TRI‐COUNTY GUN CLUBTcgc.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/TCGC-Rulebook.pdfEye and ear protection are required on all gun ranges at all times while shooting or within a shooting shelter

TRI‐COUNTY GUN CLUB

SAFETY AND RANGE RULES

General Range Rules

Effective April 21, 2020

Effective April 21, 2020 Page 2

General Range Rules General Range Rules ..................................................................................................................................... 2

General Rules of Conduct ......................................................................................................................... 2 Shooting Hours .......................................................................................................................................... 2 Basic Safety Rules ...................................................................................................................................... 3 General Rules for Gun Handling ................................................................................................................ 3

Transporting Your Gun Between Your Vehicle and a Range ................................................................ 4 Behavior at the Firing Line .................................................................................................................... 4 Determining Whether a Range is Cold .................................................................................................. 5 Rules for Hot and Cold Ranges .............................................................................................................. 5 Brass Recovery ...................................................................................................................................... 7 Setting Up a Chronograph .................................................................................................................... 7 Ammunition Restrictions ...................................................................................................................... 7 Cleaning Guns ....................................................................................................................................... 8

Guest Policy ............................................................................................................................................... 8 Kids, Pets, and General Behavior .............................................................................................................. 9 Approved Exceptions to the Rules ............................................................................................................ 9 Map of Tri‐County Gun Club ................................................................................................................... 10

General Rules of Conduct TCGC photo membership cards are the property of the Club and must be worn at all times in

plain sight and can only be used by the member whose name and photo appear thereupon. The card must be surrendered when requested by an RSO or any official of the Club.

Shooting on indoor and outdoor ranges can result in exposure to lead, which can cause health problems. The effects of lead are more pronounced in children and youths. All people (especially children) who spend time on a range (even if they are not shooting) should wash their hands before eating and before leaving the range.

Eye and ear protection are required on all gun ranges at all times while shooting or within a shooting shelter or bay.

Alcoholic beverages, marijuana, and illegal substances are forbidden on Club property. Persons appearing intoxicated, disoriented, or otherwise not in complete control may be asked by the Range Safety Officer or other Club officials to stop shooting or to leave the premises.

Obey the posted speed limit on all Club roads. Maximum speed limit is 10 mph.

Shooting Hours For outdoor ranges, shooting hours begin at 8:00am.

For unlighted outdoor ranges, the closing time is posted on signs at the main entry gate, at the first intersection leading to the lower ranges, and at the Action Range.

For lighted outdoor ranges, the closing time is posted at the individual range.

All shooting must stop at the designated closing time.

The Indoor Range is open 24 x 7 but might be booked for scheduled activities at any given time. Check the schedule on the calendar page of the TCGC website.


Basic Safety Rules These rules apply to all firearms (pistols, rifles, shotguns), air guns, BB guns, and archery equipment anytime a person is handling these items outside of a case!!! There are no exceptions to these rules and violations will be treated as serious.

The four basic rules of firearm safety are:

1. All guns are always loaded and we treat them that way. 2. Never point your gun, whether loaded or not, at anything you are not

willing to destroy. 3. Keep your finger off the trigger and alongside the frame until your sights

are aligned and you have made the decision to shoot. 4. Know your target and what is beyond it.

General Rules for Gun Handling The following diagram shows the general features you will find at most ranges. Action and shotgun ranges are different, so see the sections on those ranges for details.

NEVER allow your gun to point at any person regardless of whether the gun is loaded or not. This is one of the most basic of all actions to prevent accidents. ALWAYS be aware of where your gun is pointed!

A gun is considered loaded if any of the following conditions apply:

o There is a cartridge in the chamber.

o If an attached magazine contains any cartridges even though the chamber is empty.

o With a revolver, the cylinder has any cartridges inserted.

o A detachable magazine is inserted into the gun even if the magazine contains no ammunition.

A gun is considered unloaded if all of the following conditions apply:

o There are no cartridges in the chamber, cylinder, or fixed magazine. o If a magazine is detachable, the magazine is removed from the gun.


Loaded guns are permitted only on the firing line of a range appropriate to that type of firearm. Loaded guns are not permitted in the clubhouse, office trailer, Indoor Range ready room, or other location away from a firing line except for the following conditions:

o Concealed handguns carried by those who are licensed to carry them. Such guns must remain concealed.

o Law enforcement officers in uniform.

If you want to show someone a gun, take the gun to a range suitable for that gun and handle it only at the firing line, muzzle down range, during a hot range.

If a gun malfunctions and requires attention, the gun can only be worked on at a shooting bench during a hot range or at a red Safety Table at the Action Range.

o Reminder: On the Action Range, no ammunition allowed at a red Safety Table.

Anyone may call a cease fire on any range if the person observes an unsafe condition.

Transporting Your Gun Between Your Vehicle and a Range The following rules apply to all ranges except the shotgun ranges. See the section on shotgun ranges for details on those ranges.

All rifles, pistols, and shotguns must be cased when carried between a car and the range.

Requirements for cases: o The case must cover the receiver and trigger and must have enough rigidity so that the

trigger cannot be pulled from outside the case. o Plastic, metal, and soft‐sided cases are acceptable. o A gun sock or similar cloth covering is not acceptable because it does not sufficiently

protect the trigger.

No one is allowed to case, uncase, or otherwise handle an uncased gun unless they are on a firing line.

o If a gun is outside of a case in a location other than a firing line, that gun cannot be touched (including putting it into a case).

o If you locate an uncased gun away from a firing line, consult with a Range Officer before doing anything with the gun.

Open carry of handguns is permitted only for law enforcement officers in uniform or when prominently displaying their agency badges. The same applies to uniformed military personnel during official training.

o The Action Range has a limited exception to this rule. See the section on the Action Range for details.

Behavior at the Firing Line All firing must be done at a designated firing line, never up range or down range of the line.

Persons should never be down range of the firing line on a hot range whether or not others are shooting.

All shooting must be done in a controlled manner, aligning the sight system with the target.

Guns may be loaded only on the firing line just prior to shooting.

Guns (except for shotguns on the shotgun fields) must never be pointed above the backstop on open ranges. An accidental discharge could send a projectile beyond the Club boundaries.

Loaded guns must never be pointed at the baffles on an outdoor range or above the target area on the Indoor Range as an accidental discharge will damage Club property.

An “unattended gun” is one that is left uncased on the bench while the shooter is away from the bench for any reason. Any unattended gun at the firing line must have the magazine out, action


open, and a chamber flag inserted in the chamber (or in the breech end of the barrel on revolvers).

For all ranges except the Action Range, the maximum rate of fire is 2 shots per second.

The following activities are strictly forbidden: o Shooting anywhere outside of a designated range. o Shooting at wildlife, rocks, berms/backstops (without a target in place), buildings,

baffles, supports, signage, and anything that is not a Club‐approved target. o Use of exploding targets or incendiary targets. o Fully automatic fire, including three‐round bursts, crank‐fire, slide‐fire, and any

mechanical device that simulates automatic fire.

Determining Whether a Range is Cold Anytime you enter any range, you should first determine whether the range is hot or cold. Indicators of a cold range include:

No people are at the benches. People are either behind (i.e., up range of) the yellow cold‐range line or are down range handling targets.

Uncased guns on the benches have actions open and chamber flags inserted.

People might be down range handling targets.

A caution flag might be planted in prominent view if people are down range at the targets.

There might be a rotating warning light activated.

Some ranges have a digital countdown timer on a wall. If the timer shows 0:00, the range is probably cold. If the timer shows a number (such as 15:34) and is counting down, the range is probably hot.

If you see any of these indicators, assume the range is cold and follow the rules for a cold range.

Rules for Hot and Cold Ranges The following rules apply to ranges with fixed benches and to the Indoor Range. For shotgun and action ranges, see the sections for those ranges.

When you enter and the range is cold: o Remain behind (up range of) the yellow line unless going down range to set up targets. o Do not approach or touch any bench. o Do not uncase or handle any firearms. o Do not pick up any brass that is down range of the yellow line. See the rules for brass

pickup in a later section. o Do not set up a chronograph (yet). See the rules for chronographs in a later section. o You can attach targets to the target stands and go down range to set up the targets. Do

not touch any bench as you pass by the benches. o You can fill empty magazines with ammunition provided that you do not handle any

firearms and you can access the magazines without opening the cases of any firearms.

When you enter and the range is hot: o Do not go down range of the red firing line. o You can go to any empty bench and uncase your firearm.

