How do you decline letting someone try your gun at the range, without feeling bad about it?
Posted by Pazuzu_____@reddit | Firearms | View on Reddit | 149 comments
I usually let strangers have a go with my guns when approached at the range, as long as they seem decent and safe.
Lately though I obtained a very costly custom 1911, that I just don't feel comfortable letting anyone use. When I fire it I'm being careful not to scratch the metal or wood grips, I don't slam the slide on empty chamber, I put it down carefully on a leather pouch instead of the rough and rusty surface of the lane stand, etc.. I don't want to give strangers this list of precautions before they use it, so every time I'm approached I have to say "sorry I can't" with the biggest and friendliest smile on my face yet I feel terrible about the whole situation once they turn around and walk away.
Any advice on how to turn down requests to try a gun without causing my fellow range goers any embarrassment or making them feel bad?
Thanks
mjmjr1312@reddit
I am offered a chance to shoot people’s rifles more often than I would expect but I always politely decline. Just feels odd to do.
That said I have let a number of people shoot mine. Often it’s people that are newer shooters and haven’t shot any NFA stuff. I remember of intrigued I was
Lick_My_BigButt_1980@reddit
Wait a minute… You turn down other people’s offers to shoot their rifles? I take them up on that, unless, of course, it was some guy with a .950 JD Jones, I’m like, naturally kind of scared of the recoil.😬🫣
10gaugetantrum@reddit
I've had a guy ask me to shoot my 500S&W I told him I need $5 per round. He declined. If someone is engaging in conversation I'll usually let them shoot, but if someone walks up and just hits me with 'cool gun, mind if I put a mag through it' I give them a pretty stern no.
Lick_My_BigButt_1980@reddit
I imagine that .500 S&W Magnum ammo ain’t cheap! The nerve of that little stovepipe!😂😂
10gaugetantrum@reddit
Just looked on midway. 20 rounboxes are as low as $44.69 to as high as $106.09.
Burninglegion65@reddit
Huh, why would $5 a round be an issue? You want to play you gotta pay.
10gaugetantrum@reddit
I'm not paying for some rando who just walks up and asks to shoot my gun. I have let people shoot my stuff before but if they are not personable, it's a no. Sometimes kids ask about some of my odd ball guns and I always let them shoot if the parent is cool with it.
Devils_Advocate-69@reddit
I couldn’t imagine asking a stranger if I could shoot their gun.
ByornJaeger@reddit
Right? I love talking to people about their guns, and if they offer to let me shoot a couple rounds, awesome. I can’t imagine walking up to someone and saying “can I shoot that?”
Lick_My_BigButt_1980@reddit
Exactly, like not just out of nowhere, that’s like coming off expecting favours for nothing.
GotMak@reddit
Absolutely. If they offer, great, but ask as stranger? Never.
Lick_My_BigButt_1980@reddit
I would at least want us to not feel quite like strangers so much first, plus I’d offer to pay for the ammo, I thrown right on the cringe at the thought of being seen as a mooch. It’s what’s respectful, obviously.
Xdtrl17@reddit
It’s simple.
Just say no.
No need for an explanation.
SotRekkr@reddit
Right? Like they’re not entitled an explanation.
SamPlantFan@reddit
you can still be polite about it though. sure you can say no and thats more than enough, but why not spend an extra 2 seconds on... just being polite about it?
SotRekkr@reddit
I feel like a simple no is pretty polite. At minimum neutral. A lot worse things you could say than no.
SamPlantFan@reddit
"woah hey man nice gun! it looks like it shoots great do you mind letting me shoot a round or two through it?"
"no." (turn around and keep shooting) vs "thanks, but i dont feel comfortable letting anyone else shoot this one, its special to me"
the former might come off as too blunt and even a little rude, with no reasoning someone might start thinking of reasons why you said no and take it personally (i.e "does he think i look like someone who doesnt know what theyre doing?"), the second doesnt leave any room for misinterpretations and is respectful.
idk, thats just me and my line of thought. you can simply say no and thats more than enough.
SotRekkr@reddit
Listen, I get what you’re saying. But frankly, I don’t care. Your feelings aren’t my responsibility. I’m not here to make friends. Yeah, I think it’s a cool rifle too, that’s why I bought it, and paid XXX.XX to own it a shoot it. So if you don’t mind, I’ll get back to my shooting. Thank you.
