When you come out to your first match, you will need to bring along a minimum contingent of equipment.
Don't go overboard!. Your first match equipment should include:
- If you have a rifle that qualifies for competition, bring it. If not, bring enough .223 or whatever caliber you shoot ammunition and you may be able to borrow one.
- A rifle case (soft or hard). When you first arrive at our range, your rifle must be encased!
- At least 3 30-round magazines, or the equivalent in lower capacity magazines. Our rifle stages can require as many as 75 rounds. If you need to take any extra shots, you're into a third magazine. You probably want to carry at least one spare in case you have a problem during the run -- it's easier to just drop the magazine and stick in a new one.
- Some way to carry around your extra magazines. Various types of inexpensive mag pouches are available from a number of sources. Although you may be able to just stick it in your belt or pocket for your first match, but you may have to go prone and get up again.
- At least 100 rounds of ammunition. If you need extra shots, better have enough ammunition. If you have a "range malfunction" during your run and need to "reshoot", you'd better have enough ammunition to reshoot the entire course. There's no point in cutting too close on the amount of ammunition you bring, you can always use the excess at the next match.
- If you have a shotgun that qualifies for competition, bring it. If not, bring enough 12-gauge ammunition and you may be able to borrow one.
- A shotgun case (soft or hard). When you first arrive at our range, your shotgun must be encased!
- At least 25 rounds of lead shot, size #6 or smaller (i.e., #7 1/2, #8, etc.). In addition, we sometimes require slugs (25) on certain stages. Some way to carry extra rounds during the running of the course. This could include holders that attach to your belt; a pouch (like a "fanny pack") that goes around your waist; special shotgun ammunition belts with elastic loops to hold individual rounds, which goes around your waist or is worn as a bandoleer over one shoulder, etc. If you don't have one, you can surely borrow something from someone on your squad.
- If you have a Pistol that you want to use and it is 9mm or larger, no magnums caliber ammo, bring it. Also bring enough ammo to ensure you don’t run dry (At Least 75-100 Rnds)
- Magazines / speed loaders, be sure to have enough for up to 36 shots at least.
- Holsters, Magazine Holders, be sure to have adequate methods to safely carry your equipment, shoulder type holsters are not permitted and magazine holders work much better than pockets.
- Eye and ear protection. To shoot a 3-Gun match at the RBGC, you must wear safety or shooting glasses and some type of ear protection (plugs or muffs). Your regular sunglasses will not qualify as safety glasses, except for certain models of Gargoyles, Bolle, etc. that are designed as sports safety glasses as well.
- Clothing that is suitable for the season (usually HOT) and provides adequate freedom of movement without being too loose, causing catches on props. If the weather forecast includes moisture, you might want to bring some foul-weather gear (rain suit, poncho, etc.).
- Knee and/or elbow pads, especially if you are sensitive in those areas. You can count on having to go to kneeling and prone positions during every match. If some padding will prevent injury when you get too enthusiastic, consider bringing some.
- Water and food. Especially during the summer, dehydration is a constant problem. Our club normally has soft drinks and water for sale, but it is usually easier if you bring some yourself and have it with you. A light snack can help keep your energy up as well.