National Rifle Association

WELCOME TO THE NRA BASIC

RANGE SAFETY OFFICER COURSE

Robert D. Soule, Jr.

NRA Training Counselor
Chief Range Safety Officer

Update: 04/2020
 Slide I-1

LESSON I: Introduction to the NRA

Basic Range Safety Officer Course
Lesson I
Lesson II
Lesson III
Learning Objectives:
Lesson IV Upon completion of this lesson, you should be able to:
Lesson V
Lesson VI 1. Understand the NRA’s Range Safety Officer Course.
Lesson VII
2. Explain the procedure for becoming an NRA Range
Safety Officer.
3. Explain the goal of the NRA Range Safety Officer
Course

3
 Slide I-2

Student Introductions
Student Introductions to Include:
Lesson I  Full Name
Lesson II
Lesson III  Experience in Shooting, Training, and Range
Lesson IV
Lesson V
Supervision
Lesson VI  NRA Involvement
Lesson VII
 Occupation
 How you intend to use this certification
PRACTICAL EXERCISE:
PREPARATION TIME: 5 MINUTES
PRESENTATION TIME: 1 MINUTE

4
 Slide I-3

Course Introduction
 No Live Ammunition, Percussion Caps, Propellants, or
Lesson I Projectiles in the Classroom and Practical Exercise
Lesson II
Lesson III area
Lesson IV  Schedule of Events – Refer to course itinerary
Lesson V
Lesson VI  Facilities
Lesson VII
 Security
 Student Study Guide matches the slide presentation
 RSO test is open book

You may work on the test during the breaks

5
 Slide I-4

Course Goal
To develop NRA Certified Range Safety Officers
Lesson I
Lesson II who possess the knowledge, skills, and attitude
Lesson III
Lesson IV essential to organizing, conducting, and
Lesson V
Lesson VI supervising safe shooting activities and range
Lesson VII operations.

6
 Slide I-5

Course Lessons
Topics Include:
Lesson I
Lesson II
Lesson III
 Defining the role of the Range Safety Officer (RSO).
Lesson IV  The purpose of range Standard Operating
Lesson V
Lesson VI Procedures (SOP).
Lesson VII
 Procedures for inspecting a range prior to live fire.
 Conducting a range safety briefing.
 Emergency procedures.
 How to safely unload guns and correct stoppages
and malfunctions.

7
 Slide I-6

Certification Requirements
Lesson I
Lesson II
1. 21 years old or older
Lesson III 2. Attend the entire course.
Lesson IV
Lesson V 3. Participate in discussions and practical exercises.
Lesson VI 4. Demonstrate knowledge, skills, and attitudes
Lesson VII
necessary to organize, conduct, and supervise safe
shooting activities and range operations.
5. Achieve an examination score of 90% or higher.
6. Finalize credentialing at nrainstructors.org

8
 Slide I-7

Lesson II Preview
Lesson I
Lesson II In Lesson II we will learn about:
Lesson III
Lesson IV  The role of the Range Safety Officer.
Lesson V
Lesson VI
Lesson VII
 The purpose of having range Standard
Operating Procedures.
What are your questions?

9
 Slide II-1

LESSON II: Role of the Range Safety Officer and

Range Standard Operating Procedures
Lesson I
Lesson II
Lesson III Learning Objectives:
Lesson IV
Lesson V Upon completion of this lesson, you should be able to:
Lesson VI
Lesson VII
 Explain the role of the Range Safety Officer (RSO).
 Explain the purpose of having range Standard Operating
Procedures (SOP).

10
 Slide II-2

The Role of the Range Safety Officer

Lesson I
Lesson II
Lesson III
Lesson IV The Range Safety Officer (RSO) supervises shooting
Lesson V
Lesson VI activities as prescribed by the range Standard
Lesson VII
Operating Procedures (SOP).

11
 Slide II-3

The Role of the Chief Range

Safety Officer
Lesson I
Lesson II
Lesson III •The Chief Range Safety Officer (CRSO) trains RSOs
Lesson IV
Lesson V and has overall responsibility for safe gun handling
Lesson VI
Lesson VII and shooting everywhere on the range premises.
•The CRSO develops a range’s SOP as directed by
the range owners.
•Conducts Range Safety Officer training.

12
 Slide II-4

Range Standard Operating Procedure

Lesson I
Lesson II CONTENTS
Lesson III
Lesson IV
The content of the SOP is determined by the range owner,
Lesson V and includes:
Lesson VI
Lesson VII
 Organizational Information
 Range Capabilities
 Range Operations
 Shooting Range Rules and Regulations
 Emergency Response Plans

13
 Slide II-5

Lesson II Review Questions

Lesson Objectives:
Lesson I
Lesson II As a result of this lesson, you should be able to:
Lesson III
Lesson IV  What is the role of the Range Safety Officer (RSO).
Lesson V
Lesson VI  What is the purpose of having range Standard Operating
Lesson VII Procedures (SOP).