SamPlantFan@reddit
this never happens to be fair. idk its always nice to make friends especially ones that shoot. It always pays off in the end
Lick_My_BigButt_1980@reddit
It does pay off to show good people skills, nobody wants to be around some ogre that they don’t know might not be the next mass shooter, because he just has to let people know how tough he is, to not let other’s feelings mean a thing to him, because he probably thinks the world hates him.
Lick_My_BigButt_1980@reddit
“Listen, I get what you’re saying. But frankly, I don’t care. Your feelings aren’t my responsibility. I’m not here to make friends.”
Nobody was telling you that they were, the person was just mentioning something that I would go for as well, y’know, how to take away reasons some people might have to think you’re a big butthead for nothing, an ounce of prevention, if you will.
What you said was really quite arrogant and dismissive, you talk like one of those guys who’s most definitely afraid of and hates red flag laws, I love them, btw. Potentially dangerous guys usually like to talk that way, just so you know, they’re usually not too interested in these matters of good soft skills.
Lick_My_BigButt_1980@reddit
I have to say I admire your approach SOOO MUCH!! That is precisely how I would go about my biz. I really don’t like people who are so dismissive and lack soft skills, where they can’t or won’t be more polite and people friendly. It’s not hard and it tends to come back to you in the end, people remember you in a good way.
Xdtrl17@reddit
I’ve had people try to shoot my Scar, Aug, Vhs2 etc and I given them a simple no. Then again I use my person range and seldomly go to public ranges.
SotRekkr@reddit
Yeah , I get it with my Tavor. Well, I should say my Famas, according to the people that ask to shoot it. Like, at least know what you’re asking to shoot.
SamPlantFan@reddit
do you actually have a VHS2 or is it a hellion?
atx620@reddit
Am I weird in thinking it's inappropriate to approach a stranger at a gun range and ask to shoot their firearm?
htownchuck@reddit
I've talked to people about their firearms, asking questions and complimenting, but ice never asked to shoot one. However, I've been offered the chance after talking to them about it and have always accepted. I figure if they're ok with me shooting it they dont mind offering. But I dont feel comfortable asking, no matter how much I want too. Lol
Toolset_overreacting@reddit
I got to run 5 mags through a random dude’s Ak just because I said I loved the wood furniture. On the last couple of mags he was like “DUDE. ITS AN AK. MAG DUMP THE BITCH.”
I don’t ask to shoot stranger’s guns and I definitely don’t ask to mag dump them. But when I’m offered? I’ll oblige. 10/10 fun.
Not a crazy story, but I was 18 or 19 and it was my first experience with an AK, so I look back on it fondly.
Lick_My_BigButt_1980@reddit
Was it a 47 (7.62 x 39mm) or a 74 (5.45 x 39mm)? Both are an AK.☝🏻😁
Old_MI_Runner@reddit
I only got into firearms a few years ago and learned just by observation that some others at my gun club love to talk about their firearms with others and may offer to let someone shoot their firearm but I would never be so forward to ask. I would never ask someone I don't know well if I could drive their vehicle or borrow their tools so I would not ask to shoot their firearms. I would never ask someone if I may even touch their firearm much less fire it. If I ask them what firearm they are shooting and engage in a conversation they may offer to let me look more closely, hold it. or even fire it. I have no firearms that I take to the range that I would not offer to let someone else shoot if they ask any questions about it.
atx620@reddit
Yeah. I think talking about guns at a gun range is completely normal. I also think if someone offers you their gun to try, that's cool too. But I tend to keep to myself and work on my groupings.
traversecity@reddit
My take, it is rude and unacceptable.
Typical-CAD1788@reddit
I've had people at the range ask me to shoot theirs and sight it in, offered to let others shoot mine. Everyone is really friendly at my range.
The-Fotus@reddit
I never ask, often offer, and usually accept when offered.
Astronaut-Proof@reddit
This. I’ve been shooting at ranges and in the open desert for nearly a decade and have never had anyone randomly walk up to me and ask to shoot my guns. Even my life-long buddies that come to the range don’t ask to shoot my guns.
It’s an unspoken thing that you don’t shoot another man’s gun UNLESS he offers to let you shoot it first.
