Chloe Molineux So, you’ve been to the shooting range more times than you can count, and you’ve gotten handy with a gun—that’s great! However, even though you’re getting better, getting some practice in might not be as fun as it used to be. Fortunately, if the novelty of the range fades, you can use this list of things you can do to spice up the shooting range to enjoy your firearm practice again!
Remember to avoid getting too wild with whatever you decide to do. At the end of the day, you’re still firing a loaded weapon, and you need to treat it as such.
Try Out Some Other Weapons
You’ve likely tried out many different firearms that exist by now. Still, you can experiment with non-gun weapons like bows and throwing axes. Some outdoor ranges will have areas where you can use these historical items, but if the range you visit doesn’t, it’s usually not too difficult to find an archery or ax-throwing range nearby. Who knows? You might even discover a new passion by trying one of these out.
Shoot Some “Explosive” Targets
To be clear, this one isn’t about actual explosives. Instead, consider practicing your aim using targets that obliterate upon impact. The bursting effect from cans and glass bottles when you make contact is extremely satisfying. Since it’s difficult to clean the pieces of those items up, though, not all ranges allow them. One type of target that is more environmentally friendly than you can use is fruit. Plus, if you hit it just right, they blow up in rather astonishing ways.
Play Some Accuracy-Based Games
If you have a friend or two that you regularly go to the range with, you might debate who’s the best shot. Why not put that to the test with some friendly accuracy-based games? One range game that’s gotten popular recently is Battleship. You’ll need to print out some specialized targets for this game. Once you do, it plays very similarly to the child’s game. If your range has multiple targets that you can fire your gun at, you and your friends could also play a game of H-O-R-S-E.
Bring Someone Who Has Never Been Before
Another thing you can do to spice up the shooting range is to bring someone who’s never been before. Whether it’s your significant other or your child who’s now old enough to try shooting a gun, sharing a pastime that you love with someone new is always enjoyable.
While anyone who joins you should know how to handle a gun properly, always take extra time to introduce your child to gun safety if you’re bringing them to the range. Talking to children about gun safety before they ever even see the firearm is a great way to gauge if they’re ready for the responsibility.