Open the case so the muzzle points down range. If you open a case and see the muzzle pointing any direction other than down

range, do not touch the gun. Close the case, turn it appropriately, then open the case and remove the gun. Never remove a gun from a case while the gun is not pointed down range.


With any uncased firearm at a bench, when you are not firing the gun or more than an arm’s length away, leave the action open, magazine removed (if removable), with a chamber flag inserted.

o Handle firearms only at the benches, never at tables or other locations behind the benches.

o Always keep firearms pointed down range toward the backstop, never at or above the baffles.

If the range is hot and someone asks for a cold range, you should: o Acknowledge the request. o Finish your current task and then stop all

shooting. o Unload your firearm and remove any

detachable magazine. o Open the action and insert a chamber flag. o Move behind the yellow cold‐range line. o Audibly acknowledge to others that your

position is now safe. Shout out! Be heard. o Scan the other benches to ensure that other

people’s firearms are in a safe condition. Politely remind anyone who has not complied with the rules for cold ranges.

o Turn on the warning light (if the range has one) and declare that the range is cold.

o If the range uses a caution flag, set up the flag as you go down range to the targets. o For ranges using a countdown timer:

The timer usually uses a 20‐minute interval, which means the range stays hot for 20 minutes, then the warning lights and buzzer automatically engage declaring the range cold.

When the lights and buzzer turn on, stop firing and follow the rules to make the range cold.

During a cold range, the following rules are strictly enforced: o Any uncased gun on a bench must have the muzzle pointed down range, magazine

removed (if removable), and a chamber flag inserted. Barrels may rest on sandbags or stands. Rifles with bipods may rest on the bipod.

o No gun handling anywhere within the range. o Do not approach any bench except for brass recovery and chronograph setup as

outlined in later sections. o All persons not going down range must remain behind (up range of) the yellow line. o If the range is cold and you are ready to go hot: o Ensure that all people are behind (up range of) the yellow line (no one is down range at

the targets, picking up brass, or setting up a chronograph).

If the range uses a caution flag, be sure the flag is retrieved. o Audibly verify with all shooters that the range is ready to go hot. Shout out! Be heard. o When all shooters have acknowledged ready, turn off the warning light (if the range has

one) and declare that the range is hot. o If the range is using a countdown timer, reset the timer.


Brass Recovery Brass may be picked up at any range except the Indoor Range. See the section on the Indoor

Range for the policy on that range.

During a hot range: o You can pick up any brass that is behind (up range of) the red firing line. o If any brass is down range of the firing line, you can use a broom or similar tool to sweep

the brass up range of the firing line as long as no part of your body moves across the firing line.

During a cold range: o You can pick up brass that is behind (up range of) the yellow cold‐range line. o For any brass that is down range of the yellow line (which, by definition, includes any

brass down range of the red firing line): You must wait until all people have returned from handling targets down range. Communicate with others and get agreement to keep the range cold until you

are done picking up brass. Anyone not picking up brass must remain behind (up range of) the yellow line.

If the range uses a caution flag (indicating that people are down range at the targets), the caution flag can be retrieved during brass pickup.

If the range uses a red warning light, the light must remain on during brass pickup.

Once you have finished picking up brass, communicate with others that brass pickup is done.

Setting Up a Chronograph A range must be cold before placing a chronograph in front of a shooting bench.

Wait until all people have returned from handling targets down range, and wait until any brass pickup has been completed. Then communicate with others and get agreement to keep the range cold while you set up the chronograph.

To ensure that your chronograph is properly lined up with your shooting bench: o Ensure that no one is down range of the red firing line (including anyone pickup up

brass). o You can handle your firearm to verify the sight picture. The gun must be unloaded and

have a chamber flag inserted.

When you have properly set up the chronograph, communicate to others that chronograph setup is done.

Ammunition Restrictions The following types of ammunition cannot be used at any time on any range:

o 50 BMG o Simunition o Tracer o Incendiary o Paintball

o Airsoft plastic pellets o Any projectile containing an explosive charge o Any other type of ammunition that may

reasonably be expected to damage berms, backstops, or other Club property

Ammunition that is marked as “armor‐piercing,” or that attracts a magnet, or that uses a tungsten core in the bullet, cannot be used on any steel targets. Such ammunition can be used on paper and cardboard targets.

Do not leave unfired ammunition on the ground.

Do not place unfired ammunition (including duds) in the trash. Put these rounds in the cans marked “Duds” on each range or at the clubhouse.


Cleaning Guns Guns must be cleaned only at the firing line or in a designated safety area.

Cleaning of guns is not allowed: o In the clubhouse o In the ready room of the Indoor Range

Guns being cleaned must be pointed down range and should not point across the range or muzzle up. The only exception to this rule is cleaning muzzleloading guns that have closed breeches while on the Black Powder/Silhouette/Rimfire Range.

Guns may point down at a 45‐degree angle facing down range while cleaning.

Pick up all cleaning patches and dispose of them in the red safety cans. Do not put other materials in these cans. Be sure to close the cans tightly.

Guest Policy Each member can bring up to 3 guests.

o A guest is anyone who is not a member of TCGC. o Immediate family members who are not TCGC members still constitute guests.

However, this does not apply to family members who have a club membership via the Additional Household Members option.

If more than two members with three guests want to hold a special event (such as a birthday, a celebration, a Boy Scout function, or any other reason), use the following procedure:

o Consult the online calendar to be sure that the date and range you want to use are not already booked.

o Apply to the Operations Manager for authority to conduct such an event. o If the event meets the objectives of the Club, the Executive Range Officer will schedule

the event when range space is available. o Please plan such events as far in advance as possible to increase your chances of getting

the date you want.

Guests, including family members, must sign a release once during each visit to the club. o Releases are provided at the clubhouse and at each range. o It is the member’s responsibility to see that this is accomplished. o Guests under the age of 18 must have their parent or legal guardian sign a Junior

Release form. o If you bring a guest under the age of 18 who is not your child or ward, you must have

their parent or legal guardian sign the release beforehand. The Junior Release form can be printed from the TCGC website (www.tcgc.org).

Members are responsible for their guests with respect to knowing and observing the TCGC rules. If a guest violates a rule, the member will be subject to disciplinary action.

When not shooting or being instructed, guests must remain well behind the firing line during a hot range.

Guests shall not handle guns without the member being present.

Only one guest may shoot at a time. o Guests may shoot only when the sponsoring club member is not shooting and is

monitoring every shot of the guest from a position within an arm’s length. o Multiple guests may shoot at the same time as long as the group contains multiple TCGC

members and each guest that is shooting is supervised by a member.


Members and their guests must not split up to go to separate ranges.

Members and their guests may separate to place targets, score targets, retrieve targets, go for bathroom breaks, and retrieve or place gear in vehicles.

Kids, Pets, and General Behavior While children are welcome at the Club, they must wear eye and ear protection on any range

(whether shooting or not) and they must be carefully monitored at all times by their parents or guardians so as not to become a danger to themselves or an inconvenience to other shooters.

Children under the age of 8 are not allowed on the Indoor Range because of potential lead hazards.

If you bring a pet to the Club, keep pets safe and do not allow them to roam on a hot range.

Please clean up after your pet. Plastic bags are available outside the clubhouse.

Be courteous to all members and guests at all times. No music, loud talking, horseplay, or other behavior that is disturbing to others will be allowed.

Vehicles should not be parked in any manner that interferes with the flow of traffic or that obstructs access for emergency vehicles to any part of the premises. “No Parking” areas will be enforced during shooting hours. Loading zones will be enforced during normal business hours.

Approved Exceptions to the Rules Note: Organized activities might appear to violate some of the rules for TCGC ranges. These activities

are special circumstances that are granted exceptions by the Board of Directors. Seeing any

such exception does not give permission for any member to violate any of the range rules

outside of these organized, supervised activities.

TCGC hosts a number of law enforcement and military agencies. Because of the specialized needs of their formal training or qualification sessions, these groups are allowed to do a number of exercises that break our general safety or range‐specific rules. These exceptions include targets, gun type, and movement and have been reviewed by the Board of Directors and have been determined to be safe practices under the strict professional supervision in which these units shoot. These exceptions are not allowed unless they are carried out within official training sessions under the supervision of training officers.

Certain approved matches, tournaments, training classes, and organized activities have requirements that are not consistent with the general or specific rules. These special circumstances have been reviewed and approved by the Board of Directors and have been determined to be safe practices under the supervision of match and practice directors. These may involve guns generally prohibited at the range, certain types of movement, and specific targets. These exceptions are only allowed at approved supervised events.


