Security for equipment when downrange

[tl_3237]

I’ve had his question for some time and want to throw it out here for comment.

Most of the ranges I belong to are in isolated places usually surrounded by woods or nothingness and are not very crowded on weekdays, maybe two or three members shooting at most and many times no-one else.

When we have an ALL CLEAR for target maintenance the rules are firearms on table with actions open (SOP most places). We then proceed down range for the targets. Many times this leaves the firing line (and rifle(s)/pistol(s) ammo, scope etc) unattended and, although I’ve never heard of it happening, nothing would prevent someone hiding nearby from doing a snatch and run with a 50-200 yards head-start since we are at the targets. (Not that I could run fast to catch them anyhow ).

I always carry a sidearm when I am downrange because nothing would prevent someone nefarious from loading up and shooting (everything they need is on the bench) but I can’t do anything if they are going to steal the equipment.

Its not very practical to store everything in the trunk each time I leave the line and retireve it upon my return. Unless we have a non-shooter, there is not usually a volunteer to remain behind at the line for security because everyone wants to do target maintenance.

The question for all of you is - if and how do you provide security for your shooting equipment when you go downrange?

[Brown-Bear]

Trust me it fucking happens dude. I've heard of 2 incidents at my local gun club. We always shoot in groups, and just have one person stay back and someone else adjusts his target for him, or we just wait til he's done as well. Simple really. But if you're by your self then I don't know.

Dave

[Ed111PA]

Ive thought about that too.

Reading this, a (stupid?) idea hit me though.

Bring some barbell weights (50 lbs?) and use a cable lock.
At least they will have to try to run with an extra 50 lbs?

[Dredly]

handgun wouldn't reach anyway.

and I've heard reports of it happening at state shooting ranges, people on dirt bikes or 4 wheelers.

just as important is how do you keep people from screwing with your stuff? I've seen more then one gun knocked off tables by people not paying attention and I've personally witnessed people not shooting playing with other peoples guns (working the action... etc)

[shefearsnothing]

In the situational awareness thread at the lounge I mentioned something about this. I was saying that when I am putting the knockdown targets up at the range and I'm by myself I never let my glock sit on the table. It's ALWAYS in my holster. I am not aware of any rules that say I must let it on the table. I guess I should check into that so I don't get myself into trouble. I do the same when I'm picking up casings inside or out and also when I am hanging targets or just looking at them etc. IA that it's something to keep in mind and give serious thought to. I generally go and shoot by myself so it wouldn't take much for someone to sneak out of the woods by the club, grab my glock off the table and either steal it or throw a round in and shoot me with it. I'm not interested in tempting anyone though.

[Something]

Originally Posted by shefearsnothing

when I am putting the knockdown targets up at the range and I'm by myself I never let my glock sit on the table. It's ALWAYS in my holster. :

+1 SAME HERE

[LowFlyer]

Originally Posted by Brown-Bear

I've heard of 2 incidents at my local gun club.

Is that the little shooting range on 74 north of Dover?

[crakkajakka15]

Originally Posted by Dredly

I've personally witnessed people not shooting playing with other peoples guns (working the action... etc)

God if that my my gun they were doing that to, I would be HEATED!!!....Just thinking aobut it gets me mad

[Poonie]

I've had the same thoughts when I used to frequent the range at French Creek, and at other ranges. What I usually do when at a crowded range if by myself, is to take a handgun with me when downrange. I always turn around every few feet to check things. When with someone I have them, or I will stay back and sit at the table to guard things. When I am alone and noone else is around, whatever I'm shooting accompanies me to the target. I just did this the other day at the club. I was by myself on the long range and noone else was around, so when I went downrange to hang a new target, my Enfield took the walk with me, while draped diagonally across my back. I didn't feel like driving the 200 meters and wasn't about to leave my rifle back there where I knew I could never get back to it fast enough if it decided to take a walk.

[Kastaway]

I take mine with me....