Old_MI_Runner@reddit
If someone would ask to shoot one of my firearms I would suspect they may not be safe with it either due to inexperience at gun ranges and possibly no respect for firearms. If they are interested they would ask me what am I shooting. I would likely offer at that point. More than a few questions about it and I would get the hint they may really be interested in shooting it. I would be very reluctant to let someone shoot my firearm if they walk straight up to me and ask to shoot it because they are not using good manors by being so bold.
AlphaTangoFoxtrt@reddit
Depends on the range. I shoot at a private range and we ask to shoot each others guns all the time. But you don't just come out with it, there's a bit of small talk expected first, and in that small talk you get a feel if it's ok to ask.
Like no, you're not shooting grandpas deer rifle a week before season opens, he's adjusting everything to be perfect. And no you're not shooting that competition guys $5,000 race gun.
But if you want to shoot my FAL, or Bob's Deagle, it's ok to ask and we'll probably say yes.
JustSomeGuy556@reddit
Yeah, if done that way.
The usual method is to compliment whatever it is, and an opportunity to shoot it is often offered up.
EdgarsRavens@reddit
Some people have zero shame or self awareness. I almost always offer to let people shoot my guns, especially if I see they are eyeing it, but I've been to some ranges where people just ask. It's weird.
arodrig99@reddit
I think it depends on context. If I was talking to a dude casually and he asks about it and seems normal, maybe. But even then I just feel uncomfortable asking/ or being asked to shoot my or someone else’s gun. It just feels weird like there’s so much that could go wrong or something bad could happen.
atx620@reddit
Your last sentence is what steers me away the most. Yes, most firearms more or less function the same way, but you may flub your muscle memory in the moment and touch the wrong thing. That's not the type of mistake I would want to make with something I'm supposed to respect as much as a firearm.
arodrig99@reddit
Not to mention, it’s yours or someone else most likely expensive or costly piece of equipment that I would feel bad breaking or wouldn’t want someone else breaking. Not to mention, you don’t know how people treat or take care of things.
ComradeGarcia_Pt2@reddit
No. It’s completely fine to approach them and engage in conversation about it if you’re interested. When people start asking about my FAL I always offer them a few rounds to shoot through it, I’ve even had a few sheepishly turn me down, but I’ve never had anyone outright ask me.
HellBringer97@reddit
I gave a guy an opportunity to learn how to load my FAL. He was a newer gun owner and had only ever used AR’s.
After noticing his struggle, I coached him through it and his face lit up like a child on Christmas when he racked it and shot his first couple rounds. Proud dad moment for me even though he was about 15-20yrs older than me 😂
ComradeGarcia_Pt2@reddit
I always explain people that “it’s like an AK’s magazine meets an AR’s controls” but the magazine rock and lock is so vague as to if you’re really doing it right lol.
Adventurous-Coyote20@reddit
Same. I never ask. But if they offer I'll gladly take them up on it.
causeofdeath1@reddit
Yeah I've never once done this or been asked about to shoot my guns. Although, last time I was at my local range some dude kept shooting the ceiling with his AR so maybe people here just didn't care that much about what gun they have in their hands lol
atx620@reddit
How the hell do you shoot the ceiling with an AR?
causeofdeath1@reddit
I wish I knew... He was hitting the like, metal track things that are screwed into the ceiling where the target carrier travels on. It was absurd. ARs are easy to shoot straight so I'd hate to see the man trying to shoot a handgun.
jamnin94@reddit
No, it's definitely weird. I've had people offer and I have offered people the opportunity to shoot one of my guns but asking to do so it strange.
Darkstar_5042@reddit
At least give a backhoe massage before you ask
EzP41NB0W@reddit
This is actually a solid business idea lmao.
RedBlankIt@reddit
I’ve been going to the range for a while and I’ve never even seen people that didn’t come together talk to someone else in the range. Let alone ask to shoot their gun
feelin_cheesy@reddit
If they lack the self awareness to understand, this then they will probably be upset when you say no
Sluggedbuckshot@reddit
I usually let people shoot most of my guns if they ask nicely, But if I was going to deny them I just politely say "I'm sorry, this is my baby. I don't let anyone shoot it". That way it doesn't feel like a targeted comment and most people would understand. I've never had anyone ask me more than once
Lick_My_BigButt_1980@reddit
Ahh, I get it, the only hands that touch the butt of that thing, are yours. Very fair. Like, which one(s) would you say no to others about them wanting to give them a shot? You must own some primo metal, I take it.
