*Warning, this is going to be a long one. Just bear with me, you're about to get some extremely good information! Once you've purchased a firearm, the next logical step is to want to shoot it. It just makes sense. What's the point in having a gun that you don't fire, right? Now we need to locate a facility that is equipped to handle all the freedom we plan on disbursing. There are many options from outdoor, to indoor, to private property. Any will do, just be sure that all local laws are followed. When you find a location, you need to make sure that you have certain tools to ensure that your range day goes off without a hitch. That's where I come in. I'm going to go through what I take to the range to give you some idea of what types of things to consider. You may not need it all, but it's better to have and not need, than to need and not have. The first thing you want to do is get all the gear you plan to take to the range together, in one spot. Let's start with the guns... When I go to the range, I like to have all my pistols in cases, in my range bag. I usually take about 4 or 5 with me. I use cases like these to keep what I use for each pistol separate. They also provide a little extra protection without taking up too much space. I keep my rifles and shotguns in a separate case, outside of my range bag. The next thing that I make sure that I have is my ear protection. I have a pair of ear muffs and a set of ear plugs. Depending on what I'm shooting, it can get pretty loud. For larger calibers, I use both sets together, but no matter what I'm shooting, until I get my silencers, some form of hearing protection is definitely a requirement. The electronic ear muffs are a personal favorite of mine. They allow me to reduce the sound of the gunfire and with the push of a button, hear someone talking if need be. With ear protection, comes eye protection. They are both extremely important. You won't appreciate them until you're glad that you had them. Most designated ranges actually require shooters to wear them. You don't have to get too fancy, just be sure that your glasses are rated to meet ballistics standards, are comfortable, and will not fog easily. As far as the tint of the lenses, that's totally up to you. Let's face it, if you are required to wear safety gear, there's a chance that things can go wrong. That's why I always include a good first aid kit in my range bag. Whether it's a runny nose, cut, allergic reaction, or something much worse, I want to give myself the best chance of fighting it. You don't need a full on doctor's bag, but some equipment to stabilize a situation until a medical professional can take over is a good idea. AMMO! Lots of ammo! If you've ever been shooting, you know how fast a box of rounds can disappear. If you haven't, just take my word for it. A box of 50 may sound like a lot, but it will be gone in about 15 minutes. Be sure to include ammunition for all the calibers you intend to shoot. However much you think you need, bring more! No one has ever regretted taking home leftover rounds. A dirty gun can bring a range day to a screeching halt. That's why I include a cleaning kit in my range bag. Something small and compact is all you need. Shooting at high volume will cause carbon build-up and may result in a firearm malfunctioning. Have a kit that will allow you to clean out any fouling and get back to shooting. Depending on where you shoot, you may be required to take your own targets. If not, it's still a good idea to have a few inside your bag. It can be as simple as a piece of paper with a dot or as fancy as reactive splatter targets. Personally, I prefer shooting at zombies. I don't think anyone is surprised by that... If you have to bring your own targets, you may want to bring a way to secure them. For this, I use a heavy duty staple gun. Also, be sure to bring extra staples. One is kind of pointless without the other. Tacks can also be used if you prefer. Most people shoot outside in the great outdoors. If you do too, you will definitely need protection from Mother Nature. Bug spray, sunscreen, and a hat. Trust me. You won't regret it. You may want to consider putting the bottles in a zip top bag. Because, you know... s*** happens. Dude, it's duct tape. Do I really need to explain? Guns are machines. Machines break. Machines that hold small explosions are more likely to break than others. That's why any range bag needs to have some tools included. It can be a tool set specifically designed for firearms or a multi-tool that has parts that can be used for the purpose. Either way, you need tools. A pen and pad are essential if you want to get the most out of your day at the range. Whether you use it to take down the size of your groups or record D.O.P.E. (data on previous engagements), chances are there will be something that you need to write down. And believe it or not, it's a lot easier than pulling out your phone. No matter what time of year you go to the range, you will get thirsty. Just grab a few bottles and thank me later. The last thing you're going to want is a range bag, a bag dedicated to only you firearms and other shooting accessories. There are many options to choose from and there is no one right choice. You should make your decision based on the firearms you plan to shoot and buy something that can handle all the gear you want to carry. Keep in mind, the more you pack, the more you have to carry, the heavier the bag will be. I prefer the backpack style. It distributes the weight so it's easier to carry and has a lot of pockets to organize all my gear. Plus you can find them for a pretty reasonable price at many Army surplus stores. You may think this is a lot, and to some it is, but there is much more that can go into a range bag. You want to make sure that you have everything you need or may need. There is nothing wrong with overpacking. In fact, I do it every single time. I see a part two coming in the near future...
2 Comments
Manuel
8/25/2015 10:59:48 am
I'm going to have to disagree with you on that one. Hunting is how people have harvested their meat since the beginning of time. It doesn't get much more natural than that.
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AuthorKeep in mind that I am by no means a gun expert. I have had some safety, handling, and shooting training, but nowhere near the amount I feel is needed to claim the "expert" title. With that being said, I am a man that owns a LOT of firearms, knives, and gear! I have been shooting since I could hold a rifle and have even competed in and won a few competitions. The advice and tips that I give are based on personal experience, but are by no means to be taken as law. Please consult a trained, certified professional for all your firearms needs. Enjoy! Archives
May 2016
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