What and how do you take to the range?

[mzvarner]

Sorry if this has been covered. I looked and could only find hard vs soft case or foam cutting/ configuration threads.

I once forgot to bring mags for a gun to the range. Since then i bought a huge Midway usa ar15 range bag and left out all the magazine dividers. I carry a few mags for every gun (1022, g19, 1911, aics, ar15, a10). I have a few "BASIC" (random allen keys and a glock) tool. Then if im shooting rifles i have a tripod, spotting scope, shooting mat, chrono, etc. Not to mention ammo, IFAK, weather appropriate gear, and steel if i am on public land.

Ultimately, my "load out" is bulky and cumbersome. Do you guys take everything as well, or do you have a weapon/ purpose specific bags? Do you prefer hard cases for your rifle reloads or bullet binders like what Tab gear offers? I have seen a lot of tool discussion lately (Borka vs fixit sticks), and it would be nice to have 1 set to work on pistols, ars, and precision rifles while leaving my larger wheeler sets home. Thoughts?

 

[Nik H]

I take everything but all of it is contained in the stackable, wheeled RIGID tool boxes. You can get three that stack that can hold all you need for < $100. No more carrying stuff for me.

The rifle travels in an Eberlestock Drag Bag.

 

[Navy Chief]

Following along for ideas, what I am doing now sucks.

 

[wade2big]

Rifle goes on the four wheeler gun rack. As many as I decide to take. Small heavy duty bag to carry ammo, shooting sock and magazines. Go shoot.

Sometimes I take the truck. Rifles go muzzle down on the floorboard. Rifle case isn’t necessary. My personal range is 1/4 mile away so this does make it easy.

 

[Sticks]

Range days suck insofar as loading up, especially if you are taking multiple guns. All my mags & bipods for each firearm are in the safe with the firearm. Depending on which one(s) I am taking, I bag the firearm, then grab the mags and bipod if needed and toss them in the range bag - that has everything else in it, then pull out the ammo for it. Rinse and repeat for each one.

If I am doing load development, then the Labradar bag. Tuning a load or scope, Target camera for the 750 yard hike to the target.

2-3 rifles turns into a truck load.

3 rifles, camera and labradar food for them and me, and I still have to get my ground mat, target stands and plates.

This particular trip, I was also picking up my GF and her two daughters and their rifles.

 

[mzvarner]

So ultimately what I am hearing (other than the lucky few that have a personal range) range days are kind of a bitch with all the gear.

If thats the case I probably wont change much other than try to leave mags I dont need at home. I also found some zippered canvas bags on amazon that I'm going to try using for loose ammo. I have been using ziplock bags but this is wasteful and has caused a few annoying spills. Oh and I finally bought a Borka kit. Too many times have I witnessed people have issues with their optic at the firing line, and the RO just pulls out a multi-tool (at best) to get things "good enough".

Nothing worse than packing up all this stuff and having a range day wasted secondary to equipment failure.

 

[spife7980]

Rifles go on the floorboard like wade said, I have a bag that I keep a fat wrench and now a fix it sticks, Ill decide which I prefer to keep carrying, tab mat, wedgie and rear bag. I have my weather flow. I have my silencer wrap which I really just stick all my silencer tools into and never use so its more of a tool wrap, I have my range finder. My ear muffs and a second set in case anyone else shows up. I pack the lab radar and battery without abag, they just get thrown on the back seat of the truck where I keep a mounting board and clamps all the time. Usually the game changer is in the truck already too. Ammo in my plastic boxes. Yeah, its a three to four trip process back and forth to the house to load it all up, but what are you going to do?

 

[LoneWolf_052713]

I pack my Eberlestock Low Drag just like I would for a match. Ammo, shooting bags, and the rifle. For anything else it gets put in another bag I refer to as my "oh shit" bag which has repair parts, tools, batteries, and cleaning/lubricant products. If taking pistols or other rifles they go in their respective cases with all necessary equipment to run them. Everything gets loaded in the cab of the truck unless I'm carpooling with a couple buddies.

