Top Tips For First-Time Shooters
First-time shooters at the gun range are ill-prepared for what lies ahead of them. Undertaking any activity for the first time can be an enjoyable experience filled with unexpected challenges, just like life. Take swimming, for example; no matter how hard you try, you are bound to ingest pool water in your first lesson. Going to the shooting range for the first time is no different (although the challenges are different).
We can make your experience at the range much more pleasant by giving you some important tips that most first-time shooters are unaware of. Trust us when we tell you that following these tips can help you have the time of your life.
Ask for Help
There is no shame in being a beginner or being unfamiliar with how to correctly handle your weapon or behave at the range. Shooters are a friendly bunch who can give you some valuable tips and hands-on advice. It is better to ask the guy at the counter or the range officer for help rather than getting into an accident or not learning anything from your day at the range.
Prepare a Bag
You need to take some essentials with you to the shooting range, and we do not mean a medical aid kit or snack. You will need proper eye and ear protection, and if you are planning to keep this activity up, it is more affordable to buy your own than rent them from the shooting range. Also, having your own protective gear will ensure that they are a perfect fit.
Apart from protective gear, you will need cloth tape that athletes mostly use. You can easily get blisters on your gun hand, and feet (due to walking to set targets) during long shooting sessions. The tape can protect the damaged skin and minor cuts.
Dress for Safety
Plan your attire wisely, keeping in mind safety over style or comfort. It is not uncommon for bullet casings to fly everywhere, and since they are hot, you can get burnt if you are not adequately covered up, so wear boots instead of sandals or slippers and a tight collared shirt as opposed to a deep V-neck.
Familiarize Yourself with Basic Range Etiquettes and Commands
Do your research about the range you are going to so your conduct is on-point. There are bound to be some tips or instructions regarding proper shooting range etiquette on their website. Also, it is a good idea to memorize some range commands to better understand and follow the instructions of the range officer.
Clean Up After Yourself
Remove the used targets, bullet casings, and trash on and around your lane, and put all the equipment back to its original place.
Attend a Firearm Safety Class
Before you start shooting, it is best first to learn how to handle your firearm safely so you do not accidentally shoot yourself or anyone else, injure the web of your hand, or worse. Firearms can prove to be very dangerous, so you should at least have basic safety training before you go to a shooting range.
Wash Up Before You Leave
After you finish shooting, or if you are taking a break, be sure you wash your hands and face thoroughly with soap and water to remove all lead and gunpowder residue, so you do not accidentally ingest it while eating or drinking. Also, avoid touching your eyes, mouth, and face until you have washed your hands. You can even use lead-cleaning hand wipes if they are available.
If you’re a newbie to guns and are looking for a reliable firearm in Lebanon, PA, contact Eagle Arms. Visit our shop and choose from our extensive range of high-quality firearms and accessories.
