Here is a really good professionally made video on range safety and etiquette.  If you are new to guns and going to the range, it can really intimidating going out there the first couple times.  This video gives you a good intro and gets you started on the right foot.

Here are the highlights:

Always keep the gun pointed down range (towards the targets) in a safe direction

Always keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to shoot

Always keep the gun unloaded until you are ready to use it

Always ask for help if you are unfamiliar with the operation of the gun

Be sure to read the range rules

Make sure you have eye and ear protection

Before handling a gun, make sure it is pointed downrange

Never go down range without permission from the Range Master

Unload the gun before changing shooters

Obey ceasefires

 

I would just add that I always read a safety brief to myself and whoever I am shooting with. Also, some ranges are run as well as the one in the video and others aren’t.  I have been at some that I felt unsafe due to the actions of others on the range. If you find yourself in a situation like that, the best thing for you to do is leave.

Leave us a comment about some of your range experiences.