6.9 Archery Clubs and Shotgun/Rifle Ranges

Thirty years ago many people in Washington could still shoot a bow or a firearm from their back porch. That is not true today. Washington has six million people living here, and more are coming every year. In more and more areas of the state, it is not safe to shoot because of neighbors, livestock, or roads. In such areas, the only safe place to practice shooting is at archery clubs and shotgun, rifle, or pistol club ranges.

If you and your family are looking for a safe place to shoot, contact a local gun shop, your county sheriff, or your local police department. You also can ask your hunter education instructor or call the Department of Fish and Wildlife hunter education staff in Olympia.

Whether you shoot out in the desert, in the mountains, or at a range, be sure that you are safe! The safest backstop is a steep dirt bank that is free of rocks. Remember: Hard, flat surfaces; rocks; and even water can cause a bullet to ricochet. Never shoot at glass, cans, or other types of containers. Broken bottles and shot-up cans are rarely picked up. Such litter is unsightly ... and unsafe to leave behind. Always be sure to pick up your targets, brass cases, etc. after shooting.

Hang fires happen when the firing pin has struck the primer and there is a delay before the gun fires. This can occur for several reasons, such as a faulty firing pin or spring, defective primer, or other cartridge-related problems. A misfire is when the primer fails to ignite the powder. Hangfires and misfires can happen with any kind of firearm. Always treat a “misfire” or a “hang fire” as if the firearm is going to discharge at any second and keep the firearm pointed in a safe direction. Leave the action closed and retain your shooting position. Most importantly, maintain safe muzzle control at all times. Failure to follow these safe handling practices could result in a tragedy.