Range Day Essentials

Heading to the gun range for practice can be a rewarding, skill-building activity, but it can quickly turn frustrating if you forget essential items. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced shooter, having the right gear and tools is essential to ensuring a successful time on the range. Here’s a breakdown of shooting range essentials, covering everything from basic equipment to safety considerations.

First: The Packing List

Juggling many responsibilities, such as work, family, and training, has taught me the importance of finding tools that minimize mental effort, allowing me to focus on what truly matters. The first item on my list is an underutilized tool that can simplify your life: a predetermined packing list on your phone. This simple tool will speed up your packing process and provide peace of mind, ensuring that you have everything you need. 

Second: The Indispensables

You bring your firearms, magazines and safety gear expecting a successful session at the range. However, a successful range day will also depend on how well-equipped you are to solve problems and improve your training session.

• Your gun: I usually carry my pistols in a soft gun case that allows me to carry them safely around the range and fits easily inside my range bag. The BlackHeart CLINCH Double Pistol Case is a good quality soft gun case that is easy to carry, and is cost effective.
• The right magazine for your gun
• Double ear protection when going to the indoor range:
  • Earplugs
  • Earmuffs
• Different eye protection appropriate for the activity:
  • Clear or photochromatic glasses for indoor and outdoor ranges
  • Sunglasses
• Ammunition: Ensure you have the right ammunition for your firearm.

Third: Tools

I carry more tools than I need at one range visit. But the one time I needed a tool, I was happy I had it!

• Multitool: The Real Avid Pistol tool is my favorite tool because it has useful features like small Allen keys (to adjust sights), a well-sized knife, a punch and more.
• Screwdriver Set: A kit like the Birchwood Casey Pro Screwdriver Set allows me to fix many things like my holster, mag pouches or the wagon where I carry my gear at the outdoor range.
• Magazine Loader: While I prefer to load my magazines by hand, I always keep an UpLULA magazine loader when shooting a lot.

Fourth: Cleaning

People often attribute gun malfunctions to the firearm itself. While that is possible, especially with a low-quality firearm, it is also probable that your gun just needs oil or the removal of some build-up.

• Lubrication: This CLP needle oiler is an excellent solution to lubricate strategic parts of your gun with a precise amount of oil.
• Cleaning kit: A good cleaning kit like the Otis Technology Portable Tactical Cleaning System will work for your pistols, rifles and shotguns.
• Cleaning cloth: This is a must, as it helps clean excess oil or dirt from your pistol, magazines and pistol red dot. I usually use a small microfiber towel.
• Hand wipes: Carry body wipes like the Lead scrubber hand wipes to remove harmful metals from your hands, neck and face after a day at the range.
• Hand sanitizer: I always carry a small bottle in my range bag.

Fifth: Don’t Forget the Extras

• Targets: I usually use USPSA/IDPA targets at the range because they are easy to repair with tape or pasters. However, I also have a set of targets at home that I like. I think it’s safe to say, shooting targets should be part of your range day essentials list!
• Repair pasters: I use tape or cardboard-colored pasters for my targets, but you can also get these Repair Pasters for your Shoot-N-C targets.
• Sunblock: Protecting your skin from the sun should always be a priority, especially if you plan to be exposed for hours.
• Umbrella: I always bring an umbrella to the outdoor range, especially during summer. You will be more comfortable as you conserve energy under the shade. 

The top four sections of this article cover the most important things you should have with you when you go to the range. Even if I can’t fix something and need help, I’m more likely to have the right tools to get things done. It all comes down to being prepared for a productive session at the range. With the essentials listed above, you’ll be well-equipped to focus on skill development, safety and personal improvement. The right gear and a commitment to safety make every trip to the range both enjoyable and beneficial, whether it’s your first time or your hundredth session.

Be safe, and see you at the range!

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  About The WON

  The Women's Outdoor News, aka The WON, features news, reviews and stories about women who are shooting, hunting, fishing and actively engaging in outdoor adventure. This publication is for women, by women. View all posts by The WON →