Safety Begins Before You Enter the Firing Position

Training at a licensed shooting range follows a clear framework: registration, document verification, protective equipment and a briefing by the Shooting Instructor. Do not rush to the practical stage. A few minutes of listening and asking questions prevent mistakes and support calm learning.

Listen to the Local Briefing

Every shooting range and activity has procedures suited to the location, training format and group. The range manager's and instructor's directions govern the activity. If an instruction is unclear, stop and ask before continuing.

Four Basic Principles

Treat every firearm as though it is loaded.
Always point the barrel in the safe direction defined by the instructor.
Keep your finger off the trigger until an appropriate instruction is given.
Identify the target and its surroundings, and act only within the defined framework.

The principles work together. Do not rely on one rule to compensate for breaking another.

Protective Equipment and Communication

Use hearing and eye protection in accordance with the instructions. Make sure the equipment fits properly before the training begins. If protection moves, something falls or a situation becomes unclear, stop, maintain the safe direction and call the instructor.

Preparation and a safety briefing come before activity. Illustrative image.

When in Doubt, Stop

Stopping is not a failure. It is part of safety discipline. In the event of a malfunction, confusion or a change at the firing position, do not try to resolve it alone. Follow the shooting range commands and wait for the instructor's assistance.

Before the Activity Begins

You have the required documents.
Your protective equipment is serviceable and correctly fitted.
The safe direction at the firing position is clear.
You heard the commands to begin and stop.
You know whom to contact if you are uncertain.

Safety instructions and firearm-use procedures on the government website

View Koach Hatzafon training and instruction

This article does not replace a briefing at a licensed shooting range. The instructor's directions and the location's current procedures take precedence over all general information.