How To Get Started In Target Shooting

Gun ownership in the US is mainstream. For one, the Second Amendment to the US Constitution bestows the right to bear arms to Americans. So, it’s quite expected that about a third of American adults legally own a gun. 

Well, you can’t blame Americans for buying guns because shooting is actually a lot of fun. Shooting at a target is especially thrilling. There’s this exceptional rush in loading bullets into the gun, turning off the safety catch, aiming, and, finally, shooting. Adding to the spark is the hole in the target that you’ll see every time the gun jumps in your hand. 

The fun and thrill of shooting a gun are the reasons the interest in target shooting is rapidly growing in the past couple of years. However, things can be intimidating in the firing range if you don’t exactly know what you’re doing. Read on to learn how to get started in target shooting in the best possible way. 

Take Firearm Safety Training Courses 

No federal laws say that private citizens should receive proper training before using guns, especially when they’re only shooting in the range. Still, the majority of firearm owners in the US have received formal training on how to use guns safely. Others were trained in an informal setting by a family member or friend. It shows how people take firearm safety seriously, which makes sense because getting trained ensures a minimum competency, just like what a driver’s training does. 

Most firearm training safety courses offered in the country cover the fundamentals of firearm operation and the safe handling of the gun. They may also discuss proper firearm cleaning and repair. Some even focus on a specific type of gun, such as semi automatic rifles or handguns. 

Here are some safe gun handling rules to always keep in mind: 

  • The muzzle should point in a safe direction when not shooting: Most firearm accidents result from mistakenly pointing the gun’s muzzle at something other than the target. That’s why it’s the most basic safety rule in target shooting and using a firearm in general. The last thing you’d want is to cause an injury when an accidental discharge happens. 

  • Unload the gun when not in use: Firearms and ammunition should be separated from each other and secured in a safe place when you’re not using them. Guns should only be loaded when you’re on the target range and ready to shoot. 

  • Load the firearm only with suitable ammunition: Using incorrect bullets not only can destroy your gun but also cause personal injury. There are specifications in most firearms that have to be matched, so check the cartridge as you load. Checking out the bullets before loading them will only take a second, but it can lower the risk of a ruined gun or possible injury.

It’s essential to understand basic gun safety. It won’t only make your gun shooting experience safer but also make your time in the range more enjoyable.

Get A Gun For Your Skill Level

Picking the correct firearm to use in the range or to bring when camping for a recreational hunting activity can be tricky. That’s because there are many types of guns available in the market. To make the process of choosing a firearm easier, you have to understand the differences between each type. 

Below is a listing and breakdown the most popular types of guns for target shooting: 

  • Rifle: This gun is fired from the shoulder. It fires only a single projectile using the energy of a fixed metallic cartridge’s explosive. For every single pull of a rifle’s trigger, it fires through a rifled bore. 

  • Shotgun: Shotguns are characterized by a long barrel. Like rifles, they’re also shot from the shoulder. This firearm, though, reduces friction because of being equipped with a smooth bore. Compared to rifles, the barrel walls of a shotgun are also thinner. 

  • Handgun: This firearm is designed for use with only one hand. Popular types include revolvers and pistols. 

It’s essential to note that you have to consider your skills when determining which gun is perfect for you to use for target shooting. It’ll help you control the firearm better.

Bring Necessary Gear Or Equipment 

The correct equipment will make a target shooting session both safer and more enjoyable. One option is to rent what you need from the range. However, nothing beats the convenience of having personalized equipment on hand. 

The essentials that you have to pack include: 

  • Safety glasses: One crucial piece of equipment you have to bring during a target shooting session is safety glasses. Find a pair that comfortably fits your face and is OSHA standards compliant for maximum safety. 

  • Earplugs: Some ranges are indoor facilities wherein gunfire can be very loud. Every single shot can damage the ear when inside these places. Even when in the outdoors, though, hearing protection is still a must-have. 

  • Repair and maintenance kit: It’s essential to keep your firearm functioning properly when practicing in the range.You may need to lubricate and clean using a good gun cleaning oil, or maybe perform some repairs on your gun, so always bring a small kit that contains the different maintenance tools you’ll need.

Final Thoughts

What you’ve learned here will help make your first time in the range more organized and enjoyable. They’ll also help ensure not only your safety but that of the people around you. There’s simply no better way to prepare for your first-ever target shooting experience than taking firearm safety courses, getting the best gun, and gathering the necessary shooting gear.