How to Make Your Own Outdoor Gun Range

You may find that having your own gun range is the solution to your problem if you want to practice with your firearm but do not have the necessary space to do so at a gun range. 

Making an outdoor shooting range is a simple and affordable project that can be completed quickly. 

No one wants to put themselves or their loved ones in danger, so make sure you follow all firearm regulations and that trees, buildings, or mountains do not obstruct your range before you start shooting (if there are any in your area). 

This guide will assist you in constructing your outdoor shooting range. After that, it is up to you to cover the necessary materials, the construction process, and the use of your new outdoor shooting facility.

How to Make Your Own Outdoor Gun Range

1. What is an outdoor gun range, and why would you want one

An outdoor gun range is where you can safely fire at targets with your firearms. It’s often used for target practice, hunting, and competitions. In the earlier days of shooting, people would have to use makeshift ranges like clearing flat ground or setting up paper bulls-eyes on trees. 

But nowadays, many companies make outdoor gun ranges specifically for this purpose. They come in different shapes and sizes depending on their type of firearm (handguns vs. rifles). 

The benefit of having an outdoor gun range at home is not only safety but convenience, too, because you don’t need to go anywhere else other than your backyard! 

What is the average cost? In general, building an outdoor gun range will cost around $50 to $100, depending on what you use for materials. 

If you want something more professional, it will be much more expensive, but if you’re just looking for a quick fix, this method should work fine. Remember that price may vary according to location, so check out local hardware stores first before getting started! 

2. Materials needed to build your outdoor shooting range

The targets you use for your shooting range are essential. They need to be sturdy enough to stand up to repeated shots, yet lightweight and easy to move around. 

You can purchase metal targets, paper targets, or even make your own out of cardboard or other materials. The backstop is also essential. This will help stop any rounds that miss the target from going too far and potentially causing damage or injury. 

A simple pile of dirt or sand can work as a backstop, but it is best to create a larger, more elaborate backstop at least five feet high. You will also need some sort of shooing platform. 

This can be a simple table or bench, or you can build something more elaborate. The important thing is that the shooting platform is stable and provides an excellent surface to shoot from.

3. How to build your outdoor shooting range

The first thing you need to do is find an open area to build your range. Try and find a spot that is as flat as possible, without any obstructions in the shooting path. Once you have found your location, use some stakes and string to outline the boundaries of your range. 

Now it’s time to start constructing the actual shooting range. The first thing you need is three large sheets of plywood, which will serve as the backstop and sidewalls of the range. Cut each sheet into two equal pieces, then nail them together to form a rectangular frame. 

Next, cut six more sheets of plywood into four similar pieces. Nail these boards onto the top and bottom edges of the frame, creating a solid wall panel. Depending on how deep, you will use concrete to keep the bullets from exiting the range area. 

After the concrete has dried, you can start framing the roof of your shooting range. The easiest way to do this is by using two sheets of corrugated metal roofing. Cut each sheet so that it is slightly larger than the shooting range frame, then nail them in place. 

Make sure to leave a gap at the front and back of the range so that shooters can safely exit without being hit by any ricocheting rounds. Now all that’s left to do is cover up the sides and rear of your shooting range with some heavy-duty tarps or canvas.

4. Tips for using your new outdoor gun range

Be sure to have a safe shooting area free of obstructions and water hazards, or anything that could cause flying debris from ricochet. 

Follow all local laws, regulations, ordinances, and codes. In the United States, these include the National Firearms Act (NFA), Gun Control Act (GCA) & The Firearm Owners Protection Act (FOPA). 

Always be aware of your state’s specific gun control laws and take necessary safety precautions. Gun ranges are usually 200 yards long, with berms on both sides to capture missed shots. 

Shooting ranges are different from target shooting done in an open area without obstruction or impact areas for bullets. 

5. Additional considerations for building an outdoor shooting range

A well-built outdoor shooting range can be a great place to hone your skills, but there are many things you should consider when building one. 

Additional considerations for building an outdoor shooting range: The surface must be stable – gravel is better than grass which tends to shift around underfoot. 

If possible, find a well-shaded area. Sunlight can heat the air around you, which in turn heats your gun barrel and affects accuracy. 

The ideal shooting range will be completely enclosed on all sides with a roof to block any interference from wind or rain that could affect your aim. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best gun for beginners?

The best gun for beginners is a small caliber gun with low recoil and noise. When using a gun for beginners, starting with a .22 caliber or lower is essential. This type of gun will have less recoil and noise, making the experience more enjoyable for beginners. When shooting a gun for the first time, it is essential to take your time and be patient. Do not try to rush through the process. Instead, focus on lining up your shot and squeezing the trigger smoothly. Remember to keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to shoot.

What type of guns should you buy for protection?

After determining the proper fit, you should consider which type of gun suits your needs based on price range, availability, ease of use, and effectiveness against other weapons, when it comes to using firearms in self-defense situations or hunting animals such as wild boar. A few good starter guns for protection are a 12 ga shotgun, pistol, or AR-15. While they may seem intimidating, they are much easier to shoot than you think.

Do I need to get permission from my landlord before obtaining a PDW?

You might be wondering if you need to get permission from your landlord before obtaining a personal defense weapon. The answer is; unfortunately, it depends on your state and local laws. Some states require that you get written consent from the property owner to possess a firearm or hunting rifle on the premises. Other states have more lax laws, which simply require that you notify the property owner of your intent to carry a concealed weapon. 

Takeaway

Now that you know all about building an outdoor gun range, go for it! It’s not that difficult, and you will benefit from having your own space. It’s essential to follow the safety guidelines, but how much fun you want to have after that is up to you. 

Better yet, get the family involved and make it a regular outing. A Word of Warning: Always remember to be safe when shooting, whether at an outdoor range or somewhere else. Make sure you know your surroundings and what is beyond your target. 

Remember that bullets can travel for miles, so always be aware of who and what is around you. Never shoot in the direction of people, animals, or homes. Enjoy yourself, but use common sense while doing so!



Written by

Read more of 's articles.