We know that choosing the right attire for the gun range is important, especially if it’s your first time at a gun range. Whether you’re shooting indoors or outdoors, what you wear can affect your comfort, safety, and performance. In this guide, we’ll explore the essentials of gun range clothing, what to pay attention to, and tips for both indoor and outdoor settings.
Indoor Gun Range Clothing
Comfort and Mobility
First and foremost, comfort is key. You’ll be moving, aiming, and possibly standing for extended periods. Opt for clothing that allows a full range of motion.
Stretchable fabrics are a good choice. Avoid tight clothing that restricts movement or loose clothing that can get caught on equipment. Clothing should fit well but not be too snug to ensure you can handle your firearm effectively.
Ear and Eye Protection
Never underestimate the importance of ear and eye protection. Even indoors, the noise level can be significant. Ear muffs or plugs are essential. Electronic ear muffs are an excellent choice as they can amplify low-level sounds while protecting against loud gunshots.
Protective glasses are a must to shield your eyes from potential debris. Look for safety glasses with ANSI Z87.1 certification to ensure they meet safety standards. Avoid wearing regular glasses or sunglasses that do not offer adequate protection.
Breathable Fabrics
Indoor ranges can get stuffy. Choose breathable fabrics to stay cool. Cotton blends or moisture-wicking materials work well. Avoid overly heavy or layered clothing, which can make you overheat.
Synthetic materials like polyester or nylon blends can also be effective as they wick away sweat and dry quickly. Steer clear of heavy wool or thick fleece unless the indoor range is particularly cold.
Footwear
Good footwear is essential. Closed-toe shoes with a non-slip sole provide the best support and safety. Think sturdy sneakers or lightweight boots. Avoid sandals or open-toed shoes. Proper footwear also helps in maintaining a steady stance while shooting.
Shoes with good arch support can prevent foot fatigue during long sessions. Avoid shoes with excessively thick soles that could affect your balance and stance.
Layering and Temperature Control
Indoor ranges can vary in temperature. Wearing layers allows you to adjust your clothing to stay comfortable. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, add an insulating layer if necessary, and finish with a lightweight jacket or sweater that can be easily removed. This approach helps you adapt to changing conditions and stay focused on your shooting.
Outdoor Gun Range Clothing
Weather-Appropriate Gear
Outdoor ranges bring weather into the equation. Dress in layers. This way, you can add or remove clothing as needed.
In colder months, thermal wear and a good jacket are vital. Fleece or down jackets provide excellent insulation.
In warmer weather, light, breathable clothing is your friend. Always check the weather forecast before heading out and prepare accordingly. Avoid cotton in wet conditions as it retains moisture and can make you feel colder.
Sun Protection
If you’ll be exposed to the sun, don’t forget sun protection. Hats, long sleeves, and sunscreen are critical. Wide-brimmed hats can offer additional protection for your face and neck.
Polarized sunglasses can reduce glare and protect your eyes. Avoid wearing dark, heavy clothing that absorbs heat and makes you hotter.
Camouflage and Concealment
For those who prefer a tactical edge, camouflage can be beneficial. It’s not just about blending in but also about having durable and practical clothing. Many tactical gear options come with multiple pockets, which can be handy for carrying extra ammo or tools.
Camouflage clothing is also designed to be durable and resistant to tears and abrasions. Avoid overly flashy or brightly colored clothing that can make you an easy target in certain training scenarios.
Rain Gear
Don’t let rain ruin your day at the range. Waterproof jackets and pants are essential if the forecast looks wet. Always keep a rain poncho in your gear bag just in case.
Quick-dry clothing is also a good option to stay comfortable in unexpected weather conditions. Avoid cotton as it absorbs water and takes a long time to dry, which can lead to discomfort and cold.
Insect Protection
If you’re shooting in an area prone to insects, consider wearing long sleeves and pants to protect your skin. Insect repellent can also be a lifesaver in these situations.
Lightweight, breathable clothing treated with permethrin can provide additional protection. Avoid heavily scented lotions or colognes that attract insects.
Footwear for Rough Terrain
Outdoor ranges often have uneven or rough terrain. Wearing sturdy boots with good ankle support and non-slip soles can help prevent injuries and provide better stability.
Hiking boots or tactical boots are excellent choices. Avoid lightweight shoes that don’t offer adequate support or protection.
General Tips for Gun Range Clothing
Avoid Loose Clothing
Loose clothing can get caught on equipment. It’s better to wear fitted or semi-fitted attire to prevent any mishaps. This applies to both indoor and outdoor settings.
Tight clothing can also restrict your movements, so finding a balance is key. Avoid accessories like scarves or long necklaces that can interfere with your shooting.
Protective Vests
Consider a protective vest if you’re engaging in more intense shooting activities. They add an extra layer of safety and often come with useful pockets for gear.
Tactical vests can also distribute the weight of your equipment evenly, reducing fatigue. Try to avoid vests that are too bulky or heavy, as they can make it harder for you to move and handle your firearm.
Gloves
Shooting gloves can enhance your grip and protect your hands. Look for gloves that offer both protection and dexterity. They are particularly useful in cold weather.
Gloves with padded palms can also reduce the impact of recoil. Avoid gloves that are too thick or stiff, as they can impede your ability to feel and control your firearm.
Hearing Protection
Whether indoors or outdoors, your hearing needs protection. Ear muffs are great for their ease of use, but earplugs are a compact alternative. Some shooters prefer electronic ear muffs that amplify ambient sounds while blocking out gunfire noise.
Avoid using non-specialized ear protection like regular headphones, which do not offer sufficient protection against loud noises.
Hydration and Nutrition
Don’t forget to stay hydrated, especially if you’re shooting outdoors. Bring water and snacks to maintain your energy levels. Dehydration can affect your concentration and performance.
Avoid sugary drinks that can cause energy crashes. Instead, opt for water or electrolyte-replenishing drinks. Pack snacks that provide sustained energy, like nuts, protein bars, or fruit.
Safety and Visibility
In some cases, wearing bright colors or high-visibility vests can enhance safety, especially in areas where hunting or other shooting activities occur.
This helps other shooters see you easily, reducing the risk of accidents. Avoid wearing camouflage in areas where it’s important to be seen for safety reasons.
Clothing Maintenance
After each shooting session, take a look at your clothes to see if there’s any damage or wear and tear. Fix or replace anything that needs it to keep them in good shape and safe to use. Clean your clothes according to the manufacturer’s instructions to keep them protective and durable.
Equip Yourself for the Gun Range with LQARMY Custom Tactical Gear
By following these guidelines, you’ll be well-prepared for any gun range environment.
At LQARMY, we offer a wide range of tactical gear designed to meet all these needs and more. We can produce and customize gun range bags to fit your exact requirements. Visit our website to explore our collection and ensure you’re fully equipped for your next shooting session. Stay safe and shoot well!
