Why This List Matters
Range day isn’t just about slinging lead — it’s about improving your skills, staying safe, and having the right tools to get the most from your time behind the trigger. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or a first-timer hitting the line, the gear you bring can make or break your experience.
This is your GOAT (Greatest of All Time) list for range day success. We’ve pulled from years of training, instructor insight, and community-tested tools to bring you a list that’s field-proven and future-ready.
From must-have safety gear to tools that help you reload faster, shoot tighter, and train smarter — this is the ultimate range gear checklist. Oh, and yes, we’re linking out to the Top 25 GOAT Gun Belts article because every great setup starts at the waistline.
Let’s dive in.
1–5: Eye & Ear Protection
1. Howard Leight Impact Sport Electronic Earmuffs
Affordable, reliable, and perfect for shooters who want amplification and protection in one. These electronic muffs let you hear commands while suppressing gunfire. They feature a sleek, low-profile ear cup design that won’t interfere with your cheek weld when shooting rifles. With a 350-hour battery life and automatic shut-off, they’re dependable for extended sessions. A go-to choice for outdoor range use, they perform well in variable environments without sacrificing comfort or performance.
2. AXIL GS Extreme 2.0 Earbuds
For those who prefer a low-profile in-ear option. Offers active hearing protection, Bluetooth streaming, and long battery life. These earbuds are perfect for shooters who want to maintain situational awareness while protecting their hearing. With customizable foam and silicone tips, the GS Extreme 2.0 ensures a secure fit during active movement. Dual purpose design makes them a favorite for range sessions and everyday use alike.
3. Oakley SI Ballistic M Frame 3.0 Glasses
These aren’t your average sunglasses — they’re ballistic-rated eye pro trusted by the military. Lightweight, fog-resistant, and built to take a hit. These glasses meet ANSI Z87.1 and MIL-PRF standards, offering peace of mind when you’re on the line. The modular lens system allows for quick swaps in changing light conditions. Ideal for tactical training, high-speed drills, or just keeping your eyes safe in harsh environments.
4. Magpul Radius Shooting Glasses
Wraparound design with Z87+ impact rating. Great for wide fields of view and stylish enough for post-range lunch. These glasses combine sleek aesthetics with rugged durability, making them suitable for both tactical and casual wear. The anti-slip temples and flexible frame material offer long-wear comfort. Perfect for indoor ranges or sunny outdoor sessions alike.
5. Gatorz Delta
Anodized aluminum frames and MILSPEC-rated lenses — high-end eye pro for serious shooters. The Delta model boasts adjustable nose pieces and temples for a custom fit, ensuring they stay locked during movement. Their scratch-resistant, anti-fog lenses perform under extreme conditions, making them a favorite among law enforcement and elite marksmen.
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6–10: Range Bags & Transport
6. Vertx Gamut 2.0 Backpack
A stealthy range bag disguised as an everyday backpack. Tons of storage, CCW compatibility, and padded compartments. The clamshell design offers quick access to your gear, while hidden compartments and a dedicated admin panel keep tools and accessories organized. Built with durable, weather-resistant fabric and reinforced stitching, it’s made for the range but fits right in during daily carry or travel.
7. G.P.S. Tactical Range Backpack
Built specifically for shooters, with labeled compartments for everything from ear pro to pistols to target staplers. The backpack design includes a visual inventory system so you can grab and go without second-guessing. It’s reinforced for heavy loads and includes a rain cover for all-weather protection. A must-have for organized, high-volume shooters.
8. Pelican V800 Vault Case
Transport your rifles safely and securely. Crushproof, waterproof, and lockable — a favorite for range and travel. Interior foam is customizable to your rifle setup, optics, and mags. Designed to meet TSA regulations, it’s the ideal case for both air travel and rugged vehicle transport. Built to survive real-world abuse without flinching.
9. Savior Equipment Urban Warfare Bag
Tons of padding, space for multiple rifles and pistols, and MOLLE compatibility. Looks sharp too. Heavy-duty zippers, full-length dual-rifle compartments, and magazine pockets make it a mobile armory. Padded backpack straps and carry handles add flexibility depending on your travel method. It’s an all-in-one solution for tactical range goers and professional trainers.
10. MTM Case-Gard Ammo Crate
Keep your ammo protected and organized. Stackable, lockable, and built to haul heavy. Constructed from rugged polymer, it’s made to withstand the weight and pressure of full loads without warping. Side handles offer easy carry even when loaded down. Whether you store .223, 9mm, or 12-gauge, this crate keeps it secure.
11–15: Tools & Maintenance
11. Real Avid Gun Boss Cleaning Kit
Compact, field-ready cleaning kits for pistols, rifles, or shotguns. Don’t let your gear go down from grime. The kit’s organized layout keeps brushes, jags, and rods in place and accessible during range sessions. Perfect for travel, it fits easily into a range bag and covers every essential caliber. An excellent all-in-one solution for maintaining reliability on the go.
