Updated Mar. 2024: Added the following products: ShellShock Protection, Wheeler Engineering tools, Caldwell brass catcher, Maven CRF Rangefinder, PACT Shot timer, and various medical supplies.
Want to have a more successful and safe shooting range trip? Make sure you’ve got the right gear!
Having the right gear can improve nearly any experience. We’ll break down some items that are essential, nice to have, and downright luxuries.
THE QUICK LIST
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Budget Ear Pro
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Best Eye Pro
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Best Targets
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Best All-in-One Kit
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Best Pistol Bag
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Best Rifle Case
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Best Mag Loader
Table of Contents
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Essential Shooting Range Gear
Eye & Ear Protection
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The most important of our essential shooting gear since it’s mandatory for most ranges. You don’t want to go blind from ricochets or deaf from hearing loud gunshots, right?
We first started with foam ear plugs for our first few trips but started doubling up with actual ear muffs since lots of people at our range had very loud muzzle brakes.
Earmuffs are favored for their ease of use and noise reduction, especially when you are around higher calibers.
We at Pew Pew Tactical utilized our thousands of hours on the range testing guns and gear to develop our own line called ShellShock Protection.
Each one comes with gel cups which make them super comfy and allow us to wear them for hours on the range.
Our best-seller is our EXO PRO Electronic earmuff which cuts out gun shots while amplifying regular sounds like range commands and regular talking.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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Looking for electronic in ear protection that gets rid of the bulk and lets you connect to your phone via Bluetooth? We love the AXIL XCORs.
See more of our favorites in our Best Shooting Ear Protection article.
Eye Protection
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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Shooting glasses are another mandatory item in most places, so you don’t lose an eye out there.
Sunglasses and regular prescription glasses are usually fine for all ranges, but I go with ones that are military or ANSI-rated, comfy, and don’t break the bank like the Wiley X Sabers.
Consider also picking a pair of clear lens options for overcast days when sunglasses would be too dark.
You can check out more options in our full Best Shooting Glasses article.
And if you want more bang for your buck, might we suggest PPT’s very own ShellShock Protection eye and ear combos.
We packaged our best-seller EXO PROs with our ballistic ANSI Z.87+ rated SWITCH glasses that come with both clear and smoke lenses.
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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Portable Cleaning Kit
We go over what we like for our at-home cleaning kit in our Best Cleaning Kits article, and our favorite is the GuardTech Universal Kit.
From .22LR through AR-15s, handguns, and shotguns…this kit has it all.
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But many times for the range, we just bring the bare essentials in the for infrequent emergency cleaning.
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What’s “emergency cleaning?” you may ask — it’s when your gun stops functioning because of dirt, grime, or some other epic fouling.
This kit has everything you need and even a squeeze bottle to bring a small bit of gun oil.
Screwdriver and Allen Keys
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Something always comes loose, or you need to change something on the fly. It is always a good idea to pack a sturdy screwdriver and an Allen/hex key set.
We really like Wheeler Engineering tools since they are geared specifically toward gunsmithing and firearm maintenance. Spending the extra few dollars on quality hand tools will save you the headache of stripping a screw head with a poorly fitting tool.
Targets
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Your range may have some steel or paper targets, but it’s hard to see exactly where you’re hitting, especially when you’re shooting a handgun or zeroing a scope.
We love Shoot-N-C targets since they turn a bright color when you hit them. Plus, they also come with extra black stickers to repair your targets.
If you really want to upgrade your target game, though, take a look at AR500 steel targets from Shoot Steel that we use in our video reviews.
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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Check out our review on all of Shoot Steel targets.
If you want the absolute bang-for-your-buck with everything you need, from targets to eyes/ears and a cleaning kit, check out ShellShock Protection’s Tactical Starter Kit.
It has legit everything you need for $170. Easy peasy.
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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Ammo Can
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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Plano ammo cans are our favorite method to carry stuff. They are light and sturdy enough to handle anything and can even be used as a gun rest if needed.
Range Bag
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One of our go-to bags is the Orca Tactical range bag. It has enough space for most outings built tough with a nice strap, and even Velcro to show off your patches.
If you want something with more volume and accessible side pockets for mags and other accessories, check out the Osage River Range Bag.
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For rifles, our favorite case is the Savior Equipment Urban Warfare.
