With more new shooters joining the community each year and ranges busier than ever, following range etiquette and safety rules has never been more important. An estimated 5.4 million first-time gun buyers in 2021—nearly 30 percent of all firearms purchases that year, according to the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF)—means many people are fairly new to the shooting sports and might be unfamiliar with proper range protocols.

Whether you’re a beginner or a long-time shooter, it’s essential to approach the range responsibly and confidently. For those new to shooting, signing up for a basic skills class can be an excellent starting point. Understanding and practicing range etiquette can help ensure a positive—and above all safe—experience for everyone, from the staff to the other shooters. 

For new shooters to the fold, Shoot United, a website that strives to serve as a resource to those joining the gun ownership ranks, they offer these “range etiquette” tips:

BASIC RANGE ETIQUETTE RULES

SAFETY FIRST – UNDERSTAND AND ALWAYS FOLLOW THESE FOUR KEY RULES OF FIREARM SAFETY:

1. Treat every firearm as if it loaded. Doing this ensures you treat every gun with the utmost care.
2. Always keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction, at a range, this will always mean pointed down range unless otherwise instructed by a range safety officer (RSO).
3. Keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to shoot. Until you are aiming at the target downrange and are ready to fire the gun, your finger should never touch the trigger in order to prevent an accidental or unintentional discharge.
4. Be sure of your target and what is beyond it. The only thing that should be behind your target when a range is hot, and you are ready to shoot is a good backstop.

LISTEN TO AND FOLLOW RANGE RULES

Aside from the basic firearms safety rules, which should always be followed no matter where you shoot, each range may have specific rules that you need to learn and follow. This can include things like where to place your firearm when not in use, how to signal that you’re ready to shoot, how to properly uncase your firearm in preparation to shoot, types of firearms that can be used at the range and any other range-specific safety procedures. Be sure to listen carefully to the range staff and follow all posted rules. Most ranges will require you to watch or participate in a short safety briefing the first time you visit the range. Arrive early your first time to account for the time needed to take the briefing and pay attention. These rules are designed to keep you and those around you safe.

BE AWARE OF YOUR SURROUNDINGS

Pay attention to what’s always happening around you. Be aware of other shooters, and be sure to ask for permission before entering or exiting a shooting bay. Be aware of any changes in the range environment that could affect your safety, particularly when an RSO declares the range “cold,” “cease fire” at which time you should immediately stop shooting, open the chamber (if shooting a semi-auto firearm, remove the magazine first), place the gun on the shooting bench and step back.

BE COURTEOUS TO OTHERS

Be respectful of other shooters and their space. Don’t talk or distract others while they are shooting. Wait until they are finished shooting before approaching them. If you need to communicate with others, do so in a polite and respectful manner. If you are an experienced shooter and see somebody having difficulty, offer to help or to get the attention of the RSO or other staff who can also provide assistance.

CLEAN UP AFTER YOURSELF

When you are finished pick up all spent casings (unless they are in front of the firing line, most ranges will not allow casings in front of the line to be picked up for obvious safety reasons), trash, and other debris from your shooting area. Case your firearm keeping it always pointed downrange, and leave the area clean for the next shooter.

The primary reasons for following these rules are safety and respect. Safety is the most important consideration at any shooting range, and following these rules will help ensure that everyone can shoot safely and enjoyably.

Whether you’re new to shooting or simply looking to learn more about other aspects of the shooting sports, Shoot United, has a lot of great information for gun owners. It’s not just for beginners.