I'm going to the pistol shooting range for the first time ever today. What do I need to know?

Question

Pistol shooting range rules, etiquette, safety, stance, how to properly shoot, aim, fire, etc.

I'm signed up for a class but they were booked up for a month so I won't be taking it until next month.

Until then, I realize safety and common sense will go a long way... but I don't wanna look stupid shooting the gun wrong or anything. Any advice for a first timer? I don't know what the "proper" way to shoot is.

I forgot to add I did read, and understand the range safety rules.

Answer 1

Both of the above answers are good. If in doubt ask. learn the function of your gun. Know how the safety works. Follow all rules, and don't be afraid to ask for help. Most gun owners are more than willing to help a new gun owner. Most ranges have a range officer who will ensure that the range is used safely.

Answer 2

Why don't you just go to the range and watch for a couple hours? Be sure to bring hearing protection (some ranges will supply ear plugs, but I never liked them). Ranges vary in layout target placement, etc. ( I went to a range where you had to go down a trench at the side of the range to get to the target holders, below firing level. The targets were set on a frame and lifted, by springs, to firing position. The range did not have cease fires to change targets, so you stood beneath the targets as live firing was going on, weird.)

I would suggest you just wait for instruction (you sound like a very beginning shooter) and visit the range and watch, you can learn a lot that way.

Good Luck.

Answer 3

Do you have any friends that are avid shooters? If so, I bet you can talk them into going with you. Asking a shooter to go to the range is like asking "Do you like ice cream?" Hell ya!!!

They'll walk you through just about everything you've asked.

If you can't get that, then check for a range or safety officer. Ask questions. They'll respect you more and be more receptive to helping you.

If you pretend to know, and avoid asking them, when you do make a mistake, they might rip you a new one.

Better to feel sheepish for the 10 seconds to ask, awed by the 5 - 10 minute training class you will get, then to feel embarrassed at the ER when they are patching you up.

If you are really new, its generally a good idea to go into the class with as little knowledge as possible. There are less bad habits to unlearn.

Answer 4

Wear closed-toe shoes and a shirt with a high neck. Brass ejected from a firearm can be very hot - hot enough that if one get stuck in your shirt, you'll be tempted to forget all about not pointing the gun anywhere but downrange.

Answer 5

Just remember at all times that the bullet comes out the front and that touching the trigger makes it go bang and you won't go far wrong.

I'd recommend you look up famous competition shooters like Rob Letham for grip. Just look at their pictures and do what they're doing.

Look at the front sight, and squeeze the trigger. You'll hit things.

Answer 6

all ranges have a monitor tell him/her of your situation they will be ready to help. both in and out side. Dade city Florida has a wonderful shooting range and a club always lots of people to talk to. PS lots of them are law enforcement we always like to help.

Answer 7

When you go to the range ask for a guide to show you around and answer any questions.

Answer 8

point the open part away from your face

Answer 9

make sure you get ear plugs before you get their they cost to much buying them their.

Answer 10

you'll put your eye out!