Map of Tri-County Gun Club



General Purpose Range

(50‐100 Yard Range)



General Purpose Range (50-100 Yard Range) General Purpose Range (50‐100 Yard Range) ............................................................................................... 2

Acceptable Firearms ................................................................................................................................. 2 Layout of the Range .................................................................................................................................. 3 Additional Rules for the General Purpose Range...................................................................................... 4 Target Carriers........................................................................................................................................... 4 Hot / Cold Range Procedures .................................................................................................................... 4

Cold Range Procedures When Not Using the Countdown Timer ......................................................................... 5 Cold Range Procedures When Using the Countdown Timer ................................................................................ 6

Brass Pickup .............................................................................................................................................. 7 Using the Range Lights .............................................................................................................................. 8

Acceptable Firearms Acceptable:

Centerfire and rimfire rifles

Shotguns firing slugs

Handguns with a barrel length of 5.5 inches or longer

Handguns/firearms with a “stabilizing brace.”

Not acceptable:

Shot shells

Handguns with a barrel length shorter than 5.5 inches

Side Note: Why is this range called “General Purpose”?

Most other ranges at Tri‐County are associated with some specific purpose (Black Power Range;

Silhouette Range; Big Bore Range; Action Range; etc.). The 50‐100 yard Range is called “General

Purpose” simply to indicate that this range does not associate with any specific discipline. The

name is not meant to imply anything about the types of activities you can do at this range.


Layout of the Range


Additional Rules for the General Purpose Range In addition to the general rules for safe gun handling, the following additional apply:

Never point a gun at or above the overhead baffle.

Lanes 1 and 30 have no benches. Use these positions if you want to shoot prone.

Maximum rate of fire is 2 rounds per second. No rapid fire is allowed on this range.

When finished shooting, pick up all spent brass. You can donate unwanted brass to the Club by placing the brass in the designated container.

Target Carriers Attach targets to the panels on the target

carrier.

Do not place a target over the middle post of the carrier.

Targets must not extend above or below the edges of the target carrier.

Place the target carriers in the holders at the 50‐yard and 100‐yard lines.

When finished shooting, retrieve all target carriers from the target line.

Targets on carrier

Base for carrier

50‐yard target line 100‐yard target line

Hot / Cold Range Procedures Anytime you enter a range, you must first determine whether the range is hot or cold.

Details indicating that the range is hot:

You are the only person on the range, or

People are standing at the shooting benches.

People are shooting.

The two yellow safety flags are sitting in their holders at the sides of the shelter.

The countdown timer on the wall is running.

The indicators for a cold range are turned off (red flashing lights overhead; audible tone).

Details indicating that the range is cold:

Guns are placed on the benches with actions open, chamber flags inserted, and no one is standing at the benches.

Red flashing lights are activated overhead.

One or both of the yellow safety flags are placed in the holders under the overhead baffle.

People are down range attending to targets and/or people are standing behind the yellow line under the shelter.


Placement of the yellow safety flag during a hot range.

Placement of the yellow safety flag during a cold range.

If you arrive while the range is hot:

You can claim a bench.

Uncase and handle firearms only at the bench.

Prepare targets on a target carrier in preparation for the range going cold.

If you arrive while the range is cold:

Do not approach a bench.

Stay behind the yellow line.

Do not handle any firearms. Leave all guns in their cases.

Prepare targets on a target carrier and take the carrier down range to an open lane.

Fill magazines with ammunition as long as you: o Don’t need to handle any firearms to access the magazines or ammunition, and o Stay behind the yellow line.

Cold Range Procedures When Not Using the Countdown Timer When the countdown timer is not in use, you can activate the cold range indicators manually using any one of the switches located on the vertical posts.

Note: If you are alone on the range, always turn on the cold range indicators when the range is cold. You never know if another person will arrive while you are down range, and you want any new arrivals to know that the range is cold.


Cold Range Procedures When Using the Countdown Timer

When more than a few people are using the range, the countdown timer provides a convenient way to manage the range condition.

The timer counts down from 20 minutes. When the timer reaches zero, the cold range buzzer sounds and the cold range lights begin flashing, indicating a transition to a cold range.

If you are shooting, cease fire and prepare your bench for a cold range.

Note: It’s good etiquette to watch the timer, note when it is approaching zero, and begin preparation for a cold range shortly before the timer reaches zero. This facilitates the transition to cold range.

The control panel for the countdown timer is located next to door on the right‐hand side of the range (when facing down range).

To turn on the timer, or to restart the timer after a cold range interval, use the following steps:

1) Press the RESTART ALARM, TIMER RESET button.

2) Press the TIMER START button.

If the range is cold and you want to discontinue using the timer, simply press the RESTART ALARM, TIMER RESET button.

If the timer is running and you want to stop it before it runs down, press the RESTART ALARM, TIMER RESET button.

Note: If you try to reset the timer and it won’t reset, check the switches on the vertical posts to see if one of them is left in the On position. All of these switches must be Off for the timer to work properly.


Brass Pickup When the range is hot, you can pick up any brass located behind the red firing. Do not reach forward of the red firing line during a hot range.

When the range is cold:

Do not pick up any brass until all people have returned from servicing targets down range.

Announce that you want to pick up brass and get confirmation from others before moving forward.

Pick up brass only down range of the red firing line.

Do not pick up any brass between the yellow and red lines. You can pick up this brass during a hot range.


Using the Range Lights The General Purpose Range has an array of lights that allow for shooting after sundown.

Note: Laws and policies for the surrounding area prohibit shooting after 9:00 PM.

The control panel for the lights is located next to door on the right‐hand side of the range (when facing down range).

The controls include the following:

Shooting bench lights

Baffle lights (illuminate the 50‐yard target line):

o Bays 1‐10 o Bays 11‐17 o Bays 18‐22 o Bays 23‐30

Standing lights (illuminate the 100‐yard target line):

o Bays 1‐15 o Bays 16‐60

To turn on any of these lights, rotate the appropriate timer switch to set the desired number of minutes. The lights turn off automatically when the designated number of minutes has elapsed.

To manually turn off the lights, rotate the control to zero.



Big Bore Range

(200‐300 Yard Range)



Big Bore Range (200-300 Yard Range) Big Bore Range (200‐300 Yard Range) .......................................................................................................... 2

Acceptable Firearms ................................................................................................................................. 2 Layout of the Range .................................................................................................................................. 3 Additional Rules for the Big Bore Range ................................................................................................... 4 Managing Targets ...................................................................................................................................... 5

Putting Up Targets ................................................................................................................................................ 5 Using the Target Lights ......................................................................................................................................... 7

Bunker with Hanging Steel Targets ........................................................................................................... 8 Managing the Firing Line ........................................................................................................................... 9

A Few General Points .......................................................................................................................................... 10 Firing Line Lights ................................................................................................................................................. 10 Section 1 – Lanes 2‐5 .......................................................................................................................................... 10 Section 1 – Lanes 6‐10 ........................................................................................................................................ 11 Section 1 – Prone Area in Front of Shelter ......................................................................................................... 11 Section 1 – Offhand Area in Front of Shelter ...................................................................................................... 12 Section 2 – Lanes 11‐19 ...................................................................................................................................... 12 Section 2 – Prone Area in Front of Shelter ......................................................................................................... 13 Section 2 – Offhand Areas in Front of Shelter .................................................................................................... 13 Leaving Your Gun at the Bench ........................................................................................................................... 14 Cold Range Flags ................................................................................................................................................. 14


Centerfire and rimfire rifles

Shotguns firing slugs

Scoped handguns with a barrel length of 5.5 inches or longer

Handguns with a “stabilizing brace.”

Not acceptable:

Shot shells

Handguns with no scope and/or a barrel length shorter than 5.5 inches


Layout of the Range


Additional Rules for the Big Bore Range Generally speaking, consider this range as always hot.

o The range might occasionally go cold for special circumstances, such as setup for special events, wildlife on the range, or some need to walk forward of the firing line.

o Therefore, as with any range, whenever you arrive, always take note of whether the range is hot or cold and conduct yourself appropriately.

Use only the target carriers at the 200‐ and 300‐yard lines or the steel plates in the bunker. o The target carriers at 100 yards are for law enforcement and scheduled events only. o Do not place any targets at the 100‐yard line.

Do not point a gun at or above the overhead baffle.

Maximum rate of fire is 2 shots per second. No rapid fire permitted on this range.

