Range Terminology and Essentials
Making the decision to purchase a firearm for recreation, home defense, or self-defense is a significant responsibility that requires thoughtful consideration and extensive training. It’s highly recommended to seek guidance from a reputable firearms instructor, such as those certified by the USCCA (United States Concealed Carry Association) or the NRA (National Rifle Association), to ensure you gain the necessary skills and knowledge for safe and effective use. Consulting with your family is equally important, as their feelings on firearms and their comfort with their presence in the home should be factored into your decision.
Beyond training, it’s essential to thoroughly understand your state’s laws regarding safe storage, safe transportation, and the legal use of force to avoid legal pitfalls and ensure responsible ownership. You should also research the ballistics and penetration characteristics of the firearm and ammunition you intend to use, as this knowledge is crucial for safety in a home defense scenario. Additionally, consider factors such as firearm maintenance (cleaning and care), accessibility in emergencies, and mental readiness for owning and potentially using a firearm.
Finally, explore less-than-lethal options and de-escalation strategies as part of a holistic approach to personal and home defense, ensuring you are prepared for a range of situations. Responsible ownership extends beyond the purchase, it encompasses training, education, and a commitment to ongoing skill development and safety.
Before you hit the range:
Firearm Training Terminology You Should Know
Purchasing a firearm can be an exciting but unfamiliar experience, often accompanied by a flood of new terminology and skill levels to master. Like any new endeavor, it's essential to build a strong foundation and gradually increase the difficulty of your training. If your ultimate goal is to carry a firearm for self-defense, there are numerous critical skills you must become proficient in to ensure safe and responsible handling.
The first step is learning how to safely manipulate your firearm from a stable position, such as a bench. Once you’re comfortable, progress to working from an outside-the-waistband (OWB) holster or a battle belt, especially on an outdoor range. In such environments, the safest place for your firearm is in the holster. A battle belt also allows you to store your firearm and spare magazines securely, enabling you to practice essential skills like reloading, clearing malfunctions, and drawing from a holster.
After achieving a significant skill level with an OWB holster, you can begin transitioning to the method you plan to use for concealed carry. This step is crucial for building confidence and proficiency in carrying your firearm for self-defense. Always ensure you understand and comply with your local laws regarding concealed carry to remain within legal guidelines.
Let’s start with common terminology
Basic Terms
1- Clear
Clear refers to properly unloading the firearm. Clearing a weapon is a very valuable skill to know and a must-have for shooters.
2- Lock It To The Rear
Locking it to the rear is specific to autoloading pistols. The vast majority of autoloading pistols have an action that can be manipulated to lock it to the rear.
3- Muzzle
Muzzle refers to the portion of the barrel where the bullet exits. It’s typically the portion of the gun you need to be the most conscious of where it is pointed. It is the ‘dangerous end’ for lack of a better term.
4- Frame
The frame of a gun typically refers to the lower portion of a handgun, which consists of a grip and the portion that the slide (see below) can ride on. Frames are part of all handguns and also house triggers, cylinders, firing controls, and other controls.
5- Cylinder
When it comes to revolvers, the term cylinder is used to describe the rotating portion of the weapon that contains the ammunition. Cylinders revolve and hold anywhere from five to ten rounds, depending on the caliber.
6- Trigger
The trigger mechanism is a critical component of firearms, playing a crucial role in initiating the firing sequence. It is natural for your finger to want to go there.
7- Trigger Guard
This is the protective housing surrounding the trigger mechanism. It helps prevent accidental discharge by shielding the trigger from inadvertent contact.
8- Slide
The slide is the portion of a semi-automatic handgun that reciprocates back and forth, aka “slides.” A slide facilitates the ejection, extraction, and loading of the next round. It also tends to house your sights and can also have other controls on it, such as a de-cocker or safety. It also houses other crucial parts like the firing pin.
