Every range facility is different, but most ranges have firearms that you can rent. It’s best to check with the range you plan to go to and see if they have that option.

You should wear clothing that prioritizes safety, comfort, and protection from hot brass (spent cartridge cases). It’s recommended to wear closed-toe shoes, a high-neck or crew-neck T-shirt to prevent hot brass falling down your shirt, long pants, and a brimmed hat to keep brass and debris away from your face. If you’re unsure if your clothing attire is acceptable for the range, reach out to the facility for any specific requirements they may have.

Yes, you should bring safety glasses and earplugs to the range. In fact, most facilities won’t let you shoot without having eye and ear protection, and they usually have them there for you to purchase or rent.

There are a few places you can check what caliber ammunition your gun takes. Most firearms have the caliber engraved or stamped onto the barrel or side of the gun. You can also check the case your gun came in, as some cases list the firearm information and caliber.

If you’re not comfortable loading and unloading your gun, contact the range prior to your arrival to see if they offer assistance. It may be beneficial to take a basic firearms course with an instructor before going to the range on your own.

Once you get to the range, you’ll want to check in at the counter. Some ranges require that you show ID and sign a waiver before shooting. If you’re renting a firearm, you’ll complete the process with the range staff. Range staff will likely give you a safety briefing prior to allowing you to shoot. Pay close attention to what they say and adhere to all their rules.

Once on the firing line, you’ll notice that it’s probably louder than you expected it to be, especially if it’s an indoor range. Also expect to smell burnt gunpowder and have people shooting to the left or right of you. Once you’re ready to shoot, take your time and fire at your own pace.

Remember the cardinal rules of gun safety and always keep your firearm pointed downrange.

When going to the range, you should make sure your firearm is unloaded and secured in its case. You can then take the case into the range and check in. Do not leave a round in the chamber. Sometimes, people remove the magazine from the gun, but don’t eject the round from the chamber, which leads to accidents.