standards of operating procedure - the tacoma...

Tacoma Sportsmen’s Club

Standards of Operating

Procedure

(SOP)

Adopted by the Board of Directors in 2011 Revised 10/2014

Revised 04/2015

The Tacoma Sportsmen’s Club Range Safety Rules and Standards of Operating Procedure

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TSC SOP FULL PACKAGE: Revised draft 04/30/2015

I. Introduction and executive summary

II. Firearms: General safety procedures and rules for all firearms ranges and shooting events

III. Standards of operating procedures for all rifle and handgun ranges

IV. Shotgun sports (ranges, fields, and events)

V. Muzzleloader/black powder procedures, rules, and events

VI. Knife and Hawk Trail procedures and rules

VII. Archery: General safety procedures and rules for all archery ranges and events

VIII. Archery safety procedures and rules

IX. Archery ranges

X. Archery 3-D and other events

XI. Administrative

a. General facility procedures and rules

b. RV and picnic grounds

XII. Emergency procedures

a. Waiver of liability

XIII. Appendices


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I. INTRODUCTION AND EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The Tacoma Sportsmen’s Club (“TSC;” “the club”) is a conservation organization that provides

a variety of events and facilities to help members and the public improve their outdoor skills.

The club offers static ranges that include a private rifle range, a small bore competition match

range, and public rifle and handgun ranges; a “flat range” and “field course” for archery; and

shotgun sports fields for trap and skeet.

Events include shotgun sporting clays, silhouette field course for muzzleloaders, and 3-D field

course events for archers, among others. The facilities provide a fun, SAFE place for hunters and

shooters to hone their skills and reinforce safe handling of firearms and archery tackle.

This document contains TSC’s Range Safety Rules and Standards of Operating Procedure

(referred to as “SOP”) for all disciplines — archery, shotgun sports, and handgun and rifle

shooting, including modern firearms and black powder (muzzleloader) equipment. The SOP

contains general safety procedures that apply to all facilities on the TSC grounds. All firearms

ranges are subject to the National Rifle Association (NRA) Gun Safety Rules, which have been

incorporated in the TSC SOP. The SOP includes specifically customized rules and requirements

for each range and each type of shooting event, as well as facility-wide emergency procedures

and administrative procedures. It contains a blank “waiver of liability” form to be incorporated in

the range registration forms and sign-up forms for all shooting events.

The SOP is a guiding document of the club. It may be amended, updated, and revised as needed

by majority vote of the Board of Directors or a SUPER majority of members (2/3) in attendance

at any general membership meeting except the Annual Meeting. The Board of Directors retains

authority to manage all club facilities, order closures, limitations, restrictions, and other

contingencies for emergencies or other needs. Specifically identified club officials also retain

certain authorities.

The board has the authority and is responsible for ensuring all facilities are maintained to safe

standards. This authority and responsibility is delegated to appropriate committee chairs and to

the club Chief Range Safety Officer(s), who oversees Range Safety Officers and Range Officers

(defined elsewhere in this document). All range officers have the authority to deem a range

unsafe due to damage, misuse, or maintenance problems and close that range based on violations

of the SOP; however, the Chief Range Safety Officer and club officers must be notified

immediately. The board, in consultation with the designated Chief Range Safety Officer,

ultimately determines when the condition has been rectified and the facility made safe or the

event is managed within guidelines of the SOP.

NOTE REGARDING THE AUTHORITIES OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS–Nothing

in this policy restricts the Board of Directors from acting unilaterally on any matter that it deems

to be in the best interest of the club.


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Range Personnel

Designated personnel serving as Chief Range Safety Officers, Range Safety Officers, and Range

Officers must follow the NRA Code of Conduct and the requirements of the TSC Constitution

and Bylaws. They represent the club and the NRA, and so must focus on safety, courtesy, and

customer service.

The requirements and duties of the volunteers who serve to protect range safety are as follows:

1. Chief Range Safety Officer (CRSO)

a. The TSC CRSO of record is appointed by the Board of Directors.

b. The TSC CSRO or designee oversees the continued safe operation of the range

and compliance with the SOP. If an unsafe condition exists the CRSO or designee

will close that portion of the range complex or event and inform the board of the

situation.

c. Such closures remain in effect until safe conditions are restored.

2. Range Safety Officer (RSO)

a. RSOs are appointed by the CSRO and must have a current NRA RSO

certification.

b. The RSO is responsible for day-to-day operation of the rifle and handgun ranges.

This includes daily maintenance, including target frame repair or replacement.

c. The RSO must report all serious problems to the CSRO and/or the board and enter

the incidents in a daily log.

d. The RSO must provide the CSRO with incident details, license numbers, and

names. The Pierce County Sheriff is to be called for serious safety problems

and/or damage to club property.

e. RSOs and other range safety personnel should not confront an armed person

during an incident.

3. Range Officers (RO)

a. ROs may be appointed by club CRSO, RSO, Board of Directors, or event

chairman.

i. Appointment as Range Officer does not require NRA certification;

however, the appointing authority is responsible to assure the RO is

skilled, knowledgeable, and properly briefed on range and event/activity

safety procedures.

b. ROs appointed for specific activities and events may be members or non-

members.

c. ROs are designees; shooters and event participants are to follow their commands

as they would an RSO or CRSO.

Code of conduct for use of TSC facilities:

Abusive, obnoxious, or unsportsmanlike conduct are not tolerated.

Absolutely no intoxicants are allowed on TSC firearms and archery ranges and shotgun

fields; violators may be barred from the facility and members may face charges under the

Constitution and Bylaws.


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TSC reserves the right to refuse service to anyone and to inspect all guns, ammunition, ,

brought to TSC facilities.

No one may refuse to obey the instructions of the Board of Directors, CRSO, RSO, or

RO, officer of events and matches in the proper conduct their duties.

The club will extend every courtesy to help disabled/handicapped shooters using all facilities

provided such accommodation maintains overall safety; the overriding consideration is safety for

all shooters and spectators.

