There is so much shooting equipment out there that trying to find what you need can feel overwhelming.
The good news is that you don’t need all of it.
We sorted through all the mountains of gear we’ve used, tested, and bought over the years to find our favorites. Whether you’re brand new to shooting and need the basics, or looking for something to step up your game, we have something for you.
Let’s open the range bag and get you set up right!
THE QUICK LIST
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Best Eye & Ear Protection
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Best First Aid Kit
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Best Beginner Targets
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Best Range Bag
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Best Cleaning Kit
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Best CCW Belt
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Best Shot Timer
Table of Contents
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How We Tested Shooting Range Gear
For this article, we gathered a bunch of essential shooting range gear we’ve personally used, reviewed, and owned here at Pew Pew Tactical. The entire Pew Pew Tactical team, as well as freelance writers, contributed to this review to offer different opinions based on their experience.
Some of these items never leave our range bag — they’re essential! We recommend them to everyone, whether you’re prepping for your first range day or training for a high-level competition.
You’ll also see specialized equipment that isn’t essential for everyone. It might be necessary for a specific kind of shooting, or it might just be nice to have. You won’t need these things on day one but keep an eye on them as you improve your skills and find new interests.
Essential Shooting Range Gear
1. ShellShock Premium Eyes & Ears Combo – Best Eye & Ear Protection
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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Pros
- Active electronic hearing protection
- Upgraded PureSeal gel cushions
- ANSI Z87.1+ eye protection
Cons
- More expensive than foam earplugs and shop glasses
Specs
- Ear Pro NRR: 22 dB
- Eye Pro Safety Rating: ANSI Z87.1+
- Batteries: Two AAA
- Lenses: Clear, smoke
You won’t get to the firing line at your local range without ear and eye protection, so let’s start there. This ShellShock Premium Eyes & Ears Combo will make sure you leave the range as healthy as you were when you got there.
After thousands of hours on the range testing guns and gear, we at Pew Pew Tactical developed our own line called ShellShock Protection.
Our best-selling EXO PRO electronic earmuffs come with gel cups that make them super comfy and allow us to wear them for hours on the range.
Unlike earplugs or passive earmuffs, the EXO PRO offers active hearing protection. That means you’ll hear voices and ambient sounds clearly through speakers in the earmuffs, but gunshots will be capped at a hearing-safe “pop.”
The ShellShock Switch glasses have an ANSI Z87.1+ rating and come with two lenses, clear and tinted, so you’re ready for any range conditions.
Want to make things really easy? buy a Tactical Starter Pack that includes passive ear protection, eye protection, targets, and a cleaning kit.
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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See more of our favorites in our Best Shooting Ear Protection article.
2. Uncharted Supply Co. First Aid Plus – Best First Aid Kit
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Pros
- Tools included
- Treatment for mild to severe injuries
- Compact and lightweight
Cons
- Requires training
Specs
- Medical Supplies: First aid guide, nitrile gloves, CPR kit, antibiotic cream, antiseptic toilette, hypoallergenic medical tape, antibacterial wipes, bandages, gauze sponges, burn cream, splinter probes, saline tube, blister pads, pressure wrap
- Survival Supplies: Mylar blanket, stormproof matches, chem lights, zip-ties
- Tools: Tweezers, safety pins, multitool, shears, flashlight, duct tape
- Dimensions: 6.6″ x 8″ x 3.8″
- Weight: 3 lbs
We hope that ear and eye protection is the only safety equipment you’ll ever need, but it’s best to be prepared for the worst. We’re big fans of the Uncharted Supply Co. First Aid Plus.
This first aid kit includes the items you’re most likely to use. They’re well organized and labelled so you can get right to whatever you need.
It also includes a few tools, since most injuries can be prevented with basic precautions. Need stormproof matches, a multitool, or a flashlight? The First Aid Plus has you covered.
The case is waterproof, floats, and has a rip-off MOLLE panel on the back so you can mount it to your range bag or in your car.
One item we’d add to this kit is a tourniquet — as long as you know how to use one correctly.
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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We go more into what should go into a kit in our Med Kits guide.
Nothing is a substitute for good training, though, so make sure to invest in at least one first-aid class to go with that kit. We have some recommendations here.
