Range choice update request

Community Discussion Shoot the Breeze
1

I have not been getting enough range time in, and I am trying to rectify that. I originally did my shooting in Winslow, and when their outdoor ranges become too hot in Summer, I moved on to Shooters, which no longer runs a range. I most recently shot at Range 129 in Absecon. I was required to fill in some liability waiver forms, watch a video, and answer a questionnaire on it. IIRC that took about 25 minutes in total. Some of it seemed a little excessive, but I get that ranges need to take steps to limit their liability. So I was looking at their web site the other day on range use, and what they had posted there seemed to indicate that the process I described would need to be completed again in full for each and every visit. Can that possibly be true? I usually shoot for 1-1/2 - 2 hours. I honestly cannot see spending 25 - 30 minutes repeating the same material on each visit to be able to do that. If that is the case, do all ranges now require similar processes for every visit?

On another topic. I am having difficulty finding a range that allows practice with a shotgun loaded with shot-shells. Range 129 seems to allow only slugs. Many other ranges (even many of those set up for rifle practice) seem to not allow shotguns at all. Until recently, Tuckahoe Wildlife Management Area (MacNamara), which is very close to me, allowed shotgun practice, but the farking State of NJ has now restricted it to bow. I am considering joining the Atlantic County range just to be able to practice with my scattergun. Anyone know of any other ranges in N Cape May or S Atlantic County that will allow use of shotguns using shot? Thanks for any help.

2

It is common to have to watch the safety briefing at whatever range, but they should keep record that you’ve completed that and not need to do that each visit.

As far as the shotgun, the only thing indoor ranges may allow is slugs and buckshot. Birdshot has a bunch of issues such as a wide spread which can damage their track systems and the small lightweight pellets can ricochet erratically which is a safety issue. Then there is the airborne lead concern.

If you have a hunting license you can utilize the WMAs if you or someone you know has a thrower.

3

I shoot at Range 129 often. You should not have to repeat the process. It’s one and done

4

Very common with indoor ranges that they allow ONLY slugs; less common they’ll allow slugs and buckshot.

I know of ZERO indoor ranges that allow smaller shot than buckshot.

5

Thanks. Maybe the boilerplate on their website is in error.

6

Shotshells restricted to buck would be OK, but imo restricting shotguns to slugs only does not allow for adequate practice (or testing the gun with different buck loads, which is another purpose for range shooting along with skills development and maintenance).