The Complete Range Bag Setup: Lessons from Years Behind the Counter

From the Bench: A gunsmith's guide to building the perfect range bag

By Hootey Cline, Blue Coat Arms Company

July 1, 2025

After years of working on firearms and talking with countless shooters, I've learned that a well-organized range bag can make or break your shooting experience. I'm constantly discovering new items that experienced shooters swear by, and I've made my share of mistakes forgetting essential gear. Let me share what I've learned about building a range bag that actually works in the real world.

Start with Purpose: Know Your Mission

Before throwing gear into any bag, I've learned to ask myself some basic questions that save headaches later:

Where am I shooting?

• Indoor ranges: Compact, discreet bags work best

• Outdoor ranges: Durability and weather protection matter more

• Competition venues: Organization and quick access become critical

What am I shooting?

• Handgun training: Focus on magazines, ammo, and precision tools

• Rifle work: Bipods, shooting mats, and spotting scopes

• Multi-gun competitions: Everything needs to be accessible quickly

How long will I be there?

• Quick practice sessions: Minimal gear, maximum efficiency

• All-day training: Comfort items and backup gear become essential

• Multi-day events: Weather protection and maintenance supplies

Choosing Your Bag: Function Over Fashion

Indoor Range Bags

For indoor ranges, I've found that discretion and organization matter most:

Compact duffel bags: Easy to carry, don't draw attention

Organized backpacks: Multiple compartments keep gear sorted

Rolling cases: Great for heavy loads but check range policies first

Outdoor Range Bags

Outdoor shooting demands durability and weather resistance:

Tactical backpacks: Distribute weight well for long walks

Wheeled cases: Handle heavy gear without destroying your back

Waterproof options: Essential for unpredictable weather

Personal lesson learned: I once spent a soggy day at an outdoor range with a canvas bag. Everything got soaked, including my ammunition. Now I always check weather resistance.

The Essential Gear List: What Really Matters

After years of range visits and customer conversations, here's what consistently proves valuable:

Safety Essentials (Non-Negotiable)

Eye protection:

• Primary pair (impact-rated, comfortable fit)

• Backup pair (because Murphy's Law applies to safety gear)

• Different tints for varying light conditions

Ear protection:

• Electronic muffs (situational awareness matters)

• Foam plugs as backup

• Consider doubling up in high-noise environments

First aid supplies:

• Basic bandages and antiseptic

• Trauma kit with tourniquet (hope you never need it, but...)

• Emergency contact information

Shooting Essentials

Ammunition management:

• Enough ammo for your planned session plus 20%

• Ammunition loader (saves fingers and time)

• Separate containers for different loads

Magazines and accessories:

• More magazines than you think you need

• Magazine loader for high-volume sessions

• Spare magazine springs (learned this the hard way)

Maintenance gear:

• Gun oil in small containers

• Cleaning rods (collapsible for space)

• Multi-tool with gun-specific features

• Lead wipes for hand cleaning

Range-Specific Tools

Target management:

• Stapler with extra staples

• Masking tape for target repairs

• Sharpie for marking shots and notes

Timing and measurement:

• Shot timer for training progression

• Small notebook for recording data

• Pen that works (test it before packing)

Comfort and Weather Items

Sun protection:

• Hat or visor (essential for outdoor shooting)

• Sunscreen (reapply regularly)

• Sunglasses as backup eye protection

Weather contingencies:

• Cooling towel for hot days

• Rain poncho (compact, packable)

• Extra layers for temperature changes

Practical additions:

• Small flashlight with extra batteries

• Gloves for different weather conditions

• KT Tape and scissors (injuries happen)

Personalization: Making It Work for You

Handgun-Focused Setup

When I'm primarily shooting handguns, my bag emphasizes:

• Multiple magazines (at least 6 for serious practice)

• Holster options for different training scenarios

• Precision tools for sight adjustments

• Shooting rest for accuracy work

Rifle Configuration

Rifle shooting changes my priorities:

• Shooting mat or portable bench

• Bipod or shooting sticks

• Spotting scope for long-range work

• Data book for recording conditions and results

Competition Ready

For competitive shooting, organization becomes critical:

• Stage-specific gear easily accessible

• Backup equipment for everything critical

• Quick-reference cards for stage procedures

• Hydration system (competitions are marathons, not sprints)

Organization Strategies That Actually Work

The Compartment System

Hot gear (frequently used): Main compartment, easy access Safety gear: Dedicated pocket, always in the same place Maintenance items: Separate section to prevent contamination Personal items: Outside pockets for non-shooting gear

The Checklist Approach

I've learned to keep a laminated checklist in my bag. Before leaving home and before leaving the range, I run through it. This simple habit has saved me from forgetting expensive gear multiple times.