12. Breakthrough Clean Solvent & CLP
Non-toxic and military-grade cleaning power. Keeps your firearms slick and carbon-free. These formulas are odorless, safe on all surfaces, and won’t stain your gear or gloves. Used by professionals for quick wipe-downs between drills or deep cleans at home. Keeps your guns functioning flawlessly under pressure.
13. Fix It Sticks Toolkit
Modular, portable, and incredibly useful for tightening optics, accessories, and making field adjustments. Whether you’re mounting a scope or securing rails, this kit gives you torque accuracy without bulk. It’s a range bag essential for those who demand precision. Durable enough for daily use, compact enough for any pack.
14. Multitasker Twist Tool
Specifically designed for firearm maintenance with AR-specific bits and tools. A must-have in your range kit. It’s a true multitool for modern rifles, featuring hex wrenches, flathead tips, and punch tools. When every second counts, this compact tool saves the day for quick adjustments or field repairs.
15. Wheeler FAT Wrench Torque Driver
Ensure proper torque on optics and mounts. Avoid stripping screws and maintain zero with confidence. Precision matters — this tool helps you dial in exact inch-pounds for optics and rail accessories. Its ergonomic handle and solid build make it a favorite among gunsmiths and competitive shooters. A small investment that prevents costly mistakes.
16–20: Training & Performance Gear
16. Competition Electronics Pocket Pro II Timer
Track split times, improve drills, and bring structure to your training. Compact and easy to use. This timer is a go-to for competitive shooters and tactical instructors alike, helping to analyze draw-to-first-shot time, reload transitions, and cadence under pressure. Rugged and reliable, it’s a staple in any serious shooter’s training arsenal.
17. L.A.S.R. X Training Software
Dry fire with real feedback. Pair it with a webcam and laser training pistol for home or range use. This software provides measurable data like shot placement and reaction time to help you refine your draw and trigger discipline. Ideal for home training, it simulates real-world shooting scenarios without wasting live ammo. Great for competitive shooters looking to build consistency and speed safely.
18. RangeTech Bluetooth Shot Timer
Syncs with your phone for in-depth training analysis. Great for instructors and solo shooters. Track every shot, split, and transition directly from your smartphone or tablet with intuitive data visualization. Compact and affordable, it offers flexibility beyond traditional timers. A smart solution for tracking growth and dialing in your drills with hard numbers.
19. Target Barn IPSC Targets
If you’re not shooting at official-size targets, you’re not training right. Stock up on cardboard or paper. These regulation-sized targets help develop proper shot placement, scoring awareness, and competition-style accuracy. Perfect for USPSA and IDPA shooters or anyone wanting to bring structure to their live-fire training. Available in bulk for range days or team use.
20. SIRT Pistol Trainer
Practice draws, trigger control, and transitions without burning ammo. A staple in every serious shooter’s toolbox. The SIRT allows for repetitive, safe dry-fire practice with immediate visual feedback via laser. It’s weighted like a real pistol and offers adjustable trigger resistance, making it perfect for at-home drills. An invaluable tool for both beginners and pros looking to refine technique.
21–25: Comfort, Safety & Utility
21. Dark Angel Medical D.A.R.K. Kit
Trauma kits save lives. Period. Keep one in your range bag and know how to use it. This kit includes a tourniquet, hemostatic agent, and compression bandage — all packed into a rugged pouch. Designed with real-world emergencies in mind, it’s trusted by military medics and civilian responders alike. Being prepared could make the difference in a worst-case scenario.
22. Kore Essentials Gun Belt — GOAT PICK
We said it before and we’ll say it again — no gear works if your belt sucks. Don’t let your range day fall apart at the waist. Kore belts feature a ratcheting micro-adjustable fit and reinforced core for unbeatable support. They excel at securing holsters, mag pouches, and gear without sagging or shifting. Read our Top 25 GOAT Gun Belts list for the full breakdown.
23. Helikon-Tex Range Line Chair
Take a break without hitting the dirt. Collapsible, lightweight, and built tough. This chair folds down small but supports up to 300 lbs, perfect for long waits between drills or competition stages. Integrated storage pockets keep essentials within reach. A practical luxury for anyone spending full days outdoors.
24. CamelBak Hydration Pack
Stay hydrated during long range sessions or hot days. Mounts easily to packs or rigs. With up to 3L capacity and insulated tubing, it keeps water cool and close at hand all day. Durable construction holds up to field abuse while the low-profile design won’t interfere with gear. A hydration must-have for hot or high-altitude shooting.
25. Magpul Technical Gloves
Protect your hands from hot barrels, sharp gear, and rough terrain. Excellent dexterity and grip. The synthetic suede palm and touchscreen-compatible fingertips offer comfort and versatility in all climates. Designed for shooters, these gloves don’t bulk up your grip or slow your reloads. Great for both range use and hard-use field scenarios.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re packing out for a solo range day or joining a tactical course with friends, showing up with the right gear makes you a more confident, capable shooter. These 25 Range Day Essentials help you shoot better, safer, and smarter.
Stay sharp. Train hard. And don’t forget to CARRYHARD.
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BEST GUN BELTS ON THE MARKET
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