Range Day Checklist: What to Bring, What to Expect

Your first trip to the range can feel like the first day at a new gym. You know you belong there, but you're not entirely sure where things go or what the unwritten rules are. That's normal. Everyone was new once, and the people who say they weren't are lying.

Here's everything you need to know to show up prepared, stay safe, and actually have a good time.

What to Bring

The Essentials

• Firearm(s) — unloaded, cased, and ready to go. If you don't own one yet, many ranges rent firearms for first-timers.
• Ammunition — bring more than you think you'll need. 100-200 rounds for a handgun session, 60-100 for rifle. Check if the range has caliber restrictions.
• Ear protection — non-negotiable. Electronic earmuffs ($30-$60) are ideal because they block gunshot noise but let you hear conversation. Foam earplugs work as a budget backup. Double up (plugs + muffs) if you're sensitive to noise.
• Eye protection — shooting glasses or ANSI Z87.1-rated safety glasses. Regular sunglasses aren't rated for impact protection.
• Targets — some ranges provide them, some don't. Bring a few paper targets and a stapler just in case.

Highly Recommended

• Range bag — keeps everything organized. Doesn't need to be fancy. A duffel bag with a few pouches works.
• Water — especially in Arizona. Shooting is more physically demanding than people expect, and indoor ranges can get warm.
• Basic cleaning supplies — a bore snake, some CLP (clean-lubricate-protect), and a rag. Clean your firearm after every range session.
• First aid kit — a small one. Hot brass burns happen, and it's good practice to have basic supplies on hand.
• Stapler and tape — for hanging targets.
• Pen and notebook — write down what worked, what didn't, what you want to practice next time. Tracking progress matters.

What to Expect

Check-In

When you arrive, you'll check in at the front desk. Most ranges require you to sign a waiver, show valid ID, and possibly watch a short safety briefing video. Some ranges charge a lane fee ($15-$25/hour is typical). If you're renting a firearm, you'll handle that here too.

Range Safety Officer (RSO)

The RSO runs the range. They're there to keep everyone safe, and their instructions aren't suggestions. If an RSO tells you something, do it immediately and ask questions later. They're not trying to ruin your day. They're keeping everyone's day from being ruined permanently.

Ceasefire Procedures

At outdoor ranges, a "ceasefire" or "cold range" is called periodically so people can walk downrange to check or change targets. When ceasefire is called: stop shooting immediately, unload your firearm, lock the action open, set it down on the bench, and step back behind the firing line. Do not touch any firearm during a ceasefire. Not even to adjust the sling. Not even for a second.

Lane Etiquette

Stay in your lane. Keep your muzzle pointed downrange at all times. Don't handle someone else's firearm without asking. Don't offer unsolicited advice (even if you think you're being helpful). If you need help, ask the RSO. That's what they're there for.

What to Wear

• Closed-toe shoes. Brass casings land on the floor. Sandals and hot brass are a bad combination.
• No low-cut or V-neck shirts. Ejected brass is hot, and a casing down your collar is exactly as unpleasant as it sounds. A crew neck t-shirt is perfect.
• Long pants are recommended. Not required everywhere, but they provide an extra layer of protection from hot brass bouncing off the bench.
• Avoid loose or dangling clothing and jewelry. Anything that could catch on a firearm or get in the way of your shooting hand.
• Hat with a brim. Keeps brass from landing on your head or falling behind your eye protection. A baseball cap works great.

Tips from People Who've Been There

• Start close. Set your target at 5-7 yards and work outward as you build confidence. There's no shame in short-range practice. That's where most real-world situations happen anyway.
• Take breaks. Fatigue leads to sloppy fundamentals. Ten focused rounds beat fifty rushed ones.
• Wash your hands thoroughly when you leave. Lead residue from ammunition is real, and you don't want to eat lunch with it on your hands.
• Don't compare yourself to the person in the next lane. They've probably been shooting for years. Focus on your own target and your own progress.

Print this checklist and throw it in your range bag. You'll thank yourself the morning of, when you're trying to get out the door and can't remember if you packed ear pro.