First time going to range....tips anyone?
 

Hey guys, today I purchased my first firearm....A ruger 10/22 for $150. I heard good things about it on this board so i decided to buy it. I'm heading to the local range tomorrow and I was wondering what to expect....etc

thanks guys

Sign up for a safety class, if you haven't done so already. It's a good investment. Otherwise go with someone that has some shooting experience.

And don't forget to have fun =)

Yup, a safety class is a good idea if you are new to guns or just inexperienced.

At the range, read the rules the RO (range officer) gives you carefully.

Then read them again.

Next follow all his/her instructions to the letter.

Don't forget you'll need some hearing and eye protection (which you can usually rent/borrow at the range).

Have fun!

Thanks guys, I bought the ear and eye protection already. Anyone else?

Just going to echo Lebell. Make sure you read and follow the range rules . Be safe and have fun.

[aside] *evil laugh* Our influence is spreading *evil laugh*

Like others said--make *sure* you follow the range rules. Being new is no excuse. They WILL kick you out if you dont.

Have fun, thats a great gun :)

I would highly suggest a safety class, i took one - it was a NRA Rifle Class - and the things i learned i doubt i will forget. After taking it i just feel more confident around guns - not overly confident though - but i understand what to do and what not to do when around guns. I'm the kind of guy that isn't afraid of telling someone i don't appreciate them pointing their firearm in my direction (this included a gun salesmen, who wasn't paying attention) Anyways, it was a great experience and has given me a better understand of gun world.

I haven't been to a range before, but here are are some basicl rules that I try to follow whenever I am out shooting, or carrying a gun for that matter. Eye and ear protection has already been discussed, so I'm leaving that out of my list. However, none of this is a substitute for a safety class.

!. Always treat your firearm like it is loaded.
2.The safety stays on anytime you are not firing the gun.
3.Your finger does not touch the trigger unless you are making a shot. Period. Try not to dry fire your gun. (pull the trigger on an empty chamber. It can cause damage to the firing pin.) If you feel the need to put your finger somewhere, point straight out and rest it along the stock or on the outer edge of the triggerguard.
4. Do not point your gun at anything you do not intend to shoot.
5. Check to make sure the barrel is free from obstructions before loading your gun.
6. Have fun.

Don't be afraid to ask questions. Every shooter I know loves to talk guns, and I have never run into anyone who would not willing to help a new shooter learn to do things the right way.

If you don't like the idea of paying for one of the NRA firearms classes, a lot of areas have free Hunter's Education classes. Even if you're not a hunter, they teach you many good habits about how to properly carry a long gun, shoot it, clean it, and respect it.

Cool, thanks guys...went to the range today....The owner gave me a free safety class bc it was such a shitty day they weren't busy. Thanks for all of the pointers

Awesome! I hope you had a good time!

Aim Downrange!

Depending on how the range is set up, if it's an open field and you are shooting neck to neck with other shooters, you should always put your guns down and stop shooting when they check their targets.

When I was a young child, shooting with my father, I scared the pants off a man while he was checking his target. I didn't know he was out in the field until I saw him start running and flailing his arms at my father.

Safety, being alert and maturity are good keys to follow while on the range or with general gun usage.

Don't joke or use any sarcasm.. and MUZZLE CONTROL

No matter what you do, don't invite Jayson Williams!

Dont Drink!!

Squeeze the trigger, don't pull it, you'll have much better accuracy.

Buddy up to the range master or range hand. Let him/her know you're new to the sport. They will be more then willing to take you under their wind and show you the ropes. This is also an excellent way to get free shooting lessons as often times these guys/gals are x-marine, special ops, police or trainers.