and Pennsylvania. Any insight/guidance would be appreciated. Oh, and I'd be firing 9mm, .357, 9x18, as well as 12 guage, 7.62x39, and 30-06. Thanks!

Golddust | 05-12-2009 02:07 PM
Re: Range / practice fire questions Quote:
Originally Posted by larphillips (Post 1719514) Please excuse my n00b questions here, but I'm new to gun ownership and never had a positive male influence/roll model in my youth. What are some general range rules, both indoor and outdoor, concerning the types of firearms and ammunition allowed to be fired? What rules, both written as well as common sense, need to be followed when shooting out in the wilderness? How much space should you allow? What kinds of wilderness areas can be shot in without getting yourself into trouble or endangering others? What are good rules of thumb regarding targets outdoors, outside of a range situation? In general, aside from general gun safety, what are some of the general courtousies that other shooters would appreciate as well as some of the things to avoid? For clarity sake, I'd be talking about Ohio and Pennsylvania. Any insight/guidance would be appreciated. Oh, and I'd be firing 9mm, .357, 9x18, as well as 12 guage, 7.62x39, and 30-06. Thanks!
Find a local gun club and join, All follow basic gun handling and use rules on the range and fireing line. Most ranges have the rules posted for their range. You can use the web to find out more about it. Plus the other answers you will get on this thread. Be safe..

NOOB | 05-12-2009 02:16 PM
Re: Range / practice fire questions firearm up and down range or straight up and down. Don't swing around with your firearm. Finger off of trigger unless ready to fire. When the range is cold(people are going down range to check or replace targets) do not touch your firearm and have it in a safe condition. just a few of the top of my head.

gbgunner | 05-12-2009 02:24 PM
Re: Range / practice fire questions Pick up your brass and save it in case you start reloading. You'll only want to save "boxer" primed for reloading. If you look down into the empty casing you will see only one larger hole. That is "boxer" primed. If you look into the empty case and see two small holes...that is "Berdan" primed and not reloadable.

Dave | 05-12-2009 02:40 PM
Re: Range / practice fire questions I can tell you the one thing that gets me upset at a range with a new shooter is when they sweep other people with their barrel. If there is ANYTHING you do it should be to always keep your weapon pointed down range. If you can perform this one simple task then you will be fine. Just don't get nervous and FOCUS on muzzle discipline... NEVER, NEVER point it anywhere but down range... Just being conscience of this will avoid dirty looks from people like me :) lol Dave

elroy | 05-12-2009 03:26 PM
Re: Range / practice fire questions Quote:
Originally Posted by Dave (Post 1719593) I can tell you the one thing that gets me upset at a range with a new shooter is when they sweep other people with their barrel.
I would have thought that would get a shooter a quick ticket to the exit if not a good cussing. Or both. I shoot at home and have never been to a range to shoot.

xls177 | 05-12-2009 03:43 PM
Re: Range / practice fire questions http://www.nrahq.org/education/guide.asp http://billstclair.com/safetyrules.html http://hunting.about.com/od/guns/tp/...fety-Rules.htm http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gun_safety

Golddust | 05-12-2009 03:48 PM
Re: Range / practice fire questions Quote:
Originally Posted by wildcard (Post 1719655) If you're shooting in the woods on someone else's property. 1. don't shoot their trees, fenceposts, signs, etc. 2. don't shoot the critters 3. don't shoot into water 4. keep in mind some rifle ammo can travel over a mile...know what is behind your target. Try to use a backstop if at all possible. 5. keep in mind the fastest way to the closest hospital ER. May want to take a first aid/gun shot wound kit. 6. as others have said...the most important thing is to mind where the business end is pointed. Get this right and everyone has fun and comes home alive. 7. make sure you pack all your safety gear. Ear protection, sun lotion, bug repellent, drinks, whatever. :ok:
IMO soft drinks cool, no pun intended . Any other kind with alcohol are not cool .When on the range or any ware else, Guns and alcohol do not mix well.. Handling loaded weapons and any kind of drinking is asking for trouble.. After the shoot ..ok to :signs1: Not before... :wink:

.41Dave | 05-12-2009 04:00 PM
Re: Range / practice fire questions The 4 rules of gun safety. Practice them always. 1. All guns are always loaded. Even if you KNOW it is unloaded, treat it like it is. Too many people have been injured or killed with "unloaded" guns. 2. Never let the muzzle point at anything you are not willing to destroy. Keep your gun pointed in a safe direction at all times: on the range, at home, loading, or unloading. 3. Keep your finger off the trigger until your sights are on the target (and you are ready to shoot). 4. Be sure of your target. Know what it is, what is in line with it and what is behind it. Never shoot at anything that you haven't positively identified.