Shooting props etc go in the bed.

 

[strat81]

With all the crap i haul to shoot one rifle, my wife is beginning to wonder when i bought a crew served weapon.

Lots of good tips above. I'll add that baby wipes or lead wipes are good to keep in the car for a quick cleanup.

 

[ThePretzel]

I take my gun and gear to the range just in one of the old MidwayUSA pro sniper drag bags, a pretty standard long soft case.

Inside the bag is my rifle on one side of the divider and a shemagh (wrap it around the action to keep dirt out in the wind) plus whatever other guns I want to bring on the second side of the divider. It's also got a small pocket on the inside where I keep a set of metric, standard, and torx allen keys just to be safe.

The pockets I have divided out. In one of the rear pockets I keep all of my magazines, at least one for every gun I own and honestly all of the AICS pattern mags (since I never take my rifle somewhere without that bag anyways). The second rear pocket has my Kestrel, my dope cards for the Sidewinder/Python, chamber flags, small spare parts for magazines, and any ammo I'm bringing along with me. The front pocket just has general odds and ends like extra muffs, extra plugs, a couple holsters, and one of those cheap cleaning kits with a 3-piece rod just in case.

 

[ken4570tc in WY]

Need a four legged army robot to haul the gear to and from the vehicle!

 

[plong]

These threads crack me up... If ya' gotta ask...

 

[MadDuner]

What I take to the range...is completely dependent upon what I plan on accomplishing while I am there, but in every instance I take more than I need, and about all I can fit in the truck.

 

[Racer88]

https://www.amazon.com/Mac-Sports-Collapsible-Folding-Outdoor/dp/B00BUUUIGK/ref=sr_1_2?keywords=pull+cart&qid=1570747115&sr=8-2

 

[Nebulous]

What I take to the range...is completely dependent upon what I plan on accomplishing while I am there, but in every instance I take more than I need, and about all I can fit in the truck.

I am very much the same way; always bring more then I need but try to make it targeted. My last range trip my father-in-law brought some rifles that had not been shot in a long time so lets just say we brought the whole 9 yards.

 

[M8541Reaper]

Each weapon system type should have its own bag, that way you aren’t bringing what you don’t need. If you only have one bag, put each system’s specific stuff into a box in your garage. The day before the range, pack the bag with the system specific items and check your gear (batteries, torque values, etc). You should also do this once you get back from the range while inspecting your gear.

If you are able-bodied and need a wheeled cart to carry everything, then you’re bringing too much stuff. Everything you need, to include ammo, should fit in one pack with the rifle being hand-carried or slung.

Pistol Loadout:
-Small Pack
-Admin Pouch (markers/tape/spare batteries for timer and ear pro)
-small tool pouch (Glock tool/lube)
-small clipboard w/ folded targets
-shot timer
-peltors (clipped to outside)
-Spare clear eye pro (I shoot outdoors so this is only if it’s dark out or my tinted Oakley’s break)
-trauma kit
-brass bag (Blackhawk zippered General purpose pouch)
-ammo bag (same type of bag as above)
-Esstac Kywi double mag pouch (belt loops)
-HSGI taco double mag pouch (belt loops)
-4x G17 mags
-Safariland ALS holster
-G19

LR/Precision Loadout:
-MR 3DAP or GS2
-Tab gear Shooting Mat rolled up and strapped to bottom of pack
-data book w/ targets folded inside
-nut ruck essentials (fix it sticks/scope tool, spare batteries, chamber flag, FDAC, lens Pen, small RIR book, map pen, pencil, clear laminate sheet for low light OBJ lens rain shield)
-Armageddon gear squishy rear bag (aka the best [dedicated] rear bag)
-sling (on rifle)
-MK4 spotting scope w/ cover & arca plate
-PRST w/ ball head and HOG saddle strapped to outside of pack (legs marked for various positional heights)
-weather flow meter
-trauma kit
-brass bag
Laminated pocket data card/range card (w/ Velcro so it can be attached to shooting mat or tripod)
-range finder
-Atlas CAL (attached to rifle)
-peltors
System dependent:
-BOLT GUN: ammo in multiple 20rd bullet binders
-GAS GUN: ammo in boxes
-BOLT GUN: 3x AICS mags (5rd, 10rd, 14rd)
-GAS GUN: 4-6AR mags (10rd, 20rd, 2-4x 30rd)