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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Generous pocket space and high-quality fabrics and zippers help this case avoid that “cheap” feel. They are also available in various lengths and colors. Use code “PEWPEW10” for 10% off!
We go more in-depth on more range bags in our Best Range Bags article and video.
Handgun Case
The plastic case that came with your handgun does the job, but they can take up a lot of room in a range bag if you don’t have dedicated slots for them.
We created the Pew Pew Tactical Handgun Case ($16) to be a little more discreet. Unlike the major competitors out there, it will fit almost any full-sized handgun, even with a light.
First Aid Kit
We go fully into what should go into a kit in our Med Kits article. But the bare basics would be:
Nothing is a substitute for good training, though, so make sure to invest in at least one first-aid class to go with that kit. We have some recommendations here.
“Nice to Have” Range Gear
Nothing essential here, but just stuff to make your range time a little easier and more enjoyable.
Magazine Loader/Unloader
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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These MagLula loaders (especially the pistol one) really save your thumbs during a range session. So much so that we almost put it in the essentials section.
They are great, especially for stiff magazines where getting the last couple rounds in can be a real chore when you are just using your thumbs.
While it might seem a little expensive, it is well worth it for the sake of your sanity and thumbs. They also offer an AR-15 version too!
We cover the MagLula and other options in our Best Magazine Speed Loaders article and video.
Shooting Bags
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Having a stable platform when you are shooting and zeroing your rifles is a major key to success. The Caldwell DeadShot shooting bags can help you do just that.
They are versatile, packable, and great for when you are shooting off benches at the range.
Shooting Mat
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Sometimes you want to shoot prone, and the combo bag and mat from NcSTAR can handle everything.
Although NCStar is not normally known for ultra-high-quality products, their VISM rifle case and shooting mat is awesome and has held up through dozens of range sessions for us. Separate shooting mats are about the same price and can’t carry two rifles.
Brass Catcher
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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Attach to your rifle’s handguard to catch spent brass for reloading. Even if you don’t reload now, a brass catcher is good to have since you never know when you’ll get into it!
Plus, some ranges make you pick up your own brass anyway, so this saves you the trouble.
Shooting Belt
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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If you’re looking to handle reloads (or even drawing if you have a range that allows it), I started off with a simple Uncle Mike’s shooting belt. It’s great for a pistol and two magazines or one rifle mag.
If you’re planning on running multiple rifle magazines, you might want something stiffer.
Our favorite staff pick is the entire lineup of belts from Kore Essentials. These belts use a ratchet mechanism that allows for both precise and easy adjustment. when you need to sit down for an extended period of time.
The extremely stiff core, combined with the quick adjustments, lets you get the exact fit you need. No more being in between adjustment holes, no more unbuckling to adjust when you sit down to eat. Just a simple press of a small lever, and you are in your comfort zone.
Use code “PEWBELT10” for 10% off.
Check out my full Kore Essentials review and also my overall Best Gun Belts article.
Holsters
There’s A LOT to unpack in holsters. So much so that we have dedicated articles for each type.
Check out our Best Concealed Carry & OWB (Outside the Waistband Holsters).
Spotting Scope
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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If you’re pushing out past a few hundred yards…or need to quickly zero…you’ll want a spotting scope.
Our go-to best bang-for-the-buck one is the Celestron 55250, giving you 20-60x magnification at decent quality.
Plus, the 45-degree angle works well to reduce strain on your neck. And the adjustments are easy to do on the fly.
Check out the rest of our Best Spotting Scopes for some higher-end models and our recommended tripods.
Elite Range Gear
If you’re hand-loading ammo or shooting very far range, you’ll want to check out these goodies.
Premium Ear Pro
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We cover a lot of options in our Shooting Hearing Protection article, but the ones I personally use are the MSA Sordin Supreme X.
I enjoy the awesome sound clarity, rugged build quality, ability to still get a good cheek weld, and, most importantly — comfort.
These guys have gel seals and a pretty good headband that lets me wear them for hours at competitions without fatigue.
Mobile Firearm Rack
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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Got too many guns, and you’re not at a traditional range with benches?
The Savior Equipment Mobile Rack folds out and gives you tons of room for rifles and pistols.
It’s all metal and has stood up to multiple range trips without any wear. They have options for full-sized rifles and also a shorty version so you can show some low to your short carbines and AR pistols.
Use code “PEWPEW15” for 15% off the Mobile Rack.
