A lot more goes into a trip to the gun range than many can imagine. Safety is the number one priority at any shooting range, indoor or outdoor, and that means you need to pack some protective items in your range bag.
Along with your safety gear, you’re going to want to pack a few additional items that make your experience easier and more enjoyable. Before you purchase any of the items on this list, it’s important that you have a good range bag that can comfortably pack your guns and all of your items.
Here are ten essentials to keep in your range bag at all times:
- Hearing Protection
One of the most important things when firing a weapon is protecting your hearing. It’s a good idea to always keep foam earplugs handy inside your range bag along with a pair of quality earmuffs. Electronic earmuffs and earplugs are slightly more expensive but effective and well worth the price.
- Shooting Glasses
It’s equally important that you protect your eyes when spending a day at the gun range. Shooting glasses are sold both tinted and clear for indoor and outdoor ranges.
- Tape
You’re going to need something to keep your target in place, and a strong tape will do the job. You may even want to pack a stapler, if you prefer doing it that way.
- Targets
You’ll probably find a lot of interesting targets for sale at your gun range, but there are even more available online. Pro tip: try using color coded stickers to mark and keep track of your shots at different distances.
- First Aid Kit
It’s no secret that injuries can occur at a gun range, indoors or outdoors. Minor scrapes, scratches, and burns are extremely common and they shouldn’t put a damper on your day. Make sure to carry some band aids, disinfectant, and burn ointment in your bag at all times.
- Hand wipes
Firing weapons will leave your hands dirty and full of grime that can contain lead and other toxic materials. Keeping your hands clean will prevent you from getting these chemicals in your mouth or inside any scrapes and cuts.
- Gun Oil
You always want to have some gun oil or lubricant handy in your range bag. This ensures that your weapon is well taken care of and functions as it should for the safety of yourself and others.
- Gun Cleaning Kit
Cleaning your gun regularly can prevent disastrous accidents from occurring such as explosions or slamfire. A good kit should contain gun cleaner, cleaning patches, brushes, and cleaning rods.
- Squib Rod
You should decide when your time at the gun range is done for the day, not a stuck bullet. Squib rods are good to have in case you need to dislodge a bullet from the barrel.
- Snacks, Water, and Other Outdoor Necessities
When you’re going shooting outdoors, it’s always good to have water and a snack packed. Sunblock is a must, and bug repellent is equally necessary during mosquito season.
Every shooting trip will require different things depending on where you’re going and the type of gun you’ll be firing. Make sure to keep these items handy any time you take your gun out of the house.
