Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. ASHA says small-caliber firearms can reach 140 decibels peak and higher-caliber rifles over 175, and that noise above 140 dBP “can permanently damage hearing, even from a single occurrence.” OSHA puts the limit for impulse noise at 140 dB peak. Start with our best hearing protection for shooting.

NRR stands for Noise Reduction Rating, the number the EPA's labeling rule requires on hearing protectors. It's a lab rating; real-world protection is usually lower, and the EPA label itself says the NRR may not reflect protection against gunfire. Our NRR guide walks through the math.

Z87 marks eyewear that meets the ANSI/ISEA Z87.1 standard. The plus sign means it passed the higher-impact tests. Eyewear maker HexArmor explains that the mark sits on the frame's side arm or the lens. We only recommend glasses marked Z87+. More in Z87 vs Z87+, explained.

Only if they carry the Z87 mark, and most everyday glasses and sunglasses don't. For workplaces, OSHA requires prescription wearers to use protection that includes the prescription or fits over it. See wearing glasses at the range and our over-the-glasses picks.

Ear protection, eye protection, and whatever your range asks for (often ID and a signed waiver). Targets, a stapler and a bag help. Call the range first, because rules vary. The full list is in what to bring to the shooting range.

Closed-toe shoes and a shirt with a higher neckline are common range rules, because ejected brass is hot. A cap with a brim helps too. Every range sets its own dress code, so check before you go. More in what to wear to a shooting range.

Many ranges allow it with a supervising adult, but each range sets its own age rules, so call ahead. Kids need properly sized ear and eye protection. See taking kids to the shooting range and our kids' ear protection picks.

The NRA's core rules are: always keep the gun pointed in a safe direction, always keep your finger off the trigger until ready to shoot, and always keep the gun unloaded until ready to use. We list the NRA and NSSF rules in full in gun safety rules.

Rules vary by state and city, so check your state's official guidance. Federal law (18 U.S.C. § 926A) covers traveling through other states, and TSA has its own rules for flying. This isn't legal advice; our transport guide links the sources.

Follow your owner's manual. Glock, for example, says to clean and lubricate after each time the pistol is fired and at least once a month if it hasn't been used. Always unload first. See how often to clean your gun.

No. Every pick is labeled Researched: chosen and scored from the maker's published specs, manuals and the standards they claim (NRR, Z87+) on a public rubric. We don't claim hands-on testing we haven't done. The full method is on How We Pick.

Amazon sets prices and changes them often, and we don't have a verified live price feed connected yet. Rather than show a number that might be wrong, every button says “Check price on Amazon” and takes you to the current listing.

As an Amazon Associate, Bench & Berm earns from qualifying purchases made through our links, at no extra cost to you. No brand pays for placement, and commissions never set a score. Details are on the affiliate disclosure page.

It's a weighted average of four or five sub-scores from the published rubric for that category. For earmuffs, the published NRR carries the most weight. It's an editorial judgment from documented specs, not a lab result. Every rubric and weight is on How We Pick.

This site is about the gear and know-how around a first range trip: protection, bags, targets and cleaning. Choosing a firearm is a decision best made with hands-on help from a range, a certified instructor or a knowledgeable dealer.

Mike M., the owner behind Iron Mako Media, writes every page. We don't list credentials we can't show you, and we don't invent experts.

Email mike@blackironathletics.com or use the contact form with the page and the figure. We check it against the source and log the fix on the page.