The "One More" Rule

For critical items (batteries, magazines, safety gear), I pack one more than I think I need. This redundancy has saved countless range sessions.

Common Mistakes I've Learned From

Overpacking Syndrome

The problem: Bringing everything "just in case"

The reality: Heavy bags discourage range visits

The solution: Start minimal, add items based on actual need

Neglecting Maintenance

The problem: Gear degrades over time

The reality: Dead batteries and expired supplies ruin range days

The solution: Monthly bag inspection and refresh

Ignoring Local Rules

The problem: Assuming all ranges have the same policies

The reality: Rules vary significantly between facilities

The solution: Call ahead or check websites before first visits

Seasonal Considerations

Summer Adjustments

• Extra water (dehydration affects accuracy)

• Electrolyte supplements for long sessions

• Cooling towels and shade options

• Insect repellent for outdoor ranges

Winter Modifications

• Hand warmers (cold hands can't shoot accurately)

• Extra layers that don't restrict movement

• Waterproof storage for electronics

• Traction aids for icy conditions

Budget-Friendly Building

Start with Essentials

You don't need everything immediately. Build your kit over time:

Phase 1: Safety gear and basic shooting supplies

Phase 2: Comfort and convenience items

Phase 3: Specialized tools and backup equipment

Multi-Purpose Items

Look for gear that serves multiple functions:

• Multi-tools with gun-specific features

• Bandanas (cooling, cleaning, first aid)

• Duct tape (fixes almost everything temporarily)

Maintenance and Updates

Regular Inspection Schedule

Monthly: Check batteries, expiration dates, wear items

Seasonally: Update clothing and weather-specific gear

Annually: Replace worn items and upgrade based on experience

Post-Range Routine

• Clean dirty items before storage

• Restock consumables immediately

• Note missing items for next shopping trip

• Check for damage that needs attention

The Blue Coat Arms Company Perspective

What We See at the Shop

Common range bag-related issues customers bring us:

• Scope problems from inadequate protection during transport

• Corrosion issues from moisture trapped in bags

• Sight damage from loose items bouncing around

• Magazine problems from dirt and debris contamination

Professional Recommendations

• Invest in quality eye and ear protection – your senses are irreplaceable

• Keep maintenance supplies clean and organized – contaminated cleaning supplies cause more problems than they solve

• Protect optics during transport – scope repairs are expensive

• Document what works – successful range sessions should be repeatable

Final Thoughts: The Evolving Kit

Your range bag will evolve as your shooting skills and interests develop. What works for a beginner differs from what an experienced competitor needs. The key is starting with solid fundamentals and adapting based on actual experience.

Remember: The best range bag is the one that gets you to the range regularly and safely. Don't let perfect be the enemy of good – start with basics and build from there.

Every experienced shooter has stories about forgotten gear and lessons learned the hard way. The goal isn't perfection – it's being prepared enough to focus on shooting rather than searching for missing equipment.

No matter your era, we got your six – whether you're packing for your first range visit or your thousandth, these fundamentals will serve you well.

Need help selecting gear for your range bag or have questions about firearm maintenance? Blue Coat Arms Company offers consultation and equipment recommendations based on your specific shooting needs. Contact us at 217-416-5962 or BlueCoatArms@gmail.com.

Quick Reference Checklist

Safety Essentials:

•  Eye protection (primary + backup)

•  Ear protection (electronic + plugs)

•  First aid kit with trauma supplies

Shooting Gear:

•  Ammunition (planned amount + 20%)

•  Magazines (more than you think you need)

•  Cleaning supplies (oil, rods, wipes)

•  Multi-tool

Range Tools:

•  Stapler and targets

•  Tape and markers

•  Shot timer

•  Small flashlight

Comfort Items:

•  Weather protection

•  Hydration

•  Snacks for long sessions