If you are using a rimfire rifle, or a centerfire rifle or pistol using ammunition with a muzzle velocity of less than 1300 feet per second, you can fire at the 300‐yard targets only from the prone position or sitting on the ground, not from any of the benches.


If the gates to this range are closed, then the 600‐yard range is in use. Do not enter this range when the gates are closed.


Managing Targets This range is the only range at Tri‐County where the targets can be serviced while the range is hot. This is because the target stands reside in a sunken pit.

Putting Up Targets

1. Drive down the side road to the target line. 2. Locate your lane number. 3. Attach a target to the target backing on the

stand using your own staple gun.

Note: Targets should not extend beyond the target backing.

4. Remove the locking pin at the base of the target stand.

Note: The locking pin often is covered with thick grease. It is recommended that you wear gloves or use a paper towel or something to protect your fingers from getting grease on them. You might also want to have some towelettes or something to clean grease off your fingers.


5. Push the target stand up into the firing position. Push it all the way up until it stops.

When retrieving targets after you are finished shooting:

1. Pull the target stand down. 2. Remove the target from the backing.

3. Replace the locking pin at the base to secure the stand in the down position. (Again, be careful of the grease.)


Using the Target Lights The target lines have lights that illuminate the targets and the walkways. The controls are located on the concrete wall at the beginning of the walkway.

200 yard target line:

300 yard target line:


These controls are timers, so the lights will turn off when the indicated number of minutes have expired.

Bunker with Hanging Steel Targets At the far right of the 300‐yard target line (just right of lane 19) there is a small bunker containing three hanging steel targets. The bunker is 265 yards from the firing line. You can shoot at these targets from any lane that has a clear view of the bunker.


The bunker has lights that illuminate the hanging targets. The switch is located in the firing line area behind the stove. Move the large black handle upward to turn on the lights. Be sure to turn off the lights when you are finished shooting.

Note: Do not use steel‐core or any kind of armor‐piercing bullets when shooting at these steel targets.

The warning signs pictured at right have a magnet at the lower right corner of the sign. You can test your ammunition with these magnets.

If the bullets are attracted to the magnet, do you use them on the steel targets.

Managing the Firing Line To explain how to manage the firing line, this rulebook divides the firing line into two sections, as shown below.


A Few General Points Signs on the benches indicate which target lanes to use. Use the indicated target lane. Do not

cross lanes.

If a bench has no lane number, or says “Gear Only,” do not shoot from this bench.

A bench might have the designation of “LH” or “RH” (as in “5 LH” or “5 RH”). This means that two benches align with one target lane, and, depending on whether you are a left‐handed or right‐handed shooter, you will use one or the other bench as appropriate for right‐ or left‐handed shooting.

Firing Line Lights

There are lights to illuminate the firing line. You can control them with timer switches located near the doors. There are three switches. Each switch controls a different section of the firing line.

Section 1 – Lanes 2-5 Target lane 1 is not in use. Target lanes start with lane 2.

The third bench from the left is not used. Do not shoot from this position.

For benches designated RH or LH, use the appropriate side of the bench for right‐handed or left‐handed shooting.

If a bench is not designated RH or LH, you can shoot from either side of the bench.

It is OK to shoot if: o People are using the prone area under the shelter in Section 2. o People are shooting anywhere in section 2 (benches, prone, or offhand areas in lanes 11

through 19 on the other side of the long concrete wall).

Shooting cannot take place if anyone is in the prone or offhand areas in front of section 1 (lanes 2 through 10).


Section 1 – Lanes 6-10 This area is intended for prone shooting under the shelter.

The available target lanes for prone shooting are lanes 6 through 9.

This part has only one bench, which aligns with target lane 10.

Shooting can take place in the prone lanes while benches are in use in any section.

It is OK to shoot if people are shooting anywhere in section 2 (benches, prone, or offhand areas in lanes 11 through 19 on the other side of the long concrete wall).


Section 1 – Prone Area in Front of Shelter This area can be used for prone shooting as long as no one is shooting from under the shelter or

in the offhand area in section 1 (lanes 2 through 10).

It is OK to use this area if people are shooting in section 2 (benches, prone, or offhand areas in lanes 11 through 19 on the other side of the long concrete wall).


Section 1 – Offhand Area in Front of Shelter This area can be used for standing, sitting, or prone shooting as long as no one is shooting from

under the shelter or in the prone area in section 1 (lanes 2 through 10).


Section 2 – Lanes 11-19 Benches indicate the target lane numbers.

For benches designated RH or LH, use the appropriate side of the bench for right‐handed or left‐handed shooting.

If a bench is not designated RH or LH, you can shoot from either side of the bench.


It is OK to shoot if people are shooting anywhere in section 1 (benches, prone, or offhand areas in lanes 2 through 10 on the other side of the long concrete wall).


Section 2 – Prone Area in Front of Shelter

This area can be used for prone shooting as long as no one is shooting from the benches or the offhand areas for section 2 (lanes 11 through 19).


Section 2 – Offhand Areas in Front of Shelter

These areas can be used for standing, sitting, or prone shooting as long as no one is shooting from the benches or the prone area in section 2 (lanes 11 through 19).



Leaving Your Gun at the Bench

Anytime you leave the bench (such as to service targets or to use the restroom), be sure the gun is in a cold range condition:

Unloaded

Magazine removed

Chamber flag inserted

Alternatively, you can unload and case the gun.

Cold Range Flags

Note that there are two yellow cold range flags at this range. These are stored next to one of the doors behind the firing line.

There may be unusual circumstances where this range must go cold. Use the flags under these conditions.



High Power Range

(600 Yard Range)



High Power Range (600 Yard Range) High Power Range (600 Yard Range) ............................................................................................................ 2

Acceptable Firearms ................................................................................................................................. 2 Layout of the Range .................................................................................................................................. 3 Additional Rules for the High Power Range .............................................................................................. 4 Managing Targets ...................................................................................................................................... 5 Managing the Firing Line ........................................................................................................................... 5 Firing Line Lights ........................................................................................................................................ 6 Leaving Your Gun at the Bench ................................................................................................................. 6 Cold Range Flag ......................................................................................................................................... 6


Rifles capable and equipped to accurately fire 600 yards

Not acceptable:

Handguns

Shotguns

Any firearm deemed unsuitable by the Discipline Chair


Layout of the Range


Additional Rules for the High Power Range The High Power Range uses one of the target lines for the Big Bore Range (200‐300 Yard Range)

and shoots over the parking lot and firing line for the Big Bore Range. Therefore, whenever the High Power Range is active, the Big Bore Range is closed as well as the Sporting Clays shotgun range and the Shotgun Patterning Board.

The High Power Range is used only for scheduled supervised events. Therefore, the High Power Range is not available for general use.

Use only the target carriers at the 300‐yard line of the Big Bore Range. Do not use the 200‐yard line.


Managing Targets During supervised events, the Range Officer sends a crew down to the target line to manage the targets. The crew stays in radio contact with the Range Officer. If you need to manage any of your targets, talk to the Range Officer.

Managing the Firing Line

The Range Officer supervises all use of the High Power Range. Always follow the instructions of the Range Officer.

The firing line provides: o Benches for seated shooting. o Platforms for prone shooting.

The gravel areas in front of the firing line can be used for prone shooting. o Do not enter these areas unless authorized by the Range Officer. o Do not enter these areas if anyone is shooting from the firing line under the shelter.


Firing Line Lights There are two light switches for the firing line.

Middle door There is a single light switch. This turns on all of the lights over the firing line.

Left door There is a dual light switch. One switch turns on all of the lights over the firing line. The other switch turns on one light directly over the shelf in the back (directly over the light switch).

Leaving Your Gun at the Bench Anytime you leave the bench, be sure the gun is in a cold range condition:

Unloaded

Magazine removed

Chamber flag inserted

Alternatively, you can unload and case the gun.

Cold Range Flag If the yellow cold range flag is deployed:

Do not handle any firearms.

Do not approach or touch any bench or platform.

Stay behind the yellow line unless performing a task authorized by the Range Officer.

Follow all instructions from the Range Officer.



Conventional Pistol Range



Conventional Pistol Range Conventional Pistol Range ............................................................................................................................ 2

Layout of the Range .................................................................................................................................. 3 General Rules ............................................................................................................................................ 4 Procedures for Concealed Carry ............................................................................................................... 4 Target Carriers........................................................................................................................................... 5 Hot / Cold Range Procedures .................................................................................................................... 6 Countdown Timer ..................................................................................................................................... 7

Acceptable firearms:

Handguns firing cartridges up to and including .50 caliber

.22 rimfire rifles (including .22 Magnum) and .17 rimfire rifles

Handguns with a “stabilizing brace.” Calibers are restricted to straight‐wall pistol calibers and some bottleneck pistol cartridges such as 5.7x28, .357 Sig, 7.62x25, .25 and .32 NAA, and .400 CorBon.

