Shooting range question

[ugarolla]

I was wondering about the laws regarding shooting ranges. I have a concealed carry permit, but everytime I go to my local range in Athens, Ga the guys seem to complain about something. I had my gun unloaded strapped in the holster and cocked back and they got onto me b/c the magazine was in. Then, next time I had it unloaded magazine out and strapped in and they complained the slide wasn't locked back. Are these guys busting my balls for no reason, am I out of line here, what is the law about this. You would think they would be gun advocates, the employees are all packing yet they call me out on some little thing every time. Please explain.

[astute]

Maybe they are jealous cause they realize you're a better shot than them!!!!!!!

[ugarolla]

I just want to know if there is some law, because if not I will tell them to fuck off and just carry it in there like I want to b/c I have a permit anyways.

[Glock Fan]

I'd be careful on how you act on any particular range. Be respectful and keep in mind that the range is "private property". They can "trespass" you at any time. Meet with the manager and get the range rules in writing if possible. Do your best to comply with the rules. If you don't like the rules on that particular range, you can always find another place to shoot.

I've been to many shooting ranges and have had numerous range RSO types get on me for various things. I do my best to keep my cool and have had my share of conversations with the manager or "range master" to clear things up. What I do know is that using language like "f**k off" will be an almost certain way to get kicked off of the range.



gf

[Red Hat]

There is probably no law that governs how a firearm is carried into a range but I'd be willing to bet they have policies that cover it. Safety is the major priority at a firing range and having a cleared weapon to and from the range area is just standard procedure. Being a private range they can have you bring it in any way they want. Telling them what you said will most likely just get you kicked out of their facility. Instead of being negative about it why don't you just ask what their policy is and abide by it?

[ugarolla]

I fully understand the policy. What I'm saying is, Of all the places in the world you would think you could carry your sidearm with a permit it would be there. And even having the magazine out and in the holster is not good enough for them. I have been nothing but respectful to them so far. They are carrying there weapons properly as long as I am I don't see why they have a problem.

[Glock Fan]

Different ranges have different rules. I've been on ranges where they don't mind if you have your "Concealed" firearm "concealed". Most ranges I've been on don't allow OC for customers unless there's an organized event or function going on. I've never understood the policy, but abide by it since it's their range and they make the rules for the range.

I've run my share of ranges. Once checking in with me and producing the proper documentation (training, permit/license, etc) I have no problem with law abiding citizens having a holstered firearm on my range. What I don't allow is "holster draws" unless special arrangements are made. There are folks on the range who may "freak out" if they see another shooter drawing a firearm from a holster. It also gets the other RSOs' a little "edgy". Everyone needs to know what's going on to eliminate any misunderstandings.

My recommendation would be to talk with the range staff and see if you can work something out. If not, as stated earlier, I'd find another place to shoot.



gf

[ronwill]

Unless it's the owners, or a range supervisor type, just nod your head and say thanks. As stated before be respectful with everyone. I don't know if Atlanta has a specific law but it's possible they would use the "public gathering" clause against you. The mayor and P.D. aren't the friendliest towards CCW and it wouldn't surprise me if they did.

[HK4U]

I know of at least one range here that requires you to have all guns unloaded when you come in the front door. No law just policy.

[rrc1962]

We have one range loacally that's run by the state and they are sticklers for their rules. All guns have to be in a case (not a holster), unloaded, no magazines inserted and no magazines loaded, action open and they check everything on the way in. No holster carry even if you have an HCP and no silhouette targets. Once you're on the range, the rules are just as tight. The upside is that it is a safe family oriented range. There really isn't a downside, but I do like to practice with silhouette targets. They say shooting a human shaped target sets a bad example for the kids.

Another state owned range has basically no rules. I've never been there because the shop owners say that the gang-bangers go there to shoot their AK's and it's not uncommon for one of them to open fire while someone is down range replacing a target. There is no range supervision. Some rules are a good thing. :)

The other privately owned ranges have rules, but as long as you are courteous and use common sense, they aren't hard to follow and there are never any problems.