Range Safety Tips
Range Safety Tips
In 2002, I was twelve years old when my parents signed me up for a hunter’s safety program. By then, I had already spent plenty of time tagging along behind my dad and uncles, trailing through timber, listening watching, and soaking up everything I could. Hunting had a way of grabbing hold of me early, and every free moment that twelve-year-old-me had free, I wanted to go hunting, or do something related to hunting. I wanted, someday soon, to go out on my own.
That day wasn’t here yet.
First, Hunter’s Education
For me, the first step was hunter’s safety. You do not require it in order to shoot at a range, but I knew I wanted to hunt later on, and it was a good starting point for a kid. Back then there were no online options or weekend click-through courses. You earned it the old-fashioned way, sitting in a classroom with folding chairs, listening to instructors who took the responsibility seriously. We learned about ethics, firearm safety, and respect for the land, and the rules and regulations applying to 2002. After classroom came the best part. Range day.
I was excited, but underneath that excitement was a knot of nerves. I didn’t just want to pass, I wanted to do well. My dad decided we’d do a little practicing beforehand.
One August evening, he took me out to our cattle pasture. He set a few pears up on a railroad tie. Dad handed me his Ruger 10/22, walked me through loading it, and stood just off my shoulder as I lined up my first shot.
“Take your time,” he said. “Breathe. Squeeze the trigger.”
The rifle cracked, and the top of the pear exploded. Then another shot. Each hit built a little more confidence. By the time we were done, I felt ready.
My First Day at the Range
Range day came, and with it, a whole new experience.
The shooting portion of the course was held at the Centerville Armory. Walking inside, I was immediately struck by how different it felt from an open pasture. Every sound echoed. It was my first time at an indoor range.
I remember feeling small. There were a couple of other kids under eighteen, but most of the class was made up of adults. Thankfully, safety had been drilled into us from the very beginning. The instructors were fantastic, calm and patient, making sure everyone understood the rules and safety before a single round was chambered. They lined up volunteers to help, and each shooter was paired with an experienced adult who stood close by, offering quiet guidance.
The rifle felt familiar in my hands, even in this unfamiliar place.
The shot echoed louder than I expected. I settled into a rhythm, focusing on safety, on control, on doing things the right way.
When it was over, I felt a rush of relief and pride. I hadn’t rushed or panicked. I had listened, learned, and followed through. If it’s your first time at the range, like mine, it doesn’t have to be intimidating. Here are some safety tips, and etiquette that will make a day at the range more comfortable for you.
Helpful Tips for the Range
First of all, read the range rules posted. This will help you get an understanding of what’s expected. As always, treat every firearm as if it is loaded, even when you believe it is not. Keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction at all times so an accidental discharge cannot cause injury or damage. Keep your finger off the trigger until your sights are on the target and you are ready to shoot. Always obey the commands of the range officer immediately and without question, as they are responsible for everyone’s safety. Wear proper eye and ear protection at all times while on the range to prevent permanent injury. Be aware of your surroundings and never handle a firearm while people are downrange. Only load your firearm at the firing line and unload it completely before stepping away. Use only the correct ammunition for your firearm to avoid malfunctions or dangerous failures. Keep firearms cased or benched with the action open when not actively shooting. Finally, show respect to others on the range by staying calm, following posted rules, and helping create a safe, welcoming environment for everyone.
Lastly, if you do have a question, don’t be afraid to ask. Generally, everyone there is kind and helpful. If you keep safety a top-priority, then you won’t have any problems.
April 2025
by Kyle Dana