****Note****
If I’m running my AR as a close in system and working 2-gun/short range practice, I’ll remove my NXS F1 and put on my aimpoint T1. Pack Loadout is the same as pistol but with the AR ammo, mags, range finger, and gun belt setup. I use a LaRue LT807 QD Mount for my NXS F1 and have tested the zero shift...which there isn’t any. My T1 is in a GGG QD Mount and my 36/300 (done at a 25yd offset) is always confirmed prior to starting...aka I need to get a LaRue Mount for my T1 lol (well that and I am always running different grain ball/training ammo).


So as you can see, it’s only the “essential” items packed per system. Can you do the same work with just a rifle and ammo? Yup. You can’t get any more minimalistic than a rifle and ammo, but the above should serve well enough as a guide for those who tend to overpack.

Doing multiple systems in one day? Don’t unless you have all day. Stick to one system type per day or you’re likely to get burned out and start slacking fundamentally. I’ll usually throw the pistol bag in the vehicle and shoot pistol if I’m done with LR or need a mental break.

#ProTip (I stayed at a holiday inn express once)
Just like with the gym, always have a plan before you get to the range. Know your COF and plan your range time accordingly. Write it in your data book and put the appropriate pages, in order, in their own section. Show up, Note your environmental data, and get to work. Take notes in your data book as you move throughout the day. When you’re done at the range and you get home, do an AAR/self evaluation (if you’re like me, you did this in your head on the drive home) and take note of where you need to improve, equipment you needed but didn’t have, equipment you had be didn’t need, and things you liked and didn’t like about your COF. This will help you streamline your equipment and allow you to make the most of your time at the range.


Hope this helps.
?

 

[mzvarner]

These threads crack me up... If ya' gotta ask...

What part cracks you up? This is exactly why internet forums exist. To ask questions to other like minded people around the globe.

It seems most of us have a similar issue in that range day just has a ton of stuff to take. I was hoping to hear some ways to more efficiently manage my gear, but it sounds like I'm doing what most are. It also sounds like some have found new ways of doing things that they are going to implement.

To some extent I agree with the old adage "not broke, dont fix it" but that doesn't mean we can't further increase efficiency of systems.

 

[CRT2]

One bag for ammunition and magazines. One bag for binoculars, LRF and tools. LabRadar separate. Guns in cases. Requires 4 trips to the car to load - normally take 3 or 4 rifles.

Since I've gotten older, looking for 20 to 30 year old, dark hair, blue eyes, good shape female gun caddy - wife wishes me "Good Luck"!

 

[plong]

What part cracks you up? This is exactly why internet forums exist. To ask questions to other like minded people around the globe.

It seems most of us have a similar issue in that range day just has a ton of stuff to take. I was hoping to hear some ways to more efficiently manage my gear, but it sounds like I'm doing what most are. It also sounds like some have found new ways of doing things that they are going to implement.

To some extent I agree with the old adage "not broke, dont fix it" but that doesn't mean we can't further increase efficiency of systems.

Well… Since you asked: I see no value in asking what others take to the range (or to a match… or to whatever…) their goals and methods probably don’t align perfectly with mine. In other words: if I didn’t already know I needed “it” I don't need to take “it” just because someone else does.

Now, if one were to say: “I’ve found I need X, Y, and Z at the range, but I haven’t found an effective way to carry those items…” that I get.

