General Range Rules: (As printed in The Primer Issue #183 Nov-Dec 2002.)

The following safety rules must be observed by all members, their guests and visitors using ranges under the auspices of the Vintage Arms Association.

- No firearm may be loaded at any time other than at the firing line. In this regard, loaded means any cartridge inserted into a firearm by any means whether it be a revolver, auto or single shot. Magazines may be loaded at any time provided that they are fully withdrawn from the firearm.

- A muzzle loader may be charged with powder and ball away from the firing line provided that it is not capped off except at the firing line.

- No weapon shall be loaded unless it is pointing down range. A loaded weapon must be pointed down range at all times. A loaded weapon must not be left unattended. No weapon - whether empty or not - shall be pointed at any person under any circumstances.

- Before leaving the firing point all weapons must be cleared. A cleared weapon contains no cartridge or round either in the chamber or cylinder. Magazines where used must be fully withdrawn, breechloaders must be demonstrably empty, with slides retracted, bolts, actions or cylinders open.

- A capped muzzle-loader must not leave the firing line. In the event of a malfunction the weapon must remain at the firing line pending the decision of the Range Officer.

- Firearms must remain cleared at all times when not at the firing line.

- No person shall go forward of the firing line when shooting is in progress. No person shall go forward of the firing line other than with the express permission of the Range Officer.

- All local range regulations must be observed as directed by the Range Officer.

- Smoking is not permitted within the vicinity of the firing line or where black powder may be in use.

- Any person considered by the Range Officer to be acting in a manner prejudicial to range safety or to the good name of the Association may be asked to leave the range immediately.

- The Range Officer has full authority to take any action deemed necessary to ensure both range safety and the good name of the Association. All members must respect the directions of the Range Officer on the day. Grievances may be addressed to members of the committee - NOT to the Range Officer.

Issue 8 October 2002

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