Firearm Safety on a Public Range

Larry Potterfield • August 21, 2019

Let's take a look at firearm safety on a public shooting range. The first rule of firearm safety is always the same: keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction. Always keep the action open and gun unloaded except when shooting. Eye and ear protection is always required and the area downrange must be clear of other shooters. Always know where your shot will end up and never shoot across the range.

Never shoot across the range
Never shoot across the range

Only fire at proper targets. Do not shoot at target frames, trash, or range equipment as the bullet can ricochet.

Only fire at appropriate targets
Only fire at appropriate targets

Always review and obey the range rules. Range rules and regulations are designed to protect you and others at the range. Always think safety.

Review and obey the range rules
Review and obey the range rules

There should never be more than two people at any bench and only one firearm out of its case at any time.

Two to a bench
Two to a bench

When another shooter calls cease fire, immediately unload your gun and keep your action open. Don't handle your gun when someone is downrange and never use alcohol or drugs before or while shooting.

Unloaded and unhandled while others are downrange
Unloaded and unhandled while others are downrange

Remember, firearm safety is your responsibility.

--Larry Potterfield