 

[M8541Reaper]

Well… Since you asked: I see no value in asking what others take to the range (or to a match… or to whatever…) their goals and methods probably don’t align perfectly with mine. In other words: if I didn’t already know I needed “it” I don't need to take “it” just because someone else does.

Now, if one were to say: “I’ve found I need X, Y, and Z at the range, but I haven’t found an effective way to carry those items…” that I get.

I can see that and agree to a certain point. However I’m sure you’ve seen it just as much as I have, where a dude at a public range is making 5 trips to his car with 4 different guns and three bags/cases...and usually taking up a massive staging table or multiple spots on the firing line. People watch these “what do the pros bring” videos and then bring everything ten different videos said to bring even though they didn’t plan out a COF for that day. Dudes showing up to shoot 10-20rds showing up with 100# of kit for zero reason.

So I can understand why these questions are asked and don’t fault them...unless they start asking how much extra jute they should pack when going to zero their hunting rifle’s laser at 400yds.

Bare minimum for any COF:
-Rifle
-ammo
-pencil/small notebook

Anything other than that should be tailored to the day’s COF. People don’t know what they don’t know, until they ask and try it for themselves.

 

[bbyars]

load data book, ammo, rifle, soft case, rangefinder, all cleaning supplies stay in the truck in a smallish plastic tool box. Thats about it. Chrono, tools, and all that jazz come out on static range days.

 

[45.308]

RedTac Apollo w/ pouches and holster, of course always loaded with mags, multitool, windmeter with a Tactical Tailor pack attached with thermos, first aid, clothes, etc, If it don't fit, don't need it.
Voodoo 2x rifle case(s) up to 4 rifles
Ammo can pre-loaded or re-loaded after each trip
All this is stored next to or under my bench and safe

Open safe, pistol in holster, rifles in Voodoo
Sling the Apollo on
Hand carry Voodo and ammo can
One trip from house to vehicle

Target stands with targets in shed

 

[SonicBurlap]

Depends on the range, location of the range, climate at the range, or weather and what I'll be shooting as in what rifle, pistol, at steel that's there, steel I'll bring, paper with stands on location, paper with bring your own stand, what distance, with spotter, without spotter, bench, or prone, ...

Other than that rifle with all its attachments (scope, bipod, monopod, ACI, sling) in drag bag together with gloves, hearing protection, Magnetospeed Riflekuhl/chamber flag, eye protection, assorted scope and rifle specific wrenches in compact aluminum box, Victor Company Atlas tension wrench, small non slip mat rolled up tight in rifle drag bag's side pockets.

Range bag with trauma kit, shears, tourniquet, multi gun tool, or Borka set, rangefinder, weather/ballistics meter, DOPE chart, and pocket book, space pens, calipers, if steel is being shot spray paint, if paper stapler, different feet for Atlas depending on weather and location as well as leg extensions, magazines, ammo, brass dump bag, tube of gun grease and high purity oil, range towel, action and muzzle cover, lens pen and optics cleaner. In side pocket extra batteries for Riflekuhl, rangefinder, calipers, and scope.

If with spotter tripod in bag and spotting scope.

If shooting prone CrossTac mat.

In vehicle just in case complete 1st aid kit, in MTM case fiberglass caliber specific cleaning rod, depending of what rifle is used, small plastic case with brushes, jags, patches, spray vials of solvent and oil, Tipton foldable compact gun vise, and Boretech bullet knock-out set. Small canvas case with Wheeler Fat Wrench, 1 gunsmith hammer, and a set of punches, sunscreen.

On person: canteen with water, or Camelbak, smartphone, multitool, CCW license.

 

[bfm1851]

When I started out shooting I was hauling everything I could thing of to the range and still wound up forgetting something. Even started taking portable re loading set up so I could do load development. I probable look pretty silly out there but luckily it was a small semi-private range and I was by myself a lot. Then I had an idea, I started looking around for a used armored truck!. Figured I could set it up as a mobile safe and have everything I own with me all the time. That's when I stared pairing down what I need for a range trip.

