Indoor Range unwritten rules.

[Suntory_Black]

I own several rifles/shotguns but just bought my first handgun. I've shot many many times at outdoor ranges but I'm not very familiar with indoor ranges. Specifically I was wondering if people are typically encouraged to buy their ammo at the range or can I freely bring my own from home? Are there any other rules I should be aware so I don't look stupid?

[Sinixstar]

Generally speaking, any rules you need to follow are going to be well posted.
Other than that - it's just basic common courtesy.

You can bring your own ammo to the range for the most part. With the exception of any types of prohibited ammo for safety reasons. A lot of indoor ranges have a policy against steel core ammo, tracers, etc for obvious reasons.

[Kodemonkey]

They usually don't have a problem with bringing your own ammo. They usually will only let you shoot their reloads though.

Rapid fire is usually frowned upon at all the indoor ranges I have been to. one shot per second..

Also, unless you are a LEO they won't usually let you draw from a holster.

If in doubt, make sure you ask what the rules are.

Have fun!

[Kodemonkey]

Oh and they usually won't let you shoot steel case ammo (they can't make money of reloading your brass that way)

[pdq_wizzard]

and because it is inside, most don't allow Lead (must be FMJ)

[Burtonwurton]

Im guessing you are located in san jose, so if you want some cheap range time go to Milpitas target master from open to 3pm during the weekday. Everything except the ammo is 50% off, but since i bring all my own stuff i pay $6.

[saber]

My suggestion would be to ask a lot of questions before you start shooting like:

1.) What ammo limitations do you have?
2.) Can I bring my own ammo?
3.) Are there any limits on rapid fire? (some ranges I have been to have a 1 second requirement between shots)
4.) Are there any limits on calibers? (some ranges don't allow .44 magnums, others do)
5.) Any other safety rules?

Some indoor ranges allow you to shoot rifles and shotguns, others don't.

I have seen some strange/different rules at a range:

1.) No shotguns unless you are an LEO
2.) No .22's since they are lead bullets
3.) No steel cased ammo


Regarding ettiquete, the only thing that bugs me is when I'm at a range by myself and someone comes over and shoots right next to me when there are a bunch of lanes open. Invariably, this is the guy who doesn't know what he is doing and he shoots the target holder, the ceiling, my target, etc.

[Suntory_Black]

Im guessing you are located in san jose, so if you want some cheap range time go to Milpitas target master from open to 3pm during the weekday. Everything except the ammo is 50% off, but since i bring all my own stuff i pay $6.

Thanks but I can't really make it there before 3pm.

[VictorFranko]

Some ranges have a "filter cleaning" fee if the ammo you bring is not clean range or indoor specific, such as Winchester "Win-Clean".

[Greg-Dawg]

All ranges have different rules so the one you go to, commit to their rules to the "T" so you won't leave with a nasty taste in your mouth.

But just make sure you leave the steel case ammo at home.

[DSA_FAL]

A lot of ranges have a no Wolf ammo rule.

[CSACANNONEER]

All ranges are different. Some ranges have policies about shooting lead free ammo or "green" ammo only. Each range has to follow different guidelines due to city codes, permits, insurance policies, etc. The best thing to do is call and ask.

[Suntory_Black]

Thanks for the replies.

[Sam]

Try and find a place that will let you shoot rapid fire. I'm not advocating dual welding your guns and going crazy. Practicing controlled pairs is important and also fun.

[Shadowdrop]

I like to wait until the guy directly next to me is between magazines to send my target down. I don't know if anyone else does this, it's a bowling habit.