Nevada makes it easy to get started. Most of the state is open public land, Las Vegas and Reno both have full-service ranges, and open carry has been legal since statehood. This page walks through the options in order.
1. Pick a place to shoot
First time out? An indoor range is the easiest start: lanes, rentals, targets and staff on hand. For rifles and longer distances, the outdoor ranges around Las Vegas, led by the public Clark County Shooting Complex, are the next step. Northern Nevada shooters have the ranges listed on the Reno Shooting Ranges page.
- Las Vegas Indoor Shooting Ranges
- Las Vegas Outdoor Shooting Ranges
- Reno Shooting Ranges
- Shooting on Public Land
2. Know what to bring
Eye and ear protection, your firearm cased and unloaded, the right ammunition, targets if the range does not supply them, and water. Southern Nevada summers routinely pass 110 degrees, so plan desert trips for early morning. The First Range Visit page has the full checklist.
3. Learn the local rules
Open carry is legal in Nevada without a permit. Concealed carry requires a Nevada Concealed Firearm Permit or a permit from a state Nevada recognizes. Private sales go through a licensed dealer for a background check. The Nevada Gun Laws page covers the details.
4. Get some training
A basic safety class pays off for new shooters, and a state-approved course is required for the Nevada permit. The Clark County Shooting Complex hosts hunter education and safety courses with the Nevada Department of Wildlife. For training content and schools across the country, see After Action.net, and test your knowledge at Tactical Quiz.com.
5. Find the next gun show
Las Vegas and Reno both host regular shows. See Nevada Gun Shows, and check Gun Calendars.com for dates.
6. Visit a local gun shop
Local shops are the best source of local knowledge: ranges, instructors, clubs and what the regulars are shooting. Start with the Las Vegas Gun Shops and Reno Gun Shops lists.