 

[Centuriator]

I leave some things in the back seat of my truck permanently so I do not have to load/reload/load/reload. I have no kids in the house, no grandkids never have passengers. The things I leave in the truck are my targets, ear/eye pro, spotting scope, etc. etc. I then only load/reload/load/reload weapons and ammo. Makes it easier that way.

 

[308pirate]

Well… Since you asked: I see no value in asking what others take to the range (or to a match… or to whatever…) their goals and methods probably don’t align perfectly with mine. In other words: if I didn’t already know I needed “it” I don't need to take “it” just because someone else does.

This x 1,000,000

I've read this entire thread and not one single post has been helpful to me because not one single person here has the same goals and issues as I when I go shooting.

And in any case, what the fuck ever happened to thinking through one's problem, coming up with a solution, and adjusting the solution as situations change? Is this a millennial thing, running to the internet to ask what to do for every single freaking problem?

 

[Centuriator]

what the fuck ever happened to thinking through one's problem, coming up with a solution, and adjusting the solution as situations change? Is this a millennial thing, running to the internet to ask what to do for every single freaking problem?

And a very happy and good morning to you, sir!!


I will say this, I keep relearning the lesson: always put everything you use back in the same place so you can find it easily again next time!! This is particularly important for cigar cutters and lighters!!

 

[mzvarner]

This x 1,000,000

I've read this entire thread and not one single post has been helpful to me because not one single person here has the same goals and issues as I when I go shooting.

And in any case, what the fuck ever happened to thinking through one's problem, coming up with a solution, and adjusting the solution as situations change? Is this a millennial thing, running to the internet to ask what to do for every single freaking problem?

What an ignorant post. Seems like a pretty big waste of time to read an entire thread already knowing that your "goals and issues" are so vastly different from all other shooters (even though, fundamentally your "goals" probably boil down to improved marksmanship...LIKE ALL OF US).

Please explain to this "millenial" what the purpose of an internet forum is if it is not for communicating with other like minded individuals? I do not have the time (in fact i am wasting more than i care in responding to you) to read through your posts, but hopefully you have never asked a question regarding reloading problems, indecisiveness over optics, rifle, custom actions, which brand of barrel, etc. Because those are all "problems" that can be over come with little thinking and research on your own, unless hypocrisy is your thing?

 

[VSP968]

Some days are more complicated than others...

I’ve got an old Ray-Vin cart that moves most of my shit from the truck to the line.

 

[Steel head]

An AR double rifle bag for rifle/rifles, a craftsman tool bag(for ammo, bags muffs and tools/accessories), some steel with stands and some liquid refreshments(non alcoholic)and cigars along with my shooting mat.

 

[308pirate]

What an ignorant post. Seems like a pretty big waste of time to read an entire thread already knowing that your "goals and issues" are so vastly different from all other shooters (even though, fundamentally your "goals" probably boil down to improved marksmanship...LIKE ALL OF US).

Please explain to this "millenial" what the purpose of an internet forum is if it is not for communicating with other like minded individuals? I do not have the time (in fact i am wasting more than i care in responding to you) to read through your posts, but hopefully you have never asked a question regarding reloading problems, indecisiveness over optics, rifle, custom actions, which brand of barrel, etc. Because those are all "problems" that can be over come with little thinking and research on your own, unless hypocrisy is your thing?

There's a difference between asking a narrowly targeted question, which shows some ability to think through a problem; and asking broad open ended questions that show little to no personal effort like:

• Do you guys take all your shit from your basement when you go shooting?
• What stock/barrel/scope/mat/scope rings/brake for PRS?
• My rifle won't shoot worth a shit, what do I do?

Examples of which and more are posted in this forum on a daily basis.