Not acceptable:

Firearms that use bottleneck rifle cartridges (other than .17 rimfire)

Handguns that fire straight‐wall cartridges intended for rifles (example: .45‐70)

Shot shells


Layout of the Range


General Rules Maximum rate of fire is 2 rounds per second. No rapid fire allowed on this range.

Drawing and firing from the holster is not permitted.


Note that lanes 25 and 26 are permanently closed.

Procedures for Concealed Carry If you are licensed to carry a concealed handgun, and you arrive at the range with your gun concealed, and you want to use this gun on this range, use the following practices to extract your concealed handgun:

Stand at the shooting bench.

Remove the gun from the holster only once.

While moving the gun from the holster to the bench, do not allow the gun to point to the sides or rearward. Keep the gun pointed down range at all times.

Immediately unload the gun and insert a chamber flag. Do not leave a loaded firearm unattended on the bench.

When finished using this gun at the bench, reload with your carry ammunition, then return the gun to your holster only once. Keep the gun pointed in a safe direction at all times.

The gun must remain concealed at all other times while at TCGC.


Target Carriers Attach targets to the panels on the target

carrier.

Do not place a target over the middle post of the carrier.

If using the 25‐yard line, targets must not extend above or below the edges of the target carrier.

Place the target carriers in the holders at the 25‐yard and 50‐yard lines.

Use the screw adjustment to secure the carrier in the holder.

When finished shooting, retrieve all target carriers from the target line.

Target placement on carriers

25‐yard target line 50‐yard target line

Screw adjustment for target carrier







The yellow safety flag is sitting in its holder next to the RSO station.

The indicators for a cold range are turned off (red flashing lights overhead; audible tone).


Guns are placed on the benches with actions open, magazines removed (if removable), chamber flags inserted, and no one is standing at the benches.

Red flashing lights are activated overhead.

An audible tone is sounding.

The yellow safety flag is placed in its holder in front of lane 14.












Prepare targets on a target carrier and take the carrier down range to an open lane.

Fill magazines with ammunition as long as you don’t need to handle any firearms to access the magazines or ammunition.


Anytime you want to go down range, you must activate the cold range indicators even if you are the only person using the range. (You never know who might arrive while you are down range attending to your targets.)

To activate the flashing warning lights, use one of the switches located on the vertical posts along the shooting benches.

Countdown Timer There is a digital countdown timer on one wall.

The timer counts down from 20 minutes. When the timer reaches zero, the cold range buzzer sounds and the cold range lights begin flashing, indicating a transition to a cold range.

Note: it’s good etiquette to watch the timer, note when it is approaching zero, and begin preparation

for a cold range shortly before the timer reaches zero. This facilitates the transition to cold

range.


The control panel for the timer is located on the wall behind the RSO station.

To activate the timer, or to restart the timer after a cold range interval, press the Timer Re‐Start button. A bell rings for a few seconds and the timer sets to 20 minutes and begins counting down.

If after a cold range interval you don’t want to use the timer anymore, press the button Red Lights Off, No Timer. This turns off the cold range warning lights without restarting the timer.

Notes:

Once you start the timer, there is no way to manually turn it off. You must just let it count down to zero at which time it will trigger the bell and warning lights for a cold range. Then press the Red Lights Off, No Timer button to turn off the cold range warning lights.

If the cold range lights do not turn off after pressing the Red Lights Off, No Timer button, it probably means that one of the switches along the shooting bench is turned on. Turn off all of the switches, then press the Red Lights Off, No Timer button again.



Short Distance Pistol Range



Short Distance Pistol Range Short Distance Pistol Range .......................................................................................................................... 2

Acceptable Firearms ................................................................................................................................. 2 General Rules ............................................................................................................................................ 2 Layout of the Range .................................................................................................................................. 3 Short Bays ................................................................................................................................................. 3 Long Bay .................................................................................................................................................... 4

Controls Inside the Long Bay ................................................................................................................................ 5 Procedures for Concealed Carry ............................................................................................................... 6

Note: The Short Distance Pistol Range is not part of the Action Range. No special certification is needed.


Handguns firing cartridges up to and including .50 caliber

Handguns with a “stabilizing brace.” Calibers are restricted to straight‐wall pistol calibers and some bottleneck pistol cartridges such as 5.7x28, .357 Sig, 7.62x25, .25 and .32 NAA, and .400 CorBon.

Not acceptable:

Firearms that use bottleneck rifle cartridges

Handguns that fire straight‐wall cartridges intended for rifles (example: .45‐70)

Rifles (even those that fire pistol cartridges)

Shotguns and any type of shot shell

General Rules Maximum rate of fire is 2 rounds per second. No rapid fire is allowed on this range.



Layout of the Range The Short Distance Pistol Range consists of four short bays and one long bay.

Short Bays

The short bays are 7 yards long (21 feet).

Place targets on the target carrier.

Only paper and cardboard targets are allowed.

Use the hand crank to move the target forward and back. o Be sure to disconnect the rubber tie‐down before turning the hand crank. o Replace the rubber tie‐down when you leave the bay.


Long Bay

The long bay are 10 yards long (30 feet).

Place targets on the target carrier.


Controls Inside the Long Bay Inside the bay there are controls for a light and the target carrier.

The light illuminates the targets down range.

To move the target carrier, use the button panel at the lower right front of the bench.

Top button: Moves the carrier down range. The carrier will stop automatically when it reaches the end of the bay.

Middle button: Stops movement of the carrier. Use this button if you want to stop the carrier anywhere in the middle part of the bay.

Bottom button: Moves the carrier up range. The carrier will stop automatically when it reaches the bench.


Procedures for Concealed Carry If you are licensed to carry a concealed handgun, and you arrive at the range with your gun concealed, and you want to use this gun on this range, use the following practices to extract your concealed handgun:

Stand at the shooting bench.

Remove the gun from the holster only once.

While moving the gun from the holster to the bench, do not allow the gun to point to the sides or rearward. Keep the gun pointed down range at all times.

Immediately unload the gun and insert a chamber flag. Do not leave a loaded firearm unattended on the bench.

When finished using this gun at the bench, reload with your carry ammunition, then return the gun to your holster only once. Keep the gun pointed in a safe direction at all times.

The gun must remain concealed at all other times while at TCGC.



Action Range



Action Range Action Range ................................................................................................................................................. 2

Acceptable Firearms ................................................................................................................................. 2 Layout of the Action Range ....................................................................................................................... 3 General Rules for the Action Range .......................................................................................................... 4 Features of an Action Bay ......................................................................................................................... 5 Red Safety Table ........................................................................................................................................ 7 The 180 Degree Rule ................................................................................................................................. 8

Bay 5 – Special Case .............................................................................................................................................. 9 Targets..................................................................................................................................................... 10

Prohibited Targets .............................................................................................................................................. 10 Target Placement ................................................................................................................................................ 10

Long Guns on the Action Range .............................................................................................................. 12 Guests ..................................................................................................................................................... 12


Handguns

Rifles firing handgun ammunition

Shotguns

Handguns/firearms with a “stabilizing brace.” All cartridge and caliber restrictions for the Action Range still apply.

Not acceptable:

Centerfire rifles

Handguns that fire rifle‐caliber ammunition

A list of approved cartridges is posted on the Stat Shack wall and on the TCGC website.


Layout of the Action Range


General Rules for the Action Range In addition to the general rules for safe gun handling, the following additional rule apply:

When you arrive at the Action Range: o Put on eye protection before exiting your vehicle. Many bays at the Action Range use

steel targets. Bullet fragments can fly over the berms at any time. o Ear protection is recommended before you exit your vehicle.

No shooting from outside the entrance of a bay.

No handling of uncased firearms outside of a bay.

Inside a bay, no gun handling whatsoever while any person is down range of your location. o Do not set a gun on a table while you are (or anyone else is) standing down range of the

table. Always walk around to the up‐range side of the table before setting a gun down.

Never point a gun above the top of the berm. o The baffles on the side berms are considered “above the berm.” These baffles protect

against bullet fragments but are not considered “bullet proof.” So do not point your gun at the baffles.

o If the end berm has a hill, the hill is considered “above the berm.”

