Indoor Range Rules?

[sjfcontrol]

In another thread, somebody mentioned that some on this board would consider the range rules at the Bullet Trap in Plano to be overly restrictive. I would be interested in knowing what rules you all would like to see (or not see) for an indoor range. Also, would those rules differ if it were an outdoor range?

I'm talking about a "generic" range here, not the Bullet Trap itself. Also, mention if the rules you suggest might be different if YOU were running the range, instead of being a customer there (so you need to weigh the liabilities).

So, Tell me what you think!

[shortysboy09]

I didn't think they were too restrictive personally. I think every rule Bullet Trap has in place is there for a reason.

[karl]

In general I'd like some way to shoot rapid fire on the ranges I frequent. To sift out the bad shooters maybe have a mandatory class to give yourself a title as "Competent Shooter" that qualifies you. Gun Emporium considers less than 2 seconds between shots "rapid fire" . How can we be expected to practice legitimate self-defense techniques?

[shortysboy09]

In general I'd like some way to shoot rapid fire on the ranges I frequent. To sift out the bad shooters maybe have a mandatory class to give yourself a title as "Competent Shooter" that qualifies you. Gun Emporium considers less than 2 seconds between shots "rapid fire" . How can we be expected to practice legitimate self-defense techniques?

I agree...

Everywhere I have been has been "No rapid Fire." At least 1 second between shots. However, Bullet Trap does allow double taps....

[Napier]

My pet peeve is indiscriminately mixing folks firing large pistol calibres (.44 mag and higher) with those of us who find the overpressures uncomfortable. I wear goggles with a good seal and indirect pressure relief, but the big bores still hurt my old eyes if they are nearby, and I never shoot anything over .357 mag in a pistol myself. Also the big bore crowd makes me laugh because invariably they are shooting a hand cannon at a seven yard target, haha!

[sjfcontrol]

My pet peeve is the inability to draw from a holster. Seems the ability to draw and fire cleanly would be somewhat important in a self defense situation. None of the indoor ranges I've been to allow it. Some of the outdoor ones do. But I can see an issue with cross-draw, or shoulder harness as one would tend to "sweep" various parts of the range with that style of carry. With straight strong-side draw, the only thing in the way might be the shooting table. Either remove it (tilt it up) or implement a fine if the shooter shoots it. All draws should be under control and on target prior to firing.

[shortysboy09]

My pet peeve is the inability to draw from a holster. Seems the ability to draw and fire cleanly would be somewhat important in a self defense situation. None of the indoor ranges I've been to allow it. Some of the outdoor ones do. But I can see an issue with cross-draw, or shoulder harness as one would tend to "sweep" various parts of the range with that style of carry. With straight strong-side draw, the only thing in the way might be the shooting table. Either remove it (tilt it up) or implement a fine if the shooter shoots it. All draws should be under control and on target prior to firing.

I agree with this as well...

The only real practice I get is at home with the weapon cleared. I would really like to be able to draw from my holster, point, and shoot. I guess they're just protecting their investment. The ceiling could end up shot just as easily as the bench. I could see someone " over-rotating" their wrist and putting a FMJ in the ceiling doing no telling what type of damage. It might sound far-fetched but is possible.

[PUCKER]

Answer me this - I sometimes shoot at DFW Gun Range - they have you verbally read the rules back to them (them = counter help)...it says "I will not rapid fire"....I add in "however I will be shooting my machine gun on full-auto"....ironic, eh?

[k5dmb]

Consider some IDPA activities. It's a great opportunity to practice those real-life scenarios.

[karl]

Consider some IDPA activities. It's a great opportunity to practice those real-life scenarios.

...and are generally more expensive to attend. I'm not saying I won't eventually join IDPA, but when cash is tight for a college student an extra $4 each range trip adds up.

[Teamless]

tight for a college student an extra $4 each range trip adds up.

Since you are in Houston, check out the IDPA at http://www.PSC-Range.com" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false; (click on Calendar)
here is the next one:

Date: Saturday, May 22, 2010
Start Time: 9:00 am End Time: 2:00 pm
(Time Zone: US/Central)

Category: Range Use

Description

What should I bring to the match? The obvious items are:

1) handgun

2) holster

3) ammunition sufficient for the match

4) at least two magazines, but four would be better

5) eye protection

6) ear protection.



These are the bare essentials. Consider the weather in the Texas Gulf Coast and dress accordingly. Sun block, a good hat (caps are okay, but if you have a sombrero, bring it!), plenty of water, a towel and a folding chair may seem like luxuries while you are sitting at your computer reading this, but you'll think they should have been in the essential list after attending one of the summer matches. This is not meant to scare anyone. If you are a "summer person" and enjoy being outside during the hotter months, you will not have a problem, as long as you come prepared. If you have trouble handling the heat, you probably should shoot with us during the fall through spring schedule.

I am not 100% certain, but I "think" that you do not need to be a PSC member, but i would double check first, and I think there is a small fee for the IDPA match of about $10-$15
So you can save the range fees and use that to pay for the IDPA (if the $ works out for you)
If you must be a member - (or a guest of a member) I am sure there are some members on here that would welcome bringing in new faces to IDPA at PSC (me included, I have never done an IDPA match, but am looking forward to my first one).

[JLaw]

In general I'd like some way to shoot rapid fire on the ranges I frequent. To sift out the bad shooters maybe have a mandatory class to give yourself a title as "Competent Shooter" that qualifies you. Gun Emporium considers less than 2 seconds between shots "rapid fire" . How can we be expected to practice legitimate self-defense techniques?

karl,

IDPA is great. If you just want to practice quick double taps, etc. then look into Shiloh Indoor Shooting Range, they are on 1960 almost all the way to Cutten Rd. It's a good drive, but a descent range with very friendly staff.

http://shilohshooting.com/zencart/" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

JLaw