How often have you headed out to the range only to realize you've forgotten one essential item to make your shooting session successful? It's a frustrating experience that can turn a day of enjoyment into a session of regrets. That's why having a range bag essentials checklist is convenient.

In this article, we'll guide you through the must-have items that should always be in your range bag, so you never find yourself in a bind due to a forgotten item again. 

Range Bag Essentials Checklist

Whether you're an experienced marksman or a newcomer to the sport, this comprehensive checklist will ensure you're prepared for any situation at the range. So, let’s begin equipping your range bag with everything necessary for an ideal day of shooting.

Range Bag Essentials Item #1- Firearms

Your trusty firearm is the first and most important item to pack in your range bag. Whether you bring one or more, securing your firearms safely after practice is a must.

Range Bag Essentials Item #2 - Ammunition

Without ammo, your firearm is obviously useless. Pack enough bullets to last you through your range session. You can store your ammo in fancy ammo boxes or old yogurt cups; make sure they're easily accessible when you need to reload. And if you're forgetful, a dedicated pocket in your range bag for your precious ammo will keep it from rolling around.

Gun Range Bag Essentials Item #3 - Eye Protection

Next up on our range bag essentials list is eye protection. We're shooting targets, so safety glasses are the answer to protecting your eyes from flying brass and debris.

Ensure your glasses are certified for impact resistance and don't fog up while in use. We can help you with this! Check out the TradeSmart z87.1 Shooting Glasses with anti-fog & scratch-resistant coating. Your eyes deserve the best, so why not protect them with a pair (or two) of ANSI-certified safety glasses?

And hey, we're not saying we need a 'thank you' card or anything, but if you happen to love the TradeSmart z87.1 Shooting Glasses as much as we do, feel free to leave us a review. We won't say no to a little ego boost. Plus, it'll help us improve our product and keep our bosses off our backs.

Read our cool piece on 'How to Keep Your Glasses from Fogging Up' to make an informed decision!

Tactical Bag Essentials Item #4 - Ear Protection

Ear protection is the range bag essential that protects your hearing from the loud sound of gunfire.

Trust us, you don't want to leave the range with ringing ears that make you feel like you're in a constant state of "WHAT?!" Grab a pair of ear muffs or ear plugs (or both) and save yourself from any kind of hearing damage.

Don't act like you're invincible; protect your ears. TradeSmart offers NRR28 shooting earmuffs in 5 different colors and NRR33 earplugs for shooting. And if you're feeling extra cautious, why not combine the two for a whopping NRR38?

Tactical Bag Essentials Item #5 - Cleaning Supplies

Don't be the person who forgets their gun cleaning supplies and has to use some leaves from the nearby bush to wipe down their gun (yes, we've seen it happen). Pack a small cleaning kit with a rod, brush, patches, and solvent in your range bag.

Not only will it ensure that your gun stays in tip-top shape, but you might even become known as the "cleanest shooter on the range" (a prestigious title, we assure you).

Tactical Backpack Essentials Item #6 - First Aid Kit

Whether it's a cut from a sharp edge or a scrape from a clumsy maneuver, it is good to have a first aid kit in your range bag. Plus, it's like having your personal nurse on the range - just don't expect them to have painkillers stronger than a band-aid.

We recommend Be Smart Get Prepared First Aid Kit. Produced by the top-rated first aid kit manufacturer in the USA, this comprehensive kit includes 330 pieces, covering a wide range of first aid needs. It also conforms to the regulatory standards set by the United States FDA for medical devices.

Tactical Backpack Essentials Item #7 - Tactical Hat

Next up on our range bag essentials list is a tactical hat. With the right tactical hat, your time in the outdoor gun range can be a lot more enjoyable.

A tactical hat can be a lifesaver in the scorching sun or pouring rain, providing much-needed shade or protection from the elements.

TradeSmart's tactical hat not only exudes style but is also tailored for maximum comfort, making it the perfect choice for any shooting enthusiast.

Crafted from 100% cotton, you can wear it all day without worrying about itchiness or sweat.

This hat is specially designed with a thin band that won’t break the noise seal when wearing earmuffs.

Additionally, this hat keeps your hair and sweat out of your face and eyes, allowing you to focus solely on your target. And if you have a ponytail, don’t worry - our hat is also ponytail-friendly!

Tactical Backpack Essentials Item #8 - Shooting Targets

Targets are the perfect excuse to take out all your frustrations on a piece of paper, so they're on our list for a reason. Sure, you could just use the plain old bullseye targets, but where's the fun in that? Spice up your range day with fun targets to add some excitement to your shooting practice.

Tactical Backpack Essentials Item #9 - Shooting Mat

While it may seem like a simple accessory, a shooting mat can provide numerous benefits for any shooter.

For starters, it is designed to protect your knees from the hard or uneven ground that is often found at shooting ranges or in the great outdoors.

But that's not all - a shooting mat also offers stability and accuracy. It allows you to stabilize your body and reduce any movement that may affect your shot. This can be particularly helpful for long-range shooting or when shooting from a prone position.

Additionally, a shooting mat can also keep your body elevated and protected from mud, dust, or moisture on the ground. This can be especially important in wet or dirty shooting conditions, helping to keep you clean and dry while you focus on your shot.

Adding a shooting mat to your range bag can make all the difference in your comfort, accuracy, and overall success on the range.

Tactical Backpack Essentials Item #10 - Personal Comfort Items

Personal comfort items make the shooting experience more enjoyable. Some of the crucial personal comfort items are:

• a water bottle is a must-have for staying hydrated, especially if you're shooting in the scorching sun
• snacks are also important to keep you fueled
• sunscreen - so you don't come home looking like a ripe tomato
• insect repellent
• holsters that fit easily in your range bag
• a jacket is versatile and can protect you from the elements or double as a makeshift shooting mat

 

What Is a Tactical Backpack?

A tactical backpack is built tough for the most challenging missions. It's designed for military personnel and law enforcement officials with multiple compartments and pockets for organizing and carrying essential gear, such as firearms, ammunition, first aid supplies, and more. These are durable and have reinforced stitching to withstand extreme conditions.

TradeSmart Tactical Backpack

Check out TradeSmart's tactical backpack! It's made of 100% certified Cordura fabric, a durable and lightweight material that resists abrasion and tears.

It features strong stitching that can hold up to 50 lbs without slouching, with inner and outer thick lining to protect gun accessories.

The backpack also has separate locks for handguns and ammo and a middle section to store all necessary range essentials.

Other features include YKK heavy-duty zippers, adjustable shoulder and chest straps, and a dedicated velcro patch area.

Conclusion

All the essentials in your range bag are crucial for a successful and safe shooting session. Forgetting even one item can damage your experience and compromise your safety. Keeping your range bag organized and ready for use ensures that you are always prepared, no matter when or where you decide to shoot.

By taking the time to pack all the necessary items and adequately organizing them, you can focus on what really matters: improving your skills and having a great time at the range.