When heading out to the shooting range for a full day of target acquisition, you need the right gear to make it successful. Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned pro, there are certain items everyone should have in their range day kit.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you remember all the necessities when practicing long-range shooting.
I. Before You Pack Up
One of the easiest ways to improve your accuracy is to ensure your rifle is clean and well-maintained. You should also keep a cleaning kit in your range bag.
Ideally, you would have already mounted and zeroed your scope before you arrived at the range. If you haven’t yet had time to zero your rifle, take the time needed to do that first.
Need tips on zeroing your rifle? See our guide. (LINK)
II. Eye and Ear Protection
It is one of the easiest things to overlook, but one of the most essential items in your kit.
Eye Protection
Accidents at the range can happen in a split second, and debris or other flying objects can permanently impact your vision. Eye protection is a must!
That’s why we’ve dedicated an entire guide to it, including what to look for, the options available, and the pros and cons of each type. (LINK)
Ear Protection
Anyone who has been to the range knows how loud it can be, especially on a crowded day. Repeated blasts present a risk of hearing loss, so ear protection is crucial.
Many options exist, from cheap foam earplugs to earmuffs and more advanced electronic versions.
Check out our comprehensive guide on ear protection and learn about the most critical features in protecting your hearing. (LINK)
III. Spare Magazines & Ammunition
The rule for ammo is to bring double what you think you may shoot. The last thing you want is to run out of ammo, particularly at an outdoor range where you can’t easily buy more.
Some ranges sell ammo, but you can expect to pay more than you would if you could buy it elsewhere, especially if you usually purchase in bulk.
Double-check to ensure you have the correct ammunition for each firearm you plan to shoot. If you have zeroed your rifle with a specific type of ammo, it’s best to continue to use it.
Otherwise, you may have to zero it again.
You can take extra magazines with you and pre-load magazines at home to save time at the range. There are magazine reloaders you could invest in to speed up the process.
Check the Rules & Regulations
Remember to check the range’s rules about allowed firearms. Indoor ranges have more exclusions than outdoor ranges.
However, your range may still have rules regarding the kind of firearm you can shoot and the ammunition you can use.
Know before you go!
IV. Shooting Rests and Supports
Using shooting rests or bipods can improve your accuracy and stability when firing a rifle.
Shooting Rests
A shooting rest gives you a base to support your rifle. This reduces fatigue over a longer shooting session and can help improve your accuracy.
Shooting rests can take many forms. They can be as simple as a sandbag, a foam support, or a more sophisticated platform that reduces muzzle movement.
Most outdoor ranges also have tables or platforms, though you will likely need other supports to stabilize your rifle.
Bipods
Bipods are two-leg attachments for the front end of your rifle. This provides stability for the far end of your rifle to reduce fatigue from the weight.
Because it is easily adjustable and portable, it can be a great option if you’re short on space or don’t want to carry a sandbag.
They can be handy when in prone positions or without a stable base.
When looking for a bipod, be sure to choose a durable option that can withstand your rifle’s recoil.
V. Range Bag or Rifle Case
You will be taking quite a lot of gear with you, so you need something to keep it organized. You don’t want to waste time digging through your range bag instead of practicing your shot.
Look for a durable range bag that will withstand any environment, whether sitting in the dirt or on grass covered in dew. You will want a case that prioritizes protecting your gear when it’s in transit or carried.
A great case will have multiple compartments and pockets to store your gear. Zippered compartments help to keep your equipment secure.
If you’re likely to take more than one firearm to the range, look for a case that will hold multiple. To protect your firearms, you will need padding or different compartments.
Consider how you want to carry it and if you need to look for a bag with a shoulder strap. If you plan to travel by plane with your gear, consider what you will need to be able to check your gear and keep it secure.
When reviewing cases, make sure you have room for everything you need to take.
- How many firearms will it hold?
- Is it long enough for your longest rifle?
- Can it easily hold your rifle with your scope attached?
- Is there padding to protect your firearms from each other?
- Are any pockets or compartments deep enough to hold your gear?
- Can you fit a set of earmuffs?
- Will it hold your ammo in its original box?
- Can it hold your cleaning kit?
- Can it hold your tool kit?
VI. Targets and Target Stands
The right targets and stands are necessary for effective target practice. What you will need will depend on where you are shooting.
Targets
There are several types of targets, the least expensive of which is paper. As with ammo, you can buy these at an indoor range if you forget them, but you will pay more.
Paper targets are great if you need to zero your scope or spend a lot of time practicing precise shots. You may need binoculars (or use your scope) at greater distances to see where you hit the target.
If you are taking paper targets, have a staple gun or tape to attach them to the stand. And always take more than you think you may need.
Steel targets have the satisfaction of the “ping” when they are hit, giving you an auditory confirmation that you landed on the target. They are also reusable. So, while they may be more expensive up front than paper targets, they may be more cost-effective over time.
You can also opt for spinning targets or ones that reset after being hit. These are typically reserved for more experienced shooters.
Target Stands
A target stand is not necessary at an indoor range. Your outdoor range may or may not provide a way to hang targets.
When you buy a target stand, look for something portable and sturdy. You want something that can withstand the impact of your ammunition and be transported easily.
Pay attention to the weight since you may be carrying it for longer distances at an outdoor range.
Your stand should be adjustable so you can practice multiple shooting scenarios.
VII. Other Gear To Add To Your Kit
Make your range day more enjoyable with these items for your kit.
- Shooting Mat
- Camping/Folding Chair
- Extra Batteries
- Tool Kit
- Trauma or First Aid Kit
- Water/Hydration
- Food/Snacks
- Sunscreen
- Sun Protective Clothing
- Hat
- Closed Toe Shoes
- Binoculars or Spotting Scope
Ensure Successful Preparation for Your Range Day
When you use this checklist to pack your gear, you will be well-prepared for an enjoyable day at the range.
If you’re a beginner, worry more about the essentials and less about the nice-to-haves. As you gain more experience, you will understand precisely what gear you want for your range kit.
Packing precisely and as lightly as possible makes range day easier and more fun. You’ll get to focus on shooting instead of managing a bunch of gear!