At a range, what is the proper etiquette when others are downrange?

• A. Do not handle firearms downrange; wait for a range officer or signals to proceed; keep muzzle in a safe direction.
• B. Move forward to adjust targets.
• C. Handle firearms downrange to make adjustments.
• D. Ignore safety rules and proceed.

Answer: (A)

The main idea here is always prioritize safety and clear communication when people are downrange. When others are downrange, you should not handle any firearm in that area. Wait for the range officer’s instructions or a clear signal before proceeding, and keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction at all times.

Why this is best: downrange is a zone where unintended movement or a misfire could injure someone. By keeping the firearm holstered or unloaded (as required by the range rules) and awaiting explicit clearance, you reduce the risk of accidental discharge harming someone who is downrange. The range officer coordinates all activity to ensure that everyone’s movements are controlled and safe, and their signals indicate when it’s safe to act.

Why the other options don’t fit: moving forward to adjust targets while others are downrange creates a direct risk to people behind or downrange of you. Handling firearms downrange while others are downrange contradicts the fundamental safety rule of never pointing a gun at anything you aren’t prepared to shoot, and it bypasses the controlled process the range uses. Ignoring safety rules and proceeding is unsafe and unacceptable in any range setting.

So, the proper etiquette is to refrain from touching firearms downrange, wait for the range officer or signals to proceed, and keep the muzzle pointed safely.