people lined up at shooting range following shooting range rules

Stay Safe and Skilled: Shooting Range Rules To Follow

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a novice, gun safety is paramount when operating a firearm. The rules of gun safety apply not only to real-life shooting situations, but also at the shooting range when practicing.

woman shooting at rifle range

Responsible gun owners are encouraged to practice their skills at a shooting range. It’s even a requirement in some states.

Shooting range rules are instituted to ensure everyone’s safety, including the shooter and those around them. If these rules are not followed, there could be disastrous, and even fatal, consequences.

Shooting Range Rules You Should Know

There is more to shooting at a range than just knowing the the inner workings of a rifle, revolver or glock and whether it’s comfortable and accurate to shoot.

There are some fundamental firearm safety rules when visiting a shooting range. It’s your job to become familiar with them, as well as the others mandated by your local shooting range.

#1. Keep the Gun Pointed in a Safe Direction

This is a fundamental rule, yet some gun owners simply ignore it when on the shooting range. 

So, we’ll say it again… Always keep the firearm pointed in a safe direction!

shooting pistol at range

Any firearm should always be pointed in a safe direction!

American Rifleman advises a safe direction would be pointing the gun towards the ground and away from yourself and others. Here’s where situational awareness takes precedence. Before even handling your firearm, consider the environment, because things can become complicated at an indoor or outdoor range. Once again, ask for assistance if unsure of a safe direction.

Note: Some ranges have rules on transporting weapons. Familiarize yourself with it so as not to contravene the regulations and your safety.

#2.  Treat All Firearms as if They Are Loaded

Don’t ever assume a gun is not loaded. Instead, treat every firearm as if it is loaded. It’s your responsibility to inspect the firearm while it’s your possession.

handgun on display

At any given time, shooting range participants could be in your line of fire. Accidents can happen and can have terrible consequences. So, inspect the firearm and make sure the safety is intact. 

Most novices will try to work out a gun they’re unfamiliar with. Don’t attempt to do this.  If you’re unsure how to handle the gun, ask for assistance from staff members. Let them demonstrate the safe and correct use. 

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#3. Trigger Discipline

This is an acquired skill that’s best taught in the shooting range. 

Trigger discipline is a state of mind. The shooter keeps their finger outside the trigger guard until ready to fire.

Practicing trigger discipline is one of the four essential rules of safe gun handling, advises the USCCA.

marine practicing trigger discipline

Essentially, your “trigger finger” must inhabit the same space as your “safety finger”. Keep your finger straight and resting along the side of the frame when picking up the gun.

Your finger stays straight and alongside the gun frame when picking up, loading, reloading, and fixing malfunctions of a firearm. Only when you are ready to shoot can you move your finger from the indexed position.

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#4. Be Sure of Your Target

Know exactly where you’re going to be shooting. With your target clearly in sight, only pull the trigger once you are confident the intended strike will not harm anyone or anything beyond the target.

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The Firearm Industry Trade Association warns that even a 22-short bullet can travel over 1.25 miles. Shotgun pellets can reach up to 500 yards, and shotgun slugs can exceed half a mile. Great reasons to always be sure of your target.

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#5. Adhere to Commands by Shooting Range Staff

Range workers are versed in weapons and their safe use. Their job is to ensure everyone has a safe experience. So, listen to range instructors at all times to avoid breaking any rules.

Remember the golden rule: Their range, their laws. If they say you’ve compromised your safety and that of others, you could receive a ban or be asked to leave. When in doubt, ask for assistance.

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Bonus Info On Gun Selection For The Range

When people get into learning about firearms and shooting, they often want to know what gun they should shoot. One recommendation can be the 2011 pistol. The Staccato 2011 is considered by many to be the most reliable 2011 pistol, as it’s known to be durable, reliable, and accurate, and is used by hundreds of law enforcement agencies in the U.S.

The gun’s popularity has increased in recent years, thanks in part to its role in the John Wick film series. The titular character Wick wields a heavily customized pistol in most scenes.

Ergonomics, increased capacity and less recoil make the 2011 a preferred choice for many gun owners, says Xtreme Guns & Ammo.

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Final Thoughts On Shooting Range Rules

Gun ownership isn’t just about wanting to carry guns.

gun shooting bullet

As a gun owner, you have to be an active participant in firearm safety. This applies to in the shooting range and beyond. Note that from sporting events to competitions, additional regulations may apply.

Take the time to review your local shooting range’s rules and remember to always point your gun in a safe direction, treat every firearm as if it’s loaded, practice trigger discipline, be sure of your target, and adhere to all commands by instructors and staff.