 

[MarineRabbit]

Rifles in a case, pistols just ride in the passenger seat, then everything else I need for the chosen rifle/pistol all fits into one of those small NRA range bags you know the freebies they send out every now and then. I keep one of those small draw string gym bags under the backseat of my truck that always has a constant supply of targets and thumb tacks or nails. A bag and mat then that's it. 5 minutes to load up and 5 mins to start shooting uppon arrival

My truck permanently has my work tools in it so I dont ever take anything extra of that nature, the two most useful things I've found so far are the tools and extra thumb tacks. It seems that at least once a range trip someone needs assistance fixing something on their firearm, or someone's stapler gave up the ghost.

 

[smoothy8500]

Grandma died and left me her cart.

 

[Centuriator]

Please explain to this "millenial" what the purpose of an internet forum is if it is not for communicating with other like minded individuals?

Pay no mind to .308. He means well, but can get pretty grumpy, as we all can. Don't take it personally.

You've got some good feedback from other members. The key is to identify what works best for you and then stick religiously to it. Where I always get into trouble is in leaving the range. I'm generally tired and just want to leave and that's when I can start sticking things here and there and forgetting into what bag, case or compartment I put them then I have to search for them the next time.

"Everything in its place and a place for everything." Words to live by when it comes to a hobby like ours.

 

[SonicBurlap]

This x 1,000,000

I've read this entire thread and not one single post has been helpful to me because not one single person here has the same goals and issues as I when I go shooting.

And in any case, what the fuck ever happened to thinking through one's problem, coming up with a solution, and adjusting the solution as situations change? Is this a millennial thing, running to the internet to ask what to do for every single freaking problem?

Obviously you did not read through every post, as I clearly stated that it depends on location( local climate, elevation, area where located, i.e. arctic Alaska, Southern Florida, desert Arizona, or at home in the Rockies, etc. ..) current weather conditions, whether I'm shooting bench, prone, or competition, what type of firearm, what type of target, ... The contents of my bag are as fluid as all of these factors, however there are some contents that remain constants - not much shooting going on without the actual gun, or ammo, a.s.o. The fact remains that generally I don't do ad hoc impromptu range sessions, as was drilled into me in the service; each session is in itself a planned mission with clear goals and a at least mental list of what might be required to accomplish those goals, considering possible changes of weather, and contingencies and possible emergencies to prevent unintended down time and minimize risks.

Now since none of your unstated particular goals and issues were addressed, although my original impression was that we were responding to a general question posed by the OP mzvarner and not your particular needs maybe you can enlighten us to your general needs dissimilar to all others since undoubtedly you are more than capable to plan your specific outings and not expect a customized list for every possible combination of factors, keeping in mind also that what the OP referred to was range time, not hunting trips.

 

[mzvarner]

Just ignore .308. He means well, but can get pretty grumpy, as we all can. Don't take it personally.

You've got some good feedback from other members. The key is to identify what works best for you and then stick religiously to it. Where I always get into trouble is in leaving the range. I'm generally tired and just want to leave and that's when I can start sticking things here and there and forgetting into what bag, case or compartment I put them then I have to search for them the next time.

"Everything in its place and a place for everything." Words to live by when it comes to a hobby like ours.

I am not so thin skinned that he bothers me. Responses like his are unfortunate because they do nothing to further a discussion, and push new members away. This sport is growing rapidly so be prepared for a lot of dumb questions. This thread has derailed multiple times, and has just become proof that people will argue over everything.

There have been some great replies. I never would have thought to use a wheeled cart (I guess so far I don't take that much stuff!) I have a range day today, so I will try and trim some fat before then.

 

[SonicBurlap]

I am not so thin skinned that he bothers me. Responses like his are unfortunate because they do nothing to further a discussion, and push new members away. This sport is growing rapidly so be prepared for a lot of dumb questions. This thread has derailed multiple times, and has just become proof that people will argue over everything.

There have been some great replies. I never would have thought to use a wheeled cart (I guess so far I don't take that much stuff!) I have a range day today, so I will try and trim some fat before then.