9- Hammer
Firearms can use several different systems to fire a projectile. Hammer-fired refers to a style of gun where when the shooter pulls the trigger, a hammer at the rear of the gun drops and strikes the firing pin, which in turn strikes the round and fires the weapon.
10- Striker
Striker-fired guns are another method of imparting impulse on the firing pin. A striker-fired gun uses a contracted spring that releases an internal striker (a rod) that is used to hit the firing pin.
11- Safety
Safety, in terms of a firearm, refers to a device intended to prevent the weapon from firing until the user intends it to fire. A safety can refer to a passive or active safety device such as a manual thumb safety or an internal safety.
On the Range - Range Commands
1- Backstop
All gun ranges will have a backstop that serves as a means to absorb projectiles fired by shooters. A backstop can absorb or deflect projectiles to ensure they do not travel beyond the designated aspects of a range.
2- Ceasefire
The term ceasefire signifies an immediate need to stop shooting. At most ranges, you’ll need to clear the gun, lock the slide open or expose the cylinder, and set the gun down. When the “call ceasefire” is sounded, shooters should repeat the command to ensure everyone hears it.
3- The Range is Hot
Hot range is used to describe a range where firing is permitted. When a range goes hot, users can shoot safely.
4- Cold Range
Cold range means the range is shut down, and no one should be firing. A cold range means guns are cleared, and users have holstered their firearms or set them on a table or in any position where the individuals are no longer handling them directly.
5- Downrange
Downrange refers to the direction towards the targets or the area where shooting is authorized. It is the area in front of the firing line where shooters aim their firearms and where bullets are expected to impact safely into designated backstops or bullet traps. Safety protocols dictate that firearms should only be pointed downrange when shooters are ready to engage targets, and any movement or handling of firearms should be done with the muzzle pointed in a safe direction, typically downrange or towards the ground in a safe area.
6- Flagging
The term flagging typically refers to the unsafe act of inadvertently pointing a firearm's muzzle at something or someone unintended or unsafe. This can occur when a shooter or individual handling a firearm allows the muzzle to point in a direction other than downrange or in a safe direction. Flagging is a serious safety violation that can lead to accidental discharge or injury if not corrected immediately.
7- Eyes and Ears and other protective equipment
Wearing proper eye and ear protection is a standard safety practice enforced at firearms ranges to minimize the risk of injuries and protect participants' overall well-being. It is important to choose high-quality, certified safety gear that fits well and provides adequate protection for your eyes and ears based on the type of shooting activity and environment you are in.
Eye Protection: Eye protection shields your eyes from debris, bullet fragments, and other potential hazards that can result from shooting activities. Firearms can generate hot gasses, ejected casings, and particles from the target or backstop, all of which pose a risk of eye injury if they come into contact with your eyes. Additionally, eye protection helps maintain clear vision and prevents distractions, allowing you to focus on shooting safely and accurately.
Ear Protection: Ear protection safeguards your hearing by reducing the loud noise produced by gunfire. Exposure to high levels of noise without ear protection can lead to permanent hearing damage or hearing loss over time. Firearms produce loud sounds, especially in enclosed spaces like shooting ranges, making ear protection essential for preserving your hearing health during shooting sessions.
Closed toe shoes are a must. No flip flops on the range - they are a tripping hazard and overall safety issue. A long sleeve shirt is also recommended. When on a firing line with others, it is common for hot brass casings to be ejected from the person next to you and you can get burnt.
8-Load
Load refers to inserting live rounds into your firearm. This can be used in reference to either a magazine or the gun itself. You can load a magazine and then load a weapon with that magazine. It can also refer to loading a revolver cylinder. Load, loaded, and loading all refer to the various actions of inserting ammunition into a firearm or magazine.
9- Magazine
In the world of firearms, a magazine is used to load a semi-automatic gun. Detachable magazines are the most common type of magazine. These magazines are removable and contain ammunition. They are loaded separately from the firearm and then loaded into the firearm.
