Must-Have Accessories for Your Next Range Day

Are you planning your next range day? Even if you’ve had a few before, you may have felt that something important was missing. Shooting gear can vary from basic to very complicated, but some things are essential.

Today, our rifle experts are opening up their bags to show you exactly what not to forget next time. At JSE Surplus, we have a wide selection of must-have shooting gear and products to help you hone your skills at the range.

The Non-Negotiables: Safety and Protection

Before diving into the fun accessories, you must review the range safety gear. Proper protection doesn’t just keep you safe. It allows you to keep your focus where it belongs: on the target.

Eye and Ear Protection

Ballistic-rated eye protection shields your eyes from flying debris. Regular sunglasses (even really large ones) are not enough. Look for eyewear that meets safety standards while offering a comfy fit.

For hearing protection, expert shooters usually choose between passive and electronic options. Passive ear protection blocks all sound, while electronic ear protection lowers gunshot noise but still allows you to hear range commands. If you need to communicate while at the range, choose the latter. If you want unwavering focus, the former works best.

First Aid

A stocked IFAK (Individual First Aid Kit) should always be in your range bag. At a minimum, it should include an antiseptic, bandages, and a tourniquet.

Sun and Weather Protection

Outdoor ranges often mean long hours in the sun. To prevent sunburn and overheating, you need:

Hat
Sunscreen
Clothing that covers the shoulders and knees

The sun can be damaging in the winter as well. So don’t avoid this gear just because it’s cold outdoors.

AR-15 Range Essentials for Performance

After you are done with safety, you can go on to the fun part of your essentials bag. The performance ranging gear accessories

Reliable Magazines

The simple rule of thumb is: always bring more magazines than you think you’ll need. Magazines are a common source of malfunctions, so having spares can save you a significant amount of time.

Bipods and Rests

When zeroing optics or working on precision shooting, you can benefit from a quality rest or bipod. Their goal isn’t just to steady your aim in the moment. These accessories can help you understand your rifle’s accuracy.

Slings

A quality two-point sling is useful beyond just carrying your rifle. It supports control during movement and transitions.

Tools and Maintenance On-the-Go

Small technical issues have a tendency to cut the most successful sessions short. That’s why you must have basic tools and cleaning supplies.

The Range Tool Kit

A toolkit may sound like something big, but in reality, it can be a pocket-sized range day accessory. A multi-tool can fix small issues and keep the session going.

Cleaning Essentials

High-volume shooting creates heat and carbon buildup. A bore snake and a small bottle of CLP are easy to pack for quick cleaning purposes.

Clearing Malfunctions

Dummy rounds are useful for both malfunction drills and diagnosing feeding issues. In rare cases, specialized tools can help remove stuck casings safely without damaging the rifle.

Comfort and Convenience: Organizing Your Kit

Now that you have a bunch of range shooting accessories, organizing them properly becomes a top priority. Here are some essentials for comfort and convenience.

The Range Bag: A well-designed range bag has separate compartments for ammunition, tools, and protective gear.
Targets and Tape: Bringing your own high-visibility targets, along with tape or a staple gun, ensures you can train the way you want.
Shooting Mats: A durable shooting mat provides comfort and keeps dirt and moisture off your gear. It also creates a consistent surface.

Don’t ever rely on the range to provide you with the accessories you need. Bringing all the essentials with you guarantees a worry-free session.

Gear Up with JSE Surplus

Both beginners and experts benefit from a well-packed bag. It doesn’t just prevent inconveniences at the range but also keeps your confidence high.

At JSE Surplus, we offer more than just uppers and lowers. We have all the shooting range accessories you need. Our store is a full-service resource for the shooting community.

Visit us to stock up on range essentials today!

Photographer: FotoDax / Shutterstock