It is important to note that federal law forbids the sale of handguns to persons who are below the age of 18 and long guns to individuals under 18 for private sales and 21 for sales by licensed dealers.
However, the exact age limit for a shooting range in the United States will most often depend on your location in the United States as well as the type of firearm being used.
Nevertheless, note that different states tend to possess additional restrictions, and that is why it is recommended that you take your time to check local regulations.
Aside from that, a good number of shooting ranges in the country also put in place their own age restrictions or requirements for supervision.
Notable Laws Governing the Use Of Shooting Ranges
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Age Restrictions
You need to know that state laws regarding age restrictions will vary, and you are advised to find out all you can about local regulations in your area.
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Firearm Transport and Possession
In the United States, the transportation of firearms to a shooting range will need to be in line with federal and state regulations.
Note that any firearm to be transported will need to be unloaded, and in some cases, stored in a locked container. Don’t forget that a good number of states have also put in place laws that regulate the possession of firearms at shooting ranges.
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Background Checks
According to federal laws, anyone looking to purchase firearms will need to be ready for background checks. Most often, this will encompass acquiring firearms for use at shooting ranges. A good number of states in the country have also in recent times mandated additional background check requirements.
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Ammunition Sales
Note that a good number of states aside from age restrictions also possess limitations on the number or type of ammunition an individual or a business can acquire.
As such, take your time to find out all you can regarding these regulations to be certain you are in line when purchasing ammunition for use at a shooting range.
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Range Safety Rules
Almost all shooting ranges in the United States have stringent safety rules and guidelines to ensure they can limit or totally avoid accidents while also guaranteeing a secure environment.
You will find that the rules in a good number of these ranges feature instructions or directives on proper firearm handling, eye and ear protection, and range etiquette. Going contrary to these safety rules will lead to expulsion from the range and, in certain instances, legal repercussions.
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Supervision Requirements
In some states in the United States, minors are allowed to use a shooting range although this will have to be under the supervision of a parent or guardian.
Keep in mind that this regulation will vary depending on your location in the United States. Note that the level of supervision necessary could vary depending on your specific circumstances.
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Local Ordinances and Zoning Laws
Keep in mind that shooting ranges are also subject to local ordinances and zoning laws, and these regulations will indeed determine where the business can be established and operated.
Aside from that, you will also want to know that these regulations will affect the accessibility and construction of shooting ranges in varying areas.