Prepare for a range assessment

Confirm before you practice

Obtain the current authorized course description if candidates are allowed to have it. Confirm scoring, equipment, ammunition, distances, positions, time limits, remediation, and safety rules.
Ask the designated process contact what equipment is issued, required, prohibited, or inspected. Never assume another agency’s course applies.
Use an agency-approved or otherwise qualified firearms instructor and an authorized range. Follow all range commands and safety rules.

Schedule supervised diagnostic practice early enough to identify a performance issue without rushing a fix.
Use only authorized equipment and build consistent familiarity with its inspection, fit, condition, and required setup.
Keep a simple log of dates, course conditions, results, recurring errors identified by an instructor, and the next practice objective.
Near the test, prioritize a stable routine over last-minute equipment changes or excessive repetitions that create fatigue.
Use dry-practice only where lawful, authorized, and conducted under a qualified safety protocol.

Wear the hearing and eye protection required by the range and instructor. NIOSH identifies both hazardous impulse noise and lead exposure as concerns at indoor firing ranges.
Follow range rules for hygiene and decontamination. Avoid eating, drinking, or handling personal items in contaminated areas, and follow facility procedures before leaving.
Report equipment problems, unsafe conditions, or health symptoms immediately.
Do not trade safety for a score. A candidate’s judgment and compliance remain part of readiness even when the clock is running.