Take whatever you need to get the job done without posing a hazard to yourself, or others. If it takes a cart, it takes a cart; if you lug too heavy you'll make it lighter sooner, or later as you get tired of it. Don't worry about looks, or comments long as it works - if it looks stupid but it works it ain't stupid, as a gentleman with a big round hat used to tell me a long time ago.

 

[smoothy8500]

I never would have thought to use a wheeled cart (I guess so far I don't take that much stuff!).

You want to see a lot of crap get hauled out, go to an NRA F-class match. I used to think those Ray-Vin or Creedmoor range carts were getting pretty full with XTC matches. That's nothing, those folding wagons are overflowing with stuff to build the Brooklyn Bridge F-open rest.

 

[hlee]

I often feel like I’m taking too much stuff when going to the range, or to a match. Rifle/bipod, ammo, mags, spotter and tripod, rear bag, pump pillow, dope sheet, sidewinder dope card thingy, ear pro, eye pro, shooting mat, repair/cleaning kit, first aid kit, range finder, kestrel, muck boots, shot/hit counter, bag for spent brass, and a back pack to carry it all. I’m sure there’s some stuff I’m forgetting in that list. It can feel like moving a household going from stage to stage. But, except for the repair/cleaning kit and first aid kit, everything gets used every time, so I guess I’m at a minimum load out. Ive thought about finding a jogging stroller at goodwill and modifying it for gun carry, but haven’t done it yet. Maybe over the winter...

Ok, and I have a laminated check list somewhere to make sure I don’t forget anything when packing for a match...

 

[M8541Reaper]

One thing no one really covered yet is what to think about if bringing a specific system.

If you’re running 556 at a 25yd BZO Target, then you’ll gain an efficiency advantage by bringing magnified optics (be it small pocket binos, a spotting scope, or rifle scope). Same goes if you’re shooting 556 at 100yds on standard paper and need to see/measure impact offsets.

Even a 308 at 200+ yards, depending on the mirage, position, and target type, might require the same.

In my opinion, a spotting scope is always a required piece of gear for my COFs and range days. If I’m done with a string of fire and waiting to go cold to reface a tgt, I’ll get on the glass and just read the wind/mirage at various distances and targets.

Attached is a screen shot of a two recent range days and their course of fire (COF). Depending on what you need/want to work on should dictate what you bring.

 

[SonicBurlap]

One thing no one really covered yet is what to think about if bringing a specific system.

If you’re running 556 at a 25yd BZO Target, then you’ll gain an efficiency advantage by bringing magnified optics (be it small pocket binos, a spotting scope, or rifle scope). Same goes if you’re shooting 556 at 100yds on standard paper and need to see/measure impact offsets.

Even a 308 at 200+ yards, depending on the mirage, position, and target type, might require the same.

In my opinion, a spotting scope is always a required piece of gear for my COFs and range days. If I’m done with a string of fire and waiting to go cold to reface a tgt, I’ll get on the glass and just read the wind/mirage at various distances and targets.

Attached is a screen shot of a two recent range days and their course of fire (COF). Depending on what you need/want to work on should dictate what you bring.

Even for hunting I would leave any but the most powerful binos behind, on average they usually don't have the magnification of a spotting scope. Especially for range days though I much prefer the spotting scopes. Spotting scope magnification levels start where binoculars leave off usually right around 15x; where the majority of binos range in magnification from 8-16x and spotters range from the 15x up to 100x. Two thumbs up on the spotting scopes, not so much on the small binos.

 

[Timetoshoot]

Pack it the way I use it. Same load out I use for hunting or a match. Only addition would be a small Dewalt tool bag to carry extra ammo if multiple guns are in play, and sometimes a labradar.