What are your questions?

14
 Slide II-6

Lesson III Preview

Lesson I
Lesson II
Lesson III In Lesson III we will look at:
Lesson IV
Lesson V Basic Inspection Procedures for Ranges
Lesson VI
Lesson VII Range Rules

15
 Slide III-1

Lesson III: Range Inspection

and Range Rules
Lesson I Learning Objectives:
Lesson II
Lesson III Upon completion of this lesson, you should be able to:
Lesson IV
Lesson V • Explain basic inspection procedures for an indoor
Lesson VI
Lesson VII
range.
• Explain basic inspection procedures for an outdoor
range.
• Explain four types of shooting range rules and how
each type applies to the handling and use of guns.

16
 Slide III-2

Range Check-In Procedures

Lesson I Check-in at the range office.
Lesson II
Lesson III Pick up equipment/materials.
Lesson IV  SOP for the specific range.
Lesson V
Lesson VI  First-aid kit .
Lesson VII
 Communications equipment - (including backup
System)
 Keys, etc.
 Range flags.

17
 Slide III-3

Range Inspections
Lesson I
Lesson II  Facility SOP provides inspection procedures.
Lesson III
Lesson IV  Ensure that each item is checked.
Lesson V
Lesson VI  Each range is unique.
Lesson VII
 Check the SOP for the specific range.
 Use your own GOOD judgment.

18
 Slide III-4

Inspecting an Indoor Range

Lesson I  Condition of range on arrival: clean/dirty?
Lesson II
Lesson III
 Lighting set correctly?
Lesson IV  Air-flow system working properly?
Lesson V
Lesson VI  Impact area functional and free of personnel?
Lesson VII  Target carriers working properly?
 Targets ready?
 Communication and backup systems working?
 Safety briefing prepared?
 Emergency procedures reviewed and checked?

19
 Slide III-5

Inspecting an Outdoor Range

Lesson I Condition of range on arrival: clean/dirty?
Lesson II
Lesson III Impact area functional?
Lesson IV
Lesson V
Range area clear of personnel?
Lesson VI Target holders or target throwers working properly?
Lesson VII Targets ready?
Communication and backup systems working?
Safety briefing prepared?
Emergency procedures reviewed and checked?
Baffles and berms checked?

20
 Slide III-6

Gun Safety
Lesson I
Lesson II
Lesson III
Lesson IV 1. Shooting incidents are rare on ranges!
Lesson V
Lesson VI
2. How can RSOs help prevent problems on the range?
Lesson VII a. Educate users.
b. Provide direct range supervision.
c. Enforce shooting range safety rules.

21
 Slide III-7

Categories of Shooting Range Rules

Lesson I 1. NRA Gun Safety Rules
Lesson II
Lesson III a. 3 Fundamental Rules for Safe Gun Handling
Lesson IV
Lesson V
b. 8 Rules for Using or Storing a Gun
Lesson VI
Lesson VII
2. General Range Rules
3. Site-Specific Range Rules
4. Administrative Rules

22
 Slide III-8

NRA Gun Safety Rules

Lesson I
Three Fundamental Rules for Safe Gun Handling
Lesson II 1. ALWAYS keep the gun pointed in a safe direction.
Lesson III
Lesson IV 2. ALWAYS keep your finger off the trigger until ready
Lesson V to shoot.
Lesson VI
Lesson VII 3. ALWAYS keep the gun unloaded until ready to use.

These rules should be followed at all times!

23
 Slide III-9

NRA Gun Safety Rules

Lesson I Rules for Using or Storing a Gun
Lesson II
Lesson III
Lesson IV
Lesson V 1. Know your target and what is beyond.
Lesson VI
Lesson VII 2. Be sure the gun is safe to operate.
3. Know how to use the gun safely.
4. Use only the correct ammunition for your gun.

24
 Slide III-10

NRA Gun Safety Rules

Lesson I Rules for Using or Storing a Gun – (Continued)
Lesson II
Lesson III
Lesson IV 5. Never use alcohol or drugs before or while shooting.
Lesson V
Lesson VI 6. Store guns so they are not accessible to unauthorized
Lesson VII persons.
7. Wear eye and ear protection as appropriate.
8. Be aware that certain types of guns and many
shooting activities require additional safety
precautions.

25
 Slide III-11

General Range Safety Rules

Lesson I 1. Know and obey all range rules.

