Gun Range Etiquette: 15 Types of People Who Annoy Everyone

Shooting ranges should be havens of focus and discipline, but they’re often invaded by personalities that test your patience as much as your aim. From reckless safety violators to over-the-top showoffs, these characters can turn a relaxing practice session into pure frustration.

Here are 15 types of people you’ll meet at the range—and how to spot them before they wreck your day.

1. The Unsafe Novice

Safety is the absolute cornerstone of any shooting environment. Inexperienced shooters who don’t follow basic firearm protocols can transform a controlled range into a potential disaster zone. 

The most critical rules include always treating guns as loaded, never pointing a weapon at anything you don’t intend to destroy, and keeping your finger off the trigger until ready to shoot.

Red Flags to Watch For:

• Failing to wear proper eye and ear protection
• Inconsistent muzzle control
• Ignoring Range Safety Officer commands
• Handling firearms during a “cold range” period

2. The Know-It-All Instructor

Some self-proclaimed experts believe they can teach everyone everything about firearms, regardless of whether anyone asks for their advice. 

These individuals often interrupt other shooters, provide unsolicited critiques, and create an uncomfortable learning environment.

Telltale Signs:

• Loudly critiquing others’ techniques
• Interrupting shooters mid-practice
• Demonstrating excessive bravado
• Refusing to acknowledge different shooting styles

3. The Distraction King

Shooting ranges require intense concentration and minimal external stimuli. 

Individuals who engage in loud conversations, play music without headphones, or create unnecessary noise can compromise everyone’s safety and focus.

Disruptive Behaviors:

• Talking loudly during shooting sessions
• Using speakerphone
• Making sudden loud noises
• Failing to respect others’ concentration

4. The Equipment Showoff

While having quality gear is appreciated, some shooters transform the range into a personal exhibition space. 

They parade expensive weapons, constantly discuss technical specifications, and seek validation for their arsenal.

Showoff Characteristics:

• Bringing multiple high-end firearms
• Constantly comparing equipment
• Seeking attention through gear
• Minimizing others’ equipment choices

5. The Messy Shooter

Maintaining a clean shooting area is not just courteous—it’s a fundamental range requirement. 

Shooters who leave behind spent casings used targets, and general debris create additional work for range staff and fellow shooters.

Cleanup Violations:

• Leaving brass scattered everywhere
• Not disposing of used targets
• Ignoring range cleaning protocols
• Creating unnecessary mess

6. The Boundary Violator

Respecting personal space and designated firing lanes is crucial.

Shooters who infringe on others’ areas, touch equipment without permission, or fail to maintain proper distance create significant tension.

Boundary Issues:

• Entering others’ shooting lanes
• Touching someone else’s equipment
• Standing too close during the shooting
• Ignoring lane demarcations

7. The Competitive Wannabe

While friendly competition can motivate, some individuals transform every range session into an intense contest. 

These shooters constantly compare scores, criticize techniques, and create an unnecessarily aggressive atmosphere.

Competitive Red Flags:

• Constantly comparing shooting performance
• Making dismissive comments about others’ skills
• Turning practice into an ego-driven competition
• Lacking supportive attitude

8. The Unprepared Participant

Arriving at a shooting range without proper preparation demonstrates a lack of respect for the environment and other shooters. 

This includes forgetting essential safety gear, not understanding basic firearm operations, or failing to review range rules.

Preparation Failures:

• Missing eye and ear protection
• Unfamiliar with firearm mechanics
• Not understanding range commands
• Lacking basic safety knowledge

9. The Overly Anxious Newcomer

While being cautious is commendable, extreme anxiety can create uncomfortable situations for everyone present. 

These individuals might freeze, make sudden movements, or require constant reassurance.

Anxiety Indicators:

• Visibly shaking while handling firearms
• Requiring constant instructor intervention
• Making nervous, sudden movements
• Expressing excessive fear

10. The Rule Bender

Some shooters believe rules are suggestions rather than mandatory protocols. These individuals consistently push boundaries, ignore safety commands, and create potentially dangerous situations.

Rule-Breaking Behaviors:

• Ignoring Range Safety Officer instructions
• Attempting unauthorized firearm modifications
• Disregarding established range protocols
• Creating unnecessary risks

11. The Inappropriate Commentator

Shooting ranges are professional environments that require respect and focus. 

Individuals who make inappropriate comments, whether sexist, racist, or otherwise offensive, destroy the collaborative learning atmosphere.

Inappropriate Conduct:

• Making offensive remarks
• Creating uncomfortable social dynamics
• Failing to maintain a professional demeanor
• Disrupting inclusive environment

12. The Overconfident Veteran

Experience doesn’t automatically translate to superior behavior. Some long-time shooters develop an attitude that alienates newcomers and creates a hostile learning environment.

Veteran Attitude Problems:

• Dismissing beginner questions
• Displaying condescending behavior
• Refusing to offer constructive advice
• Creating intimidating atmosphere

13. The Gear Obsessed Collector

Every range has that one shooter who treats their equipment like a museum showcase rather than functional tools. 

These individuals arrive with an arsenal that would make a small armory look understocked, spending more time admiring their collection than practicing marksmanship.

Collector Characteristics:

• Bringing multiple expensive firearms
• More focused on equipment display than skill
• Constantly discussing technical specifications
• Treating guns like precious collectibles

14. The Unsupervised Minor

While some ranges allow supervised youth participation, uncontrolled or improperly supervised minors can create significant safety risks. Responsible ranges have strict age and supervision requirements to prevent potential accidents.

Critical Age-Related Rules:

• Handgun use is restricted to 21+ years old
• Long gun use allowed at 18
• A 21+ adult must accompany minors
• Minimum age, typically 10 years old, for shooting

15. The Intoxicated Participant

Substance impairment represents one of the most dangerous scenarios at a shooting range. 

Professional ranges have zero-tolerance policies for individuals under the influence of alcohol or drugs or exhibiting signs of impairment.

Impairment Indicators:

• Detectable alcohol or drug odor
• Unstable movement
• Slurred speech
• Inability to follow basic range commands