Safe shooting!

 

various bullet ammo types

Different Types Of Ammunition — Here’s Everything You Need To  Know

Unless you’re an expert in firearms, it’s very likely that you’ll get overwhelmed by the numerous ammunition types out there. 

But don’t worry, that’s what we’re about to help you understand in this article. Herein, we’ll provide in-depth knowledge on the diverse ammunition types we have out there, so let’s dig in. 

Introduction to Ammunition

rifle calibers

Before we dive deep into the core of today’s article, let’s begin by understanding what we actually mean by “ammunition.”

Now, when speaking of ammunition, or “ammo,”  what we’re basically referring to is the entire package of elements that come alongside a firearm. 

Usually, ammo is made up of the following: 

  • Case
  • Pimer
  • Propellant (or powder)
  • Projectile.

But in the case of shotshells (more on this to come later), an additional component known as the ‘wad’ also forms part of the package.

Understanding Basic Ammunition Types

Ammo can all be grouped into 3 basic types:

Shotgun Ammunition

Shotgun ammunition is basically what is used for hunting and sport shooting. In the case of shotguns, they’re specifically known as shotshells.

Shotshells come in 3 types:

  • Birdshot
  • Buckshot
  • Slugs

Birdshot and buckshot come in the form of small metallic pellets and you find multiple of them in shotshells. But, before you find a gun shop to buy either, it’s worth noting that the former has a smaller diameter (or gauge) than the latter, meaning that shotshells loaded with birdshot will have more pellets than ones featuring buckshot.

buckshot shell with shot coming out

The difference in the size of the pellets iin shotshells emanates from their intended use. For instance, when hunting deer, which is obviously a larger animal than a bird, you will need a larger, more powerful ammunition — buckshot.

Slugs, unlike birdshot and buckshot on the other hand, are a joint solid projectile. They are mostly used for hunting large animals, just like buckshot, but you’ll only need a single slug to accomplish what would otherwise require more buckshot.

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Handgun And Rifle Ammunition

When we talk about rifle and handgun ammunitions, they can be categorized into 3 categories:

  • Rimfire
  • Centerfire
  • Caseless

Rimfire and centerfire ammunitions are pretty much straightforward; the difference is basically the position you find the primer within the cartridge case (the primer is the explosive substance that will ignite the powder within the ammo to ignite the powder).

ammo bullets

Rimfire cartridges have a primer mixture crimped inside the base, while centerfire cartridges (pictured here) have a primer mixture in a ‘cup’ in the middle of the base of the cartridge case.

When speaking of rimfire ammo, you will find the primer at the cartridge’s bottom, sometimes called the rim. That means guns using this ammo have their firing pins designed so that they strike the cartridge’s outside edge.

Centerfire ammunition, on the other side, has the primer at the central part of the gun’s cartridge, just as the name suggests. That means in this instance, the pin works by striking the cartridge’s middle part, as opposed to the outside edge in its rimfire counterpart.

Caseless ammo, as the name suggests, totally eliminates the need for a separate case. In this case, the primer is actually integrated into the propellant itself and contains enough energy to propel the bullet off the barrel.

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Bullet Types 

handgun with ammo

We’ve covered some basic details about ammunition. Next, let’s closely examine the different types of bullets and how they are used.

So, is a “bullet” any different from what we’ve already discussed?

Absolutely — because bullets and ammunition are 2 different things!

You see, when we talk of a bullet, we refer to the actual projectile that is propelled from a firearm.

Ammo, on the other hand, as we’ve already established, comprises many components among which the bullet is a member. So, while every ammo has a bullet, the reverse isn’t true.

With that said, let’s get back to our main focus and examine bullet types. Let’s examine some of the common ones:

1. Full Metal Jacket (FMJ)

FMJ bullets are the most common bullet type, and that’s because they’re so cheap.

full metal jacket bullet

Also known as ‘ball ammo’, FMJ ammo comes with a lead core surrounded by a copper or brass shell. Quality-wise, they aren’t the best out there, but they are pretty good, especially for their price tag. This type of bullet is often deployed in military applications and target shooting. 

Full metal jackets aren’t as super accurate compared to some other more expensive kinds, but again that can depend on the gun you’re using and the skill of the user. You may also want to go for a boat tail variant if you want a greater degree of accuracy. 

boat tail bullet

The boat tail tapers at the bottom end like a boat and is a full metal jacket with no hollow part. This bullet has minimal expansion upon contact, offering reliable penetration.

