Target practice is one of the most popular sports for gun owners to participate in while honing their craft. Whether you’re an avid hunter or looking to perfect your form, target shooting has numerous benefits, from increased core strength to improved mental processing. Often, stressed individuals take out their frustrations at the range, allowing them to clear their minds in a productive, skill-building way. Plus, training at a range improves your self-defense skills for emergencies and long-range shooting for hunting.
Before you head out to your local range, you’ll need various equipment to keep things sailing smoothly and avoid injury. After all, you’re handling a dangerous weapon. If you’re a first-timer, read on tips and range day essentials you’ll need for target practice.
Spotting scope
For those with long-range rifles, you’ll want to invest in a high-quality spotting scope. Although many get away with a sturdy pair of binoculars, detached field lenses are hard on the eyes and difficult to track. Instead, invest in a spotting scope that attaches directly to your firearm. Walking back and forth from your intended site to check the accuracy and your surroundings is tedious. Luckily, long-range lenses allow you to see faraway distances so that you can differentiate between a shadow and an obstacle.
Additionally, some models feature digital storing operations, allowing you to snapshot your surroundings and print photos later. Ultimately, a spotting scope offers a clear vision of your intended target and are versatile, sturdy, and clear, catering to numerous firearm models and user needs.
Eye and ear protection
Whether you’re heading off to an indoor or outdoor range, ear and eye protection are essential for your safety. Although you can purchase basic models at the site, they’re typically low-quality and inefficient for noisy ranges. Before engaging in target practice, be sure to invest in high-quality glasses to protect your eyes from flying debris and reusable ear protection to keep your eardrums healthy.
Gun cleaning supplies
Dirty guns can lead to jamming and misfiring, which is a safety hazard and a general annoyance. Be sure to apply lube to your slides and guns’ internal components before you start shooting. Then, once you have finished for the day, wipe down your firearms and give them a thorough cleaning with supplies like a vise for your bore, a rod for the barrel, and a brush for hard-to-reach crevices.
Spare magazines
Each moment you spend loading magazines is time wasted while at the range. Be sure to bring extra magazines and pack them before you arrive to maximize your time. Additionally, having spare magazines will ensure you can practice until you see fit, instead of leaving when your magazine is on its last leg.
Extra targets
Unless you take one rifle out to the range with a handful of bullets, you’ll need multiple targets to get the most out of your time. If you only have one target, it can be challenging for you to differentiate your shots and ensure your aim is accurate. As a rule of thumb, bring at least one mark for each firearm you carry and plan on extra if you’re looking at extended practicing periods.
Wrapping up
Although your first time at a shooting range may be intimidating, with the right tools, you’ll be coming back for more. Equip yourself with proper protection, gun maintenance tools, and firearm equipment to dodge risky situations and frustration at the range.