Lesson II
Lesson III
2. Know where others are at all times.
Lesson IV 3. Shoot only at authorized targets.
Lesson V
Lesson VI 4. Malfunctions
Lesson VII
a. Gun malfunction
b. Ammunition malfunction

26
 Slide III-12

General Range Safety Rules (continued)

Lesson I 5. Designate an RSO when none is present or assigned.

Lesson II
Lesson III 6. Do not handle a gun or stand at the firing line where
Lesson IV
Lesson V guns are present while others are downrange.
Lesson VI
Lesson VII
7. Stop shooting immediately upon the command “Cease
firing.”

27
 Slide III-13

General Range Safety Rules (continued)

Lesson I 8. Hygiene Guidelines (Shooting and Cleaning Guns)

Lesson II
Lesson III
a. Refrain from eating, drinking, smoking, applying
Lesson IV makeup, or placing your hands in proximity to your
Lesson V
Lesson VI
mouth or nose while on the range or cleaning a gun.
Lesson VII b. Change and wash clothing after a shooting or gun
cleaning session to minimize exposure to airborne
particulate lead or solvent and cleaning product
residues.

28
 Slide III-14

General Range Safety Rules (continued)

Lesson I 9. Special Concerns

Lesson II
Lesson III a. Pregnant women, children under seven years of age,
Lesson IV
Lesson V and others who have concerns should consult a
Lesson VI physician before visiting shooting ranges.
Lesson VII
b. Physical contact

29
 Slide III-15

Site Specific Range Safety Rules

Lesson I
 Tailored for a particular shooting range.
Lesson II
Lesson III
 Specifies authorized guns, calibers, ammunition types,
Lesson IV and limitations.
Lesson V
Lesson VI  Provides rules for special types of shooting events (e.g.
Lesson VII Muzzleloading).

30
 Slide III-16

Administrative Rules
Provide policy rules of the range.
Lesson I
Lesson II  Govern how the range facility operates.
Lesson III
Lesson IV  Hours of operation.
Lesson V
Lesson VI  Parking policies.
Lesson VII
 Schedule of activities.

31
 Slide III-17

Enforcement of Range Rules

Lesson I
The Range Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) guide
Lesson II the RSO and all range users.
Lesson III
Lesson IV • Educate to reduce incidents from occurring.
Lesson V
Lesson VI
• Warning.
Lesson VII • Penalties.
• Removal from range. Loss of privileges.

32
 Slide III-18

Lesson III Review

Lesson I
Learning Objectives:
Lesson II As a result of this lesson, you should be able to:
Lesson III
Lesson IV • Explain basic inspection procedures for an indoor
Lesson V
Lesson VI
range.
Lesson VII • Explain basic inspection procedures for an outdoor
range.
• Explain four types of shooting range rules and how
each type applies to the handling and use of guns.
What are your questions?

33
 Slide III-19

Lesson IV Preview

Lesson I
Learning Objectives:
Lesson II In Lesson IV; we will be introduced to the:
Lesson III
Lesson IV • Range Safety Briefing
Lesson V
Lesson VI • Range Safety Briefing Exercise
Lesson VII
What are your questions?

34
 Slide IV-1

Lesson IV: Range Safety Briefing

Lesson I Learning Objectives:

Lesson II
Lesson III Upon completion of this lesson, you should be able to:
Lesson IV
Lesson V 1. Explain the purpose of a range safety briefing
Lesson VI
Lesson VII 2. Conduct a range safety briefing.

35
 Slide IV-2

Range Safety Briefing

Lesson I 1. WHAT
Lesson II
Lesson III
a. Prepares shooters to safely and efficiently
Lesson IV participate in shooting events.
Lesson V
Lesson VI 2. WHEN
Lesson VII
a. Conducted immediately prior to event.
3. WHERE
a. Conducted within view of the range.

36
 Slide IV-3

Range Safety Briefing Topics

Lesson I Standard Range Safety Briefing Steps

Lesson II
Lesson III 1. Purpose of the Shooting Event
Lesson IV
Lesson V
2. Range Layout and Limits
Lesson VI 3. Range Safety Rules
Lesson VII
4. Firing Line Commands
5. Emergency Procedures

37
 Slide IV-4

Step 1: Purpose of the Shooting Event

1. Introduce yourself and staff.
Lesson I
Lesson II 2. Inform all shooters of what occurs (purpose) during
Lesson III
Lesson IV
live fire.
Lesson V 3. Examples:
Lesson VI
Lesson VII a. Open shooting (recreation)
b. Zeroing guns
c. Match
d. Training session

