We asked Walther pro shooter Michelle Waldran to suggest helpful tips on how to get “her” out to the gun range, based on a social media string of posts she proffered recently on her own platform. ~The Editors
How do you get her out to the gun range?
Drag her! Eventually, she will finally give in and agree to go. This is your chance, so don’t screw it up.
Most women don’t feel it’s necessary to carry a gun, and they believe firearms training isn’t that important. Sadly, statistics show when women feel the need to have a gun, it is after a bad situation.
The truth is, she’s probably scared. She may be apprehensive about handling something that could cause injuries and feel pressured not to disappoint you after you reassured her, “It’s easy! Just point and pull the trigger.” Let’s find a better approach that doesn’t set her up for failure.
Here are a few things you need to consider and prepare before you can persuade her to visit the gun range:
Timing is crucial when discussing a trip to the gun range. It’s best to choose a moment when she can entirely focus on the conversation. This could be during a quiet dinner, over coffee, or when you have undisturbed time together. Avoid bringing it up when she’s preoccupied with her third load of laundry. You could utilize this time to talk to her while folding laundry together. Bonus points!
She’s open to the idea but still uncomfortable about the unknown. Visit the gun range for a simple introduction. Getting someone to do something they might be hesitant about can be a delicate subject. This is the perfect time to inform her about gun range etiquette. This allows her to observe and see firsthand how the gun range operates.
Open and honest communication is vital when discussing firearms. Please share why you want her to go and listen to her thoughts and feelings. Highlight the benefits of practicing, such as improved safety and confidence. Remind her that you can’t always be there with her and that she may have to defend herself alone. Learning to use a gun responsibly can be empowering. Tell her if you want her to share and enjoy the sport with you and if that is your goal.
Show her the fundamentals BEFORE arriving at the gun range. Remember, it gets loud out there. Trying to teach her with all the noise and distractions will add to her nervousness. Rather than having your firearms cleaned and ready to go, have her get involved in the process. Show her the parts of the gun and the action. Simple tasks such as racking the slide can be the hardest part. Handling a firearm as much as possible will boost her confidence and help her realize it’s not scary.
It is important to create a positive and safe experience. An indoor gun range may not be the best choice for her first visit. They often have limited space and enclosed stalls, which can amplify the noise and cause discomfort. Instead, opt for an outdoor gun range on a beautiful day with plenty of room to spread out. This will help ensure a more comfortable and enjoyable experience for her.
Having options is very helpful. When you are ready to go to the gun range, you should have an assortment of firearms to work with. If you can access a .22 long rifle Walther PPQ M2 22LR, have her shoot that first. Low recoil and reduced noise can help build confidence and develop proper techniques without fearing excess recoil. Different models, actions, and calibers can affect comfort, accuracy, and recoil. Most gun ranges have a rental option; please take advantage of that!
Be sure to have all the gun range necessities. Investing in good electronic hearing protection, Walkers GMS Earmuffs, and eye protection, Walkers GMS Eye Pro will make the experience more pleasant. Since you will be outdoors, pack bug spray, sunscreen, a basic first aid kit with band aids, and lead cleaning wipes Otis Technology is a good idea if your local gun range does not have an indoor facility. Also, suggest that she wear a comfortable top with a high neckline and a brimmed hat to deflect shell casing and sun glare. After these safety measures, she should feel secure and protected during the visit.
Size does matter! Choose a moderate sized steel target. Steel targets provide instant feedback, which helps beginners understand and adjust their technique more quickly. The satisfying sound of a successful hit can enhance the experience, making it more motivating and rewarding.
Looking back, did you drag her to the gun range, but it didn’t go well? So, now what? Remind her of the value of being able to protect herself and her loved ones. Check with your local gun range to see if they offer a ladies only gun class, preferably with a female firearms instructor. She may be open to taking a class and wants a friend to join her. She may feel more at ease in a private class. Remember, you are challenging her to go way outside her comfort zone; be persistent, but be gentle. Your goal is to get her past her fears. If you succeed, it’s a win/win for both of you. Ultimately, the personal rewards are long-lasting and gratifying once she feels confident!
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
That is awesome! Thank you for letting us know. Have a great time!!!
I was JUST about to ask my girlfriend to go to the range with me soon. I’m so glad I read this article first! Definitely would have messed up! Ha Great article!