The first way to ensure you are prepared to get the most out of your time at the range is to take a look at your training log from your past visits to the range. A training log is a tried-and-true method of documenting and monitoring progress in just about any activity. In fact, it should probably have its own article, so check back as I will be discussing the Training Log I use in more detail. The training log should document what went right and what went wrong. It should also contain some information about the range you are visiting and help you decide what types of drills you can perform (ie. static shooting, dynamic movement, holster work).

The training log should allow for you to identify strengths and weaknesses from previous sessions. Knowing where you struggle will help you use the google machine to find shooting drills or allow you to accurately recount the issues or results you are experiencing to an instructor to get the most out of your time at the range.

As mentioned already, a big piece of going to the range is to improve your capabilities. This can be done by selecting a course of fire that supports your training objectives. Once your objectives are set for the session, WRITE THEM DOWN. It can be frustrating to get to the range and have a good idea of what to do, but either the equipment you wanted to use is not available, or when you get to your area you feel the rush of a busy lobby. If you go into the training session with a plan, you will be better prepared to adapt to any situation you find yourself in when you step up to the firing line. Once you set your course of fire, you will know exactly what equipment to bring, preventing the instance where other shooters may be using the equipment you planned to use. Your plan will also help you pick a couple of the drills you have written down in the case time becomes an issue.

With objectives and a course of fire set, let’s take a look at the range bag. It is a good idea to get a dedicated set of some of the essentials to leave in your bag to ensure the basics are always with you. Some of these items could be eye protection, hearing protection and maybe a few extra magazines. It can be downright aggravating to get out to the range with buddies ready to shoot your brand-new AR-15 and forget to pack a few magazines. Leaving even one magazine in the range bag can help prevent spoiling a good time. A staple gun and some extra staples can also be a good option for semi-permanent equipment in your range bag. Outside of these basics the rest of the items can flex to your training objectives. Some of the items I like to carry are extra ammunition, firearms, targets, dummy rounds can be thrown in the bag to ensure you have the equipment to meet your specific objectives. A final recommendation is the training log that I discussed earlier. Most ranges have a sitting area or snack bar where you can sit and digest your performance and document some of the session lessons learned.

Whether you are going to an indoor or outdoor range to enjoy your hobby or prepare for the dreaded required use of force in a Self Defense scenario; maximizing your time on the range is critical. Through the use of a training log, established training objectives, having a course of fire written down, and the right equipment, the likelihood of achieving a successful shooting range visit increase. For more ideas on shooting drills and equipment suggestions keep an eye on www.castleguardtraining.com. New content is added on a regular basis along with upcoming training courses.