10- Clip
In the world of handguns, there are very few loaded with clips. They are mostly reserved for very early semi-auto handguns and some older rifles. Clips hold the back of the rounds together so that they can be inserted into the gun all at once.
11- Make Ready
Make Ready means to both ready your weapon to fire and ready yourself to fire. When the term make ready is said, the shooter will operate the slide of their automatic to place a round in the chamber of their gun. With a revolver, make ready may refer to closing the cylinder. After a user ensures the gun is ready to fire, they assume a ready position.
12- Press Check
Press check refers to the action of ensuring the weapon is loaded with a round in the chamber. A press check is when the shooter partially retracts the slide to look into the chamber and ensure a round is loaded properly into the chamber.
13- Reload
When training, a reload refers to inserting fresh ammunition into the weapon. This can be a magazine or even a limited number of rounds when it comes to a revolver. Reloads are an essential skill needed for target shooting and especially combative shooting.
Shooting Terminology-Hitting the Target
1- Group
Group refers to the measurement of the distance between projectile impacts on a target. Shooters will typically shoot multiple rounds at a given distance and see how close the shots land to each other, often to measure the degree of accuracy.
2- Marksmanship vs Combat Accuracy
Marksmanship focuses on the technical aspects of shooting for accuracy and precision in controlled settings like shooting ranges. Combat accuracy emphasizes practical shooting skills, speed, and adaptability in dynamic and potentially high-stress situations encountered in combat or self-defense scenarios. Both are important aspects of firearms proficiency, with marksmanship forming the foundation for effective combat accuracy.
3- Sight Alignment
Sight alignment refers to the proper positioning of the iron sights on your firearm. Iron sights are typically mounted on the top of the gun. On a semi-automatic pistol, the sights are attached to the slide, whereas revolvers may feature various sight configurations. Sight alignment specifically describes how you align the front sight within the rear sight. Generally, this means centering the front sight between the rear sight posts, ensuring the tops of all sights are level, and keeping the spaces on either side of the front sight evenly balanced. This alignment is often summed up with the phrase “equal height and equal light,” emphasizing the importance of a level and symmetrical sight picture for accuracy.
4- Sight Picture
Sight picture refers to the way your sights appear in alignment while aiming at a target. It is the complete visual image you see when the front sight, rear sight, and target are all in view and lined up so you will hit what you are aiming at.
5- Target Focus
Target focus is used when referring to aiming with a red dot. With a red dot, the user focuses on the target instead of the sight and superimposes the dot over the target.
Weapon Holding Positions
1- Work Space
This is the area around the shooter's body where firearm handling and manipulation take place. It's essentially the three-dimensional zone in which the shooter operates while handling, loading, unloading, or performing other actions with a firearm. Understanding and maintaining awareness of your workspace is crucial for safe and effective firearm handling.
2- Low Ready
Low ready refers to a position where you hold a handgun with the barrel toward the ground at a 45-degree angle. This keeps the weapon ready but also safely pointed at the ground.
3- High Ready
In the high ready position, the firearm is held close to the body with the muzzle angled slightly upward, just below the line of sight.
NOTE: The scenario will ultimately dictate the safest position for your firearm. If you are on the second floor of a house, for example, the low ready may not be the safest option if there are people below you. Conversely, if you are on the ground floor and people are above you, the high ready may not be the most appropriate choice. Situational awareness is key; assess your environment and adjust your firearm’s position to ensure the highest level of safety for everyone involved
Understanding Ammunition
1- Cartridge
The term cartridge refers to the entire round. This includes the projectile, aka the bullet, the case, the primer, and gunpowder. A cartridge is the proper name for the entirety of the round.
2- Bullet
In proper firearm jargon, a bullet is the projectile that is fired down the barrel. It’s often a term used to describe the entire cartridge, but in reality, it is only the projectile of the cartridge.
