Club Range Rules & Safety Culture

Welcome to the Cape Sporting Rifle Club range. Our top priority is the safety and enjoyment of every member and guest. These rules are the foundation of our safety culture and are non-negotiable. They are designed to protect everyone on the range, from experienced marksmen to those just starting out.

By following these guidelines, we all contribute to a safe, professional, and friendly environment for all.

The Golden Rules: The Four Fundamentals of Safety

These four principles are the absolute cornerstone of safe shooting. Every other rule stems from these.

1. Treat Every Firearm as if it is Loaded.
• Every time you handle a firearm, check its chamber to verify it is clear and safe, even if you just saw someone else do it.
• Never assume a firearm is unloaded.
2. Always Point the Muzzle in a Safe Direction.
• The muzzle must be pointed downrange at the berm (backstop) at all times.
• Never allow the muzzle to point at anything you are not willing to destroy.
3. Keep Your Finger Off the Trigger Until Your Sights are on the Target.
• Your finger should rest straight along the frame or outside the trigger guard until you are ready to fire.
4. Be Certain of Your Target, and What is Beyond It.
• Always know what you are shooting at and what lies behind your target. The berm is designed to safely stop all rounds.

Before You Shoot: Preparation & Setup

• Eye and Ear Protection are Mandatory. They must be worn by every person on the range, including spectators, before any shooting commences and until all shooting has stopped.
• Unpack and Case Firearms at the Firing Point. Firearms may only be handled at the designated firing points. Always transport firearms to and from your vehicle in a case or bag.
• Read the Range Status Board. The board at the entrance indicates if the range is LIVE (shooting in progress) or COLD (ceasefire). Do not enter a live range.

On the Range: Procedures & Etiquette

During a LIVE Range (Firing in Progress):

• You may handle firearms only at the firing point.
• Do not move forward of the firing line for any reason.
• Speak to the Range Officer on duty if you need assistance.

Calling a “COLD RANGE” (Ceasefire):

• If you need to go downrange, you must call for a ceasefire.
• How to call: Clearly shout “COLD RANGE!” loudly enough for everyone to hear.
• What happens next:
1. All shooting must stop immediately.
2. All firearms must be unloaded, with actions locked open and chambers flags inserted (if available).
3. All firearms must be placed on the bench, with muzzles pointing downrange.
4. Everyone must step back from the firing line.
5. Once the Range Officer confirms it is safe, they will announce “THE RANGE IS COLD. You may proceed forward.”

Returning to LIVE Fire:

• No one is to be forward of the firing line when the range is declared live.
• Once everyone has returned behind the firing line and all equipment is clear, the Range Officer will ask, “Is the range clear to go hot?”
• After a visual confirmation from all shooters, the Officer will announce: “THE RANGE IS HOT. Commence firing when ready.”

General Conduct & Respect for the Facility

• Respect the Range Officer (R.O.): The R.O. has ultimate authority on the range. Their instructions are for everyone’s safety and must be followed immediately.
• No Tampering with Property: Please do not damage, move, or alter the range props, target frames, or other club property without authorisation.
• Clean Up: Please police your brass and clean up your firing point before you leave. Take your trash with you, including target paper and boxes. Leave the range cleaner than you found it.
• Alcohol and Substances: Absolutely no alcohol or mind-altering substances are permitted prior to or while using the range facilities. Any person suspected of being under the influence will be asked to leave.

A Final Note

These rules are in place for one reason: to ensure everyone goes home safely. We are a community built on trust and responsibility. If you see a safety violation, please politely and discreetly bring it to the attention of the individual or the Range Officer.

Thank you for doing your part to maintain our club’s excellent safety record.

Stay Safe, and Enjoy Your Shoot!