38
 Slide IV-5

Step 2: Range Layout & Limits - Indoor

Lesson I
Lesson II
Lesson III
Lesson IV
Lesson V
Lesson VI
Lesson VII

39
 Slide IV-6

Step 2: Range Layout & Limits - Outdoor

Lesson I
Lesson II
Lesson III
Lesson IV
Lesson V
Lesson VI
Lesson VII

40
 Slide IV-7

Step 2: Range Layout & Limits - Outdoor

Lesson I
Lesson II
Lesson III
Lesson IV
Lesson V
Lesson VI
Lesson VII

41
 Slide IV-8

Step 3: Range Safety Rules

Range SOP guide the RSOs and state all “must know”
Lesson I
Lesson II information.
Lesson III
Lesson IV
1. NRA Gun Safety Rules
Lesson V a. Three Fundamental Rules for Safe Gun Handling
Lesson VI
Lesson VII
b. Eight Rules for Using or Storing a Gun
2. General Range Rules
3. Site-Specific Range Rules
4. Administrative Rules

42
 Slide IV-9

Step 4: Firing Line Commands

Lesson I
Lesson II
 What commands can be issued by anyone?
Lesson III  What are the advantages of using standard range
Lesson IV
Lesson V
commands?
Lesson VI  What are the characteristics of effective range
Lesson VII
commands?

43
 Slide IV-10

Commands
Lesson I
Lesson II  Tower Discipline
Lesson III
Lesson IV
 Cadence of Commands
Lesson V
Lesson VI
Lesson VII

44
 Slide IV-11

Standard Range Commands

Lesson I  “As you were”
Lesson II
Lesson III  “Carry on”
Lesson IV
Lesson V
 “Relay No. ____, Match No. ____”
Lesson VI  “The preparation period starts now”
Lesson VII
 “The preparation period has ended”
 “Snap caps”
 “Load”
 “Make ready”

45
 Slide IV-12

Standard Range Commands (Continued)

 “Is the line ready?”
Lesson I
Lesson II  “Not ready on target ____”
Lesson III
Lesson IV  “The line is ready”
Lesson V
Lesson VI
 “Ready on the right…Ready on the left…Ready
Lesson VII on the firing line”
 “Commence firing” or “Start”
 “Pull”
 “Misfire on target . . .”

46
 Slide IV-13

Standard Range Commands (Continued)

Lesson I  “Cease firing!” or “Stop!”

Lesson II
Lesson III  “Unload”
Lesson IV
Lesson V  “Show Clear”
Lesson VI
Lesson VII
 “Is the line clear on the right?... on the left?”
 “The line is clear”
 “Move out of position…”
 “Go forward, score targets, and paste”
 “Police your firing point”

47
 Slide IV-14

Step 5: Emergency Procedures

1. Establish procedures for everyone to follow in case of

Lesson I
Lesson II an emergency.
Lesson III
Lesson IV
a. Take charge of the situation.
Lesson V b. Call for help, if required.
Lesson VI
Lesson VII
c. Render aid, within scope of training.
d. Direct help to location.
e. Take notes (Reports).

48
 Slide IV-15

Range Safety Briefing Exercise

1. Conduct on or within view of the range.

Lesson I
Lesson II 2. Stand at a location that supports the briefing (e.g.
Lesson III near posters, firing line, equipment).
Lesson IV
Lesson V
3. Arrange users in a semi-circle.
Lesson VI 4. Ask users to read rules and answer questions.
Lesson VII 5. Use posters and reference handouts.
6. Use IDEP equipment demonstrations.
a. Introduce, Demonstrate, Explain and Practice

49
 Slide IV-16

Sample Range Safety Briefing

Lesson I
Lesson II Standard Range Safety Briefing Steps:
Lesson III
Lesson IV
1. Purpose of the Shooting Event
Lesson V 2. Range Layout and Limits
Lesson VI
Lesson VII
3. Range Safety Rules
4. Firing Line Commands
5. Emergency Procedures

50
 Slide IV-17

Lesson IV: Review

Learning Objectives:
Lesson I
Lesson II Upon completion of this lesson, you should be able to:
Lesson III 1. Explain the purpose of a range safety briefing
Lesson IV
Lesson V 2. Conduct a range safety briefing.
Lesson VI
Lesson VII
3. Explain the purpose of a range safety briefing.
4. List the topics are covered in a range safety briefing.
5. Where the RSO stand when giving the briefing.

What are your questions?

51
 Slide IV-18

Lesson V: Preview
Lesson I In Lesson V you will learn:
Lesson II • Purpose of Emergency Response Procedures.
Lesson III
Lesson IV • Steps taken during an emergency.
Lesson V • Conducting emergency response plans.
Lesson VI
Lesson VII
What are your questions?

