10 Common Shooting Range Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Whether you're an experienced shooter or a beginner, the shooting range is an essential space to hone your skills, increase your confidence, and familiarize yourself with different firearms. However, despite the best intentions, many shooters make mistakes---some of which can have serious safety implications. Understanding the most common shooting range mistakes and knowing how to avoid them is crucial for ensuring your safety, as well as the safety of others around you.

In this article, we will explore ten of the most common mistakes made at shooting ranges and provide practical advice on how to avoid them. These tips will not only improve your shooting accuracy but will also help you develop good habits that will last a lifetime.

Failure to Follow Basic Safety Rules

What's the Mistake?

Perhaps the most common and dangerous mistake at the shooting range is failure to adhere to basic firearm safety rules. These rules are designed to keep shooters safe and prevent accidents. They include things like keeping the gun pointed in a safe direction, keeping your finger off the trigger until ready to shoot, and always assuming the firearm is loaded.

How to Avoid It

• Always adhere to the four cardinal rules of gun safety :
  1. Treat every firearm as if it's loaded.
  2. Never point the muzzle at anything you are not willing to destroy.
  3. Keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to shoot.
  4. Be sure of your target and what's beyond it.

By making these rules a habit, they will become second nature, and you'll significantly reduce the risk of accidents.

Improper Handling of Firearms

What's the Mistake?

Improper handling of a firearm, such as gripping the gun too loosely or too tightly, can affect both safety and shooting performance. Whether it's failing to hold the gun steady or not ensuring that the muzzle is pointed in a safe direction, improper handling can lead to malfunctions, dangerous accidents, and inaccurate shots.

How to Avoid It

• Learn proper grip techniques: A proper grip is crucial for both safety and accuracy. Ensure you hold the gun firmly but not too tightly, keeping your arms slightly extended for better control and recoil absorption.
• Use proper stance and body positioning: Your stance affects your shooting performance. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent, and your body slightly leaning forward to absorb recoil efficiently.

Proper grip and posture will not only improve your accuracy but also ensure the firearm is handled safely.

Not Checking the Gun's Condition

What's the Mistake?

One of the most preventable mistakes is failing to check the condition of your firearm before using it. This includes not verifying if the gun is loaded, ensuring that the safety is on, and inspecting the weapon for any mechanical issues or defects.

How to Avoid It

• Conduct a safety check before using your firearm: Always ensure the firearm is unloaded before you load it, and visually inspect the barrel for any obstructions or damage.
• Check that all safeties are functioning properly: Test the safety mechanisms to ensure they are working as intended. If your gun has malfunctioned in the past, make sure to address it before heading to the range.

Checking the condition of your firearm before use is a simple step that can prevent a wide range of issues, including accidental discharges or malfunctioning firearms.

Improper Range Etiquette

What's the Mistake?

Improper range etiquette can be a problem for both beginners and experienced shooters. This includes behaviors such as talking too loudly, walking downrange when others are still shooting, or failing to follow the range's rules regarding when to load and unload firearms.

How to Avoid It

• Respect others at the range: Always maintain a respectful attitude toward fellow shooters. Keep your conversations quiet and avoid distracting others who are focusing on their shots.
• Follow range commands: Ranges often have specific commands (such as "Cease fire" or "Fire") to maintain order and safety. Always wait for the command before entering the range or handling your firearm.
• Stay behind the firing line: Never walk downrange while people are shooting. Wait for the "cease fire" command before approaching the target area.

By being mindful of the environment and the people around you, you help maintain a safe and respectful shooting range.

Ignoring Recoil Management

What's the Mistake?

Recoil is an inevitable aspect of shooting, but many shooters, especially beginners, don't manage it properly. Failing to absorb or control recoil can lead to inaccurate shots, flinching, and even injury. It can also lead to a misfire or disorientation, especially when shooting larger caliber firearms.

How to Avoid It

• Learn to manage recoil: Proper stance and grip will help absorb recoil more effectively. Keep your arms slightly bent and maintain a solid stance to prevent the gun from jerking.
• Focus on follow-through: After each shot, focus on keeping your sights aligned and preparing for the next shot. This helps to maintain control over the firearm and avoid jerking the trigger.