The SOP promotes safety, encourages education and practice, and promotes safe firearms use

and handling. Use of TSC facilities is a privilege, and compliance with all rules and procedures

is required. All shooters, including members and general public, are subject to the rules and

requirements established in the SOP, and should be familiar with the posted rules, standard range

commands, and the firearm in use. Designated certified Range Safety Officers and appointed

Range Officers work with the staff of Chief Range Safety Officers to assure compliance, monitor

range conditions, and answer questions to help improve shooting skills, knowledge, and

SAFETY.


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II. GENERAL FIREARMS RANGE PROCEDURES FOR ALL TSC FIREARMS RANGES:

The TSC SOP uses The NRA Gun Safety Rules as its foundation. Each individual range has

specific rules based on the needs and conditions at each facility; these custom safety rules are in

addition to the General Firearms Range Procedures outlined and the NRA Gun Safety Rules

below. Similar general range procedures have been adopted for all archery ranges.

All federal, state, and local firearms laws must be obeyed. All shooters and event participants are

subject to all elements of the TSC SOP and must comply with range commands. Failure to do so

is grounds for immediate removal from the range, and the TSC Board of Directors may consider

charges that could lead to temporary or permanent revocation of all range privileges.

The following NRA Gun Safety Rules apply to all firearms ranges on TSC grounds and shall be

posted at each firearms range facility.

NRA Gun Safety Rules

1. ALWAYS keep the gun pointed in a safe direction.

2. ALWAYS keep your finger off the trigger until ready to shoot.

3. ALWAYS keep the gun unloaded until ready to use.

When using or storing a gun, always follow these NRA rules:

Know your target and what is beyond. Think first. Shoot second.

Know how to use the gun safely.

Be sure the gun is safe to operate.

Use only the correct ammunition for your gun.

Wear eye and ear protection as appropriate.

Never use alcohol or over-the-counter, prescription, or other drugs before or while shooting.

Guns stored on club grounds must be secured so they are inaccessible to anyone not

authorized to handle them.

Certain guns and shooting events require additional safety precautions (i.e. muzzleloaders).

Before cleaning your gun, make absolutely sure that it’s unloaded. The action should be open

during the cleaning process. Be sure that no ammunition is present in the cleaning area.

Further, the board of directors and the staff of range officers (all levels) are responsible to

maintain ranges in a safe condition, and close any unsafe range until the problem is resolved. The

ranges are intended to meet NRA range safety standards and are subject to periodic inspection.


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III. STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES FOR ALL TSC RIFLE/HANDGUN RANGES

All firearms ranges on Tacoma Sportsmen’s Club grounds follow the NRA Gun Safety Rules as

the foundation for safe shooting. This section covers the specific additional standards and rules

of the club’s rifle and handgun ranges.

1) General. Live rifle and handgun firing at the Tacoma Sportsmen’s Club (TSC) provides the

public and club members access to a safe facility where they can become proficient with

privately-owned firearms and/or participate in club sponsored events. The Les Newton Range

allows member and non-member shooters; the Cliff Ehret Range allows members only; and

the George Piel Range welcomes all shooters for competitive silhouette match events, as well

as open small-bore shooting for members and their dependent family members.

2) Facilities for Use. Range use is at the discretion of the Board of Directors (board). The board

will establish the operational days and times for all firearms ranges. The board may close all

or part of any range at its discretion.

a) General shooting hours on TSC rifle and handgun ranges are 0900 hours until designated

closing time as determined by the Board of Directors.

b) Closures are to be noted in the club bulletin, The Sportsman; on the club website; and

posted on club grounds at the affected facility and elsewhere on the property, as needed.

3) General Rules and Safety Requirements a) Treat all firearms as if they are loaded at all times.

b) Keep your finger off the trigger until ready to shoot.

c) Never let the muzzle of a firearm cover anything you are not willing to shoot and destroy.

“Cover” means to point the muzzle, or barrel, of any firearm at an object.

d) Know the target and what is beyond.

e) No intoxicating substances of any kind or intoxicated people are allowed on the range.

f) Obey calls to cease fire for target placement and obey all range commands.

g) Shoot only in the appropriate direction from the designated firing lines.

h) Fire only on designated ranges.

i) Fire only authorized firearms and ammunition.

j) Aimed fire at authorized targets only; no un-aimed shots or shooting from the hip.

k) Clean-up all brass, paper, and other debris that accumulates on the range. Containers are

provided for disposal.

l) Brass left onsite becomes the property of TSC.

m) Use of appropriate ear and eye protection is highly recommended for all shooters,

volunteer or paid staff and helpers, and observers.

n) All projectiles must hit the established impact berms and stay within range safety limits;

all rounds must be fired into the shooter’s designated shooting lane and target.

i) The metal gong placed at the 200 yard berm on the Les Newton Range (public) may

be shot from any designated shooting lane.

o) Call “Cease Fire” and make safe all firearms whenever you see anything unsafe.

p) Notify the Range Officer (RO), Range Safety Officer (RSO) or Chief Range Safety

Officer (CRSO) of any safety infractions.

q) Do not climb on or over the berms.


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r) Children must be supervised and under the control of an adult at all times.

s) No rapid fire (less than one second between discharges) except as allowed for special

match competitions approved by Board of Directors.

t) No one in front of the firing line unless cold range or cease fire has been called.

u) No purposely causing undue damage to target boards; shooting stand legs, e.g.

v) Firearms must be cased and uncased on shooting bench with muzzle pointed down range.

w) Shotgun patterning boards are for shotgun shot only: no slugs, or handgun or rifle ammo.

x) All firearms on shooting bench or in racks must have action visibly open or otherwise

shown to be unloaded when not being fired or when the range is cold.

y) During a cold range all firearms must be in a rack or on a shooting bench; e.g. not on

picnic tables or seating benches unless fully secured inside a case.

z) NO HANDLING OF FIREARMS DURING A CEASE FIRE AND/OR COLD RANGE.

i) No firearms handling when people are downrange.

ii) All shooters and observers must stay behind the shooting line during a cold range

except designated staff and people setting or retrieving (or helping) targets.

iii) Ammunition and magazines may be handled during a cold range.