52
 Slide V-1

Lesson V: Emergency Procedures

Learning Objectives:
Lesson I
Lesson II Upon completion of this lesson, you should be able to:
Lesson III 1. Explain the purpose of having emergency procedures.
Lesson IV
Lesson V 2. Identify the steps to take during an emergency.
Lesson VI 3. Conduct an emergency exercise.
Lesson VII

53
 Slide V-2

Purpose of Emergency Procedures

Lesson I  Minimize confusion during an emergency.
Lesson II
Lesson III  Save time responding to an emergency.
Lesson IV  May reduce insurance costs.
Lesson V
Lesson VI
Lesson VII

54
 Slide V-3

Emergency Procedures
Lesson I Standardize steps and the sequence in which they are
Lesson II
Lesson III performed.
Lesson IV
Lesson V
Lesson VI
1. Take charge of the situation.
Lesson VII 2. Call for help, if required.
3. Render aid, within scope of training.
4. Direct medical help to location.
5. Take notes (Reports).

55
 Slide V-4

Step 1: Take Charge of Situation

Lesson I
Cease firing, unload, and stay in place.
Lesson II 1. Evaluate the situation.
Lesson III
Lesson IV
a. Minor or major injury?
Lesson V b. If major, call for help immediately
Lesson VI
Lesson VII 2. Designate helpers if necessary.
a. Call for help, if required.
b. Render aid, within scope of training.
c. Direct medical help to location.
d. Take notes (Reports).

56
 Slide V-5

Step 2: Call for Help

Checklist on how to make the call.
Lesson I 1. Have phone numbers or radio emergency channel on
Lesson II
Lesson III hand.
Lesson IV 2. Give the dispatcher necessary information:
Lesson V
Lesson VI a. Location
Lesson VII b. Phone number from where the call is being made
c. Your name
d. What happened
e. How many people injured; condition of injured
f. Location of person who will direct help to the
scene
57
 Slide V-6

Step 3: Render Aid

Lesson I A. Training and Equipment
Lesson II 1. First-aid training & CPR are highly recommended.
Lesson III
Lesson IV 2. Contact doctor’s office for first-aid kit
Lesson V requirements.
Lesson VI
Lesson VII B. Good Samaritan Law (Refer to Connecticut OLR
Update 09/2018 Handout
C. Aid
1. Determine level of care. (Call for help or treat?)
D. Gather information for emergency phone call.

58
 Slide V-7

Step 4: Direct Medical Help to Location

Lesson I
Lesson II
Position one or more persons to direct the emergency
Lesson III vehicle:
Lesson IV
Lesson V
1. On main road to entrance of the facility.
Lesson VI 2. On road to range.
Lesson VII
3. Outside the building.

59
 Slide V-8

Step 5: Take Notes (Report)

Lesson I
Lesson II
1. Take notes on the times actions were taken.
Lesson III a. Smartphones give you access to a camera.
Lesson IV
Lesson V
2. Get statements from witnesses.
Lesson VI 3. Complete required SOP form.
Lesson VII
4. Notify authorities if necessary.

Sample report in the sample SOP – Appendix 5

60
 Slide V-9

Emergency Drill Exercise

Lesson I  Conduct an emergency exercise.
Lesson II
Lesson III  Use these steps to organize your response:
Lesson IV
Lesson V
Lesson VI
1. Take charge of the situation (RSO).
Lesson VII 2. Call for help, if required (runner, phone, and
radio).
3. Render aid (first aid and CPR).
4. Direct medical help to location (range personnel
or runner).
5. Take notes (range personnel or others).

61
 Slide V-10

Lesson V: Review
Learning Objectives:
Lesson I
Lesson II
Lesson III As a result of this lesson, you should be able to:
Lesson IV 1. Explain the purpose of having emergency procedures.
Lesson V
Lesson VI 2. Identify the steps to take during an emergency.
Lesson VII 3. Conduct an emergency exercise.

What are your questions?

62
 Slide V-11

Lesson VI: Preview

Lesson I
Lesson II In lesson VI; you will be learning how to:
Lesson III
Lesson IV
Lesson V  Clearing gun stoppages and malfunctions.
Lesson VI
Lesson VII
What are your questions?

63
 Slide VI-1

Lesson VI: Gun Stoppages & Malfunctions

Learning Objectives
Lesson I Upon completion of this lesson, you should be able to:
Lesson II
Lesson III 1. Explain the difference between a stoppage and a
Lesson IV malfunction.
Lesson V
Lesson VI
2. Demonstrate how to safely take a gun from a
Lesson VII shooter.
3. Demonstrate how to clear common stoppages.

