Black Powder Rifles | Linden Gun Range

1. ⚠️ Black Powder Use Disclaimer

Linden Gun Range (LGR) management reserves the right to:

Refuse admission to use black powder at any time
Control the range occupancy when using black powder
Remove any individual whose conduct is unsafe, disorderly, or non-compliant with range safety regulations.

2.🔥 Black Powder Usage Policy
Black powder firearms are welcome at LGR. However, due to their unique safety considerations, strict rules must be followed to ensure a safe and enjoyable environment for all shooters. Please review the following guidelines before arriving at the range.

Note: Many thanks to Peter Krogh for his contributions to these safety standards.

3. Basic Black Powder Rules:

No black powder is allowed inside the office or building.
All powder containers must remain sealed on the firing line.
Smoking is strictly prohibited within 15 feet of a black powder shooter.
Charge black powder firearms only with a separate powder measure— never directly from a flask or horn.

4.🔒 General Safety Guidelines

No smoking on or near the firing line. Use only designated smoking areas.
Keep all loaded firearms pointed downrange and attended at all times.
Once a firearm is primed, it must remain in the shooter’s control until fired.
Carry unloaded firearms muzzle-up when moving.
Store powder in your range bag or use designated storage sheds—never bring powder into the office.

5.💣 Powder Rules

Powder must be in a closed container unless actively filling a powder measure or loading a pre-measure.
Only use original factory containers for storage. No breakable containers (e.g., glass).
Only one (1) pound of powder per shooter is allowed on the firing line.
All extra powder must remain sealed and stored behind the line.
Do not fill flasks, horns, or pre-measures on the firing line. Step back well away from the line for this.

7. ⏸Taking a Break

When leaving the range or going to smoking areas:

All powder and cap containers must be sealed and stored in a closed range bag or box.
Do not transport open powder or caps beyond the shooting areas.

9. 🔫 Firing Procedures

Prime only when on the line, muzzle pointed downrange, and ready to fire.
Capping must occur at the line, with the firearm pointed downrange—never carry capped cylinders.
Flintlock shooters: Call out "Flint!" before firing to alert shooters near the touch hole.
Never knap a flint in the cocked position when charged.
Respect the “1-Minute Warning”:
- Do not start loading after the warning is called.
- If a firearm is partially loaded but not primed, it must remain upright and clamped on the bench or safely positioned until range staff gives instructions.

6.⚙️ Caps & Cartridges

Caps must be in a closed container at all times unless being used.
Only one container (e.g., tin) of caps is allowed on the firing line per shooter.
Store all extras in a closed bag or box behind the line.
No loose caps or glass containers are permitted.
Paper cartridges must remain in closed containers until ready for use.

8. 🔄 Loading Instructions

Always use a separate powder measure—never load directly from a flask or horn.
Pre-measured chargers/cartridges are acceptable.
Clearly mark ramrods for “empty” and “loaded” positions.
Stay focused. Avoid loading while distracted.
Never place body parts near the muzzle during loading.
Be aware of others—do not expose powder if nearby shooters are preparing to fire.
Clean all spilled powder from the bench. Scatter any powder on the ground thoroughly before continuing.

10. 🚨 Malfunctions & Ceasefires

If loaded during a ceasefire, raise your hand and wait for a Range Officer’s instruction. Do not fire without explicit permission.
Misfires must remain pointed downrange until cleared safely.
If you must pull a load, notify range staff before doing so. It may need to be removed off-line.
CO₂ dischargers may be used on the public line but only under proper supervision.

Final Note

Black powder shooting at LGR is a respected tradition—but it comes with serious responsibilities. We appreciate your commitment to safety and your respect for those around you. If in doubt, ask a Range Officer or the Range Master for clarification.

Shoot safe. Stay aware. Help us keep the range a safe and enjoyable place for all.