4) Authorized and Prohibited Firearms and Ammunition a) All firearms and ammunition used on the ranges and fields are subject to approval at the

discretion of the on-duty RSO.

b) No incendiary or tracer ammunition.

c) Fully automatic firearms are not allowed.

d) No more than 30 rounds may be loaded into the magazine of a center fire rifle.

e) No high velocity rifle rounds on handgun ranges.

f) All firearms must comply with federal, state, and local laws.

g) .22 rimfire ammo and reduced charge muzzleloader only on Piel Range.

h) Shotguns using slugs are to be treated as a rifle and shot into a dirt impact berm.

i) All muzzleloader/black powder firearms must be loaded and primed on the shooting

benches. Powder and propellent pellets must be removed from the bench before firing.

Exceptions to this requirement may be granted for specifically approved special events.

The maximum charge allowed in muzzleloaders on the Piel Range is 40 grains.

j) Patterning boards are for shotgun shot only! No buckshot, slugs, rifle, or handgun rounds.

k) Hunting-legal handguns allowed only on the Newton Range (public rifle range); this

includes revolver, break action, and bolt action handguns meeting the legal requirements

for big game hunting in Washington.

l) Uncased firearms must be carried with the muzzle in a safe direction, unloaded, with the

action open and detachable magazines removed.

m) The 50 yard steel handgun lane may be used for any handgun; all rounds must impact the

plate or berm or the shooter must stop using the facility at the discretion of on-duty RSO.

n) Bayonets may not be mounted; permanently mounted bayonets may not be extended.

o) During Hunter Sight-In, only one firearm and appropriate caliber ammunition is allowed

on any shooting bench at a time.

5) Authorized Targets a) Paper and card stock only; no corrugated cardboard. Targets must be fully on the target

frame, and must fit and be contained within the target frame (no draping).


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b) Metallic targets only as approved by the CRSO, RSO, or RO.

c) No cylindrical or spherical objects that could shatter or cause ricochets.

d) No materials that shatter.

e) Targets are not to be placed on the berms.

f) Target frames must be approved by the CRSO, RSO, or RO.

g) No bottles, cans, or jugs of any kind (plastic, glass, or other).

6) Authorized Personnel a) Current members of the club may use the ranges free or at established member rates.

b) Non-members who have paid the range fees and registered as directed by club policy.

c) A member’s immediate eligible relatives, as guests of a member who is present and is

responsible for the conduct of his or her guest(s).

d) People approved by the club officers or CRSO, RSO, or RO on a case-by-case basis.

e) Commercial trainers and groups must have TSC Board of Directors approval.

f) Age limit: 18 years unless supervised by an adult; 21 for handguns, exceptions approved

by Board of Directors or CRSO — handgun use under 21 requires adult supervision.

g) Participants in club sanctioned activities.

h) Ehret Range is closed to the public except for special events approved by the board.

7) Range Personnel, as defined in section one

a) Chief Range Safety Officer (CRSO)

b) Range Safety Officer (RSO)

c) Range Officers (RO)

8) Range Areas a) Les Newton Range (public range, allows members and the non-member public to shoot)

i) Is available for non-members who pay the established fee as set by the Board of

Directors; this range is open to members at no charge.

ii) All shooters must register as directed — at the range booth or office.

iii) Shooters must complete a “release of liability” agreement. Required for every non-

member visit to the range complex; registration/sign-in implies agreement.

iv) Comply with all general rules, range specific rules, and safety requirements.

b) Cliff Ehret Range (club members only)

i) Follow all general rules.

ii) Current club membership card must be worn in accordance with Standing Rule.

iii) Check downrange for other shooters or range maintenance personnel.

iv) Be prepared to share the range facilities with other members. Be cooperative.

c) Public Handgun Range

i) Open to non-members who have paid range fee.

ii) Open to members and immediate family, subject to general family/guest rules.

iii) No shooters under age 18 except under adult supervision as defined in state law.


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iv) Muzzle must point down range at all times.

v) Non-members must complete a “release of liability” form before shooting; implied

“waiver of liability” language is included on all registration/sign-in logs.

vi) No draw shooting or holster drills.

d) George Piel Range (competition, match, silhouette range)

i) Open to all shooters for scheduled and sanctioned shooting events.

ii) Non-members must complete “release of liability” form before shooting.

iii) All shooters must comply with all general rules and rules for scheduled event.

iv) Open shooting for club members and immediate family only when not in use for a

sanctioned shooting event; register in office or at Newton Range as appropriate.

v) Handguns may not be used on the Piel Range

9) Alcoholic Beverages and Drugs. Shooters may not consume alcoholic beverages or drugs

(including prescription and over-the-counter medications that contain impairment or

incapacitation warnings) before or during live firing. The CRSO, RSO, or RO will deny

range access to anyone in violation. Decisions may be based on observed behavior that in the

opinion of the range official the shooter poses a safety risk to self, others, and facilities.

10) Release of Liability Form. The form and content of the “release of liability form” (also

known as a “liability waiver”) is set by the Board of Directors. A “release of liability form”

must be completed by each non-club member for each visit to the range whether shooting or

observing. Parents or legal guardians will sign, and assume liability, for minors. Registration

logs contain an implied consent statement for all shooters, member and non-member; signing

in to shoot or participate in an event implies agreement to liability waiver.

