Can you use a civilian-operated range (indoor ranges) for weapons qualification?

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 03 Jan 2018 22:21:54 -0500

Range Qualification

If you're assigned to a unit without assigned weapons/arms room or doesn't have frequent range rotations unless profis, can you qualify at a civilian operated range(indoor ranges) for weapons qualification? Our range rotations are probably every 4-6mos if you're not profis.

Response by LTC Jason Mackay made Jan 3 at 2018 10:58 PM

LTC Jason Mackay — Wed, 03 Jan 2018 22:58:11 -0500

If you are trying to work in a qualification for your file or other similar reasons, recommend you contact the S3 shop of neighboring units and see if you can walk on one of their ranges. No questions: approved Range, approved weapons System, Army ammo, and a legit score card you can take back to your unit.

If you are unsure who to call, call Range Control and see who has the Ranges scheduled via the TRM process.

Response by TSgt David L. made Jan 3 at 2018 11:12 PM

TSgt David L. — Wed, 03 Jan 2018 23:12:49 -0500

That situation I haven't seen. I do know that you can't purchase civilian ammo and run it through military weapons. It seems like your situation should have been addressed by leadership long before it became an issue. LTC Jason Mackay has it right, but again, it should be a higher up request it would seem. Good luck.

Response by SSG Darrell Peters made Jan 4 at 2018 12:29 AM

SSG Darrell Peters — Thu, 04 Jan 2018 00:29:40 -0500

in short it depends on the Range. Any DOD Range yes. DOD Police Range for Example. These ranges usually publish their Requirements on their Web Page. A State Police Range are often used by National Guard troops as long as the State Police Range Meets Military Regulations. And of course proper agreements and paper work are completed.
Private Civilian Range. This is iffy. Although they are some that do meet Military Standards. Again this must be a Command Decision and the appropriate Memorandums, Agreements and Contracts must be obtained.