Recoil management is a skill that improves with practice, so be patient and gradually increase your shooting proficiency.

Failing to Use Ear and Eye Protection

What's the Mistake?

Shooting can be incredibly loud, and the noise can cause permanent hearing damage if proper protection is not used. Additionally, the risk of debris, gunpowder, or other projectiles hitting your eyes is a serious concern. Failing to wear ear and eye protection is one of the most common and easily avoidable mistakes.

How to Avoid It

• Always wear ear protection: Choose earplugs or earmuffs specifically designed for shooting, as they reduce harmful noise to safe levels. Double protection (using both earplugs and earmuffs) is often recommended for high-caliber firearms.
• Use safety glasses: Protect your eyes from flying debris or gunpowder residue by wearing shooting glasses. Some glasses come with special features like anti-fogging or impact resistance, which are beneficial for prolonged shooting sessions.

Protecting your ears and eyes is a basic safety measure that should never be skipped.

Shooting Without Proper Instruction

What's the Mistake?

One of the biggest mistakes beginners make is attempting to shoot without proper instruction or guidance. Trying to shoot without understanding how firearms work or how to use them safely can lead to poor technique, unsafe practices, and a lack of confidence in handling firearms.

How to Avoid It

• Take professional lessons: Enroll in a shooting class or hire a certified instructor to help you develop a solid foundation. This will teach you proper techniques and safety measures.
• Ask questions: Don't hesitate to ask more experienced shooters or instructors for guidance. The shooting community is generally welcoming and willing to help newcomers.

Proper instruction will drastically improve your shooting accuracy and safety, as well as help you develop confidence in your abilities.

Incorrect Use of Target Distance

What's the Mistake?

Shooting at inappropriate target distances is a common error, particularly for beginners. If your target is too far away, it becomes difficult to shoot accurately, and if it's too close, it can lead to poor shooting habits and a lack of control.

How to Avoid It

• Start at a reasonable distance: Beginners should start with shorter target distances, such as 10 or 15 yards, and gradually increase the distance as they gain confidence and accuracy.
• Adjust your sights: Make sure to adjust your sights if you change the distance to ensure accuracy at longer ranges.

By starting at an appropriate range and adjusting as necessary, you can improve your accuracy and build good shooting habits.

Overconfidence and Rushing Shots

What's the Mistake?

Overconfidence and rushing shots are common mistakes that lead to inaccuracy and unsafe practices. Whether it's trying to shoot too fast or assuming that you've mastered your firearm, rushing can result in missed shots, poor technique, or even dangerous behavior.

How to Avoid It

• Slow down: Take your time to line up your shots, focusing on proper technique and alignment. Accuracy is more important than speed.
• Practice consistently: Building skill and confidence takes time. Don't rush to master shooting---focus on consistent improvement and good habits.

Rushing shots and becoming overconfident will only hinder your progress. Focus on steady, deliberate practice.

Neglecting to Clean and Maintain Your Firearm

What's the Mistake?

Neglecting regular firearm cleaning and maintenance is a mistake that can lead to malfunctions, misfires, or even dangerous situations at the range. Dirty or poorly maintained firearms are less reliable and can lead to reduced accuracy or unsafe conditions.

How to Avoid It

• Clean your firearm after each use: Always clean your firearm according to the manufacturer's recommendations after each shooting session. This includes cleaning the barrel, the slide, and ensuring that the gun's internal parts are properly lubricated.
• Inspect your firearm regularly: Perform routine checks on your firearm to ensure that all parts are functioning correctly. Replace any worn-out components immediately.

Proper maintenance is vital to ensure that your firearm operates smoothly and safely, providing you with a reliable tool for shooting.

Conclusion

Shooting ranges are valuable places for learning, practicing, and improving your skills. However, making the wrong decisions or neglecting safety practices can have serious consequences. By understanding the common mistakes and taking proactive steps to avoid them, you can ensure a safe and productive experience every time you visit the range.

Remember: Safe shooting is about more than just skill---it's about cultivating the right mindset and habits. Whether you're a novice or an experienced shooter, always prioritize safety, practice good etiquette, and continuously seek to improve your skills. By doing so, you'll enjoy a lifetime of safe and enjoyable shooting experiences.

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