JJ_ | 05-12-2009 04:04 PM
Re: Range / practice fire questions Quote:
Originally Posted by wildcard (Post 1719684) It never crossed my mind. I never drink alcohol and go shooting. Thanks for pointing that out.
pansy:rofl:

JJ_ | 05-12-2009 04:26 PM
Re: Range / practice fire questions Quote:
Originally Posted by wildcard (Post 1719708) Now I know why Texas had to call Tennessee to save them... They were seeing double the actual number of Mexicans and couldn't hit either one. :biggrin:
baloney... They hit BOTH! I gotta tell ya about my one shot 2 doe drop (well almost) sometime.

voodoo1951 | 05-12-2009 04:32 PM
Re: Range / practice fire questions Quote:
Originally Posted by larphillips (Post 1719514) Please excuse my n00b questions here, but I'm new to gun ownership and never had a positive male influence/roll model in my youth. Oh, and I'd be firing 9mm, .357, 9x18, as well as 12 guage, 7.62x39, and 30-06. Thanks!
Well for a "Noob" who doesn't even know up from down, you sure got some firepower to start out with...:coolbeer: +1 on what everyone above said...Stay safe...:bear_thumb:

larphillips | 05-12-2009 04:44 PM
Re: Range / practice fire questions Quote:
Originally Posted by voodoo1951 (Post 1719739) Well for a "Noob" who doesn't even know up from down, you sure got some firepower to start out with...:coolbeer: +1 on what everyone above said...Stay safe...:bear_thumb:
Well, I wouldn't say I don't know up from down. :) I already have the basic gun safety rules drilled into my head, as well as the common sense ones. I was just looking for more specific tips from those who have spent lots and lots of range, as well as outdoor, shooting time. Stuff that won't piss off the other shooters, common courtesies, range etiquette... that kind of stuff. Also, any of the more common rules of use if I wanted to shoot out in the wild (non-hunting purposes... but not jackassery.) Otherwise, I appreciate everyone's input and advise. Thanks!

SLV>GLD | 05-12-2009 04:54 PM
Re: Range / practice fire questions Range etiquette unwritten rule: Everyone there likes guns and sometimes someone may want to shoot your gun. It is always appropriate to offer to let someone try shooting your firearms and vice versa. Always ask for and give a run-down on the correct operation of each specific weapon before handing it over to the new shooter. Also, always verify visually the weapon is unloaded and/or safe in front of both persons before handing the weapon over. Occasionally, a real noob will want you to hand them a loaded gun ready to fire. Be very verbal and overly physical in your actions when doing this so that nothing stupid happens. If you are firing a weapon that is not yours and it jams or malfunctions and you do not know what to do immediately, set the weapon down pointed down range and request the owner correct the situation. The most fun I have at a range is shooting new weapons that someone else brought and watching someone else fire my guns.

SLV>GLD | 05-12-2009 04:56 PM
Re: Range / practice fire questions Range etiquette unwritten rule: When someone you are with is shooting and you are waiting you should be loading magazines.

AG Capone | 05-12-2009 05:14 PM
Re: Range / practice fire questions I doubt this will be an issue for you but I'll throw it out there. Never fire AP's at an indoor range. It will seriously piss off the owner.:s15:

larphillips | 05-12-2009 05:21 PM
Re: Range / practice fire questions Quote:
Originally Posted by AG Capone (Post 1719813) I doubt this will be an issue for you but I'll throw it out there. Never fire AP's at an indoor range. It will seriously piss off the owner.:s15:
LOL... I imagine that it would. I have my AP, incendiary, and tracer rounds reserved for the outdoors. :ok:

sky | 05-12-2009 05:45 PM
Re: Range / practice fire questions Never, use someone else' reloaded ammunition, if you do not know that person very well. It could ruin your gun, and yourself as well.!!!

Flinch | 05-12-2009 07:56 PM
Re: Range / practice fire questions When you arrive at an outdoor range, if there is anyone downrange wait till they get back to the firing line before handeling any firearms. If you're shooting out in the woods use a natural backstop, like a hill. Never fire across a road, path or trail. Some states don't require any training but you might want to take a basic firearms safety course. Find a mentor. Most folks'll make time to help out new shooters. For some serious fun find an IDPA pratice group or just show up at a competition- explain you've never shot in competition and the folks who run things will most likely run you through things step by step. Find an Appleseed shoot. Those guys know marksmanship inside & out. If it ain't fun, stop.

leadfoot | 05-12-2009 08:34 PM
Re: Range / practice fire questions Don't pull a Cheney. You won't get off so easy.

