Heading down to the range to fire off your first collection of reloaded ammunition is a big day. You’ll probably feel a healthy mix of anxiety and excitement as you step up to the firing line. It’s not uncommon for new reloaders to worry that their ammunition might not fire correctly, or that other shooters will notice irregularities with their ammunition. Luckily, you can put most of those worries aside. As long as you show strong gun range etiquette, other shooters won’t take much notice of you or your reloaded ammunition.
Follow All Posted Rules
Using reloading supplies to pack your own ammunition does not exempt you from a gun range’s policies nor does it make you more knowledgeable than any other person at the range. Treat staff and customers with respect and understand that the rules apply to everyone. If you notice another shooter violating safety protocols, alert an employee rather than sparking a direct confrontation (unless there is an immediate and severe danger).
Listen to the Range Supervisor
The range supervisor, also called a range officer, is there to keep you and your fellow shooters safe. Follow his directions exactly as specified. Ignoring the range supervisor is not just a safety hazard — it could get you banned from the range. You are responsible for your actions at the range, but the range supervisor’s job is coordinating everyone’s actions for increased safety.
Contact the Range Before Showing Up
Not all gun ranges permit personally reloaded ammunition. It’s a good idea to call around to find out which local gun ranges are okay with you bringing your own ammo. And remember, just because the spent brass found around a range seems like a good way to grab free reloading supplies, some ranges have specific rules regarding whether customers are allowed to collect it. It’s always better to ask first.
It is your sole responsibility to learn the rules of any gun range and work to stay within them. Rules exist to prevent accidents and to ensure the safety of all shooters and observers. Working with reloading supplies does give you a deeper understanding of firearms, but does not exempt you from basic range etiquette. For more information or reloading supplies please visit www.TitanReloading.com or contact us at 262.244.7023 with any questions.