3- Grain
Grain refers to a unit of measurement used to express the weight of a bullet or projectile. It is denoted by the symbol "gr" or "gn" and is commonly used to specify the weight of bullets. The origin of the term "grain" in relation to weight measurement dates back to ancient civilizations, where grains of wheat or barley were used as a standard reference for weight.
4- Case
The case refers to the portion of the cartridge that contains the primer and powder and constrains the projectile. Cases are typically made of brass, aluminum, or steel.
5- Rimfire
Rimfire refers to the placement of the primer. On rimfire guns, the primer is located inside the rim of the cartridge. These firearms will strike the edge of the rim to ignite the primer and fire the round. Rimfire weapons tend to be lower powered and are commonly chambered in rounds like .22 LR, .22 Magnum, and .17 HMR.
6- Centerfire
Centerfire calibers utilize a primer that is placed in the center of the base of the cartridge. These make up the vast majority of firearms, including most pistol, rifle, and shotgun calibers.
7- Bullet Splash
Bullet splash refers to what happens when a projectile hits a hard surface and explodes into pieces. The splash, or spall, is the remnant of the bullet as it continues to move at high speeds. Splash can be dangerous if it ricochets and travels back toward the shooter or bystanders.
8- Squib Round
A squib round is a malfunction that occurs when a bullet fails to exit the barrel after being fired. This is typically caused by insufficient or absent powder in the cartridge, resulting in the primer igniting but not generating enough force to propel the bullet out of the barrel. The most noticeable signs of a squib round include an unusually quiet or muffled sound and a lack of felt recoil. Recognizing this issue is critical, as firing another round without clearing the obstruction can cause catastrophic damage to the firearm and pose a serious safety risk to the shooter. If you suspect a squib round, immediately cease firing, unload the firearm, and inspect the barrel for obstructions.
9- FMJ
FMJ stands for full metal jacket. This refers to a round design with a metal jacket over a lead core. These rounds are typically very affordable and used for training purposes. They are not designed to expand at all and tend to over-penetrate for self-defense purposes.
10- JHP
JHP stands for jacketed hollow point. This refers to a lead round with a metal jacket around a projectile with a hollow center. Hollow points are designed to allow the round to expand when it strikes a soft target. Expansion creates a wider wound channel while also forcing the round to slow down to prevent overpenetration.
11- Frangible
Frangible ammunition tends to explode on contact into numerous tiny particles. Frangible ammunition is typically used when projectiles are being fired at close ranges against hard targets.
Range Essentials
Now that you have an understanding of common range terminology, let's help set you up for success with the proper equipment.
As discussed before, the two most important pieces of safety equipment will be eye and ear protection.
Eye Protection:
When selecting eye protection for shooting sports, look for lenses that meet the ANSI Z87.1 standard, as it is the most appropriate and widely accepted rating for impact resistance and safety in the United States. For most shooting sports, ANSI Z87.1+ provides excellent protection. If you are engaging in activities where extreme impact resistance is necessary, look for MIL-PRF-32432 ballistic-rated glasses. Always ensure your eye protection fits comfortably and provides adequate coverage for your eyes.
Impact Resistance:
ANSI Z87.1-rated lenses must pass rigorous high-velocity and high-mass impact tests, ensuring they can protect your eyes from projectiles, ricochets, and flying debris.
Markings:
Look for the Z87+ marking, which indicates that the glasses provide high-impact protection (important for shooting sports).
Regular Z87 may offer basic protection but isn’t necessarily rated for high-velocity impacts.
Additional Features:
Some ANSI Z87.1-rated lenses also provide UV protection, which is beneficial for outdoor shooting.
Anti-fog coatings and wraparound designs can improve safety and comfort during use.
Alternatives for Higher Protection
If you require an even higher standard of protection, such as what might be needed for your profession, consider lenses that meet the MIL-PRF-32432 standard. This military ballistic rating ensures that the lenses are designed to withstand higher-velocity impacts than the ANSI Z87.1 standard. These lenses are commonly used in tactical environments and offer superior protection for high-risk activities.