3. Splatterburst Targets – Best Beginner Targets
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Pros
- Simple to use
- Impacts are super visible
- Inexpensive
Cons
- Small
- Limited training options
Specs
- Targets Per Pack: 25
- Mounting: Adhesive
- Reusable: No, but comes with patch stickers
Your local range may have targets, but they probably cost too much and make it hard to see where your shots landed. Throw a pack of Splatterburst Targets in your range bag to save time and make shooting more fun.
We love this style of target because they turn a bright color when you hit them, which make spotting your impacts super easy (and satisfying). Plus, they come with extra black and orange stickers to repair your targets and get more use out of them.
They’re adhesive so if you suffer from chronic stapler forgetting disorder, you can still hang targets.
Ready to try your hand at more dynamic shooting? Pick up a stack of cardboard USPSA-style targets to channel your inner competition shooter.
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If you really want to upgrade your target game, though, take a look at the AR500 steel targets from Shoot Steel that we use in our video reviews. There’s nothing like the instant feedback you get from shooting steel.
“Ping!”
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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Check out our Shoot Steel Targets review to see them in action!
4. Eberlestock Bang Bang – Best Range Bag
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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Pros
- Excellent organization and build quality
- Customizable main compartment
- Rigid base compartment
Cons
- Expensive
Specs
- Volume: 33.8 L
- Dimensions: 10.25″ x 21″ x 10″
- Weight: 4 lbs
You’re going to need a range bag to carry all your new gear, and it doesn’t get any better than the Eberlestock Bang Bang.
This range bag has a large main compartment that you can customize with removable padded dividers. Each exterior end compartment has dedicated pouches for things like magazines, pens, and tools, with plenty of room for boxes of ammo.
If you have large items like a tripod, you can buckle them to the bag’s exterior. Everything from the fabric to the zippers is heavy duty.
The hard polycarbonate base keeps your bag dry when you set it down, and contains a basement compartment that’s great for stacks of targets or a few pistols (foam inserts are sold separately).
For rifles and shotguns, our favorite case is the Savior Equipment Urban Warfare. It has room for two long guns in the main compartment and basic shooting range gear in the exterior pouches, plus the obligatory MOLLE panels.
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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Pelican locking hard cases are expensive, but they’re worth the price if you need to travel with guns and don’t want them getting beaten up in transit.
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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5. GuardTech Plus Universal Cleaning Kit – Best Cleaning Kit
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Pros
- Includes all kinds of brushes, mops, cleaning patches, and rods
- Cleans rifles, shotguns, and pistols
- Hard case keeps everything organized
Cons
- Bulky
Specs
- Compatible Calibers: .17 through 12ga
- Cleaning Rods: Solid brass
- Brushes: Bore, chamber, utility
- Cleaning Solution Included: No
We go over what we like for our at-home cleaning kit in our Best Cleaning Kits article, and our favorite is the GuardTech Universal Kit.
From .22LR plinkers to AR-15s, handguns, and shotguns, this kit cleans them all. Buy one and you’ll be ready to keep all kinds of firearms in like-new condition.
This kit has everything you need, including a squeeze bottle to bring a few ounces of gun oil (a little goes a long way).
You don’t have to take it to the firing line, but it might save you some trouble if you keep it in the car when you train. You never know when you’ll have to perform some emergency cleaning because your gun stopped functioning because of dirt, grime, or some other fouling.
And as you collect more guns, you can always add individual bore snakes for quick touch-up cleaning.
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6. Kore Essentials EDC / CCW Gun Belts – Best CCW Belt
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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Pros
- Ratcheting design creates a perfect fit
- Super rigid and supportive
- Understated
Cons
- Somewhat expensive
Specs
- Sizes: 24″-54″, 44″-54″
- Width: 1.5″
- Material: Power-Core inner, nylon or leather outer
- Buckle: Multiple options available
Ready to start carrying concealed? A proper belt makes all the difference, and we’re big fans of Kore Essentials tactical gun belts.
These belts use a ratchet mechanism that allows for both precise and easy adjustment. Loosen it a few clicks when you need to sit down for an extended period of time, then tighten it when you stand up. Quick and easy.
The extremely stiff core, combined with the quick adjustments, lets you get the exact fit you need. No more being in between adjustment holes, no more unbuckling to adjust when you get in the car. Just a simple press of a small lever, and you are in your comfort zone.