11) RSO (or RO) Duties — Before opening the range for use:

a) Check safety equipment in the office.

b) Check firing line and impact area for unsafe conditions and maintenance needs.

c) Repair or replace target frames and other equipment and supplies needed for the day.

d) Check pits and parking lot for unsafe conditions.

e) Check club calendar for scheduled/sanctioned activities that could affect range operation.

f) Make sure trash cans and toilet are in useable condition.

g) After range has opened:

i) Make sure all users have registered, signed a “release of liability,” and paid the

appropriate fee (non-members).

ii) Make sure all users have appropriate target materials.

iii) When not needed at registration booth or office, patrol ranges in use and check for

unsafe conditions or rules violations.

h) Closing range at end of day:

i) Make sure all people have left the range.

ii) Determine if toilet needs service or restocking (let office know maintenance needs).

iii) Check firing line and impact area for unsafe conditions.

iv) Check pits and parking lot for unsafe conditions.

v) Record any unsafe or unusual conditions in the daily log.

vi) Make note, in the daily log, of any materials that need replenishment or repair (notify


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office if materials or repair are required).

12) Special events

a) All special rifle/handgun events must be organized and managed by the Rifle/Pistol

Committee and scheduled and approved by the Board of Directors.

b) The firing line is established by the designated shooting position.

c) Controlled shots with less than one-second between rounds are approved.

d) Targets may be placed on the impact berm subject to advance approval by the Board of

Directors.

e) The Action Shooting Range is be used only for special events or approved practice

sessions set by the Rifle/Pistol Committee, subject to board approval.

f) An RSO must supervise special events without participating as a shooter.

i) The on-duty RSO may assign a replacement RSO to manage the event while

shooting.


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IV. PROCEDURES FOR SHOTGUN SPORTS: FACILITIES, FIELDS, COURSE, EVENTS:

The Shotgun Committee works to promote the safe and appropriate use of shotguns through

education, training, and providing safe shooting opportunities within the TSC standards of

operating procedure and firearms safety rules.

1. Maintains state-of-the-art outdoor shooting facilities for trap, skeet, duck tower, sporting

clays, and Five-Stand shooting.

2. Offers classes in hunting, and beginning shotgun.

3. Has several special-interest sub-committees that are responsible for holding various events:

a. Trap

b. Continental

c. Five-Stand

SHOTGUN POLICY

Public Hours

The shotgun automatic clay target machines are only available for use during the public shooting

hours, when they are run by club staff (volunteers or employees), or during special club events.

Public shooting hours are set by the Board of Directors not to exceed 2200 hours (10PM); hours

are posted and advertised

MEMBERS:

Club members may shoot on the shotgun fields during public shooting hours for a fee set by the

Board of Directors and posted at the Shotgun Office. All club members are required to wear their

membership badge in plain sight.

NON-MEMBERS:

Non-members (public shooters) may shoot on the shotgun fields for a fee set by the Board of

Directors and posted at the Shotgun Office.

The release of liability form must be filled out and signed by all non-member shooters before use

of shotgun fields. Junior (under 18 years old) public shooters may shoot only if they are under

the direct supervision of a parent, guardian, or other responsible adult who can assume

responsibility and can legally sign the release form. Registration logs contain liability waiver.

INSPECTION OF FIREARMS AND AMMUNITION

At any time, the Range Safety Officer, Range Officer, or any range official may inspect any

firearm or ammunition on the shotgun facilities, and may prohibit use of any firearm or

ammunition deemed in their sole judgment to be inappropriate or unsafe.


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RESTRICTIONS

INTOXICATION OR OTHER IMPAIRMENT–Any person that appears to the Range

Safety Officer or Range Officer to be intoxicated, impaired, or otherwise a potential safety

hazard may be prohibited from using the ranges and/or ejected from the facility.

FIREARMS–All firearms used on shotgun facilities are limited to shoulder-fired shotguns

of 12 gauge, 16 gauge, 20 gauge, 28 gauge, or .410 calibre. Firearms must remain unloaded

with actions open at all times except when the shooter is on the line. All racked guns must

have their actions open.

MOVING AND CARRYING FIREARMS–When picking up or carrying a firearm, the

action must be open and the muzzle pointed in a safe direction at all times – muzzle to the

ground or straight in the air except break actions that are obviously open.

ON THE FIRING LINE–Firearms on the line may be loaded with a single round in an open

port or a break-action chamber, but the action must be kept open until the shooter’s turn.

When changing stations, all shotguns must be unloaded and actions open before moving.

Specific exemptions are listed elsewhere in this document.

AMMUNITION–Shot is strictly limited to lead shot in size 7-1/2, 8, 8-1/2, or 9. Magnum

rounds are NOT allowed.

SHOOTING STATIONS–Whenever shooting stands are in use, all shooting must be done

from within the confines of the stand. All shooting stations used and the shot fall-zones must

have specific advance approval by the Board of Directors.

TARGETS–Clay targets thrown by club trap machines are the only targets allowed at this

facility. Patterning boards at TSC may be used subject to range rules; the board target at the

west end of the trap fields may be used under direction of the CRSO, RSO, or RO.

SAFETY CONES–Servicing the trap machines, including reloading clay targets, must only

be done under safe range conditions (field is closed) with an orange safety cone displayed.

Shooters will not enter a trap field while a safety cone is displayed.

SAFETY RULES–All shooters and observers are subject to safety rules. The club provides

written safety rules, available to all shooters, at the registration desk/booth and at the office.

Shooters must follow all Range Safety Rules and other posted rules.

SPECIAL USE PERMIT–There is no special use available for shotgun facilities.

TRAP MACHINES/SKEET MACHINES–All trap and skeet machines must be run by

club employees or, as approved, by designated experienced club member volunteers. Only

club employees or specifically designated club members may load or adjust trap machines.

EVENTS–All special shotgun events must be organized, sponsored, managed, and

controlled by the Shotgun Committee and scheduled and approved by the Board of Directors.


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VIOLATIONS–Any shooter who violates the shotgun sports safety rules or any other

firearms safety rules may be ejected from the range and the club facilities at the discretion of

the Range Safety Officer, or in the absence of a Range Safety Officer, by report of any club

member. If the offender is a club member, the Range Safety Officer or observing club

member must submit a written report to the Shotgun Committee, which will assess the

violation to determine whether to file charges to the board for possible penalties.

o The Range Safety Officer or any club officer has the authority to confiscate a

member’s card for serious violations and suspend shooting privileges until resolved

by the Shotgun Committee or the Board of Directors.

o Members who see safety or policy violations and take no direct action to stop the

violation or notify club authorities may also face suspension of shooting privileges.

o Members who are disciplined for safety violations by the Shotgun Committee may

appeal that decision to the Board of Directors.