Avoid pointing your gun at the ground below the bottom edge of the berm. A bullet can ricochet and go outside of club property.

Note: The one exception to the rules about the muzzle above/below the berm is with a

double‐action revolver during a combat reload. In this circumstance, the muzzle can

point above/below the berm only while the cylinder is open.

Rapid fire is allowed as long as it is controlled and sighted. o Sighted fire also includes:

Use of a laser sight Proprioception (point shooting) at close ranges

o If a person is not hitting the targets, that person needs to slow down and/or use a different sighting method.

Multiple certified members may shoot at the same time as long as they are all on the same firing line.


Regarding holstered guns (other than concealed carry): o Inside of a bay, holstered guns may be carried loaded by an Action Range certified

person even when not shooting. Uncertified members/guests must leave their guns unloaded when not shooting.

o Outside of a bay, holstered guns must be unloaded (empty chamber, magazine removed, hammer down). You must remain within the Action Range area.

o Outside of the Action Range area, open carry is not allowed except for uniformed law enforcement officers.

o When drawing from concealed carry, be especially conscious not to break the 180‐degree rule. When drawing from a cross draw holster, shoulder holster, or small‐of‐the‐back

holster, it may be necessary to turn the body so the muzzle never points at others in the bay and so the 180‐degree rule is not violated.

Features of an Action Bay Shelter: Each bay has a shelter under which are

tables and a trash can.

Do not handle any firearms under the shelter while any person is down range of the shelter.

Tables: In addition to tables under the shelter, a bay may have one or more tables out in the bay.

You can move these tables wherever you like within the bay.

Barrels: Bays typically contain large plastic barrels. You can use these barrels as follows:

As obstacles or cover during competition or tactical drills

As tabletops on which to set guns and supplies

Stacked two high to create a taller object

Move barrels from one bay to another

Do not use the barrels as targets or as target stands. Do not shoot the barrels.


Target stand for cardboard targets

Fresh sticks for the target stands

Target stands for steel targets

Moveable barricade Shoot house


Dueling tree (resides in Bay 4)

Spinner target (resides in Bay 5)

Red Safety Table Each bay has a red Safety Table inside its own alcove somewhere near the entrance of the bay.

The person using the Safety Table must stand completely within the alcove before uncasing or otherwise handling a gun.

The gun must always stay pointed at the wall of the alcove behind the table.

Absolutely no ammunition (real, dummy, or snap caps) or anything resembling ammunition is allowed at the Safety Table. This means:

o No ammunition on the table. If your range bag, gun case, or any other container is sitting on the table, the container can have no ammunition in it.

o No ammunition on your belt, in your pockets, or otherwise on your person.


o If your range bag or other container is sitting on the ground, it cannot contain ammunition. Remove any ammunition from the container and set the ammunition elsewhere (such as on the table under the shelter) before bringing the container to the Safety Table.

The Safety Tables may be used for: o Casing, uncasing, and holstering of unloaded guns. o Cleaning, repair, and maintenance of unloaded guns and accessories. o Practicing insertion and removal of unloaded magazines. o Practicing the draw and dry fire of unloaded guns even when people are down range in

the bay as long as the muzzle tracks only between your holster and the wall behind the Safety Table.

o Any other reasonable activity with an unloaded gun and unloaded magazines.

The 180 Degree Rule Firearms must always point down range in the general direction of the end berm of a bay. Wherever the shooter is standing, there is an imaginary line parallel with the end berm. This is the 180 degree line. You can point a firearm anywhere within this 180‐degree arc.

If your gun points anywhere behind the 180 degree line, you can be subject to immediate dismissal from the Action Range.

The 180 degree line is an “absolute” measurement. This means that, if a shooter turns to one side, the 180 line does not turn with the shooter but remains parallel with the end berm.

Note: The most frequent violation of the 180‐degree rule occurs not while someone is shooting but

when someone finishes shooting and then turns and walks up range with gun in hand.

Therefore, when you are finished shooting, either holster the gun before turning or be especially

conscious to keep the gun pointed down range while walking.


Bay 5 – Special Case Bay 5 has a different construction than the other bays in the Action Range. With Bay 5, there are two berms that can serve as an end berm. Depending on your setup, you have three options for a 180 line.

Option #1

Option 2

Option #3


Targets Prohibited Targets

Any targets that tilt, rotate, or spin that could cause bullets or shot to ricochet and leave the bay.

Targets with horizontal round bars of one inch or greater diameter.

Any angled surfaces that could cause bullets or shot to ricochet and leave the bay.

Replace your steel targets if they become pitted, cratered, or penetrated.

Target Placement Place targets so that the distance between the target and the point of bullet impact with the

berm is 10 feet or less. o This means the base of the target stand must essentially be even with the bottom edge

of the sloping berm. o Pay attention to the angle at which you are shooting at the target. A target location

might be fine from one angle but improper from a different angle. See the following illustrations.

Do not place targets on barrels, tables, or other club property. Barrels and tables are not target stands.

Place targets at an appropriate height so that bullets impact in the berm. o Do not place targets too high so that bullets pass over the top of the berm. o Do not place targets on the ground or low enough such that bullets skip off the ground.

Exceptions may be granted by the Board of Directors for certain approved shooters to place targets further away from the berms for practice in approved disciplines. These activities have been determined by the Board to be safe under specific circumstances and the members permitted to do this will be provided with a unique sticker on their badges. All bullets must still impact on the target or the berms.


Cardboard and paper targets: o Place targets so that shots pass between the wooden sticks, not hitting the sticks. o When finished shooting, remove all targets and cardboard. Deposit the debris in either

of the two large recycle bins outside of the bays.

Steel targets: o Place steel targets at least 7 yards (21 feet) away from the shooter and within 10 feet of

a berm. o Position steel targets perpendicular to the path of the bullet. Do not angle a steel target

in any way that would deflect rather than stop a bullet. o If your steel targets become pitted or damaged, discontinue use. o If you purchase or construct your own steel targets, the targets must use domestically

produced AR500 steel. (AR500 steel from China is not adequate.) o Steel targets are not allowed in bays 1, 11, and 12 due to ricochet hazards in adjoining

bays.


Long Guns on the Action Range Critical notes:

Combat rifles (such as AR15 and similar firearms) are not allowed on the Action Range except by special exemption for organized, sanctioned activities.

Certain rules for the regular shotgun ranges do not apply to shotguns used on the Action Range. Specifically:

o Carrying the shotgun from the car to the bay. On the Action Range, all long guns must be cased when transported to/from the car.

o Carrying an uncased shotgun within the bay. On the Action Range, the muzzle must always point down range toward the end berm, never above the berm.

General rules:

Tactical slings are not allowed because the muzzle of a long gun is too likely to cross other people and/or break the 180‐degree rule.

Many bays have rifle racks: o Any long gun in the rack must have a chamber flag inserted. o When placing a gun on a rack, you can set it muzzle up or muzzle down. Muzzle down is

preferred for the following reasons: The chamber flag stays in better. It’s much easier to control the muzzle direction when you place the gun in the

Shotguns:

All types of shotgun ammunition are allowed on the Action Range (birdshot, buckshot, slugs).

Do not use steel shot on steel targets.

Rifles:

Only rifles firing pistol‐caliber ammunition and .22 rimfire are allowed.

Guests In addition to the general club rules for guests, the Action Range has the following additional rules regarding guests:

Guests must be accompanied by a member who is Action Range certified.

Certified members must instruct their guests on all safety procedures.

The certified member must closely supervise the uncertified guests when they are shooting. The certified member should be within arm’s reach of the guest anytime the guest is shooting.

An uncertified person may shoot at the same time as another person only if the uncertified person is closely supervised by a certified member who is not shooting.

A certified member can supervise only one uncertified person at a time.



Black Powder – Silhouette – Rimfire Range



Black Powder – Silhouette – Rimfire Range Black Powder – Silhouette – Rimfire Range .................................................................................................. 2

Acceptable Firearms ................................................................................................................................. 3 Layout of the Range .................................................................................................................................. 4 Additional Rules for the Black Powder‐Silhouette‐Rimfire Range ............................................................ 5 Hot / Cold Range Procedures .................................................................................................................... 6 Black Powder Shooting ............................................................................................................................. 7 Paper Target Shooting .............................................................................................................................. 8 Steel Silhouette Shooting .......................................................................................................................... 9



Black powder (or black powder substitute) firearms, including: o Muzzle‐loading handguns and rifles (both percussion and flint ignition) o Cap‐and‐ball revolvers

All .22 and .17 rimfire rifles

Air rifles

For silhouette targets, centerfire rifles (smokeless powder) are limited to the following types of ammunition:

o Bullets must be either all lead or jacketed with exposed lead at the tip (soft point). Any bullet with a full copper jacket around the tip is not allowed.

o Pistol caliber ammunition (such as .357 Magnum, .44 Magnum, .44‐40 Winchester, and similar rounds)

o Rimmed rifle cartridges: Muzzle velocity below 2500 fps with cast lead or soft‐point bullets (such as .