Check out my full Kore Essentials review and Best Gun Belts article for more.
You can also build out a battle belt that can hold your pistol, several magazines, and a first aid kit. This approach is more expensive, but it’s super handy at the range — especially if you’re shooting a full-size pistol or multiple firearms.
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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If you buy a pistol, you’re eventually going to want a holster (or several) for it. There’s too much information to cover everything here, but we have lots of articles on the topic.
For starters, check out our Best Concealed Carry & OWB (Outside the Waistband Holsters) for a quick crash course in holster selection.
7. SG Timer GO – Best Shot Timer
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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Pros
- Dry fire mode
- More features in the Drills app
- Customizable firearm profiles
Cons
- Learning curve
Specs
- Universal: Yes
- App Available: Yes (Drills)
- Live-Fire Compatible: Yes
You don’t have to be a competitive shooter to use a shot timer. In fact, the SG Timer GO is one of the best training aids you can buy!
This compact shot timer is simple to use, but packs a ton of features that other shot timers can’t compete with.
The biggest advantage is dry fire mode that lets you practice at home without ammunition. It’s sensitive enough to reliably pick up the “click” of the trigger, and you can program it to ignore other sounds, like your pistol sliding out of a Kydex holster.
At the range, you can flip through customizable profiles for rifles, pistols, and shotguns. The SG Timer GO can handle everything from high-powered rifles to suppressed subsonic .22 LR.
Unlike its big brother, the SG Timer 2, you’ll need to use the app to access most of this timer’s features. That’s a small tradeoff, because it makes this the best value in the shot timer market.
You can check out our other picks for this category in our Best Shot Timers article.
8. Wiebad Fortune Cookie – Best Shooting Bag
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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Pros
- Turns anything into a stable shooting position
- Works well as a rear bag, too
- Several sizes and fill weights
Cons
- Bulky
Specs
- Weight: 6.2 lbs
- Shape: Fortune cookie
- Dimensions: 8″ x 5″ x 7″
- Colors: Black, coyote brown, OD green, Multicam, Multicam black
As you start to shoot further and further, a WieBad Fortune Cookie has to be in your range bag. I won’t take a rifle out of the house without mine!
The shape of this bag makes it perfect for turning anything into a stable shooting position — tripod, metal gate, fencepost, the hood of a car, you name it. It also works great as a rear bag.
The heavy fill helps it settle on all kinds of odd shapes, leaving a flat, sturdy platform for your rifle.
I’ve used mine for long-range precision shooting, hunting, and rimfire plinking. It’s like a security blanket for rifle shooters.
The only downside is that it’s bulky and fairly heavy. If that’s a concern, WieBad sells several smaller options, so pick what works for you!
9. Vortex Viper HD 20-60×85 – Best All-Purpose Spotting Scope
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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Pros
- Great value
- Long-range capable
- Unbeatable warranty
Cons
- Requires a tripod and Mounting system
Specs
- Magnification: 20-60x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 85 mm
- Angular Field of View: 1.9-1.0 degrees
- Length: 17.5″
- Weight: 76.6 oz
Spotting your impacts on a distant target or finding critters in the wild is a lot easier with a spotting scope like the Vortex Viper HD 20-60×82.
Spotting scopes are useful for checking long-range targets and finding game animals in the wild. After you walk down a 100-yard range to see where your shots landed a few times, you’ll see why these are worth the money. If you shoot longer, a spotting scope is a necessity.
Vortex is tough to beat when it comes to giving you the best optic for your money. The Viper family of optics takes that a step further. Prices are closer to entry level than premium, but quality is the other way around.
The Viper HD 20-60×85 is affordable enough for people who are just getting into distance shooting, but good enough to hang around well into your shooting journey.
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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Want even more performance? The Vortex Razor HD 27-60×85 spotting scope offers eye-popping clarity and the exact same warranty. If you want to spot individual impacts at 1,000 yards, this is what you want — as long as there’s room in the budget for it.
Check out the rest of our guide to the Best Spotting Scopes for some higher-end models and our recommended tripods.
