Req 2A-f — Range Procedures and Commands

This requirement is not a written test—it is a performance evaluation. Your counselor and the range safety officer will observe your behavior from the moment you arrive at the range through your last shot and beyond. Every action you take demonstrates whether you have internalized safe habits.

Standard Range Commands

Shotgun ranges use a specific set of verbal commands. Know what each means and respond immediately:

“Eyes and ears!” — Put on your eye and hearing protection. This command is given before any firearms are handled.

“Load!” or “Shooters, load!” — You may now load your shotgun with the number of shells specified (usually one or two, depending on the drill). Keep the muzzle pointed downrange and the safety engaged until you call for your target.

“The line is ready” or “Shooters ready” — The range officer confirms all shooters are in position and prepared to fire.

“Pull!” — The shooter’s call for a target to be thrown. On some ranges, the shooter says “Pull” and the trapper releases the target. On others, the range officer manages target release.

“Cease fire!” — Stop shooting immediately. Do not fire, even if a target is in the air. Open your action, remove any shells, and keep the muzzle pointed downrange. This command may be given by anyone who sees a safety concern.

“Unload and open actions” or “Make safe” — Remove all shells from your gun, open the action, and keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction. This is the standard end-of-string command.

“The range is clear” or “Range is cold” — All firearms are unloaded with actions open. It is now safe to go forward of the firing line if needed.

Attitude and Behavior

Your counselor is evaluating more than your knowledge of commands. They are watching for:

• Consistent muzzle awareness: Your muzzle stays in a safe direction at all times—while loading, between shots, while talking, and while walking.
• Immediate response to commands: When you hear “cease fire,” you stop instantly. No hesitation, no finishing a shot.
• Action discipline: Your action stays open whenever the gun is not actively being fired.
• Composure: You remain calm, focused, and in control even when you miss targets or experience a malfunction.
• Respect for others: You do not distract other shooters, cross behind them carelessly, or handle their equipment without permission.

A Typical Range Session Flow

1. Arrive at the range. Receive the safety briefing.
2. “Eyes and ears” — put on protection.
3. Move to the firing line with the shotgun action open and muzzle pointed safely.
4. Wait for the load command. Load the specified number of shells.
5. Engage the safety. Call “Pull.” Disengage safety, mount, track, fire.
6. Repeat as directed.
7. At “cease fire” or end-of-string, unload, open the action, and remain in place.
8. When the line is cleared, step back and case or rack the gun.

The Counselor Conversation

This requirement is demonstrated, not just discussed. Show your counselor through your actions on the range that you understand and follow every command, handle the shotgun safely at all times, and maintain the right attitude throughout the session.