The Four Universal Rules
- Treat every firearm as if it is loaded. No exceptions, no jokes, no exemptions for "I checked it."
- Never point a firearm at anything you are not willing to destroy. Muzzle awareness at all times, downrange or in a safe direction otherwise.
- Keep your finger off the trigger until your sights are on target and you have decided to fire.
- Be sure of your target and what is beyond it. Know your backstop. Know what's on the other side of it.
Eye and Ear Protection
Eye and ear protection are required on every range for shooters, spotters, and any guest within earshot. The falling-plate range additionally requires safety glasses with side shields due to splatter risk.
Range Access & Badges
- Active members get a proximity gate badge. Don't share it — your badge swipes track entry for safety and accountability.
- Family members of the active member are welcome at any time. Up to three non-family guests per member, per visit. Each guest signs the waiver at the gate.
- Members under 18 must be accompanied by their parent or guardian member.
- Hours: 8 a.m. to sunset Monday through Saturday; 9 a.m. to sunset Sunday and holidays. Public trap hours: Sunday 10 a.m.–1 p.m. and Tuesday 7 p.m.–10 p.m.
Cease-Fire Procedure
Anyone may call a cease-fire by clearly announcing "Cease fire!" When you hear it:
- Stop firing immediately.
- Make your firearm safe: unload, action open, magazine out, gun pointed downrange or laid on the bench muzzle-downrange.
- Step behind the firing line. Do not approach the firing line or handle firearms until the cease-fire is cleared.
- Once everyone confirms safe, the person who called cease-fire announces "Range is hot" and shooting resumes.
Allowed & Prohibited
- Paper targets on the provided target backers. Bring your own; club backers stay on-property.
- Steel targets are allowed only on designated steel ranges (falling plate) at the minimum required distances stated in the SOP.
- Tracer, incendiary, armor-piercing, and exploding rounds are prohibited.
- Full-auto fire requires prior board approval.
- Alcohol and drugs are not permitted on the firing line or in shooter areas. Don't drink and shoot.
Clean Up After Yourself
Police your brass, pick up paper, leave the bench cleaner than you found it. Take any trash out with you — there are no trash services at the range.
Guests & Liability
Members are responsible for the conduct of their guests. Every guest signs the SMSC waiver at the gate before entering the firing area. Members who repeatedly bring guests who don't follow the rules may lose their guest privileges.
Reporting Issues
If you witness an unsafe practice or property damage, report it to the Range Manager at (507) 282-9808 or email membership@smsclub.org. Don't confront unsafe shooters yourself if you don't feel safe doing so — call the manager.