30‐30 Winchester, .348 Winchester, .38‐55 Winchester, .45‐70 Government, and similar rounds)

Muzzle velocity above 2500 fps with cast lead bullets only (such as .30‐40 Krag, .303 British, 7.62 Russian, and similar rounds)

o Rimless rifle cartridges: Cast lead or soft‐point bullets (.35 Remington only) Cast lead bullets only (such as .300 Savage, .270 Winchester, .30‐06 Springfield,

.358 Winchester, and similar rounds) o 5.56mm/.223 ammunition:

Frangible bullets only! Silhouette targets must be 75 meters or further.

Not acceptable:

Handguns that use smokeless powder cartridges (centerfire and rimfire).

For centerfire pistol cartridges fired in a rifle, no cartridge more powerful than .44 magnum.

For centerfire rimless rifle cartridges, no belted or other magnum cartridges.

For steel silhouette shooting: o No handguns of any type. o No ammunition that uses fully jacketed bullets. o No ammunition that is marked as “armor‐piercing,” or that attracts a magnet, or that

uses a tungsten core in the bullet.


Layout of the Range Note: Range layout may change in 2020.


Additional Rules for the Black Powder-Silhouette-Rimfire Range In addition to the general rules for safe gun handling, the following additional apply:

Never point a gun at or above the overhead baffle.

Maximum rate of fire is 2 rounds per second. No rapid fire is allowed on this range.


The center rail under the shelter has notches like a rifle rack. Note that only muzzle‐loading rifles may use this rail as a rifle rack. Shooters using cartridge rifles may not use the center rail as a rifle rack.

Lane numbers: o This range has 11 numbered lanes. These lanes correspond to the longer (200‐meter)

portion of the shooting area.

Note: The benches at this range are movable and might not be located exactly on a

numbered lane. If you use the paper target stands, be sure that your bench

aligns with the same lane number as your target stand.

If you are shooting at silhouette targets, it is not necessary to align a bench with

a lane number as long as you are nominally shooting straight down range and

not at an angle such that bullets will hit the sides of the range.

o The shorter portion of the shooting area to the right (100 meters) does not have numbered lanes.

o The shelter over the shooting benches extends beyond the right‐hand edge of the shooting area. This extended area is used for storage of equipment. Do not use this area for shooting at targets.

The warming shack contains a wood stove and is used in cold weather. Be sure that no gunpowder comes inside the shack.


The Black Powder Office is used for special events involving black powder firearms.

Warming shack

Black Powder Office






The yellow safety flag is sitting in its holders in the center path in front of the line.

The indicators for a cold range are turned off (flashing lights overhead; audible tone).



Flashing lights are activated overhead.

An audible tone is sounding.

The yellow safety flag is placed in the holder under the shelter.












Do not handle any firearms. Leave all guns in their cases.

If you are using a target carrier, prepare targets and take the carrier down range to an open lane.

Fill magazines with ammunition as long as you: o Don’t need to handle any firearms to access the magazines or ammunition, and o Stay behind the yellow line.

To activate the cold range lights, use the switch on the post near the middle of the shelter.

Black Powder Shooting For black powder / muzzleloader shooting, the “loading area” is a shelf in the middle of the shelter that runs the entire length of the shelter. All loading and cleaning of muzzleloading firearms must be done in this loading area.


Rules for black powder shooting include:

No smoking under the shelter or within 10 feet of any black powder container.

Load guns only at the loading area, not at the firing line. Do not cap or prime in the loading area.

In the loading area, powder cans must be closed when not immediately in use. At all other places (on the firing line or in any buildings), powder cans must remain closed.

Guns must be carried muzzle up between the loading area and the firing line.

Cap or prime only on the firing line.

Containers of priming powder (cans, horns, etc.) must be closed and placed in a pouch or pocket before firing.

Flintlocks must have a shield on the side of the gun where the lock is located. Shooters must supply their own shields.

Wipe the bore of muzzleloaders between each shot. This should be done at the loading area.

Shooters shall not blow down the muzzle of a gun.

Use extreme caution when clearing black powder guns that will not fire. Always clear the gun at the firing line, not at the loading area.

You can fire black powder rifles at the steel silhouette targets. Do not fire handguns at the steel silhouette targets.

Paper Target Shooting Paper targets must be mounted on the club‐supplied target frames (see below).

When using the target frames, be sure that your shooting bench is situated on the same lane number as your target stand.

Paper targets may be placed at the following distances:

Minimum: 15 yards (air guns only)

25 yards (all other firearms)

Maximum: 100 yards

To place an air gun target closer than 25 yards, use a movable target stand. (You might have to look around to find one.)

g


Steel Silhouette Shooting Handguns of any type are not allowed for steel silhouette shooting.

The club‐supplied steel silhouette targets must be placed on the rails at the specified distances. Do not set the steel silhouette targets to any other distances on the ground.

Steel targets may be hung from the movable stands and can be set at any distances within the range between 40 meters (minimum) and 200 meters (maximum).


Only club‐supplied steel targets may be used on this range.

For the thicker (rifle‐caliber) animal targets, shooters may use any rifle action within the ammunition restrictions listed earlier in this section.

For the thinner (pistol‐caliber) animal targets, shooters may use only rimfire or pistol‐caliber ammunition (all fired from rifles).

To determine which silhouette targets are thick or thin, look at the example silhouettes under the shelter (pictured at right).

The 50M bird and 100M ram silhouettes are thicker. The other silhouettes are thinner.



Indoor .22 Rimfire Range



Indoor .22 Rimfire Range Indoor .22 Rimfire Range .............................................................................................................................. 2

Acceptable Firearms ................................................................................................................................. 2 Layout of the Range .................................................................................................................................. 3 General Rules ............................................................................................................................................ 4 Protection from Lead Contamination ....................................................................................................... 4 As You Enter the Building .......................................................................................................................... 5 Doors into the Range ................................................................................................................................ 5 Range Controls .......................................................................................................................................... 6

Lights and Ventilation System ............................................................................................................... 6 Overhead Heaters ................................................................................................................................. 6

Moveable Benches .................................................................................................................................... 7 Red Firing Line ........................................................................................................................................... 8 Target Stands ............................................................................................................................................ 9

Placement of Stands ............................................................................................................................. 9 Placement of Targets on the Stands ................................................................................................... 10 Attaching Targets to the Stands.......................................................................................................... 10

Other Features Inside the Range ............................................................................................................ 11 Hot Range / Cold Range Procedures ....................................................................................................... 11

Indicators of the Range Condition ...................................................................................................... 11 What to Do When Entering the Range ............................................................................................... 12 Transitioning the Range Condition ..................................................................................................... 12


.22 rimfire firearms (handguns and rifles) shooting any type of .22 rimfire ammunition except for .22 magnum.

Air rifles

Not acceptable:

.22 magnum firearms

All .17 rimfire firearms

All centerfire firearms


Layout of the Range


General Rules The indoor range is open 24 x 7 x 365. You can come to this range at any day or time when

there is not an organized activity taking place.

No one under that age of 8 years old is allowed into the range even if they are not shooting.

The ventilation system must be turned on anytime someone is using the range.

Always case and uncase firearms on a bench at the red firing line. Never handle firearms at the back of the range or in the classroom.

Keep the muzzle of your firearm pointed down range at all times. Do not allow your gun to point at the ceiling, floor, or walls even when casing and uncasing.

Maximum rate of fire is 2 rounds per second. No rapid fire allowed on this range.


Target stands remain in place at the end of the range. Do not move the target stands closer to the bench.

All shooting must take place at the red firing line. Do not move a bench forward to get closer to the target.

Register any guests that you bring. There are registration forms in holders just outside the main doors in the breezeway.

This range is under 24‐hour video surveillance.

Inside the classroom:

No uncased firearms

No loaded firearms (other than concealed handguns as per club policy)

No gun cleaning or maintenance

Note The Indoor Range is frequently used for classes, matches, and special activities. Many of these

activities have registered exemptions on range rules. Therefore, if you see something being

done during a special activity that does not conform to the rules in this document, do not

assume that you can do this same activity during normal use of the Indoor Range.