Chronograph
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With a Caldwell G2 you get a Bluetooth-capable chronograph to help you really get into the deets when it comes to shooting.
We like this one because it’s a reasonable price and comes with enough features to keep you satisfied.
Check out the rest of our Best Chronographs For Shooting.
Lead Sled
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For something more steady than sandbags to zero, or if you are shooting magnum rounds, the Caldwell Lead Sled is here to help.
This rest keeps your rifle extremely steady while allowing you to make fine-tune adjustments to ensure your crosshairs are right where they need to be.
You can also add weights or lead shot onto the tray to really reduce recoil when dealing with heavy-hitting cartridges.
Laser Rangefinder
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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You can’t hit something if you don’t know the distance. A laser rangefinder allows you to measure the exact distance between you and your target, allowing you to properly adjust for the shot.
We have a whole article dedicated to these bad boys: Best Laser Rangefinders (All Budgets).
Weather Meter
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Wind messing with your shots? The Kestrel weather meters have you covered.
Various models are available that let you measure various things like wind, altitude, and barometric pressure.
Higher-end models have advanced features such as measuring dew point, heat stress index, and even have built-in ballistic calculators and can link with compatible range finders.
Take a look at our review of All the Kestrel Models.
Competition Belt
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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I love my ELS competition belt since it has two layers (the inner one that you put into your belt loops is hook and loop), so you can quickly remove and put on your likely heavy gear.
Also, it lets you use quick disconnect backers on your holsters and pouches so you can adjust for whatever stage you’re running.
Shot Timer
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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And for the competitors out there, get your own shot timer to see how your strings stack up against the pros.
You can check out our other picks for this category in our Best Shot Timers article.
Final Thoughts
There are a lot of things you could take to the range, but hopefully, you’ve got a better idea of what must-haves you should pack!
Did I miss anything else? Let me know in the comments below! And are you truly prepared for the shooting range? Check out our Gun Noob to Gun Slinger video course…especially catered to beginner handgun shooters.
67 Leave a Reply
I am a noob shooter. I experimented with several ear muffs, but not the Sordin. I will swear by the Peltor Tactical 500 at about half the price of Sordin, with 26db of protection and bluetooth which some might argue is a distraction, but I really like having that. Sordin doesn't have that, right? other brands: You can get 30db noise reduction, without voice amplification So just forget about hearing critical range instructions ( they are huge!) or cheaper products like Zohan and a dozen identical that have only 22db protection and less intuitive controls. Note that Sordin might have a slimmer around the ear profile and about 2X the battery life of Peltor.
On the Gun belt, I agree on the inner liner, but I just wear a cheap discreet normal belt and guns and whatever else all go on the liner. Any weight on the belt that holds up your pants is uncomfortable and a distraction. Anything reasonable can go on the liner, instant off and on with hook and loop, has some advantages over a normal belt, like the ride height is somewhat adjustable and it can be higher in the back, lower in the front. So, just the liner. For under $40 you can probably have a couple and not have to rotate holsters or gear specific to your weapons. And I think if I did need a second gun belt on me, then... two liners and no buckling in. I am using simple kydex holsters and you would probably have to do something to keep leather ones from skating around just a liner. I can't say this is good for some of the complicated Safariland type holsters, like adjustable ride height rail systems and accessories or roto systems. I will say for Safariland that they seem to have an answer to every issue. It may be ridiculously complicated, but there it is.
What about shooting gloves?
For you folks that wear prescription glasses....The Wiley X Saber Advanced Shooting Glasses - just to note, if you order these through the Wiley X site you can order them in prescription.
Thank you! I was looking for this option.
I must say that I haven't had success with Wiley-X's prescription shooting glasses. The first time, the frame snapped and also the lens coating delaminated. Wiley honored the warranty and replaced them. Then the exact same thing occurred again several months later! I'm OCD when I care for my gear, but that was too much.
I enjoy shooting at an outdoor range with tactical bays. More freedom, more creativity, but often less infrastructure. I take a few metal IDPA-type target stands, some 1x2, cardboard backer boards (actually IDPA targets), and butcher paper to allow rapid target refreshing. You just need a good staple gun and a sharpie, and you can shoot all day for cheap.