LukeNM | 05-12-2009 08:46 PM
Re: Range / practice fire questions [Here are the rules of our local indoor range. Most important rule is if you are unsure about something ask]. RANGE RULES For the safety and enjoyment of everyone, please read and review these rules before your visit. If you do not understand something, ask a Ranger Officer to explain it to you. Anyone not adhering to Calibers� Range Rules will be asked to leave. � All shooters, customers and guests, must obey the instructions of the Range Officers at all times. � No one under the influence, or suspected of being under the influence, of alcohol or debilitating drugs will be allowed in the Range. � Minors must, at all times, be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. � Eye and ear protection must be on before entering the airlock. � Each door must be closed behind you before opening the second when entering and leaving the airlock. � Be sure that your gun and ammunition are compatible. � Only one firearm on the bench at a time - all other firearms must remain in their case or carrier. Remove from case and load the firearm on the bench. Return firearm to case on the bench. Muzzle must point downrange at all times! � Rifles and shotguns must be shot from the shoulder and stored flat on the floor with the muzzle pointing downrange. DO NOT PROP UPRIGHT. � Always handle a firearm as though it is loaded. Do not place your finger on the trigger until you are ready to fire and your sights are on your target. � Do not hand a firearm to any other person. Place an unloaded firearm on the bench and let them pick it up. � No rapid fire with long guns. � Head shots with shotguns are not allowed as this will cause damage to the range. � If you encounter a firearm malfunction you are not familiar with, ask a Range Officer for assistance. � EMERGENCY CEASE FIRE: all downrange lights will be turned off signaling all shooters to immediately stop shooting, unload their firearm, place the safe firearm on the bench and step away from the bench. A Range Officer will inform you when it is safe to resume firing. � Calibers is open to the public and courteous behavior is expected at all times. No eating or drinking on the firing line and no use of any tobacco products is allowed within the building. Please remember that you will be held financially responsible for all damage to the range due to neglect or misuse of a firearm or use that was in violation of stated Range Rules.

gbgunner | 05-12-2009 08:58 PM
Re: Range / practice fire questions Safety is #1 Fun is #2

gbgunner | 05-12-2009 09:04 PM
Re: Range / practice fire questions Our group always tries to leave a range in better condition than when we found it. It's just goodwill to the range owner/gun club or property owner. Try not to bring things like TV or appliances to shoot at. You can never get it all cleaned up. Empty laundry detergent jugs minus the caps make excellent plinking targets. They react when you hit them and they hold up to hundreds of rounds of abuse without disintegrating. Then you can just toss them in the trash at the end of the range session.

electric-amish | 05-12-2009 10:07 PM
Re: Range / practice fire questions Quote:
Originally Posted by .41Dave (Post 1719689) The 4 rules of gun safety. Practice them always. 1. All guns are always loaded. Even if you KNOW it is unloaded, treat it like it is. Too many people have been injured or killed with "unloaded" guns. 2. Never let the muzzle point at anything you are not willing to destroy. Keep your gun pointed in a safe direction at all times: on the range, at home, loading, or unloading. 3. Keep your finger off the trigger until your sights are on the target (and you are ready to shoot). 4. Be sure of your target. Know what it is, what is in line with it and what is behind it. Never shoot at anything that you haven't positively identified.
Rule 1. Is a Lie-----Not bashing but its a Lie. Do not Lie to yourself when around guns. I prefer do not point guns at things you can hurt or damage when they go off, Unless thats required. Loaded or unloaded its the best rule. Everyone (probebly) thinks the gun that went off accidently was unloaded. Therefore point unloaded and loaded guns always in a safe direction. Number 3 and 4 are spot on. Now to answer your question partially. Keep the barrel poined down range at all times or up in the Air at my range when moveing it to a rack. Outdoor shooting is always more fun. Finiding a good place is a trick. Got to talk with a lot of people. E-A

TTAZZMAN | 05-12-2009 11:46 PM
Re: Range / practice fire questions lots of good information being posted i thought i might add one tidbit unless you have been to a full auto shoot with tracers very few people realize the ricocheting that many bullets will do especially if they hit hard or glancing targets i have seen large rifle rounds such as 308 and 30-06 fired into rocky backstops actually ricochet back over the shooters head it would be good for all of us shooters to pull up some you tube videos of full auto night shooting to remind us what lead and especially military ammo rounds can do You Tube
You Tube

gbgunner | 05-13-2009 09:23 AM
Re: Range / practice fire questions Quote:
unless you have been to a full auto shoot with tracers very few people realize the ricocheting that many bullets will do especially if they hit hard or glancing targets
So very true. I've been to and participated in numerous Class III shoots and it is amazing to see how many rounds bounce out of the backstop. And that's just the tracers that are visible.

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