How to make your own Shooting Range | Build and Targets

Published on June 12, 2020
Duration: 18:34

This guide, presented by Karl from Tactical Rifleman, details the essential steps for constructing a private shooting range. It covers legal and insurance checks, site selection using a range fan, berm construction with considerations for settling and reinforcement materials like Hesco baskets or tires, and the importance of quality steel targets with proper safety distances. The guide also touches on ground cover, target stands, and critical medical and safety planning for range operations. Karl's extensive experience, including military fortification building, lends high authority to the practical advice provided.

Quick Summary

Building a private shooting range requires careful planning, starting with verifying local ordinances and insurance. Construct berms at least 10-12 feet high, accounting for a 33% settlement rate. Use quality steel targets like MGM, maintaining 10m pistol and 50m rifle safety distances to prevent ricochets and fragmentation.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Building a Private Shooting Range
  2. 00:32Legal and Insurance Checks
  3. 01:39Site Selection and Range Fan
  4. 02:16Berm Construction Basics
  5. 05:08Hesco Baskets and DIY Alternatives
  6. 06:24Using Tires for Reinforcement
  7. 08:20Steel Targets and Safety Distances
  8. 09:57Target Maintenance
  9. 12:27Paper Target Stands
  10. 13:25Ground Cover and Drainage
  11. 15:36Medical and Safety Planning

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the crucial first steps before building a private shooting range?

Before building, it's crucial to verify local, state, and city ordinances regarding firearm discharge. You must also confirm that your property insurance adequately covers the risks associated with operating a private shooting range.

How high should shooting range berms be, and what is their typical settlement rate?

Berms should be constructed to a minimum height of 10-12 feet. It's important to note that dirt berms naturally settle and erode over time, potentially losing about one-third of their initial height within the first few years.

What are the recommended safety distances for steel targets at a shooting range?

When using steel targets, maintain minimum safety distances to prevent injury from fragmentation or ricochets. For pistol calibers, a minimum of 10 meters is advised, while for rifle calibers, a minimum of 50 meters is recommended.

What materials can be used for berm reinforcement, and what are their pros and cons?

Military-style Hesco baskets are ideal but costly. Alternatively, dirt-packed tires can reinforce berms, though low-velocity rounds might bounce off rubber while high-velocity rounds penetrate. DIY fencing and dirt-filled options are also viable.

More Range & Competition Videos You Might Like

More from Tactical Rifleman

View all →