Trap Range Information and Rules of Operation

Hours of Operation

Every Sunday from noon to end of shooting (usually 3:00-4:00pm) Check the TCSL club calendar for special trap events

Charges

Single Round (25 Targets)
Members - $4.00
Non-members - $4.50
Juniors (15 and under) - $3.00

Ten Round Shoot Card (250 targets)
Members - $35
Non-members - $40
Juniors - $25

New Shooters

We welcome new shooters to the Trap Range. You will be asked to sign in and to review TCSL safety rules before shooting. It helps if you have a basic understanding of how organized trap shooting works. Watching the process is a good primer and trap committee members along with fellow trap shooters will be glad to answer your questions. We can arrange for new shooters to get started with basic instruction on the firing line. Of course, this offer is dependent on the availability of help at the range on that day. If you contact us in advance either at the Range or by email to trap@tcsl.org, a time can be worked out so there are no disappointments for personalized beginner instruction. TCSL also offers a structured NRA shotgun shooting class consisting of classroom and range instruction. Contact Lorena and Chuck Tellas at ccw@tcsl.org for more information.

Safety

Safety is our first and last concern. All TCSL safety regulations must be followed.

• Hearing and eye protection are required at all times on the Trap Range.
• Always keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction down range.
• Keep the action open and the firearm unloaded, except when shooting.
• Load one shell at a time (two for doubles). -see approved Ammunition info below
• Keep your finger off the trigger until your shotgun is in firing position and you are ready to call for the target. It is the shooters responsibility to ensure that no unintentional discharges occur.
• Never change stations with a loaded gun.
• In case of gun or ammo malfunction do not leave the firing line. A trap committee member (the scorer) will come to you if you need assistance. In the event of an under-powered load, unload if necessary and clear any obstruction before chambering another shell.
• Under no circumstances will alcohol or drugs be permitted on the firing line. Shooters may not consume alcohol and/or drugs before shooting.
• Shotgun racks are provided for your convenience to store your shotgun when not shooting. Semi-Auto and Pump action shotguns must have their actions open while on the racks. Break-open shotguns (double-barrel, over-and-under, and single-shot) may be closed while on the racks, however, chambers must be empty.

Firearms

• Only shotguns of 12ga. or smaller may be used on the Trap Range.
• All firearms must be in good working order
• Owners should be familiar with the assembly and operation of their shotgun before visiting the Trap Range.

Ammunition - Target Loads Only

A target load can be defined as a 2-3/4” shell (except .410) with up to 1-1/8 oz of #7-1/2 (or smaller) shot. Muzzle velocity must not be more than 1250 feet per second (a typical “3 DRAM” load). Higher velocity Sporting Clay loads, hunting loads and 3” or 3-1/2” magnum shells are not permitted.

Tip: 1-1/8 oz of #8 shot with “2-3/4 or 3 DRAM” powder charge is the general target load most TCSL Trap shooters choose. Of course this is a personal choice and yours may differ.

Note: Please plan ahead for your ammo needs as ammunition is not available at the range.

Patterning Board

If you would like to pattern your shotgun a patterning board near the trap range is available. During trap shooting hours, listed above, see one of the trap committee members for assistance. If the trap area is closed see the TCSL Range Safety Officer on duty for assistance. The board will accommodate a 3 ft square sheet of target paper. Patterning of shotguns is NOT allowed on TCSL rifle, pistol or action ranges.

Refreshments

Coffee is generally available for your convenience for a modest donation to the coffee fund. Members and their guests occasionally bring in snacks which are available to all.

Who Does the Work?

The Trap Range is operated by a committee of five, two person teams plus three substitutes who donate their time and labor to keep the TCSL Trap Range running smoothly. If you are inclined to volunteer your time on the Trap Range see a committee member to get involved.