Protection from Lead Contamination Indoor ranges require more care to protect against lead contamination. Tri‐County has implemented many features to reduce lead exposure at the indoor range, including:

A high‐capacity ventilation system that draws air from the back of the range and expels it out the front of the range. This carries lead dust away from the main doors and the firing line

The range is professionally cleaned twice a month.

There is a large sticky pad on the floor just inside the doors to the range. This pad captures lead dust from the soles of your shoes as you leave the range.

There is a hand washing station near the main doors to the classroom. The soap dispenser provides soap that is specially formulated to remove lead. There is also de‐leading soap in the restrooms across the breezeway.

No one under the age of 8 is allowed on the range because young children absorb lead much more readily.

Regarding brass pickup, the indoor range is the only range at Tri‐County where you are directed to not pick up spent brass. Picking up brass, or sweeping the floor, or any such cleanup activity stirs up lead dust. Therefore, do not clean up your spent brass at the indoor range.


The following items/activities are prohibited inside the range or classroom:

Food or drink

Smoking, vaping, gum, or chewing tobacco

Chapstick, lipstick, makeup, eye drops

Anything that could be ingested or absorbed through the skin

If you bring any such items, please either leave them in your car or put them on the table outside the main doors to the classroom.

As You Enter the Building Restrooms are across the breezeway. The doors are unlocked even though they appear to have a keypad lock. Also, note that some of the soap dispensers provide de‐leading soap.

There is a table in the breezeway. Please put any food, water bottles, or other drinks on this table as food and drink are not allowing in the classroom or range.

If you have any guests, there are guest registration forms in holders in the breezeway next to the main doors.

Doors into the Range When you enter the range proper:

Please do not leave the doors open. This allows lead contamination into the classroom.

The doors often don’t close completely by themselves. Since the ventilation system works most efficiently when the doors are securely closed, please pull the doors completely shut.

Door partially open

Doors completely shut


Range Controls Lights and Ventilation System Just inside the doors you will find three switches that control the lights and ventilation system in the range.

Firing Line Lights Turns on the lights over the firing line.

Ventilation System Turns on the ventilation system and the lights over the targets. The ventilation system starts slow and ramps up over a few minutes. The green light overhead indicates that the ventilation system is turned on.

Cease Fire Strobe Turns on the rotating red light indicating a cold range.

Overhead Heaters Since the ventilation systems draws air from outside the building, the Indoor Range can get very cold during the colder months of the year. The overhead heaters can take the edge off the cold.

There are five control boxes for the overhead heaters. These control different sections of the firing line. Use the control box closest to your shooting lane.


To turn on a heater, use these steps:

1. Flip the rocker switch to the On position. The rocker switch is on the underside of the main control box.

2. Press the red Start button. 3. Optionally, tap the temperature

controls to set the level of heat. The arc of red LEDs indicates the setting.

Moveable Benches The benches on the Indoor Range are moveable tables. These are normally stored against the back wall of the range.


When setting up a bench, use the following guidelines:

Only move benches during a hot range.

During a cold range, do not touch any bench with your hands. This means: o Do not move a bench to the firing line or return a bench to the back wall. o Do not readjust the position of a bench. o Do not handle any firearms on the bench. o Do not place any objects on or pick up any objects from a bench.

Place the red legs of the bench on the red firing line centered on a lane number.

Orient the table so that the white legs are down range of the firing line.

When finished shooting, return the bench to the back wall.

Red Firing Line The red firing line is a little different at the Indoor Range than at other ranges around Tri‐County.

At all other ranges, the firing line is on the down‐range side (front side) of the bench. But at the Indoor Range, the firing line is on the up‐range side (back side) of the bench. This means that, technically speaking, while you are shooting, your hands are across the firing line.

For this reason, the following special considerations are in force during a hot range at the Indoor Range:

Always keep your feet behind the red firing line.

When handling firearms, always keep your hands over the bench top.

Do not reach forward of the front edge of the bench (down‐range side).


Target Stands Placement of Stands Target stands remain at the backstop. Do not move the stands closer to the firing line.

Only use targets that are a maximum of 12 inches square. Targets should not cover any of the crossbars on the target stand.

Prohibited Type of Target

Too large

Covers a crossbar

Acceptable Target

Maximum of 12” x 12”

Properly placed on the crossbars


Placement of Targets on the Stands The target stand allows for three positions for targets depending on the posture of the shooter:

Top For standing and bench rest

Middle For standing, bench rest, and kneeling

Bottom For sitting and prone (target position used only for air rifles)

Attaching Targets to the Stands The target stands have wood screws protruding forward. To attach a target to a stand, simply press the paper over the screws.

Do not put your thumbs directly over the screws!

Do not use staples to attach targets to the stands.


Other Features Inside the Range Rifle racks On both sides of the range there are rifle

racks. These are used only for air rifles during supervised activities.

These racks are not for general use.

Rake If, during a hot range, you drop an item and the item falls forward of the red firing line, you can use the rake to retrieve the item.

Do not sweep brass with the rake as this stirs up lead dust.

Dud can If you have a dud round, put the round in the coffee can.

Hot Range / Cold Range Procedures Anytime you enter a range, you must first determine whether the range is hot or cold.

Indicators of the Range Condition Details indicating that the range is hot:




The indicator for a cold range (red flashing light overhead) is turned off.



Red flashing light is functioning overhead.



What to Do When Entering the Range If you arrive while the range is hot:

You can claim an empty bench or move a bench to an unused lane.


Prepare targets while you wait for the range to go cold.


Do not approach an empty bench on the firing line.

Do not move a bench to the firing line.

Stay behind the yellow line unless placing a target on a stand.


Place a target on an unused lane. You will later move a bench to this lane when the range goes hot.

Fill magazines with ammunition as long as you don’t need to handle any firearms to access the magazines or ammunition.

Anytime you want to go down range, you must activate the cold range indicator even if you are the only person using the range. (You never know who might arrive while you are down range attending to your target.)

Transitioning the Range Condition To transition from hot to cold range:

1. Make your request known to other shooters. Be sure they hear you. 2. Get agreement from all other shooters to go cold. 3. Make preparations for cold range.

Finish any courses of fire.

Unload firearms and insert chamber flags (or, put firearms in cases).

All people move behind the yellow line. 4. When all preparations have been completed:

Turn on the Cease Fire Strobe.

Declare the range cold.

To transition from cold to hot range:

1. Ensure that all people are back from servicing targets and are standing behind the yellow line. 2. Request to go hot. Be sure everyone hears you. 3. Get agreement to change the condition. 4. Turn off the Cease Fire Strobe and declare the range hot.



Archery Range



Archery Range Archery Range ............................................................................................................................................... 2

Items Not Allowed .................................................................................................................................... 2 Layout of the Range .................................................................................................................................. 3 General Rules ............................................................................................................................................ 4 Managing the Firing Line ........................................................................................................................... 4 Crossbows ................................................................................................................................................. 5

Items Not Allowed Firearms (other than concealed handguns, which must remain concealed at all times on the

Archery Range)

Broadhead arrows even on personal targets

Crossbows that generate more than 200 ft‐lb of energy


Layout of the Range


General Rules Archers must shoot from a common firing line.

Archers must shoot at the target directly in front of them. No cross‐lane shooting.

Shafts must be spined appropriately to the bow being used.

Never nock, draw, shoot, or handle a bow while someone is down range.

Always point a bow down range with the arrow parallel to the ground when drawing it. o Never point a bow skyward (sky‐draw) when drawing it. o If you need to sky‐draw, your bow is too heavy and you should replace it with a lighter

bow.

Do not move or remove Club targets.

Managing the Firing Line

If you need to go down range (such as to manage targets, look for lost arrows, etc.), make the range cold before moving forward of the firing line.

Get agreement with all other archers to make the range cold.

Place your bow on the hanger in front of the target so others know you are down range.


Place the yellow safety flag in the holder down range.

Location of the yellow flag during a hot range.

Location of the yellow flag during a cold range.

Crossbows Crossbows are acceptable provided they do not generate more than 200 ft‐lb of energy.

Crossbows must remain pointed down range at a all times, including when being cocked and unloaded.

If not fired, the bolt must be removed and the crossbow uncocked.

Documents

TRI‐COUNTY GUN CLUBTcgc.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/TCGC-Rulebook.pdfEye and ear protection are required on all gun ranges at all times while shooting or within a shooting shelter