Been reading you articles for years always good info. I use the Howard Leight by Honeywell orange MAX-1-D foam earplugs. Back in 2019 got them for about $50 for a box of 500 pair. I work in a very loud plant best I found for work & shooting. You can't hear anything with these & ear muffs. When I take a shooting class I only use the ear muffs
Hi Eric,
That's a great list. The only thing I bring that was not on the list is Lead Free wipes. Most of the "Ranges" here in Colorado don't have a place to wash hands after shooting.
Gallery has big buckets of handwipes in both ranges!
Thanks Eric. I find your articles very useful and informative.
Now that the weather is getting warmer I will start carrying some bottled water with me to help cool off on outside ranges.
Thanks Eric, appreciate your articles.
I normally do my shooting practice in the desert. Flat land for miles with great backdrop hills.
I use metal posts and tie colored balloons to them. I bring an air tank and a quick balloon valves.
Back to targets, 5 to 30 yards.
Friend says shoot blue, red, and so on. Requires quick decisions, and not knowing where the target is.
Have fun, be safe.
I am elderly, a wife of 40+ years, children and grandchildren.
Wear a double up on hearing protection. It is not fun when you cannot hear your children or grandchildren laugh, say I love you, grandpa, let's go for a walk.
I cannot blame it all on shooting. I used to play with hot rods and built motorcycles. Standard stuff.
Eye protection, good stuff. An IV bottle shattered at work. Not blind, but it made me consider, and use eye protection.
Hi Eric - I know it's kind of a no-brainer, but make sure you have your LTC and driver's license with you (especially if you are going to a public, monitored range). I say this because I (like a bonehead) forgot my DL one day and it made for a ZERO shot day.
First aid/trauma kit, most important thing to have.
Agree, first aid kit to the range. And you don't often see them.
Our range first aid kit contains eye wash, gauze, tape, chest seals, cold packs, quick clot, tourniquet, space blanket, bandaids and rubber gloves. Fits in a 50 cal ammo can. I've had a person walk in front of my shooting bench. Luckily I held fire.
wow some are just ...ignorant..idiocracy is becoming more true each day.
Another good item is DUCT Tape to use for targets!! It is one of the all around best items to EVER have in most cases. Just my 2 cents.
YES, for me it's white hockey tape.
Regarding eye ware and pistol shooting, if you have trouble focusing on the front site because you usually need reading glasses (is that far- or nearsighted, I always confuse them), there is a solution to this. You can get wrap-around safety glasses that have magnification built into them like reading glasses. They come from 0.5 up to 5.0 magification. For me the 2.5 power ones are perfect. Best thing is they wrap around the side of your eye to protect intrustion and you don't have to wear 2 pairs of glasses. I get them from Henry Schein out of Long Island. If they won't sell them to you, just ask your dentist to order you a pair.
You forgot one of the most important items, which is also the one I've forgotten the most. A STAPLE GUN (along with a box of extra staples). Nothing funner than going to the range and discovering you have no way to secure your target. I did this so many times that I started to have conniptions whenever it happened, and while it might be amusing to watch a guy dance in small circles, screaming profanities, while pulling his hair out, it was starting to disturb some of the newer shooters. So I bought several and put two in every vehicle (one in my toolbox, and one under the seat - occasionally I'd take my tool box out, or bag up the detritus from around and under my seat in order to go through it "soon" and reorganize).
Damn right! I’ve done that.......
Spray glue works better.
Check out The Outpost(#3 in US, true story, 10/03/09) on Netlfix. The shower scene, enemy attack. Not MY favorite part, but goes with the conversation LOL
reply to TurkeyNuts, RE clothes.
This is all good stuff. Really enjoy these. Just really getting serious into shooting, Keep em coming. Can you direct me to some cleaning articles?
You only need a gun with the right holster (preferably concealed) ammo, eye, and ear protection. Spend more time in shooting drills. Draw your own targets (a marker is enough). In real life situations all the other stuff is useless. Only go to shooting ranges where you can shoot from your holster and allow fast shooting. Spend the money in range time, bullets, and professional instruction.
What about clothing?
I’ve never actually seen any rules, but I’m pretty sure most ranges require it. However, it is optional on private property.
I have found in general tool bags are way cheaper than range bags, and tool bags can carry a lot of weight.
The MagLula loader is almost an essential. I have gotten more comments from people while loading than anything. This includes the days I bring my original Colt govt 1911 .45 series 70. I have had people leave the indoor range mid-session to buy one. It not only saves you from "Nintendo" thumb but shooters who have arthritis or other ailments can more easily reload.
