There seem to be many clubs who prefer to shoot at steel and the like targets instead of a true paper target range. There are specific NMLRA procedures and safety protocols to running a range which most club members will eventually understand. However, going to another club range, sometimes those same standards are compromised. Certainly an unsafe practice often results in a loud and condescending manner which may be intended to let the shooter know that it is unacceptable yet the manner it is given does not always encourage one to want to be more cautious and accept the chastisement. For years, this was the norm and most folks would think of it as a teachable safety moment but then again, they would rarely see that fellow return, even if he admits it was a mistake. The expectation of knowing another club's rules is seldom posted or read. For years, Range Master were considered to always be ticked off and disgruntled. Compare the manner of chastisement to that of getting a speeding ticket from law enforcement. More often than not, they do so in a respectful manner rather than to chew your head off. Compare the reactions of the one receiving the ticket in each case.
Yes, safety is important and I recall being our club Range Master when the no lowing down the barrel concept was implemented. Dang. I can't tell you how many times I had to remind folks that it was unacceptable. However, other club members chose to be loud, vocal and condescending with the message.
We make sure a visitor is shadowed by a club member or the Range Master to assure they are following proper safety procedures. That works better than to wait for some unsafe situation to develop.
