Open/Concealed Carry on BLM Shooting Grounds

[Robanada]

Not sure what the best sub is for this, so I picked the most general one. I'm planning on going shooting out in the desert on BLM property, and want to make sure I do it legally. Since there's shooting going on in permitted areas, I'm assuming that open carry is legal? Or can you only have the firearm out if it's being fired? Say a ranger or any sort of law enforcement approached me while I was shooting a rifle- could I have a pistol holstered on my person, or would I have "no need for that."

I have a surplus shoulder holster that I picked up for $5 for kicks- could I use that, too? I don't have a CCW- would I be able to wear a jacket over the shoulder holster, or is concealed carry not permitted in an area where there's active shooting going on?

Obviously, shoot into a hill, pick up your brass and whatever lead you can, don't use anything illegal (which would be hard because my guns/accessories are all legal), practice good firearm safety, don't shoot rocks with steel cored bullets, be courteous of anyone else there, etc.

Oh, and can I bring out some steel targets, or do they NEED to be paper?

[BBJohnnyT]

I shoot steel targets all the time on BLM in the Mojave Desert. Concerning where it's legal to shoot, there is no generalized rule for all areas. Best to find a gov't issued map for the area you plan to be in. Here is San Bernardino County...

http://www.specialdistricts.org/2/FishandGame/docs/2010_cnty_shooting_areas_final.pdf

Notice that not all of the Mojave BLM is open to unrestricted shooting. There are specific restrictions in specific areas.

[thegamettt]

I've been to BLM land in the hemet area, and have been checked numerous times by rangers. I always had a loaded sidearm in a holster with no problems. ymmv though.

[Quiet]

It is legal to open carry (loaded & unloaded) a firearm in an area that is legal to discharge a firearm.

It is not legal to conceal carry (loaded or unloaded) a "handgun" in public.
There are some exemptions to this, but the majority of them will not apply on BLM land.

[hermosabeach]

Sorry- but here comes my thread jack-

Years back an NRA instructor held a class using steel and with handguns a fire started.

The responding departments sued him to collect the cost to put out the fire.

As the NRA insurance covered NRA courses only, the insurance did not pay as the NRA did not have steel targets as part of the program.

So bring a shovel to clear around the target, to help put out a fire should one start and an extinguisher.

- back to your question-

It makes sense to keep a loaded pistol with you as people have been known to jack shooters in public lands to acquire cars and guns for their next crime.

[xxINKxx]

If its blm open carry all day long. I go on hikes in Barstow with my AR or pistol strapped all the time. Never know when a hills have eyes situation happens lol

[golfish]

I shoot steel targets all the time on BLM in the Mojave Desert. Concerning where it's legal to shoot, there is no generalized rule for all areas. Best to find a gov't issued map for the area you plan to be in. Here is San Bernardino County...

http://www.specialdistricts.org/2/FishandGame/docs/2010_cnty_shooting_areas_final.pdf

.

It looks like I have been shooting in a restricted area (shotgun only)for the past 6 months. I need to go east or move up to Kramer Junction

[Mickeytnova]

I responsibly open carry loaded all the time on BLM land. Keeps me in check and disciplined with my sidearm.

As for steel, Ive had rangers mostly ask about steel core ammo. All I've been asked is that I either not shoot it depending on the time of year, or that I have a plan of action should anything happen.

Steel targets are ok. Keep'em out at least 25 yards angled in a way to send ricochets out away from you.