Proper Etiquette When Practicing At The Range

by
posted on March 28, 2018
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
traininngtips1.jpg

Are you a new shooter? There are some key rules to remember when heading to the range to practice. Although most ranges have their own rules you should become familiar with, we’ve come up with a few that should be utilized anywhere.

  • Get to know the rules of your range prior to stepping up to the firing line. If you have questions, ask.
  • Obey range commands at all times.
  • Be aware of what is going on around you. Accidents can be avoided by paying attention to what you and others are doing. If you see unsafe behavior, notify a range official immediately.
  • Do not handle any firearm while others are downrange. This includes cleaning, adjusting sights, moving the gun on the rest, etc.
  • Do not handle any other shooter’s equipment, including their gun, ammunition, or scope, without his or her permission.
  • Be aware of the firing cadence of the people on the shooting points next to you. Try to avoid firing simultaneously with them.
  • Avoid starting up unnecessary conversations with other shooters while they are shooting.
  • Pick up after yourself, including your trash, brass, targets and belongings before leaving the range area. Discard these items in the appropriate trash bins.
  • Do not pick up other shooter’s brass; he or she may intend to reload later.
  • Do not disturb others with any boisterous, loud or distracting behavior.


Aside from range rules, use your best judgment and common sense when going to the shooting range. If you have questions, do not hesitate to ask a range official, they are there for your safety and the safety of others.

Latest

Scoposleague2026results 1
Scoposleague2026results 1

Rhode Island Wins Inaugural National Intercollegiate Rifle League Title

Rhode Island wins inaugural Scopos Intercollegiate Rifle League team title while Georgia Military College’s MacKenzie Sookhoo sweeps all eight individual competitions.

USPSA Managing Director Reflects on Record-Setting 2025, Outlines Vision for 2026

USPSA Managing Director Alan Turner recaps a record-breaking 2025—including all-time highs in membership, participation and Nationals attendance—and highlights 2026 initiatives.

New: Real Avid Master Maintenance Collection for Glock

Real Avid bundles 13 Glock-specific tools and cleaning supplies into one comprehensive kit covering sight installation, trigger work, maintenance and cleaning.

Hillsdale College Opens Doors to New Nimrod Complex with Two-Day Public Open House

Hillsdale College to host public open house March 6-7 at its new Nimrod Complex, a new indoor/outdoor range at the Halter Center.

Review: Kimber 2K11

An in-depth look at Kimber's new 2K11 high-capacity 1911 platform, covering the Target (OR) for competition and Pro Stainless for carry and defense.

NRA America’s Rifle Challenge: Kyle Lamb’s Three Tips Before Your First Match

Kyle Lamb opens a new NRA America’s Rifle Challenge video series with advice on training courses, shooting logs and the friendships that keep people coming back to the range.



Get the best of Shooting Sports USA delivered to your inbox.