10. Maven RF.1 – Best Rangefinder
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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Pros
- Ergonomic, intuitive controls
- Multiple reticle options
- Line-of-sight and angle-compensated ranging
- Field and forest modes
Cons
- A little wide for some rangefinder pouches
- No ballistic calculations
Specs
- Maximum Range (Reflective): 4,500 yds
- Maximum Range (Tree): 3,000 yds
- Maximum Range (Deer): 2,700 yds
- Minium Range: 5 yds
- Magnification: 7x
- Objective Lens: 25 mm
- Eye Relief: 17 mm
- Battery: CR2
You can’t hit something if you don’t know how far away it is. My favorite all-purpose rangefinder is the Maven RF.1.
A laser rangefinder allows you to measure the exact distance between you and your target, allowing you to properly adjust for the shot.
The RF.1 is accurate and incredibly easy to use. I’m a big fan of the oversized dial for adjusting brightness, changing reticles, and switching between ranging modes (straight-line or angle-compensated). The switch lets you select field or forest mode without opening the menu, so it’s much faster to use than the competition.
This rangefinder is capable of ranging deer (which are not very reflective) up to 2,700 yards away. That’ll be more than enough for target shooting, long-range competing, or hunting.
Unlike some rangefinders, this one focuses on the basics and doesn’t get into ballistic software and Bluetooth connectivity. If that’s what you want, check out the tech-heavy Vortex Razor HD 4000 GB.
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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We have a whole article dedicated to these bad boys: Best Laser Rangefinders.
11. Kestrel 2700 Ballistic Meter – Best Weather Meter
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Pros
- Affordable
- Simple and easy to use
- Makes wind calls much easier
Cons
- Very limited ballistic calculations
Specs
- Environmental Sensors: Station pressure, temperature, wind direction, wind speed
- LiNK Enabled: Yes
- Gun Profiles: 1
- Ballistic Solver Max Range: 875 yds
Wind messing with your shots? The Kestrel 2700 can fix that without breaking the bank.
This ballistic meter has ambient pressure, temperature, and wind sensors onboard. It cross-references that environmental information with one stored gun profile and one target distance to give you an accurate shooting solution.
Is it basic? Sure. But it’s not watered down. You can definitely get down to business with this wind meter; you’ll just have to do it one target at a time.
Higher-end models have advanced features such as measuring dew point, heat stress index, store data on multiple rifles, and can perform more advanced ballistic calculations.
Not sure which one is right for you? Take a look at our review of All the Kestrel Models!
12. Garmin Xero C1 Pro – Best Chronograph
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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Pros
- Accurate data
- Super user-friendly
- Compact and durable
- Competitive pricing
Cons
- Limited battery life
- App required for full suite of features
Specs
- Projectile speed: 100 to 5,000 fps
- Calculations: Velocity, energy, averages, extreme spread, standard deviation
- Display: 240 x 320 pixels
- Battery life: 6 hours or 2,000 shots
- Dimensions: 3.03 inches x 2.38 inches x 1.36 inches
- Weight: 5.7 ounces (with tripod)
- Waterproof rating: IPX7
A rangefinder and ballistic meter will put you well on your way to long-range precision, but they’re only as good as the data you feed them. If you want real numbers — not the ones that come on a box of ammo — you need a Garmin Xero C1 Pro.
This is the go-to chronograph for the Pew Pew tactical team, and right now there isn’t a close second. It’s compact enough to toss in your range bag, intuitive for beginners to use, and extremely capable.
Set this chronograph up next to your rifle to see how fast your bullets are actually leaving the muzzle in real time.
The display provides all the information you need, and you can dig into the free Garmin ShotView app to remove a cold-bore shot from a strong of fire, identify each shot’s kinetic energy, make notes (I like to record the density altitude for each session) and store loads of data on all your firearms, regardless of which ballistic app you use in the field.
That’s right, it works on pistols, arrows, air guns, and some shotgun loads! How nerdy do you want to get?
Read all about it in our hands-on Garmin Xero C1 Pro review!
Want more options? Check out the rest of our Best Chronographs For Shooting.
How to Pick the Best Essential Shooting Rage Gear
This list can be intimidating, but you don’t need to buy everything at once. Here are some things to consider before you click “buy now.”
Safety Gear
Ear and eye protection should be your first purchase when you get into shooting — maybe even before you decide which gun to buy!
Ballistic glasses will protect your eyes from shrapnel in addition to the sun. If you just want to buy one pair that works in any light, you can’t go wrong with Shellshock Sunshift Photochromic shooting glasses.