SHOTGUN SUPPLY PURCHASES–Members may buy items from the club at reduced

prices determined by the Board of Directors, either in inventory, or by special order through

the Range Office. Items sold to members for non-members are at non-member prices.

RANGE EMPLOYEES/STAFF–The Range Safety Officer and all trap employees and

volunteers work directly for the Board of Directors.

o All members and public shooters must follow the directions of the Range Safety

Officer and trap employees while on the shotgun facilities. All disagreements will be

brought to the Board of Directors for resolution. Public disputes are not tolerated.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS–Nothing in this policy restricts the Board of Directors from

acting unilaterally on any matter it deems to be in the best interest of the club.

SHOTGUN FIELD (RANGE) SAFETY RULES –Safety is everyone’s responsibility.

Each shooter must observe and comply with the following rules, generally accepted firearm

safety standards, and use good common sense, or they may be asked to leave:

1. COMMANDS: Follow all commands of range personnel.

2. TRIGGER AND MUZZLE CONTROL: Guns must be pointed in a safe direction at all

times. Keep your finger off the trigger until it’s your turn to shoot.

3. UNLOADED, WITH ACTIONS OPEN: All guns will be kept unloaded and with actions

open at all times except on the firing line.

4. GUN HANDLING: No gun handling or gun mounting is allowed in the foyer. Actions of

all guns placed in gun racks are to be open.

5. EYE AND EAR PROTECTION: It is recommended that ALL shooters and instructors

wear eye and ear protection on the firing line.

6. CEASE FIRE: In the event of a cease fire, all guns must be unloaded and the actions


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must remain open — and all gun handling must cease. The display of an orange cone on a

trap house indicates a trap field cease fire is in effect.

7. SHOOTING STATIONS: Shoot only from designated shooting stations. Before moving

to the next station, the gun must be unloaded and the action kept open.

8. BACK-UP SHOOTING: Only one shooter is permitted to shoot at each target thrown. No

back-up shooting.

a. Special games such as “chipper” are exempt; back-up shooting is allowed for

these, including informal agreements among friends to have a “chipper.”

9. SINGLE ROUND LOADING: Load one shell only for 16 yard and Handicap Trap.

a. Two shells may be loaded ONLY when shooting skeet, doubles trap, continental

trap, five-stand, duck tower, sporting clays, or as allowed by board order.

b. Specific exemptions allowed for various games subject to board approval.

10. TRAP LOADS ONLY: Only shot sizes of 7-1/2, 8, 8-1/2 or 9 are permitted on Tacoma

Sportsmen’s Club shotgun facilities. Magnum loads are NOT allowed.

11. MALFUNCTIONS: In the event of a misfire or malfunction, keep the muzzle pointed in

a safe direction, and then carefully open the action, unload the gun, and check the

barrel(s) for obstructions.

12. AUTHORITY: The hierarchy of authority on the ranges is: CRSO, RSO, or RO; Head

Trapper; Trapper; Club Member; public shooter. Club Members who observe safety or

range use violations without taking immediate action or notifying club authorities may

have their shooting privileges suspended.

13. SAFETY VIOLATIONS: Report all safety violations to range personnel or club officials.

14. CONDUCT: Abusive, obnoxious, or unsportsmanlike conduct will not be tolerated.

a. INTOXICANTS: Absolutely no intoxicants are allowed on TSC ranges. Violators

may be barred from the facility.

b. OTHER: We reserve the right to refuse service to anyone and to inspect all guns

and ammunition brought to TSC facilities.


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V. PROCEDURES FOR ALL TSC MUZZLELOADER AND BLACK POWDER EVENTS:

INTOXICATING BEVERAGES OR DRUGS–The use of or impairment from intoxicating

beverages and/or drugs on the firing line is cause for dismissal from shooting.

SMOKING–No one is allowed to smoke on or near the firing line at any time while black

powder firearms are in use.

SAFETY INSPECTION OF EQUIPMENT–Range Safety Officers or Range Officers,

acting under the authority and direction of the Chief Range Safety Officer, are authorized to

examine a shooter’s equipment for safety concerns. The shooter is responsible to submit

questionable equipment for official safety inspection and approval long enough before a

shooting event to avoid inconvenience for other shooters or the range safety staff.

UNSAFE FIREARM–No firearm may be used to target shoot or in any competition if

deemed unsafe by the Range Safety Officer or Range Officer.

FIREARMS HANDLING–Firearms will be carried between the loading benches and firing

line with the muzzle above the shooter’s head and pointed directly up or encased in a sleeve

or case. (Exception: black powder handgun shooters and bench shooters need not keep the

muzzle above the shooter’s head).

BLOWING DOWN THE BARREL–There will be NO blowing down the barrel of any

firearm during black powder/muzzleloader matches in any way that requires placing the head

in front of the muzzle. A flexible blow tube may be used at the shooter’s option, provided

that the shooter’s head is not placed in front of the muzzle.

LOADING FLINTLOCK FIREARMS–All flintlock firearms must be loaded with the

frizzen and hammer in the forward position.

WHEN TO LOAD–No muzzle loading firearm will be loaded, caps snapped or flintlocks

primed, until the command, “Commence loading, you may fire when ready,” or, “the firing

line is hot.”

CAPPING/PRIMING. After the command, “Commence loading, you may fire when ready”

or, “the firing line is hot” has been given, only shooters on the firing line or in a designated

area with the muzzle pointed downrange may cap/prime. Any shooter violating this rule will

be disqualified, and asked to leave, along with such other actions as the Range Safety Officer

or Range Officer may deem necessary, including suspension.

LOADED FIREARM–No loaded firearm may be taken from the firing line. A

muzzleloaders are considered loaded when charged with powder, a bullet seated, and the

nipple is primed.