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2. Hollow Point

Hollow point bullets are exactly what their other name suggests: bullets designed with a hollow point and often preferred for self-defense and hunting. 

pistol with bullets on table

Hollow points, unlike the FMJ, have a tip that will expand (or mushroom) upon maximum impact, creating a larger surface area of impact and thus greater damage.

While the FMJ bullets are more likely to penetrate the target and hit the next object in their trajectory, hollow points will mostly stop upon impact and deliver all their energy to the target. This type usually has a cavity at the tip of the bullet to make it expand upon impact.

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3. Soft Point

soft point bullet

Soft point bullets are an integration of the FMJ and hollow point bullet in terms of performance. They are designed to offer better expansion than FMJ bullets and better penetration than hollow point bullets. 

The penetration of soft point bullets can’t match that of FMJ, and neither can their expansion beat that of hollow points. Think of them as bullets that perfectly balance penetration and expansion.

4. Ballistic Tip

Unlike other bullet types, the ballistic variety comes with a plastic or polymer tip at the front end of the bullet. This tip is incorporated for aerodynamic purposes, so the bullet remains airborne for longer. 

ballistic tip bullet

The ballistic tip design helps it to fly faster and with more stability than other common types, making it ideal for flat shooting. The bullet is also hotter than most variants available on the market, so ensure that you double-check that it’s compatible with your gun (photo credit: Midway USA)

The jacket of a ballistic tip bullet is heavier than that of some other bullet types; a feature that helps minimize expansion and maximize the penetrability of the bullet. Choose these if you’re looking for bullets that can do well in hunting small to medium game, and sometimes even large game depending on where you want to shoot. 

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5. Open Tip Match (OTM)

The Open Tip Match (OTM) bullet type is often preferred for long-range shooting and target competitions. 

The Open Tip Match bullet comes with a tiny hole at the bullet tip, which also serves as its distinctive attribute from other bullet types. This hole is incorporated into the design to minimize drag during flight, resulting in higher accuracy. (photo credit: Berger). 

Measuring from tip to tail, you will also notice that OTM bullets are longer than most others, a feature that further enhances their aerodynamic traits.

The OTM bullet, however, doesn’t pay much attention to other aspects such as weight retention, penetration, and ability to kill game, so they don’t make great options for hunting deer and other big game.

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6. Frangible Bullets

Frangible bullets differ from other types in that they’re designed to disintegrate to dust upon hitting a harder metal target like steel. 

frangible bullets

Frangible bullets are made from compressed powdered metal. They come in different materials, but in most cases, the metal used to make them is copper or brass.

The ability to disintegrate once hitting the target keeps them from penetrating an object, so they won’t hit another close-by object like most penetrative bullets. 

Plus, since they don’t penetrate the target, frangible bullets won’t cause significant wear and tear on your bullet trap or target, making them ideal for training. Using this type, you can even walk on your target without the fear of catching jacketing. 

But on the negative side, because of the composite nature of these jacket-less bullets, any surface tension cracks can make the bullet disintegrate immediately after leaving the barrel. But, as long as a bullet is up to par, it should do the work well as long as it’s deployed under the right circumstances.

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Calibers In Ammunitions

barrel of a handgun

When it comes to the world of guns, “caliber” is used to refer to the diameter of the projectile fired or the barrel of the gun firing it.

Usually, the caliber of ammunition is expressed in millimeters or hundredths of an inch, but sometimes it can even be expressed in thousandths of an inch. There are a wide range of calibers, but in most cases, the caliber size is denoted using a decimal point followed by 2 numbers. 

For instance, you may encounter something like 0.45, usually at the barrel or side of the receiver. What that means is that the caliber is 0.45 of an inch, but the decimal point is usually dropped when pronouncing it. That means still referring to our example, you’d pronounce it as 45 caliber, and you’ll still be referring to the diameter of the barrel. 

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Ammo Types Final Thoughts

Ammunition is a crucial part of firearms, and understanding them is important for any gun owner. In other words, if you’re a first time gun buyer, before you walk into a gun store looking for the best gun for the money, spare time and effort and get to know the different ammunition types out there and their purposes. 

Garnering this knowledge will help you determine what works best for your applications and what doesn’t. 

Of course, also remember to acquaint yourself with knowledge of the calibers and gauges there are out there. This helps you understand which type of ammunition goes with your firearm.

Safe shooting!

woman shooting handgun at range with ear muffs

Target Practice for Beginners: 3 Vital Shooting Range Tips You Should Know

Imagine this: Your friend has asked you to accompany them to the shooting range this weekend.

