First time at a Range

[gonzales]

I just purchased my first handgun a Sig sp2022 40sw. I get to pick it up on Wed. I'm most likely going to head to a local range hear in the central valley either the range in fresno or the sportsman club in Visalia. So I was wondering what else would I need to take? Do they offer targets? Do they charge for each target? Do they charge to use there ear and eye protection? I'm just trying to figure out the cost and also to see if it is better I buy my own targets and take them. Thank you in advance.

[erik_26]

Never been to either of those places.

Most don't charge to use house ear protection or eye protection. But for like $10 you can pick up eye protection at Wal-Mart or big five. And for about $8 you can pick up a container of little foam ear plugs or $25 gets you ear muffs.

Might as well buy your own. You will need them for every range or BLM trip.

Some places require you use their ammo. That is not very common though. Some places give one free paper target with range time. Most don't. Some places provide tape or staples to hang targets. Others don't.

So get a range bag, fill with targets (shoot and see are great), roll of masking tape, eyes, ears, staple gun and some staple gun ammo.

Best bet is to call the ranges before you head out.

Congrats on the new gun. Read the manual. Follow safety rules. Take a shooting class.

And.... Welcome to Calguns!

[gonzales]

Thanks for the info. I've been shopping around for all those items. This 10 day period is killing me.

[joelj320]

Where did you purchase it from

[tzotzo]

I'd highly recommend going with someone who has good shooting credentials and experience and can show you how to shoot that weapon.

[diginit]

We ALL hate the stupid 10 day wait. But is is a good thing upon the first purchase... If you already own 5 registered handguns, Like me, It is STUPID!!!
As long as you have ears and eyes, You are covered. Spend a few more bucks for electronic ears. You can hear conversations, but not the loud bangs. If you shoot, You should own ears and eye protection. Why waste money? You are going to visit the range more than once. Always bring a few targets and tacks or tape. The first target will be wasted after the first few mags. Most ranges only provide 1 target. The sight and see colored targets are my fav. Visable from a distance without a spoting scope. If you have only 50 rnds, You will leave the range wishing you had more. Make sure your ammo is not magnetic if on a range. But most pistol rounds are not magnetic. Only rifle. Have fun with the .40. Be sure of your backstop and where the muzzle is pointing at all times. And buy another mag! One is never enough...

[gonzales]

I purchased it at prk arms in fresno. Im actually going to the range with a buddy of mine who served in the marines and also was a range instructor at pendleton. He also completed the P.O.S.T at fresno city last year. Yeah he told me to make sure I take him cuz its easier teaching somebody fresh then somebody with bad habits already.

[gonzales]

I actually just bought 2 mags for $30 shipped of a guy here on calguns.

[ElvenSoul]

Be safe and call them to find out.

[tzotzo]

I purchased it at prk arms in fresno. Im actually going to the range with a buddy of mine who served in the marines and also was a range instructor at pendleton. He also completed the P.O.S.T at fresno city last year. Yeah he told me to make sure I take him cuz its easier teaching somebody fresh then somebody with bad habits already.

Great, you are on the right track then. Enjoy.

[Cuerno_de_Chivo]

Most ranges give you a target free and the rest cost extra. Just bring ear/eye protection and you should be good to go. Enjoy your new gun!

[tzotzo]

like others suggested, buy your own eyes and ears. Home Depot will do in a pinch. You can get very good Uvex safety glasses from Amazon that meet a bunch of different safety standards for like $11 a piece. Electronic muffs from $50 on up.