The difference between a shooting range and a film set...

We could write 5 books on this and only scratch the surface, but check out these 2 super short protocol lists, one from a shooting range and one from an armourer. Can you spot the differences?  In stunt work we never assume...

There is a huge difference between having experience handling guns and ammo  in a range vs handling them on a film set. One of the biggest differences is often, on a set, the gun is pointing at a film crew!
 
Firearms safety in a shooting range differs to handling firearms on a film set. See if you can spot the differences.
 
Guide to Firearms Safety in a Shooting Range:

1. Always treat a firearm as if it is loaded, even if you believe it is not. Always keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction, away from people and other objects.
2. Keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to shoot. Only put your finger on the trigger when you are aiming at your intended target.
3. Always be aware of your surroundings and who is around you. Make sure you know what is behind and beyond your target.
4. Before handling a firearm, make sure you understand how it operates and how to safely load and unload it.
5. Wear proper eye and ear protection at all times when shooting.
6. Follow all posted rules and regulations in the shooting range. If there are no posted rules, ask a range safety officer for guidance.
7. Never consume alcohol or drugs before or while handling firearms.
8. Store firearms securely when not in use, with the ammunition stored separately.
9. When you are done shooting, make sure your firearm is unloaded and in a safe condition before leaving the range.

Guide to Handling Firearms on a Film Set:

1. First and foremost, always follow the instructions of the firearms safety supervisor on set. They are responsible for ensuring that all safety protocols are followed.
2. The firearms safety supervisor should inspect all firearms and ammunition before they are used on set to ensure they are in safe working condition.
3. On a film set, firearms should never be loaded with live ammunition. Instead, blank ammunition should be used.
4. All firearms used on set should be equipped with safety devices, such as trigger locks, to prevent accidental discharge.
5. When firearms are not in use, they should be kept in secure storage containers or racks, and ammunition should be stored separately.
6. Actors and crew members should receive training on how to handle firearms safely, and rehearsals should be conducted to ensure that everyone is comfortable with their use.
7. When filming scenes involving firearms, the crew should be positioned in a safe location, away from the line of fire.
8. A firearms safety supervisor should always be present on set when firearms are being used.
9. If a firearm malfunctions or is dropped, it should be immediately inspected by the firearms safety supervisor to ensure that it is safe to continue using.
10. Finally, it is important to remember that firearms on a film set are props and should be treated as such. They should never be used to intimidate or threaten anyone, even as a joke. Safety should always be the top priority.

In stunt work we never assume and at The International Stunt Academy we advice that any time you are handed a weapon, if you do not know how to check it yourself and you haven't been fully briefed, don't accept it.   Performers pull the trigger, and they live with the consequences of this more than most, that's why when we are not happy, we are very happy to say "No".