Ear protection can range from ear plugs to advanced electronic hearing protection with Bluetooth. We usually recommend something in the middle, like the Shellshock EXO Pro. These earmuffs offer active hearing protection but, since they don’t have Bluetooth, they’re still budget-friendly.
We also recommend bringing a first aid kit to the range. Hopefully you’ll never need it, but it’s better to be safe than sorry.
Shooting Range Basics
You’re going to need something to shoot, so don’t forget your targets! Paper targets are fine, and you can save money by bringing your own instead of buying them at the range. As you start to work on different techniques, you can mix things up with cardboard and steel silhouettes.
All that shooting is going to get your gun dirty. Buy a good cleaning kit to keep everything shiny and clean for years of of use. Your gun will run better and last longer if it’s not covered in carbon buildup.
Not sure how to clean a gun? We have you covered!
You’re going to need a range bag to carry all this stuff. You can get by with any sturdy bag, but a dedicated range bag like the Eberlestock Bang Bang will keep all your gear secure, organized, and ready when you need it.
Specialized Gear
Ready for more?
Holsters and belts aren’t super specialized, but they will need to match your pistol and you don’t have to have them to get started.
Figure out what you’re training for, first. Getting some reps in with your CCW pistol? Use a belt you’ll actually wear everyday. If you’re practicing for s competition, you can go all-out with a battle belt that’s decked out with all the bells and whistles.
One gadget that everyone can benefit from is is a shot timer. Training with one of these will make you faster, more efficient, and more confident in your abilities no matter what you’re shooting.
Check out our favorites in our roundup of the Best Shot Timers!
If you want to push your limits and try your hand at long-range shooting, there’s a lot of specialized gear you’ll need. Spotting scopes, rangefinders, weather meters, bipods, and chronographs are just some of the things you’ll need to do it well.
Finally, buying a suppressor isn’t a matter of if, but when. Prices are coming down and wait times are a few days instead of a year or more. Companies like Silencer Central will do all the hard parts of the process for you. Resistance is futile.
Already convinced? Check out our guide to the Best AR-15 Suppressors!
Tools
If you’re ever going to install an optic (and who isn’t), you’re going to need a torque wrench. You might need a leveling kit, too.
These aren’t too expensive and they can save you a bunch of trouble down the road. Don’t ruin your optic with stripped screws or crushed scope tubes. These tools are super easy to use!
When you’re done, give the screws witness marks so you can visually confirm that they haven’t started to back out.
Other useful tools include an AR-15 armorer’s wrench and a sight pusher. They’re not essential, but you’re probably going to want to pick one up eventually.
Find more of our favorites in our guide to the Best AR-15 Build Tools.
Meet the Experts
This article originally comes to you from Pew Pew Tactical Founder and CEO Eric Hung. Eric is an NRA-certified pistol instructor and a USPSA/3-Gun/NRL22 competitor. He has also researched and written over 250 articles on firearms and gear. He brings this expertise to this article, offering his perspective on essential shooting range gear.
Editor Scott Murdock also contributed some of his favorite pieces of gear. Scott is a Marine Corps veteran who competed and qualified as a rifle and pistol expert while in service. In addition to shooting, Scott has written for a variety of publications, testing, researching, and evaluating guns and gear. He brings that knowledge and skillset to this article, editing and fact-checking for accuracy.
Editor-in-Chief Jacki Billings runs our experienced team of reviewers. She is a National Rifle Association Basic Pistol Instructor as well as a member of the Society of Professional Journalists, ACES: Society for Editing, and the Professional Outdoor Media Association. Jacki has a bachelor’s degree in journalism and has worked as a media professional for close to 20 years, specializing in gun media for almost 10 years. With 2,000+ articles to her name, she uses her professional journalism and editing experience to set testing protocols and editorial standards for Pew Pew Tactical.
Final Thoughts
There are a lot of things you could take to the range, but hopefully, you’ve got a better idea of what must-haves you should pack.
If you’re new to shooting, start with the basics. You don’t need everything here on your first range day. As you develop as a shooter, add the things that will maximize your training time.
Don’t forget to come back and share the awesome gear you find along the way!
Did I miss anything else? Let me know in the comments below! Looking for some training tips? Check out our Gun Noob to Gun Slinger video course!