No Live Ammunition, Percussion Caps, Pellets, BBs or

Propellants in the Classroom!
Use only dummy cartridges or dummy shot shells for
classroom demonstrations.
64
 Slide VI-2

What is a Stoppage?
•A stoppage is an unintentional interruption in the
Lesson I operational cycle of a gun, which stops the gun from
Lesson II operating properly.
Lesson III
Lesson IV
•Stoppages can be cleared quickly, which returns the gun
Lesson V back to operational condition.
Lesson VI
Lesson VII Examples of stoppages:
1. The bolt fails to lock a cartridge into position.
2. A stove-pipe in a semi-automatic pistol.
3. A double-feed.

65
 Slide VI-3

Gun Stoppage
Cycle of operation (eight (8) steps)
Lesson I 1. Feeding
Lesson II
Lesson III
2. Chambering
Lesson IV 3. Locking
Lesson V 4. Firing
Lesson VI 5. Unlocking
Lesson VII
6. Extracting
7. Ejecting
8. Cocking

66
 Slide VI-4

What is a Malfunction?
 A malfunction is a failure of a gun or ammunition to
Lesson I function as designed or fire satisfactorily.
Lesson II
Lesson III  Two categories of malfunctions:
Lesson IV  Gun malfunction
Lesson V
Lesson VI
 Require the gun to be repaired to make it function
Lesson VII properly.
 Example: A broken sear that causes the pistol to
fire all rounds in the magazine.
 Ammunition malfunction
 Example: A misfire.

67
 Slide VI-5

Ammunition Malfunctions
Lesson I  Misfire
Lesson II o A failure of a cartridge to fire after the primer has
Lesson III
Lesson IV
been struck by the firing pin.
Lesson V  Hangfire
Lesson VI o A perceptible delay in the ignition of a cartridge after
Lesson VII
the primer has been struck by the firing pin.
 Squib load
o A cartridge which develops less than normal pressure
or velocity after the ignition of the cartridge.

68
 Slide VI-5C

Ammunition Malfunctions (Continued)

Lesson I
Lesson II
Lesson III
What should the shooter do?
Lesson IV
Lesson V 1. Keep the gun pointed downrange and wait the
Lesson VI
Lesson VII required time.
2. Raise the non-shooting hand for assistance or clear
the malfunction, if shooter knows how.

69
 Slide VI-6

Clear a Stoppage
What do we need to know?
Lesson I
Lesson II
 The parts of the gun.
Lesson III  How to SAFELY operate the gun:
Lesson IV
Lesson V Load
Lesson VI Fire
Lesson VII
Unload

70
 Slide VI-7

How to Take Control of a Loaded Gun

To take control of a loaded gun from a shooter, the RSO
should approach from the side in which:
Lesson I 1.Will provide the most control; announce presence to the
Lesson II
Lesson III shooter.
Lesson IV 2.Ask shooter the nature of the problem.
Lesson V 3.Grasp the barrel of the gun behind muzzle and control the
Lesson VI
Lesson VII direction of the muzzle (NRA Safe Gun Handling Rule #1), gain
control of the gun, and have the shooter step back.
4.Control and reposition the gun if necessary (keep muzzle
pointed in a safe direction).
5.Determine the stoppage, clear it, and unload the gun.
6.Tell the shooter what went wrong and how to prevent it from
happening again.

71
 Slide VI-8

Action Types The RSO May Have to Clear

Lesson I
Lesson II
1.Long firearms (rifles and shotguns)
Lesson III a.Six different action types.
Lesson IV
Lesson V
2.Handguns
Lesson VI a.Revolvers and semi-automatics.
Lesson VII
3.Muzzleloading guns (pistols, rifles and shotguns)
a.Flintlocks, percussion locks, and in-line.
4.Air guns and BB guns
a.Rifles and pistols

72
 Slide VI-9

General Rules for Unloading Long Guns

1. ALWAYS keep the gun pointed in a safe direction.
2. ALWAYS keep your finger off the trigger until ready to
Lesson I shoot.
Lesson II
Lesson III
3. Engage the mechanical safety (if possible)
Lesson IV 4. Remove the ammunition source (magazine or
Lesson V ammunition from tube).
Lesson VI
Lesson VII 5. Open the action.
6. Physically and visually inspect the chamber and
magazine areas.
7. Leave the action open and engage the mechanical
safety.
Always follow the gun manufacturer's instructions for loading and
unloading.