Old_MI_Runner@reddit
Great answer. I typically take other firearms with me to the range so I might offer to let them shoot one of my other firearms that I treat more like tools than a precious item. The only firearm that has that kind of value for me thus far may be my father's 60+ year old 22LR rifle that likely has not been fired in 20 to 40 years. I plan to fire it some day but plan to have a gunsmith do a free safety inspection first.
momalle1@reddit
That's exactly what I would say! It's the same reason I let people drive my truck but not my car.
EzP41NB0W@reddit
I just pretend I can't hear anybody if I'm not in the mood, say I'm in a hurry and wanted to get some time in at the range amidst the madness. Works every time.
Pazuzu_____@reddit (OP)
I love this; makes it clear it's about a special gun and not about them, and the "my baby" thing is such a friendly joke it leaves no chance I'd come across stand-offish or something. Thanks!
Hairy_Ferret9324@reddit
If you brought another gun you can also say "This one is pretty fun too tho. Want to try it?" If you still want them to shoot a gun of yours or something.
get_down_to_it@reddit
That's a great way to do it
Lick_My_BigButt_1980@reddit
Okay, I have to imagine what I’d do in the future, as I see myself as becoming a firearm owner, I’m a pro-gun Canadian. I would expect someone who just asked me so simply, because they liked my gun, I’d expect them to offer me money or equivalence in ammunition, for the favour. I am more likely to be generous when I know a person a little better, and expect returns of the favour with theirs, I’d hope anyone would honour that, I’d be one to be respectful of others and their property, I would hope others are that way also. Like, I wouldn’t snap the cylinder shut on someone else’s revolver, I wouldn’t even with mine, I hear that isn’t good for it, can bend the crane and screw up the timing, also, letting the slide of semiautomatic pistols snap shut on empty. If it bothers them, it’s for a reason.
Warmishdude2@reddit
Learning to just say “No” is an important part of being an adult, that goes way beyond declining someone at a range
HellBringer97@reddit
Could you tell that to ~60% of the Field Grades in the Army 😂
AnseiShehai@reddit
Bring on the DTOs and taskers!!!!
Every staff O4
HellBringer97@reddit
Don’t forget the tracker to track all the trackers for this month that we will abandon next month in favor of another (1:1 copy that is .01 pixel difference in width) for the next month. Gotta keep the S3 LT’s busy somehow
Lord_Larper@reddit
Don’t tell them that yet I need them to do more bullshit for me
Warmishdude2@reddit
“Yes sir, a complete BII layout by 1400 on a Friday is completely feasible. Oh, you won’t be back until 19:00 because someone forgot a wrench? No problem!”
HellBringer97@reddit
No I’m talking more along the lines of “Yes, sir, we can provide all the support you want and need for this exercise because I’m pretty sure we don’t have any taskings going on for the next few months!”
the entire battalion has suffered more than a couple divorces and a suicide due to the constant field trainings and zero paying back of time that was promised verbally but not on paper and the FTX’s only get more intensive over the next couple months
pizza_for_nunchucks@reddit
Some people also need to learn that "No." is a complete sentence.
Then_North_6347@reddit
If this isn't my gf, sibling, or buddy I took shooting, why the heck would they even be asking to try my gun? That's like walking up to someone in the parking lot and asking to give their car a spin.
SamPlantFan@reddit
have you ever been to a range before? ive had people walk up to me and offer to let me shoot their rifles if they can shoot mine many times. its not always a fair trade at CPR but if its something i dont care about letting someone shoot i'll accept. you make range friends for future trips that way too lol
azwethinkweizm@reddit
It's never happened to me in 14 years
SamPlantFan@reddit
do you have any "odd", expensive, or just interesting guns people might want to shoot? no ones ever asked to shoot any ar or 1911 ive taken, but they sure wanna shoot stuff like my p90, mk23, mk14 ebr, etc.
azwethinkweizm@reddit
Yeah I've got an MP5 and a mirror chrome finished S&W pistol. The latter I never take outside anymore because I always end up blinding someone near me.