Latest Updates:
- March 2025: Thorough rewrite with new products and updated supporting content.
- March 2024: Added ShellShock Protection, Wheeler Engineering tools, Caldwell brass catcher, Maven CRF Rangefinder, PACT Shot timer, and medical supplies.
71 Leave a Reply
Inappropriate and unethical to recommend your own brand of earpro. Especially at only 22NRR. That’s not enough for most people and most guns.
Hey Jay, thanks for the comment. I can understand your POV and appreciate your concerns about the content we provide. I want to assure you that our brand has undergone a ton of tests — including our own wear tests. That said, I totally get feeling disappointed that we chose to list our brand in the list. We did disclose it was our brand, which adheres to our commitment to being honest with our readers and we genuinely like the ear pro — not just because we sell it. That said, we offer a lot of other options in our Best Hearing Pro article that cover a wide variety of good ear pro from other brands we recommend. Thanks for reading.
The uncharted first aid kit is wild that it's on the list. Matches, duct tape, glow sticks, and a fake leatherman. Throw a few bandaids in and I'M HELPIN!
LOL - I’m looking for a good indoor range “magazine catch bag” of some sort.
After realizing during a defensive pistol class that I’d developed the horrible range habit of reaching for the empty mag with my support hand as I dropped it, I decided to simply not do that anymore - ever.
But that means my empty mags are bouncing off the indoor range’s shooting stall countertop and going everywhere.
Does anyone make some sort of wide, shallow, padded, folding, purpose built mag-catching bag I can place on the countertop to catch my empty mags as I drop them?
I’ve added padding to a three gallon folding fabric bucket, and that works really well, but, you know, my ego kinda wants the other shooters to see me using something purpose built rather than a DIY thing ha.
I am a noob shooter. I experimented with several ear muffs, but not the Sordin. I will swear by the Peltor Tactical 500 at about half the price of Sordin, with 26db of protection and bluetooth which some might argue is a distraction, but I really like having that. Sordin doesn't have that, right? other brands: You can get 30db noise reduction, without voice amplification So just forget about hearing critical range instructions ( they are huge!) or cheaper products like Zohan and a dozen identical that have only 22db protection and less intuitive controls. Note that Sordin might have a slimmer around the ear profile and about 2X the battery life of Peltor.
On the Gun belt, I agree on the inner liner, but I just wear a cheap discreet normal belt and guns and whatever else all go on the liner. Any weight on the belt that holds up your pants is uncomfortable and a distraction. Anything reasonable can go on the liner, instant off and on with hook and loop, has some advantages over a normal belt, like the ride height is somewhat adjustable and it can be higher in the back, lower in the front. So, just the liner. For under $40 you can probably have a couple and not have to rotate holsters or gear specific to your weapons. And I think if I did need a second gun belt on me, then... two liners and no buckling in. I am using simple kydex holsters and you would probably have to do something to keep leather ones from skating around just a liner. I can't say this is good for some of the complicated Safariland type holsters, like adjustable ride height rail systems and accessories or roto systems. I will say for Safariland that they seem to have an answer to every issue. It may be ridiculously complicated, but there it is.
What about shooting gloves?
For you folks that wear prescription glasses....The Wiley X Saber Advanced Shooting Glasses - just to note, if you order these through the Wiley X site you can order them in prescription.
Thank you! I was looking for this option.
I must say that I haven't had success with Wiley-X's prescription shooting glasses. The first time, the frame snapped and also the lens coating delaminated. Wiley honored the warranty and replaced them. Then the exact same thing occurred again several months later! I'm OCD when I care for my gear, but that was too much.
I enjoy shooting at an outdoor range with tactical bays. More freedom, more creativity, but often less infrastructure. I take a few metal IDPA-type target stands, some 1x2, cardboard backer boards (actually IDPA targets), and butcher paper to allow rapid target refreshing. You just need a good staple gun and a sharpie, and you can shoot all day for cheap.
Been reading you articles for years always good info. I use the Howard Leight by Honeywell orange MAX-1-D foam earplugs. Back in 2019 got them for about $50 for a box of 500 pair. I work in a very loud plant best I found for work & shooting. You can't hear anything with these & ear muffs. When I take a shooting class I only use the ear muffs
Hi Eric,
That's a great list. The only thing I bring that was not on the list is Lead Free wipes. Most of the "Ranges" here in Colorado don't have a place to wash hands after shooting.