Below are a few options to help guide you.
Ear Protection
When selecting ear protection for shooting sports, you’ll want to focus on the Noise Reduction Rating (NRR). Always ensure the product meets ANSI S3.19-1974 or comparable safety standards. The NRR is the industry-standard rating for measuring how effective hearing protection is at reducing noise exposure. Choose ear protection with an NRR of 25 or higher. Combining earplugs and earmuffs while using rifles is highly recommended for maximum safety. Electronic earmuffs with amplification and noise-canceling technology are a great option for maintaining situational awareness while staying protected.
NRR:
Aim for an NRR of 25 dB or higher for shooting sports, as firearm noise levels often exceed 140 dB. Higher NRR ratings offer better protection.
Combining earplugs (NRR 25–33) with earmuffs (NRR 20–30) provides dual protection for maximum noise reduction, which is ideal for indoor ranges or high-caliber firearms.
Electronic Hearing Protection:
Electronic earmuffs or earplugs are highly recommended for shooting sports. These devices amplify low-level sounds (e.g., conversations) while automatically dampening harmful noise levels, such as gunshots.
Look for models with automatic shut-off for noise levels above 82 dB.
Compliance Standards:
Ear protection devices should meet OSHA or ANSI S3.19-1974 standards, which certify their ability to effectively reduce noise exposure.
Devices with CE EN 352 certification are also a good choice if you're outside the U.S., as they adhere to European safety standards.
Fit and Comfort:
Proper fit is crucial for effective noise reduction. Adjustable earmuffs and foam earplugs that conform to your ear shape provide the best seal.
For long shooting sessions, prioritize lightweight and breathable options.
Below are a few options to help guide you.
Transportation Options
Safe storage and transportation of a firearm are crucial responsibilities for every gun owner. Laws regarding firearm transportation vary by state, so it is essential to understand and comply with the specific regulations where you live and where you may travel. In some states, transporting a firearm in a range bag may be sufficient, while others may require the firearm to be stored in a locked box, unloaded, and separated from the ammunition. The USCCA has a map of the United States for quick access to state firearm laws: https://www.usconcealedcarry.com/resources/ccw_reciprocity_map/
Remember, a firearm is your property, and with ownership comes the responsibility to handle, store, and transport it safely and legally. Regularly review local, state, and federal laws to stay informed and avoid potential legal issues. Safe storage and transportation practices not only ensure legal compliance but also help prevent accidents, theft, and misuse. Always treat your firearm with the respect and care it demands.
Regardless of state law you will need a sturdy range bag for your gear. As you become more and more involved with firearm training, I guarantee you will acquire more and more gear. A large range bag will help you stay organized when making a trip to the range.
Below are a few options to help guide you.
Hard Cases
A hard case, such as those made by brands like Pelican and Condition One, is an excellent option for the safe and secure transportation of firearms. These cases are specifically designed to provide robust protection against impact, tampering, and environmental factors. Made from durable materials such as high-impact polymer, they feature foam interiors that can be customized to snugly fit your firearm and accessories, preventing movement during transit. Many hard cases are TSA-approved, meaning they meet the requirements for transporting firearms during air travel.
To comply with TSA regulations, these cases must be lockable and able to withstand unauthorized access; they typically have reinforced padlock holes to accommodate TSA-approved locks or other heavy-duty locks. Hard cases are ideal for safeguarding your firearm whether you're traveling locally, across state lines, or by air, as they ensure your firearm is stored securely and legally, reducing the risk of damage, theft, or accidental access.
Below are a few options to help guide you.
