Spring Range Bag Reset: Start the Season Ready, Not Rusty

Let's be honest—when was the last time you actually cleaned out your range bag?

If you're like most of us, it's probably been sitting in a closet corner or the trunk of your car since the weather turned cold. But now that March has arrived and the sun is finally coming out, I know you're eager to get back on the line.

Before we head to the range together, I challenge you to do a "Spring Reset." Your range bag isn't just a gym bag for your gun; it's your support system. When it's messy or filled with dead batteries, it undermines your confidence. And this year, we're all about building that confidence!

Here's how I'm prepping my own bag this week:

1. Empty It Completely. (Yes, really!)

Turn the bag upside down. Shake out the old brass, staple bits, and—let's be honest—those granola bar crumbs from last year. Give it a quick vacuum. Grit and dirt can ruin zippers and scratch your expensive optics. A clean bag feels like a fresh start, doesn't it?

2. Core Essentials (The Non-Negotiables)

These are the items that should always be in your range bag. No excuses. If something's broken or missing, fix it now—not at 10 p.m. the night before class.

🔹 Eye & Ear Protection

You only have one set of eyes and ears, so take care of them. Check for scratched lenses or cracked frames, and discard old foam earplugs that have seen better days. Using electronic ear protection? Ensure the volume and mics are functioning properly.

Pro tip: Keep a spare set of foam plugs in your bag—someone always forgets theirs.

🔹 Magazines

Inspect your mags quickly. Look for cracked feed lips, loose base plates, or unusual wear. It's a good idea to rotate your carry mags out of range duty every year or so. Mark your training mags—your defensive ones don't need to be in the dirt and gravel.

🔹 Ammunition

Remove any loose rounds rolling around in your bag. Check your ammo for dents, corrosion, or anything suspicious. Move older training ammo to the front and keep everything dry and protected. Ammo doesn't like heat, moisture, or neglect—treat it right, and it'll perform well on the range.

3. The Battery "Power Up"

There's nothing more frustrating than getting set up, putting on your ear protection, and realizing the batteries are dead. Or worse, your red dot is dim. Cold weather drains batteries quickly. Even if they still "work," replace them now. A few dollars in batteries is much better than a ruined afternoon of training.

3. The "Boo-Boo" Check

Range life happens! We get small cuts, hot brass marks, or blisters. Check your Band-Aids—if they’re old, they won’t stick when you actually need them. If you carry a trauma kit (and you should!), check the dates on your gauze and tourniquet. We want gear we can rely on.

4. Lube & Tools

Is your gun oil leaking? Did it get thick and gunky over the winter? Check it out. Make sure your stapler has staples and your Sharpies haven't dried out. It’s the little things that keep our training running smoothly.

5. What’s the Goal This Month?

As you pack everything back in, consider what you want to achieve this spring. Are we working on your Concealed Carry draw? Are we just getting comfortable with the basics again? Ensure your bag has the right targets and your shooting journal is ready for your first entry of 2026.

Respect the Bag

Your range bag is like a quiet partner. It’s not as "glamorous" as a new pistol, but it helps you stay safe and focused. When you come to the range with me, I want you focused on your mindset and your marksmanship—not wondering why your gear is failing you.

Let’s get organized, get intentional, and get back to work!

Want to join me on the range? I’d love to see you in one of my upcoming classes. Check out the schedule at www.precisionaimtactical.com or give me a call at 252.258.4435.

Stay Safe & Aim True,

Bongie Randall