When it comes to hitting the shooting range for a bit of recreational fun, you might be tempted to just show up in your comfiest jeans and a t-shirt. But hold on! There's a bit more to it than that. Gun ranges actually have a dress code in place, and it's not just for show – it's all about safety.
Let's break it down – if you don't follow the dress code, you could end up with lead particles and nasty residue on your skin, which can cause some pretty painful burns. And let's face it, when you're handling a deadly weapon, the last thing you want is to be uncomfortable or, worse, have an accident.
So, what should you wear to the indoor shooting range, and what should you steer clear of? Keep scrolling to find out.
What to Wear to the Gun Range
Alright, let's dive into the nitty-gritty of what to wear and what to steer clear of when you're gearing up for a day at the shooting range.
What to Wear:
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1) Closed-Toe Shoes
Start from the ground up, quite literally. Make sure you wear closed-toe shoes. Why? Well, spent shell casings can be hot, and you don't want one landing in your open-toed sandals. Opt for sneakers, sturdy boots, or specially designed supportive range shoes that cover your entire foot.
2) Long Pants
Protect those legs! Wear long pants, like jeans or cargo pants. Not only do they shield your skin from hot brass casings, but they also provide an extra layer of protection from residue.
3) High-Necked Shirt
A high-necked shirt, like a crew neck or collared shirt, is a smart choice. It helps prevent any hot brass from sneaking down your shirt, which can be quite uncomfortable. Another important tip is to wear long sleeves to safeguard your arms.
4) Eye and Ear Protection
These are absolute must-haves. Wear ear protection like earmuffs or ear plugs to safeguard your hearing from loud bangs. Additionally, invest in eye protection like safety glasses or shooting goggles to shield your eyes from debris and particles.
5) Gloves
If you're going to do a lot of shooting, consider wearing shooting or ballistic gloves. They can protect your hands from burns and offer a better grip on your firearm.
6) Hat
A hat can keep any loose hair out of your face and help shield your head from the sun or indoor lighting.
What to Avoid:
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1) Loose or Baggy Clothing
While comfort is key, avoid overly loose or baggy range clothes. Loose sleeves or shirttails can catch on equipment or get in the way while you're shooting, increasing the risk of accidents.
2) Open-Toed Shoes or Sandals
We've said it before, but it's worth repeating: no open-toe shoes, sandals, or flip-flops. Protect those feet!
3) Low-Cut Tops
Ladies and gents, it's best to skip the low-cut tops. Hot brass down your shirt isn't a fun experience for anyone.
4) Jewelry and Dangly Accessories
Leave your bling at home. Jewelry and accessories can interfere with the safe handling of firearms and create distractions.
5) Vented Clothing
Range clothing with mesh or vents might seem cool and breathable, but it can also allow particles to sneak in. Stick to solid, non-ventilated clothing for safety.
6) Shorts or Skirts
Save those shorts and skirts for the beach. You'll want to keep your legs covered for safety and comfort.
Additional Tips for a Great Day at the Shooting Range
Now that you've got the basics of what to wear and what to avoid, let's dive into a few more tips to make your day at the shooting range even better:
1) Mind Your Manners
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Shooting ranges have rules and etiquette, just like any other place. Listen to the range officer and follow their instructions. Additionally, be mindful of those around you. Avoid talking or disturbing others when they are shooting. Wait for a ceasefire or designated break time to have conversations.
2) Stay Hydrated
Shooting can be physically demanding, so remember to stay hydrated. Bring water or a sports drink to keep yourself energized and focused.
3) Bring Essentials
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Pack a range bag with essentials like extra eye and hearing protection, cleaning supplies, targets, and any necessary tools for your firearm.
4) Know Your Firearm
If you're new to shooting, take a concealed carry training course and learn how to handle your firearm safely. Never assume you know everything; there's always more to learn.
5) Stay Safe on the Range
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Always keep your firearm pointed downrange, your finger off the trigger until you're ready to shoot, and treat every firearm as if it's loaded, even if you know it isn't.
6) Relax and Have Fun
Last but not least, remember that shooting is a recreational activity meant to be enjoyable. Stay relaxed, focus on your shooting fundamentals, and have a blast!
Summary
Knowing what to wear to a shooting range is vital for your safety and comfort. By following the various guidelines mentioned in this blog and staying mindful of safety procedures, you'll have a more enjoyable shooting experience. Remember, it's all about dressing smart and shooting safe.
For an even more rewarding shooting experience, consider trying Easyshot Shooting Targets. They offer precise and convenient target practice solutions for indoor and outdoor ranges, helping you improve your aim and accuracy with ease. Shop with us today.