Gallery has big buckets of handwipes in both ranges!
Thanks Eric. I find your articles very useful and informative.
Now that the weather is getting warmer I will start carrying some bottled water with me to help cool off on outside ranges.
Thanks Eric, appreciate your articles.
I normally do my shooting practice in the desert. Flat land for miles with great backdrop hills.
I use metal posts and tie colored balloons to them. I bring an air tank and a quick balloon valves.
Back to targets, 5 to 30 yards.
Friend says shoot blue, red, and so on. Requires quick decisions, and not knowing where the target is.
Have fun, be safe.
I am elderly, a wife of 40+ years, children and grandchildren.
Wear a double up on hearing protection. It is not fun when you cannot hear your children or grandchildren laugh, say I love you, grandpa, let's go for a walk.
I cannot blame it all on shooting. I used to play with hot rods and built motorcycles. Standard stuff.
Eye protection, good stuff. An IV bottle shattered at work. Not blind, but it made me consider, and use eye protection.
Hi Eric - I know it's kind of a no-brainer, but make sure you have your LTC and driver's license with you (especially if you are going to a public, monitored range). I say this because I (like a bonehead) forgot my DL one day and it made for a ZERO shot day.
First aid/trauma kit, most important thing to have.
Agree, first aid kit to the range. And you don't often see them.
Our range first aid kit contains eye wash, gauze, tape, chest seals, cold packs, quick clot, tourniquet, space blanket, bandaids and rubber gloves. Fits in a 50 cal ammo can. I've had a person walk in front of my shooting bench. Luckily I held fire.
wow some are just ...ignorant..idiocracy is becoming more true each day.
Another good item is DUCT Tape to use for targets!! It is one of the all around best items to EVER have in most cases. Just my 2 cents.
YES, for me it's white hockey tape.
Regarding eye ware and pistol shooting, if you have trouble focusing on the front site because you usually need reading glasses (is that far- or nearsighted, I always confuse them), there is a solution to this. You can get wrap-around safety glasses that have magnification built into them like reading glasses. They come from 0.5 up to 5.0 magification. For me the 2.5 power ones are perfect. Best thing is they wrap around the side of your eye to protect intrustion and you don't have to wear 2 pairs of glasses. I get them from Henry Schein out of Long Island. If they won't sell them to you, just ask your dentist to order you a pair.
You forgot one of the most important items, which is also the one I've forgotten the most. A STAPLE GUN (along with a box of extra staples). Nothing funner than going to the range and discovering you have no way to secure your target. I did this so many times that I started to have conniptions whenever it happened, and while it might be amusing to watch a guy dance in small circles, screaming profanities, while pulling his hair out, it was starting to disturb some of the newer shooters. So I bought several and put two in every vehicle (one in my toolbox, and one under the seat - occasionally I'd take my tool box out, or bag up the detritus from around and under my seat in order to go through it "soon" and reorganize).
Damn right! I’ve done that.......
Spray glue works better.
Check out The Outpost(#3 in US, true story, 10/03/09) on Netlfix. The shower scene, enemy attack. Not MY favorite part, but goes with the conversation LOL
reply to TurkeyNuts, RE clothes.
This is all good stuff. Really enjoy these. Just really getting serious into shooting, Keep em coming. Can you direct me to some cleaning articles?
You only need a gun with the right holster (preferably concealed) ammo, eye, and ear protection. Spend more time in shooting drills. Draw your own targets (a marker is enough). In real life situations all the other stuff is useless. Only go to shooting ranges where you can shoot from your holster and allow fast shooting. Spend the money in range time, bullets, and professional instruction.
What about clothing?
I’ve never actually seen any rules, but I’m pretty sure most ranges require it. However, it is optional on private property.
I have found in general tool bags are way cheaper than range bags, and tool bags can carry a lot of weight.
The MagLula loader is almost an essential. I have gotten more comments from people while loading than anything. This includes the days I bring my original Colt govt 1911 .45 series 70. I have had people leave the indoor range mid-session to buy one. It not only saves you from "Nintendo" thumb but shooters who have arthritis or other ailments can more easily reload.
I bought an FNX-45 and after loading two magazines and killing my thumbs, I immediately went out and bought one of these.