Bio Metric Safes
A biometric handgun safe is a secure storage solution that uses fingerprint recognition technology to grant access. Designed for quick and reliable access in emergencies, these safes store fingerprint data, allowing only authorized users to open them. They typically feature durable steel construction, tamper-proof designs, and backup access methods like keypads or physical keys. A biometric safe can also be a practical option for safe storage when transporting a firearm to and from a range, providing secure and convenient access. However, it’s important to check your local regulations to ensure compliance with firearm transportation laws in your area.
Below are a few options to help guide you.
Battle Belts and Attachments
As stated before, when starting your firearm training journey, you’ll likely begin at an indoor range—a controlled environment with benches and designated areas for safely handling your firearm. This setting is perfect for building foundational skills like safe gun handling and basic marksmanship.
As your skills and confidence grow, it’s essential to transition to more dynamic environments, such as outdoor ranges and structured training classes. These settings start to simulate real-world scenarios and often require different gear, including a battle belt, magazine pouches, and a quality holster. In an open training environment, the safest place for your pistol is in a holster. If your goal is to carry a firearm concealed, I highly recommend becoming proficient with all manipulations using a battle belt setup first. This configuration allows you to practice essential skills—such as reloading and clearing malfunctions—without the added complexity of working around everyday clothing.
Setting yourself up for success starts with investing in the right equipment. Over the past seven years of training, I’ve experimented with countless pieces of gear. Too often, I’ve purchased items that didn’t perform as I hoped. Learning from those experiences has taught me the importance of choosing gear that enhances, rather than hinders, your training.
When purchasing a Battle Belt there are 2 common options.
1- A two-piece battle belt setup consists of an inner belt and an outer belt. The inner belt threads through your pants' belt loops and features exposed Velcro on the outside. The outer belt, which holds your magazine pouches, holster, and other gear, securely attaches to the inner belt via the Velcro connection. Gear is typically attached to the outer belt using MOLLE attachments, ensuring a stable and secure platform. Compared to a padded battle belt, the two-piece system is more streamlined while offering similar functionality. Here's an example.
2- One option I’ve been very happy with is a padded battle belt. If you’re participating in an 8-hour class or extended training session, comfort becomes essential, and the padded design provides significant relief. Like the two-piece battle belt, the padded version also features an inner belt that weaves through the inside of the padded outer belt. Both belts use Velcro for a secure fit, though the weaving process can be a bit challenging. This setup allows you to securely attach your magazine pouches, holster, dump pouch, and other gear using MOLLE attachments. Here’s an example.
Once you’ve chosen the battle belt setup that works best for you, it’s time to consider the gear you’ll attach for a successful day at the range. Here are a few recommendations for magazine holders, dump pouches, and holsters:
High Speed Gear and G-Code are two excellent options for magazine holders, offering durability and reliable retention. For a dump pouch, the Maxpedition dump pouch is a fantastic choice—it’s incredibly useful for holding extra gear, spent magazines, or other items while training. Choosing quality gear ensures a more efficient and enjoyable training experience.
When it comes to holsters, I would stick with Comp-tac and Safari Land. You can find almost any holster for any setup you have.
Rifle and Shotgun Slings
When discussing firearm safety on an open range, the safest place for your pistol is in your holster, while the safest place for your rifle or shotgun is secured on a sling. When choosing a sling, there are several configurations to consider, each with its own set of pros and cons, as well as personal preference. The primary options include single-point slings, two-point slings, and convertible slings that can switch between two-point and single-point configurations. Two manufacturers that consistently stand out for quality and reliability are VTAC (Viking Tactics) and Magpul. Below are the considerations for each sling.
Sling Configurations: Pros and Cons
1. Single-Point Sling
Pros:
Allows rapid transitions between shoulders.
Minimal adjustment required when switching firing positions.
Simplistic design, making it lightweight and less cumbersome.
Ideal for shorter-barreled firearms or when quick access is needed (e.g., CQB scenarios).
Cons:
Offers less stability when slung, leading to potential swinging of the firearm.
Can be uncomfortable during long periods of carry, especially with heavier firearms.