CLEARING MISFIRES–Shooters must be very careful when clearing misfires, and must

notify nearby shooters immediately. The removal of a ball or bullet must be done without

posing a danger to people or property. The use of a CO2 ball discharger is recommended; it

is considered the safest method of ball removal.


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POWDER MEASURE–A separate powder measure or holder will be used to carry the

powder charge from the powder container to the muzzle of the gun. Charging directly from

horn or flask is unsafe and is not permitted.

OPEN POWDER CONTAINERS–No open containers of powder are allowed on the firing

line or loading benches of any range.

SAFETY SHIELDS–At the discretion of the CRSO, RSO, or RO, a safety shield may be

required for flintlock rifles. Offhand flintlocks fired under the covered firing line at the range

must be shot next to one of the safety shields provided. None required on the field course and

the Piel Range, or during annual rendezvous.

SAFETY GLASSES–Safety glasses are recommended for shooter’s safety and are allowed

on all ranges.

HEARING PROTECTION–Hearing protection is recommended on all ranges.

LOUD LANGUAGE–Loud or abusive language is not permitted. Competitors and range

personnel will limit conversations on the firing line to official business.

REFUSAL TO OBEY–No one may refuse to obey the instructions of the CRSO, RSO, or

RO, or any other officer of the matches in the proper conduct of the affairs of his office.

EVASION OF RULES–No competitor will evade, nor attempt to evade, nor be an

accessory to the evasion of any of the conditions of a match as prescribed in the program or

in these safety rules.

INTERFERENCE–The firing line must be kept clear at all times, with the exception of

shooters in competition and necessary range personnel. Any person or competitor who

interferes with or annoys the competitors in any way will be warned, and upon failure to

stop, may be ordered off the firing line area.

OTHER SHOOTERS’ EQUIPMENT–No shooter or official may touch the equipment of

another without first receiving permission, except for safety reasons or efficient range

operation by range officials.

POSTING TARGETS–It’s the responsibility of each shooter to assure that proper

targets are assigned to the position they’re using, and to see that they are hung there.

MALFUNCTION–If a firearm fails to function properly due to mechanical defects the

shooter must notify the CRSO, RSO, or RO. If the claim is validated by the CRSO, RSO, or

RO, the shooter will be allowed additional time equal to the time remaining at the time of the

malfunction claim to finish that target after the gun has been repaired and inspected.

Performance failure due to improper operation or loading, such as loading without powder,

is not considered a malfunction.

FIRING LINE–Behind a line through the firing points on a muzzleloader field course.


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POLICING THE RANGE–It is the duty of all shooters to police the firing points and

loading benches after completion of each match. All cleaning patches, empty cap boxes, and

other material must be picked up and properly disposed of behind the firing line.

RANGE SAFETY OFFICERS FOR MUZZLE LOADER EVENTS

THE CHIEF RANGE SAFETY OFFICER is in full charge of all ranges at all times.

RANGE SAFETY OFFICERS–are appointed by and work under the authority of the

Chief Range Safety Officer. Range Safety Officers are in charge of specific ranges and

enforce all safety and specific match rules. Range Safety Officers have full authority on

the firing line. It is the duty of Range Safety Officers to know and understand these

regulations.

RANGE OFFICERS–are appointed by the CRSO, RSO, event chairman, or board. They

work under the direction of the appointing authority in a way similar to the RSO.

COMPLYING WITH INSTRUCTIONS–All participants must promptly comply with

the instructions of the CRSO, RSOs, and ROs.

BLACKPOWDER HANDGUN/PISTOL SAFETY:

All handguns must be carried to and from the firing line with the muzzles pointed up.

No capping or priming until the command, “Commence loading, you may fire when

ready” is given, and the handgun is pointed down range on the firing line.

Load all flintlocks with the frizzen open and the hammer down.

Keep all powder containers covered; NO open powder containers.

All false muzzles must be attached.

Do not load directly from a horn or flask. A powder measure or holder must be used.

Never load all chambers of a revolver cylinder.

The cylinder of a revolver, whether it is in the gun or not, is “hot” if it is loaded, and may

not be capped until it is in the revolver and pointed down range on the firing line.

All loaded chambers will be capped prior to firing the first shot.

When the CRSO, RSO, or RO asks for “hot loads,” all loaded firearms (including loaded

revolver cylinders) must be brought to the attention of the CRSO, RSO, or RO by raising

the hand while remaining on the firing line with the firearm pointed safely down range.

Hot loads will be fired into the backstop on the command of the CRSO, RSO, or RO.

No handling handguns between the commands, “The line is safe” and, “Commence to

load and fire,” without consent of the CRSO, RSO, or RO in charge of the line.

SIGHTING OR FOULING SHOTS–are allowed in handgun and rifle matches unless

otherwise stated in the program.


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IN THE EVENT OF A MALFUNCTION, the shooter will:

1). Immediately assume and hold the raised firearm position downrange or safely place the

firearm on the forward bench.

2). Without disturbing fellow competitors, take appropriate action as determined by the

CRSO, RSO, or RO.

The following do not constitute a malfunction:

a. An unloaded cylinder.

b. A flint that fails to ignite priming powder.

c. An undersized cap that fails to make contact with the nipple face when struck by the

hammer.

d. Improper loading.


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VI. OPERATING PROCEDURES FOR ALL TSC KNIFE AND HAWK EVENTS:

No one under 18 years of age is allowed to be alone at the practice area or on the trail;

minors must be accompanied by a parent, legal guardian, or other responsible adult.

No running with knife and hawk in hand on the trail or in any other area.

Only one person throwing at a time at designated stations on the trail or at the practice

block area.

o It is recommended that a spotter be present to assist with safety when multiple people

are standing in line waiting for a turn at the practice area.

Only throw at round blocks at the individual stations in the practice area and on the Knife

and Hawk Trail.

When done throwing at the station or practice area, that participant goes alone to retrieve

their knife and/or hawk unless another person is asked to help find the knife/hawk.