I know you mentioned range first aid kits which is a great idea, no argument but just wanted to leave this for you as well as any reader/commenter. A newer company in the first aid kit game, has just come out with 2-Range Day first aid kits actually a basic and and an advoboth very well put together and come inside their own easily seen and distinguished as a first aid kit as well. Company is called “MY MEDIC” if you guys have a chance take a look. Great products and kits, all kinds of kits for just about any thinkable scenario including a day at the range as welll now.
150$ for the "advanced" first aid kit and it only includes 1 pair or gloves, same as the 60$ one!?!? Give me 150$ and I can purchase all of that at a drug store and online and have enough for five kits.
A fire extinguisher in So Cal is a good idea.
I have found that bringing a container of drinking water along to the range always allows me to stay at the bench longer with more comfort and ability to concentrate better. There is nothing worse than being thirsty and unable to enjoy my shooting position.
It is a great idea to have a first aid/trauma/bleed control kit that includes 2 or more tourniquets. I do not have a recommendation for a commercial kit.
You included shooting bags, sticks, and a lead lead sled but you seemed to forget a sling. After having been to a Project Appleseed shoot, and learning how to properly use a sling to steady a rifle. I’d say that a USGI sling is a must to have on all your rifles or at least in your range bag.
Under the category of "Elite Range Gear" a Matis X training tool. Otherwise, an excellent article.
Good idea! We have an article on the MantisX and really like it!
How about...water? :-) Also: shooting gloves (or something that is thin enough not to interfere with the trigger guard). When it's cold, they'll keep your hands warm. When it's hot, they'll absorb your perspiration.
Oh, more! Comfortable shoes; long sleeved t-shirt to protect your arms from hot shell casings and keep them from going down your shirt (don't wear collared shirts, IMHO).
Good advice! I'll include that in the planned update.
Does anyone know of a decent shot timer app for the iPhone?
All of the apps I've used have been really crummy, sorry.
If your competing and have several weapons/gear, a collapsible wagon is worth it's weight in gold!
Stapler, dot stickers, tape, a good attitude
Great job Eric - look forward to all your posts - you inspire me to shoot more and collect less! lol
I suggest a spotting scope or pair of binoculars
Just gonna say that target with the beard seems pretty damn racist to me.
the three target faces are exactly the same, one has a beard.
I was wondering when someone was going to play the race card. My faith in America is restored
Really good article, cant think of anything else to add but wish I had some of the "toys" as they would add to the shooting experience
Great list and info. I would perhaps add some basic first aid and trauma first aid to the list. I do most of my shooting off range—out in the wilderness. I consider serious injury highly unlikely, but still best to be prepared. In addition to the basic band-aids, etc, I keep two tourniquets, chest seals, pressure dressing and hemostatic gauze in my bag. I like to be prepared.
Good tip...we have a first aid kit article but it would help to link it here!
Plus one for ammo cans being essential gear. They have so many uses. A variation on the basic ammo can that I like is MTM's SPUD 1. It's basically an ammo can with a shallow, lift-out tray in the top, and some hidden compartmentalized storage in the lid. I find it perfect for storing some of my smaller shooting gear that I want to keep a little more organized; e.g. cleaning tools and supplies.
Eric I love your articles. Keep it up
Will do, Anthony...thanks for reading!
Hey Eric.. I love the site and the recommendations.. but there are multiple recommendations around the site where one item is recommended one place and in another article, a different brand is recommended. This doesn't appear to be a "one is better than the other" scenario more than just perhaps when each was written, your opinion was different. I have noticed this with the lead sleds, hex wrench sets, and even the gunsmithing hammers. Especially for new guys, it would probably be a lot cleaner if your "top" of current suggestion was the only one found across the site, unless some particular article was suggesting the "cheapest" stuff, etc.... Just something I noticed. Thanks again for the great articles.
Hi, thanks for the input! We'll be working on getting the smaller stuff a little more streamlined across the site.
First aid kit for shooting range... stuff happens.
That's true...great suggestion!
I would be very interested in knowing your picks for range belt, owb holster for range belt, etc... Is this something you are considering adding to your range gear article?
Hi Matthew, great idea! *UPDATED*
Awesome, this is great!
Spotting Scope.
Great addition...I'll be updating the article. *Update* DONE!