‘Train the way you fight and fight the way you train’

 

[M8541Reaper]

Even for hunting I would leave any but the most powerful binos behind, on average they usually don't have the magnification of a spotting scope. Especially for range days though I much prefer the spotting scopes. Spotting scope magnification levels start where binoculars leave off usually right around 15x; where the majority of binos range in magnification from 8-16x and spotters range from the 15x up to 100x. Two thumbs up on the spotting scopes, not so much on the small binos.

I only meant small binos for those looking to do BZOs with their AR platforms. So you’d have the small binos to spot your 25yd (eww) or 36yd (#TheOnlyBZO) impacts so you didn’t have to wait to go cold after every three round group lol.

I don’t hunt (#MeatIsMurder #JustGetYourFoodAtTheGrocery #ViolenceIsBad #AnimalsArePeopleToo) so I can’t speak to what gear to take hunting.

 

[Average guy]

I keep bags , targets, etc in the shooting/work car. Grab the chronograph, rifles in cases and shooting bag with ammunition and tools.

 

[Flatbush Harry]

My kit for the range is either my Eberlestock GS2 with 2 l. hydation bag or Eberlestock BangBang Range Bag with ammo, tools (Allen wrench sets, MUT tool, lubes and Otis caliber specific cleaning kit), Vortex Viper spotting scope, MTM ammo box(es) and factory fodder, targets (butcher paper and paste-on bulls), Kestrel 5700 Elite AB and Vortex Ranger 1800. I occasionally load up my Eberlestock Drag Bag with the above. I take either a solid Manfrotto tripod or a lightweight Vortex tripod hung on my pack.

If I'm lugging all my stuff, including my Chrono, I usually load it onto to my Rugged Duty Range Cart and just push the whole mess to my range lane.

Harry

 

[AIAW]

My imaginary butler packs and transports all of my gear. Not sure what ends up there. Definitely hard cases for most stuff. I do know that there are guns, ammo and sweet tea at the ready when I arrive separately via air transport!

Possibly a few tools, sometimes a chronograph. Who knows what he might pack and bring out.

 

[captainmorgan460]

Lately, strategy is putting the essentials plus in a hard or soft case like this. Specific to each rig. For a quick trip Ill grab this only. (Added a cutout for ear pro and a data book). Secondarily, I have a cheapo plano fishing box thing with targets, tools, cleaning stuff, chronograph, stapler, etc. For rigs I dont bring out often I put mags and ammo in a plastic ammo case and then have a grab and go with the gun.

 

[SonicBurlap]

I only meant small binos for those looking to do BZOs with their AR platforms. So you’d have the small binos to spot your 25yd (eww) or 36yd (#TheOnlyBZO) impacts so you didn’t have to wait to go cold after every three round group lol.

I don’t hunt (#MeatIsMurder #JustGetYourFoodAtTheGrocery #ViolenceIsBad #AnimalsArePeopleToo) so I can’t speak to what gear to take hunting.

Don't hunt much either (only when I have to) but not because I don't eat meat, still don't see the value of any binos over spotting scopes for any shooting application; scouting yes, but anything target related no.

 

[TxWelder35]

Rifle, suppressor, mags, bipod in a hard case

Ammo, rear bag, data book, hearing pro, gloves in a backpack

Targets live in the truck.

Gonna add a stapler and a fat wrench to the range bag. Found myself needing them more often than not.

 

[Eoddave27]

I Got tired of forgetting things so I built a range box using a Husky job box. It never gets unloaded. It has all my bags, a magazine for every firearm I own, my chronograph, speed loaders a full tool and cleaning kit to include a torque wrench, Kestrel, range finder, a IFAK and so on. I have another set up with a pack for matches too but this box always goes with me. I carry a lot of extra things in this box that are not particle to pack around. I have actually added a lot of other items and tools as time along the way but this is how it started out. I can fix just about anything that goes wrong with a rifle out of this box as long as it doesn’t require a vice or machiner. My shooting mat is always in my truck. I also bought an artist portfolio case which I keep loaded with targets in my truck.