It is recommended when carrying the knife and/or hawk to and from the trail or practice

area that the knife and/or hawk be held in a position so that the points are facing the

ground while walking; this recommendation applies throughout the course, including on

the trail itself.


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VII. GENERAL RANGE SAFETY PROCEDURES FOR ALL TSC ARCHERY ACTIVITIES:

Safety is everyone’s responsibility. All archery participants must comply with TSC safety rules:

Arrows must remain un-nocked and safely stored at all times except when the archer is in

position on the firing line and the range is clear to release arrows.

Nocked arrows must always be pointed in a safe direction; they must be pointed downrange

and BELOW the horizon at all times.

o Under no circumstances is an archer allowed to point a nocked arrow above the

horizon while drawing the bow. This is called “skying” the bow.

o Skying the bow is not allowed.

Regular cease fires are to be called by mutual consent of everyone on the line.

o When a cease fire is called, all bows must be brought to rest, arrows un-nocked, and

shooters must move off the firing line.

o Only AFTER this is done, archers may go down range to collect arrows from targets.

o The person who called the cease fire is the one responsible to call the range hot.

Each position on the firing line has a corresponding target bale downrange. Archers must

only shoot at the appropriate target bale downrange.

Under no circumstances may archers nock more than one arrow on the bowstring at time.

Crossbows, blunts/judos, and broad head tipped arrows are not allowed on the flat range or

field course; these items may be used ONLY at the broad head pit.

The hierarchy of authority on the range is as follows: CRSO and official range master; RSO;

RO; club member; public shooter. Club members who witness a violation and do nothing

about it are considered as guilty as the offender and will be treated the same as the violator.

Each archer must know and comply with any other rules posted on the range. Absent specific

rules all shooters will follow generally accepted archery safety standards and use common

sense. All bow-owners/users are responsible for their actions.

Archers who deliberately endanger the safety of others may be removed from the range,

could face club charges, and risk being permanently barred from the facility.

Archers must be able to consistently hit the appropriate, intended target bale to use club

archery facilities.

Archers who deliberately shoot anything but the target bales may be removed from the range,

held responsible for the full cost of repairing damages, could face club charges, and risk

being permanently barred from the facility.

Intoxicants are NOT allowed on ANY TSC range, including all archery facilities. Violators

may be removed from the range, could face club charges, and risk being permanently barred

from the facility.

TSC reserves the right to refuse service to anyone and to inspect any equipment on the range.


21


VIII. SAFETY RULES FOR ALL TSC ARCHERY RANGES/FACILITIES, INCLUDING

THE FLAT RANGE, THE KEN VILLINES FIELD COURSE, AND ALL 3-D COURSES:

All shooters will shoot from the line.

“Clear” must be called and acknowledged before retrieving arrows from down range.

No shooting while others are down range.

All archers must be able to draw their bow straight back, not come down on target.

o Pointing the arrow above the horizon in order to draw is called “skying” the bow.

o Skying is not allowed.

Parents are responsible to assure that their children understand and follow all rules.

No explosive targets are allowed on the archery flat range or field course.

No alcohol or other intoxicants are allowed on any archery range.

No back-tracking on the field course.

No smoking on the field course.

No broad heads or crossbows on the flat range or the field course.

o Use of broad heads, blunts/judos, and crossbows are limited to the broad head pit.

All archers must register before using archery ranges.

3-D targets may be used on the flat range; these targets must be placed in front of bales.

CRSOs, RSOs, and ROs have the authority to impose sanctions to preserve the safety of the

range and the field course.

Any archer failing to observe these and other club rules may be removed from the ranges, could

face club charges, and risk being denied archery flat range and field course privileges.


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IX. SAFETY RULES AND PROCEDURES FOR ALL TSC 3-D ARCHERY EVENTS:

Limit all groups to seven (7) shooters or fewer.

All participants must follow the course as laid-out.

No back-tracking on the course.

All participants must follow all event, archery range, and club rules.

Parents are responsible for assuring their children follow all event, archery range, and club

rules.

All participants must shoot from the marked stake designated for the class in which the

shooter is placed.

If competing for trophies shooters will shoot with their assigned group. If a shooter goes to

shoot with another group that shooter has disqualified them self from competition.

No range finders unless otherwise specified.

All club rules apply to any and all 3-D archery events.


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X. ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES FOR ALL TSC FACILITIES AND EVENTS:

Everyone visiting The Tacoma Sportsmen’s Club must follow all safety rules. Those who don’t

comply will be asked to leave club property; refusal could lead to charges and loss of privileges.

When using any club shooting facilities, members must wear their membership card in plain

view so CRSOs, RSOs, and ROs can tell members from non-members.

On club grounds, all firearms must be kept unloaded except when shooting. Double-gun cases

must be opened in a way that assures BOTH muzzles are pointed in a safe direction. Firearms

must be unloaded and preferably cased when carried between vehicles and ranges. Police officers

and people carrying personal firearms in compliance with state law are exempt but may not

handle these guns during a cold range; holstered handguns are considered secure.

All minors (under age 18) visiting all club facilities must be supervised by a parent, designated

guardian, or responsible adult; handgun shooters under age 21 must be supervised by an adult

over age 21 as defined in state law.

Anywhere on club property, pets must be on a leash except while in training. Pets in vehicles

must be restrained to prevent them from jumping out of the vehicle.

The state law that prohibits smoking indoors and within 25 feet of all useable doors must be

followed. This includes the office; chateau, including the foyer, kitchen, board room, attic

storage, and restrooms); Cliff Phillips Hunter Education Building; shotgun registration booth;

public rifle range registration booth; all shooting ranges; trap and skeet houses; all restrooms;

and all storage facilities. Smoking is banned on all field courses.

No illegal drugs or other illegal substances may be used, made, or sold on club grounds.

Violators will be reported to law enforcement authorities.