SamPlantFan@reddit
dang you wouldnt let me shoot some rounds through your mp5 if i offered to let you shoot some rounds through my p90? :( the cpr is in your favor lol
Then_North_6347@reddit
Maybe that's it, I go to indoor ranges. No one bothers me, much less asks to shoot my guns.
SamPlantFan@reddit
i go mostly to indoor ranges too though and thats where most of those interactions have happened. ive only been asked once at an outdoor range and the guy let me shoot his sks in return.
Then_North_6347@reddit
Interesting. Maybe I give off a vibe of don't bother me and you give off the social butterfly vibe.
Skibum5000@reddit
A lot of surprising responses here. It takes nothing to be kind to someone. Why be a dick just because? Nothing wrong with saying "I'm sorry, but not this one" or something along those lines. No reason to be rude and just respond with a singular "No". I have some very expensive guns that most people at a range have never seen in person, and certainly never shot. If I can make someone's day by letting them experience a unique, cool firearm, why wouldn't I?
Sweaty_Pianist8484@reddit
It’s a gun man no need to baby it
AlphaTangoFoxtrt@reddit
Simple as
redundantunknown@reddit
Just say “I’m saving this one for me only” and usually people are cool and understand it. Or ask them in return to borrow their girlfriend or wife in return if they persist. Most will understand.
efish048@reddit
Just ignore them
BrownClown44@reddit
"No, sorry, this one is brand new, and I don't want to put too much use on it. Maybe if I have one of my other guns you could try those."
Also, a simple "No, sorry, maybe another time" works.
ShotgunEd1897@reddit
If you feel bad after rejecting others, that means part of you want to share the experience, but your selfishness is keeping you from being charitable. If you were so worried about the gun, you wouldn't be shooting it at a public range, where the risk of damage is elevated.
Live your life without fear and share the experience, or remain cautious and leave the gun at home. No one can control your feelings but you.
SamPlantFan@reddit
wtf where else is he going to shoot it? his garage? not everyone owns an acre of property in the country, most people have to go to a range. if you mean a private gun club, well people at private ranges/clubs are even more likely to ask to shoot it since they're more of a community and friendly and interact a lot more with each other than randos at a regular range
ShotgunEd1897@reddit
This was about OP feeling bad about turning people away. All I said was if the gun is that valuable and special, to where he is worried about the finish, then he shouldn't take it to a public range.
PdoffAmericanPatriot@reddit
By saying " No"
Judoka229@reddit
I was trying to burn through some shitty surplus ammo for my 8mm Mauser once and towards the last like 40 rounds I was absolutely begging someone to shoot it for me, because I was hurting lol.
That was a lot of trigger time on that rifle, but it was well worth it. You can't beat experience.
StorkyMcGee@reddit
Not sure if this would work with the custom 1911, but I tell them "I'm sorry, I can't, it's a service weapon." Vague enough so that they won't question it. And I have used this with my Zip22 which could NEVER be a "service weapon", unless the service was jam clearing.
Aggressive_Local8921@reddit
I keep a squirt bottle and spray them with water like a cat on a counter
Emers_Poo@reddit
Say, Sorry this has been up my ass, you wouldn’t wanna touch this
Kinet1ca@reddit
Put yourself in the other persons shoes and the situation doesn't seem as bad, you're walking up to somebody you don't know and asking them for you to just hand over your goods so they can play with them, only an entitled douchebag is going to assume you will and walk away offended if you say no, most will understand "was worth a shot".
No different than walking up to a car enthusiast asking to drive their car, or a random guy on the street asking to have sex with his wife, most will understand if declined.
mmmmmarty@reddit
What kind of dickcheese asks to shoot someone else's gun before they offer?
That's like pulling up beside someone at a pier and asking to have a go with their fishing pole.
I guess I never thought about how I'd react to such an overt imposition. Probably very rudely.
Dijiwolf1975@reddit
"This is a very costly 1911 that I just don't feel comfortable letting anyone else use".
You said it right in your post. If they can't accept that, F-em.
wileyrug@reddit
Who TF if walking up to people at the range and asking to shoot their guns!?!?
Flat_chested_male@reddit
F their feelings. If they seem like incompetent noobs, the answer is a hard no. If they seem like they know what they are doing, they don’t ask.