Less ideal for running or dynamic movement.
2. Two-Point Sling
Pros:
Provides excellent stability when slung across the body.
Can be adjusted for both carry and firing positions (e.g., patrol carry, cross-body).
Distributes weight evenly, making it more comfortable for extended use.
Highly versatile for a variety of firearms and situations.
Cons:
Slower to transition between shoulders.
May require more adjustment to switch between carry and firing positions.
3. Convertible Sling (Two-Point to Single-Point)
Pros:
Combines the advantages of single-point and two-point slings.
Adjustable for quick transitions between configurations.
Offers both stability and maneuverability.
Cons:
More complex to operate and adjust.
Slightly heavier and bulkier due to additional hardware.
Choosing the Right Sling
Consider Your Firearm:
Rifles and Shotguns: Typically benefit more from a two-point or convertible sling for stability and long-term comfort.
Short-Barreled Firearms: May pair better with single-point slings for mobility.
Think About Your Use Case:
Static Use (e.g., at the range): Two-point slings provide excellent stability.
Dynamic Movement (e.g., tactical scenarios): Convertible slings offer flexibility for transitions.
Long-Term Carry: Padded options like the VTAC Padded Sling or Magpul MS4 are ideal.
Durability and Comfort:
Both VTAC and Magpul are known for their high-quality, durable materials and user-friendly designs.
Test different configurations to see which feels most comfortable for your intended use.
VTAC (Viking Tactics) Sling Options
VTAC Padded Sling
Configuration: Two-point adjustable sling.
Features:
Quick-adjust system for seamless transitions between carry and firing positions.
Padded for comfort during extended use, especially with heavier firearms.
Designed for stability and ease of use.
Ideal For:
Users who prioritize comfort during long-range sessions or extended carry.
VTAC Hybrid Sling
Configuration: Two-point adjustable sling.
Features:
Combines a lightweight design with a streamlined quick-adjust system.
Durable materials for rough conditions.
Ideal For:
General-purpose use where simplicity and functionality are key.
Magpul Sling Options
Magpul MS4 Dual QD Sling
Configuration: Convertible (single-point to two-point).
Features:
Quick-detach (QD) swivels for easy attachment and detachment.
Simple conversion between single-point and two-point configurations.
Durable nylon webbing and steel hardware for longevity.
Ideal For:
Users seeking maximum versatility in a single sling.
Magpul MS1 Sling
Configuration: Two-point adjustable sling.
Features:
Dedicated two-point sling with a highly durable adjustment system.
Compatible with additional adapters to convert to single-point if needed.
Sleek design for minimal bulk.
Ideal For:
Users who prefer a straightforward, reliable two-point sling.
Magpul MS3 Gen2 Sling
Configuration: Convertible (single-point to two-point).
Features:
Ambidextrous design with quick-release hardware.
Lightweight polymer hardware to reduce weight.
Easy transitions between single and two-point configurations.
Ideal For:
Users who prioritize lightweight gear without sacrificing functionality.
Shot Timer
Once you feel confident safely manipulating your rifle from its sling or your pistol from its holster, it may be time to add some challenge to your training. A great way to do this is by incorporating a shot timer into your sessions.
A shot timer provides a wealth of information about your performance, including:
Reaction Time: How quickly you can engage a target after the timer’s beep.
Split Times: The time between individual shots, allowing you to assess follow-up shot speed and consistency.
Draw Time: How long it takes to draw your firearm, acquire a sight picture, and fire your first shot.
Reload Speed: How efficiently you can perform a magazine or speed reload under time pressure.
Benefits of Using a Shot Timer
Measures Realistic Performance:
A shot timer introduces a sense of urgency, which is an introduction to simulating the stress of real-world scenarios or competition settings. This helps you train beyond static shooting and builds skills under pressure.
Tracks Progress:
By recording and analyzing your times over multiple training sessions, you can objectively track your improvement in key skills like draw speed, reload efficiency, and target transitions.