73
 Slide VI-10

Empty Magazines, Cylinders & Guns

•Built-in magazines
Lesson I •Box magazines
Lesson II •Tubular magazines
Lesson III
Lesson IV •Cylinders (Revolvers)
Lesson V **Count the cartridges to
Lesson VI ensure you have the right
Lesson VII
number.**

74
 Slide VI-11

Loading a Gun
Lesson I
Lesson II 1.ALWAYS point the gun in a safe direction.
Lesson III 2.ALWAYS keep your finger off the trigger until ready to
Lesson IV
Lesson V shoot.
Lesson VI
Lesson VII
3.Engage the mechanical safety (if possible)
4.Insert ammunition (magazine) into gun.
5.Open the action and chamber a cartridge.
6.Close the action and engage the mechanical safety.

75
 Slide VI-12

Fill Magazines and Cylinders

•Built-in magazines
Lesson I •Box magazines
Lesson II •Tubular magazines
Lesson III
Lesson IV
•Cylinders (Revolvers)
Lesson V
Lesson VI
Lesson VII

76
 Slide VI-13

Bolt Action

Lesson I  Nomenclature
Lesson II
Lesson III  Operation
Lesson IV  Stoppages
Lesson V
Lesson VI
Lesson VII

77
 Slide VI-14

Lever Action
 Nomenclature
Lesson I  Operation
Lesson II
Lesson III
 Stoppages
Lesson IV
Lesson V
Lesson VI
Lesson VII

78
 Slide VI-15

Pump Action
 Nomenclature
Lesson I
Lesson II
 Operation
Lesson III  Stoppages
Lesson IV
Lesson V
Lesson VI
Lesson VII

79
 Slide VI-16

Hinged Action

Lesson I  Nomenclature
Lesson II
Lesson III
 Operation
Lesson IV  Stoppages
Lesson V
Lesson VI
Lesson VII

80
 Slide VI-17

Falling Block Action

Lesson I
Lesson II
Lesson III
Lesson IV
Lesson V
Lesson VI
Lesson VII
 Nomenclature
 Operation
 Stoppages

81
 Slide VI-18

Semi-Automatic Action

Lesson I
Lesson II
Lesson III
Lesson IV
Lesson V
Lesson VI  Nomenclature
Lesson VII
 Operation
 Stoppages

82
 Slide VI-19

Muzzle Loading Guns

Lesson I
Lesson II
Lesson III
Lesson IV
Lesson V
Lesson VI
Lesson VII

83
 Slide VI-20

Muzzle Loading Guns

Lesson I
Lesson II
Lesson III
Lesson IV
Lesson V
Lesson VI
Lesson VII

84
 Slide VI-21

Revolvers
 Nomenclature
Lesson I
 Operation
Lesson II  Stoppages
Lesson III
Lesson IV
Lesson V
Lesson VI
Lesson VII

85
 Slide VI-22

Semi-Automatic Pistols
 Nomenclature
Lesson I  Operation
Lesson II
Lesson III
 Stoppages
Lesson IV
Lesson V
Lesson VI
Lesson VII

86
 Slide VI-23
Semi-Automatic Pistols (cont.)

Lesson I
Lesson II
 Nomenclature
Lesson III  Operation
Lesson IV
Lesson V  Stoppages
Lesson VI
Lesson VII

87
 Slide VI-24
Air Guns
 Nomenclature
 Operation
Lesson I  Stoppages
Lesson II
Lesson III
Lesson IV
Lesson V
Lesson VI
Lesson VII

88
 Slide VI-25
BB Guns

Lesson I
Lesson II
Lesson III
Lesson IV
Lesson V
Lesson VI
Lesson VII  Nomenclature
 Operation
 Stoppages

89
 Slide VI-26

Stoppages on the Firing Line

Lesson I  The shooter raises his hand for assistance.

Lesson II
Lesson III  RSO talks the shooter through the clearing procedure.
Lesson IV  RSO takes the gun to clear.
Lesson V
Lesson VI
Lesson VII **A loaded gun never leaves the firing line!**

90
 Slide VI-27

Clearing Exercise
The Shooter will:
1.Set up the stoppage.
Lesson I 2.Raise hand for assistance.
Lesson II
Lesson III 3.Explain problem to RSO.
Lesson IV 4.Follow RSO guidance then ask RSO to clear gun and observe
Lesson V proper procedure.
Lesson VI
Lesson VII The RSO will:
5.Approach shooter in correct manner.
6.Listen to problem and ask questions as needed.
7.Talk shooter through clearing procedure.
8.Take gun out of shooters control and clear.
9.Return gun to the shooter

91
 Slide VI-28

Lesson VI: Review

Learning Objectives
Lesson I
Lesson II Upon completing this lesson, you should be able to:
Lesson III
Lesson IV
Lesson V
1. Explain the difference between a stoppage and a
Lesson VI malfunction.
Lesson VII 2. Demonstrate how to safely take a gun from a
shooter.
3. Demonstrate how to clear common stoppages.

What are your questions?