I bought an FNX-45 and after loading two magazines and killing my thumbs, I immediately went out and bought one of these.
I know you mentioned range first aid kits which is a great idea, no argument but just wanted to leave this for you as well as any reader/commenter. A newer company in the first aid kit game, has just come out with 2-Range Day first aid kits actually a basic and and an advoboth very well put together and come inside their own easily seen and distinguished as a first aid kit as well. Company is called “MY MEDIC” if you guys have a chance take a look. Great products and kits, all kinds of kits for just about any thinkable scenario including a day at the range as welll now.
150$ for the "advanced" first aid kit and it only includes 1 pair or gloves, same as the 60$ one!?!? Give me 150$ and I can purchase all of that at a drug store and online and have enough for five kits.
A fire extinguisher in So Cal is a good idea.
I have found that bringing a container of drinking water along to the range always allows me to stay at the bench longer with more comfort and ability to concentrate better. There is nothing worse than being thirsty and unable to enjoy my shooting position.
It is a great idea to have a first aid/trauma/bleed control kit that includes 2 or more tourniquets. I do not have a recommendation for a commercial kit.
You included shooting bags, sticks, and a lead lead sled but you seemed to forget a sling. After having been to a Project Appleseed shoot, and learning how to properly use a sling to steady a rifle. I’d say that a USGI sling is a must to have on all your rifles or at least in your range bag.
Under the category of "Elite Range Gear" a Matis X training tool. Otherwise, an excellent article.
Good idea! We have an article on the MantisX and really like it!
How about...water? :-) Also: shooting gloves (or something that is thin enough not to interfere with the trigger guard). When it's cold, they'll keep your hands warm. When it's hot, they'll absorb your perspiration.
Oh, more! Comfortable shoes; long sleeved t-shirt to protect your arms from hot shell casings and keep them from going down your shirt (don't wear collared shirts, IMHO).
Good advice! I'll include that in the planned update.
Does anyone know of a decent shot timer app for the iPhone?
All of the apps I've used have been really crummy, sorry.
If your competing and have several weapons/gear, a collapsible wagon is worth it's weight in gold!
Stapler, dot stickers, tape, a good attitude
Great job Eric - look forward to all your posts - you inspire me to shoot more and collect less! lol
I suggest a spotting scope or pair of binoculars
Just gonna say that target with the beard seems pretty damn racist to me.
the three target faces are exactly the same, one has a beard.
I was wondering when someone was going to play the race card. My faith in America is restored
Really good article, cant think of anything else to add but wish I had some of the "toys" as they would add to the shooting experience
Great list and info. I would perhaps add some basic first aid and trauma first aid to the list. I do most of my shooting off range—out in the wilderness. I consider serious injury highly unlikely, but still best to be prepared. In addition to the basic band-aids, etc, I keep two tourniquets, chest seals, pressure dressing and hemostatic gauze in my bag. I like to be prepared.
Good tip...we have a first aid kit article but it would help to link it here!
Plus one for ammo cans being essential gear. They have so many uses. A variation on the basic ammo can that I like is MTM's SPUD 1. It's basically an ammo can with a shallow, lift-out tray in the top, and some hidden compartmentalized storage in the lid. I find it perfect for storing some of my smaller shooting gear that I want to keep a little more organized; e.g. cleaning tools and supplies.
Eric I love your articles. Keep it up
Will do, Anthony...thanks for reading!
Hey Eric.. I love the site and the recommendations.. but there are multiple recommendations around the site where one item is recommended one place and in another article, a different brand is recommended. This doesn't appear to be a "one is better than the other" scenario more than just perhaps when each was written, your opinion was different. I have noticed this with the lead sleds, hex wrench sets, and even the gunsmithing hammers. Especially for new guys, it would probably be a lot cleaner if your "top" of current suggestion was the only one found across the site, unless some particular article was suggesting the "cheapest" stuff, etc.... Just something I noticed. Thanks again for the great articles.
Hi, thanks for the input! We'll be working on getting the smaller stuff a little more streamlined across the site.
First aid kit for shooting range... stuff happens.
That's true...great suggestion!
I would be very interested in knowing your picks for range belt, owb holster for range belt, etc... Is this something you are considering adding to your range gear article?
Hi Matthew, great idea! *UPDATED*
Awesome, this is great!
Spotting Scope.
Great addition...I'll be updating the article. *Update* DONE!