As the last of this years range test will take place this Saturday, August 8th i thought i'd throw up a notice to help those not familiar with range protocol, including directions to the range.

The HCAP is done on the MNSCI range. Here are directions and a local map:

Whichever direction you are coming from get onto the N52. If coming form Kilcormac keep going till you reach the crossroads where there will be a petrol station on the right just after the crossroads. Take the left at this crossroads. If coming form Tullamore about 50 yards after the petrol station (on your left) take the right turn.



Turn Left/right (depending on direction) at the crossroads onto the R357. There is a sharp left after the first straight stretch, but from there on you travel for about 6-7 kilometres.


The range is on your right. The entrance is marked with a sign post outside, but although the road is straight people have a tendency to try and overtake you as you try to turn. Make sure to giv plenty of notice to any car behind that you are turning into the range. Once in go under the barrier and to your right. There is parking facilities infront of and to the left side of the clubhouse.





There will be RO's (Range Officers) there to inform, and instruct you on what to do. The range has rules, and safety guidelines as outlined below so please take time to read them.

For anyone attending this here are a few simple tips to help you on range etiquette/protocol;

• First and foremost listen to the RO (Range Officer) at all times. Instructions for every step will be given so DO NOT assume anything. If unsure or if you did not hear the instruction stick the paw up and ask. There are numerous RO's on the the day.
• When not being used the rifle should always be cased, and stored in a locked vehicle.
• No firearms, uncased, behind the firing point will be permitted.
• Anyone caught handling or moving an uncased/uncleared firearm behind the firing point will be approached by an RO.
• DO NOT travel with the bolt and mag in the rifle to the range. When you arrive, and are called to the firing point you will be given the instruction from the RO to prepare yourself. It is at this point you may put in the bolt, and the mag.
• DO NOT load the rifle until instructed by the RO.
• Do not close the bolt on an emptry or loaded rifle until told to do so.
• DO NOT load more than the instructed amount of rounds. This prevent someone having a "spare" round in the rifle.
• As said above a breach flag is needed. However for those that do not have one you must remove the bolt, and mag when bringing the rifle to the firing point, and between movements to the next firing point. If you have a floor plate or blind mag take the bolt out/insert the breach flag, and you'll get the OK from an RO before moving.
• NEVER, EVER approach/touch/adjust/handle any firearm on the firing point if there is someone down range. This sounds blatantly obvious, but when they are marking the scores you don't want a lad setting up of his own accord on the firing point. There is always a couple of RO's on the firing when scores are being marked, and they will be watching.
• When finished your HCAP an RO will clear your rifle. The bolt, and mag stays in your pocket until you return to the firing point. You case your rifle, and then return it to your car. DO NOT load up your mag or insert the bolt. You can do this later at home.
• DO NOT travel from the range to the range office without prior permission from an RO. There are multiple live ranges, and the RO will clear the other ranges before anyone can travel.

I have seen experienced lads get flustered because they are not used to range protocols. It's not rocket science lads, and no one is out to get you. Just listen for instructions, and when in doubt ask. RO's will be clearly marked with Red jumpers, and/or blue jackets with Range Officer written across the back. They will be happy to help out where they can.


In terms of gear. A lot of lads forget something on the morning. Most times they can be accommodated, but here is a quick checklist;

1. Bring your firearms cert and proof of insurance. You'll be be required to sign in when you arrive at the range and show these.
2. Ammo - Bring more than enough. I've seen lads that only brought 20, and failed the exam, and then ran short of ammo on the re-try.
3. Hearing protection - Ear plugs are not great, but accepted. Ear protectors are much preferred. Bring a set.
4. Shooting sticks - They are needed for the standing shot.
5. Bipod/Sandbag - Needed for the prone. Whichever you use when out in the field bring it.
6. Cleaing gear - The range can get dusty so make sure you have some sort of bore snake or cleaning rod in case the rifle needs a quick pull through. Also some oil, and a few basic tols for adjusting the rifle, stock, scope, etc.

Lastly your zero. Everyone believes their gun is "spot on" and then they are puzzled why they cannot hit the disc at 100 yards. The range will offer the opportunity to check your zero before going out to the HCAP range. Make use of it if you are at all in doubt. Just ask at the clubhouse reception desk and someone will bring you to the sheltered range to allow you to zero.


The only bit of personal advice i can give is to relax, and just shoot as you normally would. I realise for some/most it's a big thing, but if you've gotten this far it'd be silly to blow it due to nerves or anything else.