92
 Slide VI-29

Lesson VII: Preview

Lesson I
Lesson II
Lesson III In Lesson VII; you will:
Lesson IV
Lesson V
Lesson VI  Take the written examination.
Lesson VII  Grade the examination.
What are your questions?

93
 Slide VII-0

Lesson VII: Course Exam & Review

Learning Objectives
Lesson I
Lesson II
In this lesson, you will:
Lesson III
Lesson IV 1. Pass the Range Safety Officer course’s written
Lesson V
Lesson VI examination.
Lesson VII
2. Understand the procedure for finalizing the
credentialing process with the NRA at:
www.NRAInstructors.org.

94
 Slide VII-1

Course Exam
Lesson I  Open book and notes.
Lesson II
Lesson III  Time: 60 minutes.
Lesson IV
Lesson V
 If you need assistance, let me know.
Lesson VI
Lesson VII

95
 Slide VII-2

Course Exam Review

Lesson I
Lesson II
Lesson III
The Examination Requirements.
Lesson IV  90% or higher score required to pass.
Lesson V
Lesson VI
 Review questions missed.
Lesson VII  Chief Range Safety Officer signs off on passing test.

96
 Slide VII-3

CRSO Submits Course Report

Lesson I In 24-48 hours after the report is submitted:
Lesson II
Lesson III
1. Range Safety Officer candidates will have 30 days to
Lesson IV register and log in at NRAInstructors.org using their
Lesson V
Lesson VI
NRA member identification number to complete
Lesson VII their credentials processing.
2. Those that are not currently NRA members will need
to wait until a non-member identification number is
assigned, and they are notified by email. Please
review these procedures on the following slides.

97
 Slide VII-4

NRAINSTRUCTORS.ORG
Candidate Registration
Lesson I
Lesson II
Lesson III
Lesson IV
Lesson V
Lesson VI
Lesson VII

98
 Slide VII-4A

NRAINSTRUCTORS.ORG
Candidate Registration
Lesson I
Lesson II
Lesson III
Lesson IV
Lesson V
Lesson VI
Lesson VII

99
 Slide VII-5

NRAINSTRUCTORS.ORG
Candidate Registration
Lesson I
Lesson II
Lesson III
Lesson IV
Lesson V
Lesson VI
Lesson VII

100
 Slide VII-5A
NRAINSTRUCTORS.ORG
Candidate Registration
Lesson I
Lesson II
Lesson III
Lesson IV
Lesson V
Lesson VI
Lesson VII

101
 Slide VII-6

NRAINSTRUCTORS.ORG
Candidate Registration
Lesson I
Lesson II
Lesson III
Lesson IV
Lesson V
Lesson VI
Lesson VII

102
 Slide VII-7

NRAINSTRUCTORS.ORG
Candidate Registration
Lesson I
Lesson II
Lesson III
Lesson IV
Lesson V
Lesson VI
Lesson VII

103
 Slide VII-8

NRAINSTRUCTORS.ORG
Candidate Registration
Lesson I
Lesson II
Lesson III
Lesson IV
Lesson V
Lesson VI
Lesson VII

104
 Slide VII-9

NRAINSTRUCTORS.ORG
Candidate Registration
Lesson I
Lesson II
Lesson III
Lesson IV
Lesson V
Lesson VI
Lesson VII

105
 Slide VII-10

NRAINSTRUCTORS.ORG
Candidate Registration
Lesson I
Lesson II
Lesson III
Lesson IV
Lesson V
Lesson VI
Lesson VII

106
 Slide VII-11

NRAINSTRUCTORS.ORG Credentialing Payment

Lesson I
Lesson II
Lesson III
Lesson IV
Lesson V
Lesson VI
Lesson VII

107
 Slide VII-12

NRAINSTRUCTORS.ORG
ID Card / Certificate
Lesson I
Lesson II
Lesson III
Lesson IV
Lesson V
Lesson VI
Lesson VII

108
 Slide VII-13

NRAINSTRUCTORS.ORG
Candidate Registration
Lesson I
Lesson II
Lesson III
Lesson IV
Lesson V
Lesson VI
Lesson VII

Some of the RSO items available at :

https://www.nrastore.com/gear/instructor-gear/
109
 Slide VII-14

Lesson VII: Conclusion

Lesson I Learning Objectives
Lesson II As a result of this lesson, you:
Lesson III
Lesson IV 1. Passed the NRA Range Safety Officer course’s written examination.
Lesson V
Lesson VI 2. Understand the procedure for finalizing the credentialing process with
Lesson VII the NRA at: www.NRAInstructors.org.
3. Course Evaluations
4. Presentation of Course Completion Cards

What are your questions?

110