CHATEAU, OFFICE, SHOTGUN SHACK, REGISTRATION SHACK:

Only authorized office staff, range safety personnel, club officers, or specially invited guests

under direct care of the above are allowed in the office, shotgun shack, or registration shack. The

visit must be for official club business. All workplace safety laws and rules must be followed.

Members must respect the access rights of hall renters and those who rent other club facilities.

KITCHEN, BAR, BOARD ROOM:

All state laws on food handling and liquor sales must be followed; all workplace safety laws and

rules, and state smoking laws and rules must be followed.

EMERGENCIES!

In an emergency, follow all steps in the Emergency Procedures section of this document.


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ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES FOR ALL TSC FACILITIES AND EVENTS, cont:

CAMPING AREA:

The TSC campground is open to members, guests, and non-members. All campers must follow

these club rules:

Pay camping fees at the club office. Fees are set by the Board of Directors.

Speed limit on all club grounds is 10 miles per hour for all vehicles, including ATVs.

Must be at least 16 years old to drive any motorized vehicle on club property.

Quiet hours: be considerate; quiet time should be determined by courtesy and consensus.

No illegal drugs or other illegal substances may be used, made, or sold on club grounds.

Violators will be reported to law enforcement authorities.

Campfires are permitted only in designated areas and only during safe burn conditions, or

as directed by the club. All fires must be put out completely when they’re unattended.

Fireworks use of any kind is not permitted on club grounds.

In an emergency, call 9-1-1, and try to notify a club representative right away. Follow the

steps in the Emergency Procedures section of this document.

RV, TENT AREA, PICNIC GROUNDS — IN ADDITION TO CAMPGROUND RULES:

RV space and tent space rental fees must be paid in advance at the club office. Fees are set by the

Board of Directors. Maximum stay is two weeks (except with expressed, written consent of the

Board of Directors). Group rates may be available with approval from the Board of Directors.

Everyone, including members, must register in the office. RV dump is available with site rental

and may be used by members at no charge. Checkout time is 12:00 noon.

Members in good standing may use RV and tent spaces up to seven days without charge, one

time per year. Free RV spaces are limited to the three nearest the bathroom. The Board of

Directors may amend or waive the limitations on free spaces, based on demand.

Reservations are accepted; approved dates and fee or free access may be limited by picnic

ground rental contracts.

Members and guests attending TSC social events involving alcohol may use the RV spaces

overnight at no charge. Club events (rendezvous, club picnic, e.g.) may negotiate group rates and

include space rental in event fees.

Campfires are restricted to existing fire pits. Campground rules apply to all campfires.


25


XI. EMERGENCY PROCEDURES FOR ALL TSC FACILITIES, RANGES, AND EVENTS

During any emergency situation at Tacoma Sportsmen’s Club facilities, particularly those in

which there’s a need to care for an injured person, FOLLOW THESE PROCEDURES:

1. If in a shooting area, immediately call a “CEASE FIRE” and have all shooters move away

from the victim.

2. CALL 9-1-1 using the nearest phone available; borrow a cellular phone if that’s the quickest.

3. If possible, designate or assign someone at the scene to talk to the 9-1-1 operator; if you’re

alone, you make the call. THE CALLER MUST STAY ON THE PHONE UNTIL THE

OPERATOR SAYS TO HANG-UP.

a. Tell the 9-1-1 operator what happened and what help is needed.

b. Give the 9-1-1 operator the address to Tacoma Sportsman Club: 16409 Canyon

Road East, Puyallup 98375.

c. Send at least two responsible people to the front gate at Canyon Road to meet

emergency responders and lead them to the scene of the emergency.

4. Provide the level of first aid you are qualified to give.

a. Stop the bleeding with pressure bandages, if possible; if no first aid kit or bandages

are available, use anything that’s clean and absorbent.

b. Put a blanket over the victim.

c. If someone on the scene is trained in advanced emergency medical procedures, follow

the advice of that person; only stop providing care when you are directed by a

qualified person who will take over for you.

d. DO NOT GIVE ANY MEDICATIONS unless directed by a physician on the scene.

e. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO MOVE THE VICTIM WITHOUT PROPER

KNOWLEDGE OF EMERGENCY PROCEDURES.

i. The only exception to this is when the victim may be at risk of imminent harm

such as a fire, vehicle traffic, or other hazard.

5. Separate the witnesses; have everyone who saw the incident write a statement about what

happened. Be sure to get names, addresses, and phone numbers of all witnesses.


26


XII. Tacoma Sportsmen’s Club Release of Liability form: indemnity/hold harmless statement

Members and guests using the shooting ranges at The Tacoma Sportsmen’s Club acknowledge that the shooting sports involve some

risk. The Tacoma Sportsmen’s Club provides multiple shooting ranges and events and has established rules and procedures designed

to reduce those risks by emphasizing safety and responsibility. However, the condition and quality of the firearms and the ammunition

in use, as well as the skill and behavior of the shooters, cannot be assured by the club.

By my signature below, I agree to indemnify, release, and hold harmless, the Tacoma Sportsmen’s Club, its Board of Directors,

officials, members, employees, and/or any other persons or organizations associated with Tacoma Sportsmen’s Club, from and against

all liability for any situation that may cause injury or damages, no matter how serious, that I sustain while participating in or observing

shooting activities sponsored by the club on club property.

I understand that Tacoma Sportsmen’s Club and its partners provide no insurance for me, my family, guests, or personal property. I

assume all risk and responsibility for my personal property, myself, my family, and guests that accompany me to club events.

I have consulted with my personal physician, or medical authority, and have received their approval to participate in these activities,

or waive my right to do so. (Parent or guardian must sign on behalf of participants under age 18).

______________________ _________________________

Date Participant’s phone number

________________________________________________ ________________________________________________

Signature of participant Printed name of participant

_______________________ _________________________

Type of identification I. D. Number

Please provide the following information for emergency purposes:

Your home address - Please include street address, city, and zip code.

___________________________________________________________________

Number and Street City Zip

___________________________________________________________________

Who should be called in an emergency? Phone number

standards of operating procedure - the tacoma...

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