Identifies Weaknesses:
The timer highlights specific areas where you can improve, such as excessive hesitation, inconsistent splits, or inefficient reloads.
Adds Accountability:
Training with a shot timer keeps you honest about your performance. Without a timer, it’s easy to assume you’re faster or more accurate than you actually are.
Encourages Goal Setting:
You can set measurable goals for improving specific skills. For example, reducing your draw-to-shot time by a fraction of a second over multiple sessions.
Improves Mental Focus:
The added time constraint forces you to stay focused on executing proper technique quickly and efficiently.
Simulates Stress:
While a beep from a timer isn’t the same as real-world stress, it adds an element of pressure that helps you build confidence under time constraints.
Targets, Target Stands and other Range necessities
Many people can visit an outdoor range where most of the necessary equipment is provided. However, where I live, we have designated land for shooting, which requires us to bring our own gear. If you’re in a similar situation, it can take some trial and error to figure out what you need for a safe and successful training session. Over time, I’ve developed a list of essential equipment that I regularly use, whether I’m training solo or working with a group:
Infinity Rubber Targets - note you will need paint to cover holes
Sandbag - if windy the stands will fall over
*STEEL TARGETS- PLEASE READ BEFORE SHOOTING STEEL*
When shooting AR500 1/2-inch steel targets, maintaining a safe distance is crucial to minimize the risk of injury from ricochets or bullet fragments. Here are the recommended safe distances:
Safe Distances
For Pistols:
Minimum Safe Distance: 10 yards (30 feet).
At this distance, bullet fragments typically deflect safely away from the shooter when using standard pistol calibers (e.g., 9mm, .40 S&W, .45 ACP).
For Rifles:
Minimum Safe Distance: 100 yards.
Rifle calibers generate significantly more velocity and energy than pistols, increasing the risk of damage to the steel or unsafe fragment deflection if shot too close.
*See here for more information from the manufacturer*
https://ar500targetsolutions.com/faqs/
Key Factors to Consider
Steel Target Angle:
Ensure the target is angled slightly downward (e.g., 15–20 degrees). This deflects bullet fragments safely into the ground rather than back toward the shooter.
Ammunition Type:
Pistols:
Use lead or jacketed rounds. Avoid steel-core, armor-piercing, or high-velocity loads, as these can damage the steel.
Rifles:
Avoid steel-core (e.g., M855 green tip) or other armor-piercing rounds. Stick to soft-point, FMJ, or ballistic-tip rounds.
Check the target manufacturer's guidelines for specific ammo restrictions.
Steel Thickness and Rating:
1/2-inch AR500 steel is rated for rifle calibers, but shooting too close with high-powered calibers or improper ammunition can cause pitting or damage.
Always inspect targets for damage, as deformations can cause unpredictable ricochets.
Target Placement:
Ensure targets are securely mounted to avoid excessive movement, which can increase the risk of ricochet.
Additional Safety Tips
Always follow the Four Universal Safety Rules:
1- Treat every Firearm as if it is loaded
2- Never Point your weapon at anything you do not intend to destroy
3- Keep your Trigger finger straight and off the trigger till your sights are aligned and you have made the decision to fire
4- Be Aware of your Target and what is Beyond
Shooter and Observer Positioning: Keep everyone behind the firing line and ensure they maintain a safe distance between each other and from the target.
Inspect Targets Regularly: Check for cracks, pitting, or warping, and replace damaged targets to maintain safety.
By no means does this list cover everything, but it provides a solid foundation to familiarize yourself with the essential terminology and equipment for a safe and enjoyable day at the range. Shooting can feel intimidating at first, but with proper training and guidance, it can become a highly rewarding experience. I cannot emphasize enough the importance of finding a reputable instructor to help you build a safe and reliable foundation. Once you’ve mastered the basics, continue to expand your skills through specialized classes and consistent practice.