AngryOneEyedGod@reddit
Ask them for their DL and take a picture of it. Then, tell them you're going to run a background check.
Or, just say no and go back to shooting.
WizardMelcar@reddit
I’d say people coming up unsolicited that ask to shoot YOUR guns are the rude ones.
I have never done that, I have never seen anyone do that.
It’s one thing to come up and ask details about the gun, but to ask to shoot it? Do people in your area randomly walk up and say cool car- mind if I take it around the block?
vegangunstuff@reddit
I've had someone offer to let me try theirs when they see me admiring, but I would NEVER ask someone I don't know to try their guns. Bad form.
you90000@reddit
I offer, but I never ask.
Glocked86@reddit
If they show interest, especially in one I assembled I always offer them a mag and ask them if they’d like to shoot it. So, I never need to actually say no lol
Blackbeard1932@reddit
You know, I've never understood this. Why do people think it's OK to walk up to a stranger at a range and ask to try that person's firearm out?
It's one thing if you think the person's firearm is awesome and you ask them about the firearm and THEY offer you a chance to try it, but to ask a stranger to try their gun out, in my opinion, is like walking up to a dude on the street and telling them their girlfriend is hot and could i feel up her ass.
As an FFL that does internet transfers, I try to verify the serial number of an internet transfer customers firearm for my books with the least amount of handling as possible. Hell, if I can see the serial through whatever plastic it's wrapped in, i don't even open it.
Seems to me the same guys that have no issues asking to try out other folks firearms out on the range are the same guys that see nothing wrong with asking me to see a firearm I have behind the counter and then proceding to rack the slide and dry fire it 20 times, like they own it, then hand it back to me, say thanks and move on...
These are the people who's mothers never taught them basic manners or etiquette.
rustyisme123@reddit
"No" is a complete answer. Why should they be entitled to shoot your guns in the first place?
Pazuzu_____@reddit (OP)
No entitlement. Usually people come and greet me nicely, complement the gun and ask what is the make etc., then occasionally ask if they could give it a go. It's not that unusual. I've had even the range officer ask to try a few of my guns over the years. Everyone is kind and polite, there is a sense of friendliness in everyone's interaction with the others, hence declining feels a bit heavy.
SamPlantFan@reddit
honestly OP, i feel like half the people here have never been to an actual decent range before, or they dont have anything anyone else wants to shoot lmao! ive both been approached and approached others the exact same way you describe and its not anything weird or crazy. usually its accompanied by a "if i can shoot yours, ill let you shoot mine" type deal. either way, dont listen to some people on here OP, its perfectly ok to say no but it costs nothing to be polite about it.
rustyisme123@reddit
Well, that's cool that there seems to be a sense of community at the range you shoot. I would still have no problem declining a request like that. It's your gun, your ammo, and your time.
Sea2Chi@reddit
"Oh sorry, I never let anyone else shoot my guns."
Podsully@reddit
Just offer to let them shoot something else you have with tell them it’s your baby and most will understand
kwb377@reddit
Don't offer them anything...just say, "No, these are mine,...I brought them for ME to shoot."
SamPlantFan@reddit
or you could just... not respond like a toddler playing with his action figures? lol. it costs nothing to be polite
Podsully@reddit
I enjoy letting others experience the shit I have.
Salty-Dragonfly2189@reddit
Ask them for ID and hand them forms for a background check lol
Warmishdude2@reddit
I always keep a pistol with a squib load for this very reason
Jenkki15@reddit
Perhaps people are just very polite at my range but I’ve never had anybody ask me to shoot one of my guns and I’ve never asked to shoot someone else’s. On many occasions I have been offered to try someone’s gun or have offered to let someone shoot mine.
alltheblues@reddit
Sorry, this gun is very special/has sentimental meaning/is a hand fit or expensive gun, and I don’t let anytime else shoot it. Maybe offer to let them try something else if you feel bad, but you certainly don’t owe it to strangers to let them shoot your guns.
thepersonbrody@reddit
Say "I'd like to but I don't loan this out anymore after the last guy" then give the stereotypical 'wannabe gangster' explanation and tell them it's custom and cost a lot so you're just being safe than sorry.
snippysniper@reddit
You don’t owe anyone an explanation. Just say sorry no and leave it at that
DerSchwarzeJager@reddit
The usual way I tell people they can’t shoot my K98 or my M1 carbine is to respond with “sure, as long as you have your own ammo for it” and I have yet to meet anyone with a spare box of 8mm Mauser or .30 Carbine ammo ready to go
veive@reddit
"Sorry this one is my baby."
heavilyarmeddad@reddit
If it’s not a kid the answer is always “No” I’m not letting a grown ass stranger shoot the ammo I paid for and I’m certainly not letting a stranger use their mystery ammo in my guns.
