Everyone I’ve ever taken shooting at an outdoor range loved the adventure. But if this is your first time at a shooting range, especially one outdoors, it can feel a bit intimidating. No worries — we’ve got you covered with everything you need to know for a safe, smooth and enjoyable outdoor shooting experience.
Types of Outdoor Gun Ranges
Outdoor gun ranges typically fall into three categories: clubs, public ranges and private property. Since private property doesn’t have supervision or other shooters, we’ll focus on outdoor ranges that are either public or club-based. These can be supervised or unsupervised. A supervised range usually has a designated range-safety officer (RSO) monitoring for safety and ensuring all shooters are following proper procedures.
Know the Rules and Gun Range Etiquette
Before visiting any shooting outdoor range, understand two key things: safety rules and gun range etiquette. The rules are there to keep everyone safe, while etiquette ensures a friendly environment for all shooters. When you’re clearly demonstrating safe practices, other shooters are more comfortable and respectful.
Outdoor shooting lanes often feature a bench, seating and sometimes shelter — all designed to improve comfort at the shooting outdoor range.
General Range Safety Considerations
Whether you’re at an indoor or outdoor range, basic firearms safety rules always apply:
1) Treat all firearms as if they are loaded.
2) Never point the firearm at anything you’re not willing to shoot.
3) Keep your finger off the trigger until you have made the decision to shoot.
4) Know your target and understand what is beyond it.
Some shooting outdoor ranges may have specific variations. For example, certain outdoor shooting facilities enforce “cold range” rules, meaning firearms must remain unloaded unless you’re on the firing line, ready to fire. Check the range’s policies before you go.
Some shooting outdoor ranges may have specific variations. For example, certain outdoor shooting facilities enforce “cold range” rules, meaning firearms must remain unloaded unless you’re on the firing line, ready to fire. Check the range’s policies before you go.
Planning Ahead Before You Go
Before heading to the range outdoor, check if the facility has a website. Many outdoor gun ranges post their rules online, which can help prevent confusion when you arrive. If you’re still deciding what to bring, you may want to explore what makes a great first gun so you feel confident with your choice before stepping up to the firing line.
Transport your firearms unloaded and in cases. Never bring a loaded gun into any range. The goal is to minimize handling loaded firearms until you’re at your designated shooting outdoor position.
Arriving at the Range: What to Do First
As soon as you arrive, put on your ear and eye protection — especially if others are already shooting. Rifles are particularly loud at outdoor ranges, and eye protection guards against ricochets and flying debris.
Keep your firearms cased and actions open when transporting gear to the shooting line. Ideally, only uncase your firearms when they’re on the firing line, pointed downrange and the range is declared “hot.”
Find out if the range is supervised or self-managed. If there’s an RSO, let them know it’s your first time at a shooting range so they can help you get set up safely.
Shooting at an Outdoor Range: Etiquette and Procedures
Outdoor shooting ranges operate in two modes: hot and cold.
- Cold Range: No firearms may be handled. This is the time to go downrange to place or check targets.
- Hot Range: This is when shooting takes place.
Always shoot within your lane and directly into the backstop for safety — a key part of gun range etiquette at any outdoor range.
If an RSO is present, he or she will announce these modes. If not, shooters agree among themselves. Always double-check that everyone is aware of the switch between modes, especially when ear protection makes communication harder.
When the range is cold, step behind the designated line (if one exists) and away from firearms to make your intentions visibly clear. If someone handles a firearm during a cold range, alert the RSO, speak to the individual or leave. Safety is non-negotiable.
Always fire straight downrange. Never shoot across lanes or at someone else’s target. Keep your muzzle pointed in a safe direction — downrange — whether loading, unloading or resting your firearm.
Wrapping Up: Leaving the Range
When you’re done shooting at the outdoor range, unload your firearms and case them while the range is still hot. Once it’s cold, retrieve your targets and return your gear to your vehicle.
Avoid bringing glass, electronics or unsafe items to shoot at. These not only create a mess but can be dangerous. If you’re using steel targets, ensure they are permitted and follow all safety guidelines.
Proper muzzle discipline is critical at an outdoor shooting range — notice how all firearms remain pointed safely downrange at all times.
Respecting the Range and Fellow Shooters
Treat every visit to an outdoor range with respect. Think like a Boy Scout — leave no trace. Bring a bag to collect your used targets and any trash you see. Avoid shooting at items that can’t be cleaned up or disposed of safely.
If you notice the range is messy, consider volunteering for a cleanup or donating to help maintain the facility. Some shooting outdoor range facilities even provide donation boxes for this purpose. Using lead-free ammo when possible also helps keep the environment cleaner.
Be Safe, Be Smart and Enjoy Shooting Outdoors
Whether it’s your first time at a shooting range or your hundredth, staying mindful of safety and etiquette ensures a great time for everyone. When in doubt, ask the RSO or another experienced shooter. Most people at an outdoor shooting range are happy to help newcomers.
With a little prep and the right mindset, you’ll love the thrill of shooting at an outdoor range. Stay safe, shoot straight, and enjoy the fresh air and freedom of the great outdoors.
Ready to try your local outdoor range? Find a range near you.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What safety rules should I follow at an outdoor shooting range?
Always treat firearms as if they’re loaded. Keep your muzzle pointed downrange at all times, and keep your finger off the trigger until you’re ready to shoot. Do not handle firearms during a cold range, and always be aware of what’s beyond your target.
How do I know if a range is supervised or self-monitored?
When you arrive, look for a range-safety officer (RSO). If no RSO is present, the range is self-monitored — shooters will coordinate hot and cold range times among themselves.
What should I do when I’m finished shooting?
Unload and case your firearms while the range is still hot. Once the range is declared cold, you can retrieve your targets and pack up your gear. Don’t forget to clean up your area and dispose of any trash or used targets properly.
This article is a compilation of previous blog posts authored by Tom McHale and Ed Combs.
