For anyone who hasn’t held a gun ever, the idea of going to a gun range can seem pretty daunting. If you are going to a shooting range in Florida, make sure to go to one which is suitable for beginners.
When you are going to the gun range for the first time, you may not be acquainted with their protocols or the range etiquettes. To help you out here are some tips for the first time range goers.
Listen to the range officer
If it is your first time in the range, then chances are that you don’t know much about the rules in the range. In such a case it is always better to listen to the range safety officer. Every shooting range in Florida has a range safety officer who is responsible for maintaining safety in the range. Follow his instructions carefully and you can also ask for his assistance whenever necessary.
Wear a ball cap
When you are at the shooting range, you might see most of the shooters sporting a ball cap. Now, when you are at the range for the first time, you might wonder why this cap is for. It is for safety reasons. When you are using a semi-automatic pistol or a rifle, brass ejects from the gun when you fire a round. The ejected brass can sometimes bounce towards your face or head, the ball cap protects your face from ejected brass by deflecting them.
You will need a bag
If you don’t have a gun range bag then where will you pack your stuff for the gun range? When you are looking for a bag to pack your gun range gear, find a bag that is durable and can carry a heavy load. Sometimes, your bag can get pretty heavy depending on the number of accessories you are going to carry in your bag.
Don’t go out of your lane
When you are shooting in the gun range, it is mandatory that you stick to your lane. When you visit the range you will be assigned a lane. You will walk down your lane to hang up the target and practice shooting in your lane only. If you are not sure about something, you can ask the range safety officer.
Record the number of rounds you have fired
Keeping a record of rounds you have fired during practice, will help you many ways. Jot the number of rounds you have fired and the number of times you have hit the target. This will help keep track of how much you are improving. Also, this will give you an idea of when to buy your ammo next and also when to clean the gun.
Always clean up before leaving
When you shoot rounds, brass is ejected from the bullets. This ejected brass falls on the floor of your shooting lane. So, before you leave the range premises, you should clean this mess up and not leave it for someone else to do unless you are directed to do so. Sometimes, the range officer will do it for you or instruct you about how to do it.
Let the barrel cool after shooting
Once you have fired a couple of rounds with your gun, the barrel will begin to heat up. So, once you have finished practice, you cannot just pack your gun immediately. It is recommended that you give the barrel a few minutes for cooling before packing it into the bag.
Wash your hands and face after the shooting
Once you have completed your shooting activity, you’re going to have gun powder all over your body and hands. You might also have some on your face. So, after you are done shooting wash your hands and face. A simple rinse with cold water will do the job.