Gear guides
What's in the Bag?
A well-packed range bag makes every trip safer and smoother. Here's a checklist by category.
2A Digital · April 2026 issue ·
Protection first: eye protection rated to impact standards and hearing protection, plus spare foam plugs and an extra pair of glasses for a guest. A cap with a brim helps keep hot brass away from your eyes.
Safety and first aid: a basic first-aid kit, ideally including supplies for serious bleeding and training in how to use them. Add sunscreen, water and any personal medications. Know where the range's emergency equipment is and how to call for help.
Firearm care: a cleaning kit appropriate to your firearms, a small multi-tool, lubricant, a cleaning cloth and a chamber flag or empty-chamber indicator if your range uses them. Bring the owner's manual for anything new.
Targets and tools: targets, staples or tape, a marker and a notebook to record what you practiced and what to work on next time. Many shooters find written notes do more for improvement than any gadget.
Transport and storage: a lockable case for each firearm, and ammunition stored separately in its original packaging or a dedicated case. Check your range's rules about which ammunition types are allowed.
Finally, the paperwork: your range membership card, any required permits or identification, and the range rules. Read them before you start, and follow every range command.
Written notes do more for improvement than any gadget.
Educational content only — not legal advice. Laws on firearms, carry, transport and self-defense vary by state and change; confirm current rules with a licensed attorney or official state resources. Always follow the universal firearm safety rules and train with a qualified instructor.