what to bring with you to the PGC shooting range?

[ar556]

I just got my PGC permit for public range. I may be going over the weekend. I know I need to bring my gun, mag, ammo, paper target, and the permit. Is there anything else that I may need at the range? Please let me know if anything else will be needed to practice.

Another question, is using green tip ammo allowed at the public range? No more than 6 rounds in the mag at a time?

Thanks for your help.

[HanzMcFeely]

Depending on the range...body armor

[JaySmith]

If you're going to the state game range that I think you're going to, I second the body armor comment.

Also eyes, ears, and an acute sense of your surroundings. I always go in pairs, bring a buddy who you can alternate with to keep an eye on stuff when you're changing targets so your guns don't walk away. It happens.

You're shooting paper into dirt, I highly doubt green tips will matter. There are no shortage of folks who will give you a hard time about the 6 round mag limit. I would avoid going on the weekend's if at all possible. Tuesdays' at 10am are nice. Weekend's are a mad house.

[ar556]

Depending on the range...body armor

I don’t have body armor. So rather not go?

[ar556]

At private indoor range you press button to change target but not sure about PGC public range as to how it works there. That’s one thing but guns walking away haven’t thought about that. I guess I wasted $35 last night.

[DukeConnor]

There is a PGC range near me. its very nice. some some stupidity on the weekends. weekdays its usually deserted except for retired guys.

[Sandcut]

I bring a garbage bag and sometimes a broom and dustpan to clean up the spent shells and garbage others leave behind.

Also, bring bring a contractor's staple gun. The ranges have posts, from which a vinyl canvas kinda cloth is hung. You need to attach your paper targets to this since you are only alllwed to shoot paper targets. Staples work best. Duct tape works when warm, but fails to stick when cold out.

Binoculars/spotting scope

Butt pad for the concrete benches at the rifle range. They're hard.

Trauma kit

[HanzMcFeely]

I don’t have body armor. So rather not go?

Not necessarily a waste of $35…just be extra cautious and keep your head on a swivel if others are using the range as well. Idiots gonna idiot. Personally, i pack up and leave if anyone else shows up.

Public ranges, theres no “push the button change the target”. You have to go downrange to change it. Hence the body armor comment. Its a public range, so no RSO. You are responsible for your own safety as well as the safety of others, and some people just dont grasp that concept (or basic firearm safety concepts for that matter…like dont shoot when someone is downrange changing targets).

Second the comment on taking a staple gun, trauma kit, and a range buddy. I’d add its a good idea to keep your sidearm/ccw firearm handy. In lieu of a range buddy, should one not be availablr, shoulder your unloaded long gun on a sling and take it with you downrange.

Dont be surprised if PAGC comes around to check permit/license either.

[JDA58]

I've used the PGC shooting range near me for years before joining a private club.. I would never go on a weekend.. too busy and well more people who don't grasp the safety rules all that well... I would go early mornings in the week M-F.. I have at times pulled in and turned around and gone home..

[ar556]

thanks. i will get a sling. i was thinking if its crowded i will just turn around and drive back home.
i don't have a sidearm