There’s just one problem… you literally have no idea about target practice at a shooting range. 

man shooting rifle with scope on range

Target shooting has become a popular sport in America. For example, over 11 million people participated in rifle target shooting in 2023. And, did you know that in 2022, there were over 8,500 shooting ranges in the country? 

The popularity of target shooting has led to a few therapeutic benefits, including increased self-confidence and improved hand-eye coordination.

And, while these are great, we almost forgot… you’re still worried about not looking like a beginner during the target practice session!

Below, we’ll discuss a few strategies and tips you should know to ensure an enjoyable and stress-free experience at the shooting range.

Shooting Range Tip #1: Always Prioritize Safety

target showing through rifle scope

Before you set foot in a shooting range, you need to be sure you familiarize yourself with the range regulations and be sure you have the right safety gear.

IBISWorld reports that the revenue generated from safety equipment was over USD twenty-one billion dollars in 2024.

When it comes to the gun range, beginner safety gear should include the following:

  • Protective eyewear. (Shields eyes from debris and the muzzle flash.)
  • Earmuffs and earplugs. (Guards the ears from gunfire’s high decibel levels.)

You might also consider:

  • Comfortable shooting vest. (Keeps the gear organized.)
  • Gloves and closed-toe shoes. (Good-quality ones that allow a better grip.)
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Safety doesn’t stop there. As a beginner, you must know a few things about firearm safety. According to the The National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF), these tips include the following:

  • Point the muzzle in a safe direction.
  • Unload the guns when not in use and keep your finger off the trigger.
  • Always keep the safety on when not using the gun.
  • Be aware of your surroundings.
  • Use the right ammunition.
  • Clear the barrel of any obstructions before firing.

Apart from this, learn more about the gun you’re using. This includes its handling and mechanical characteristics.  

Tip #2: Explore Firearm Options and Choose Wisely

gun belt on man

According to Gallup, there’s 32 percent of firearm ownership among adults in America. That’s about eighty-one million people above the age of eighteen. Among the guns in ownership, handguns are the most popular.

A shooting range will often have the following firearms that you can choose from:

Beginners should choose a firearm that suits their skill level and intended use. For instance, rifles are ideal for sport shooting and hunting. When choosing, ascertain the firearm’s caliber, take note of the grip, etc. 

Some beginner weapons you can choose from include the following:

  • A manageable .22 caliber rifle or pistol because of its low recoil and easy controls. 
  • Semi-automatic handguns and revolvers can also be a versatile option for beginners for their reliability and simplicity.
  • LWRC AR-15 due to its adaptable and customizable features. 
  • Many beginners will be intrigued by the LWRC AR-15 rifles. Before trying one out on the gun range, you should first learn more here about their modular design, light weight, and versatility. According to Xtreme Guns & Ammo, this rifle can come with a proprietary gas piston system that ensures precision and exceptional reliability. (Upgrades include a one-piece nickel-boron-coated bolt and cold-hammer-forged spiral fluted barrel.)

Tip #3: Understanding the Commands At The Shooting Range

However, long-range, large caliber rifles (exceeding .80) are often prohibited.

youth shooting shotgun at range

As a beginner, you’ll have to learn about the various yardage ranges. 25-yard to 200-yard shooting ranges are typically designated for hand-held rifles, muzzleloaders, pistols, etc. You can also use shotguns with slugs as well as revolvers.

NRA states that it’s crucial to understand range commands if you’re new to target practice. The common ones given by the officer include the following:

  • Range hot: It means shooting is about to commence. 
  • Load: You can load the firearm once on the firing line.
  • Commence firing: You can start shooting at the target.
  • Cease firing: You must stop firing immediately and remove your hand from the trigger.
  • Range cold: You must unload or reload the firearms. 

Before you start target practice, remember to: 

  • Assume a stable stance by placing your feet shoulder-width apart.
  • Lean your body forward and keep your knees bent slightly. 
  • Grip the gun firmly with both hands, but keep your shoulders relaxed. 
  • Focus on sight alignment to get a centered and clear target range. 
  • Breathe properly and gently squeeze the trigger.

When pulling the trigger, ensure that it’s controlled and smooth. Always avoid jerking the firearm off the target. 

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Final Thoughts

Target range shooting can be a fun and therapeutic, but can be dangerous if you aren’t aware of certain target practice tips. So, be sure to do your homework, be prepared and alert, and prioritize safety when handling any firearm.

Safe shooting!