Milksmither@reddit
Honestly, I'd work on getting over worrying about strangers feelings first.
"No, sorry." End of conversation. Their feelings about the rejection aren't your responsibility.
Propoganda_bot@reddit
It comes down to the approach. If you strike up a conversation and you’re cool I’ll throw you a mag to try it out. If you have something cool I haven’t shot and want to trade a mag through each others guns then cool. But if some random just walked up and asked if they could it would be kind weird
HerMajestysButthole@reddit
No. I refuse to be liable if you break your nose from recoil.
Redrum_71@reddit
Any one but this one.
Then-Apartment6902@reddit
Gotta go with my old fave.
“What, and get your fingerprints all over the murder weapon? Why are you interfering in my investigation?!?! What did you witness that night? You can expect a subpoena by mail in the next 2 business days!”
Marky-Man@reddit
No. 😐
Be a man.
Tacos4MeHTX@reddit
Just say it's ur murder weapon and u don't want anybody else's fingerprints on it
McMacHack@reddit
Wait we are supposed to feel bad about telling people to Fuck Off? Since when?
Panthean@reddit
"No. You don't see me asking to shoot your Hi-Point"
/s
ImpulseBuyer2022@reddit
This is why you just keep shooting non stop. Lol You can always say... I'm sorry i am trying to get my targets done for the day. Or simply saying not today, I'm supposed to get a certain number of shots today for a class. Or you can just say I am so sorry but i can't do that today. I'm testing this gun for malfunctions, etc.
ervin_pervin@reddit
Just say it's a personal family heirloom that you're careful with.
kwb377@reddit
"Any advice on how to turn down requests to try a gun without causing my fellow range goers any embarrassment or making them feel bad?"
Only d'bags go up to random strangers at a range and ask to shoot their guns...no need to worry about embarrasing them or making them feel bad.
Freash_air_plz@reddit
"sorry, this is the only one i dont let anyone touch, not even my family" lol
Inigomntoya@reddit
The same thing I tell someone who asks to ride my motorcycle:
No. It's not you. It's me. I'm really particular about people shooting my guns, riding my motorcycle, and wearing my underwear.
Orthodoxy1989@reddit
Handguns: "I'm sorry, I actually don't get a chance to come shooting often and I'm trying to qualify for my concealed carry, so I need the trigger time.
Rifles: "sorry, I don't get out often enough and I'm trying to get zeroed and used to it for "X" season."
AR/Ak "im sorry I'm a little tight on cash right now and this is all the ammo I'm going to have for it for a while so I'm just trying to enjoy what I can"
nondescriptzombie@reddit
Do you let random people at the gas station or grocery store test drive your car?
Only my friends get to fire my firearms, and only then if they're trusted.
MomsFister@reddit
"No."
ComradeGarcia_Pt2@reddit
You owe them nothing. Don’t feel bad.
Squirrelynuts@reddit
Are you so weak you can't say no to strangers?
kwb377@reddit
Has to ask strangers on the internet how to say "No" to strangers.
Dependent_Ad_5546@reddit
Are you public or private? At my gun club not uncommon to offer and try things of others. I have had many let me rip a mag or belt in a FA firearm….which I think is more costly then your 1911 Unless it’s a Cabot arms?
neuromorph@reddit
What would you tell.someonw that wanted to fuck your wife? Use that answer here.
Piss-Off-Fool@reddit
Don’t overthink it. If you’re comfortable with them shooting your gun, say yes. If not, say no.
thalithalithali@reddit
I only allow trusted friends to shoot my guns. I’ve been shooting with them for years and they know what they’re doing
SufficientOnestar@reddit
Some Rando?Hell no.Who would ask that?
Hoyle33@reddit
"no sorry"
That's it. I'm curious, how do you operate on a daily basis?