1. ⚠️ Black Powder Use Disclaimer
Linden Gun Range (LGR) management reserves the right to:
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Refuse admission to use black powder at any time
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Control the range occupancy when using black powder
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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:
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No black powder is allowed inside the office or building.
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All powder containers must remain sealed on the firing line.
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Smoking is strictly prohibited within 15 feet of a black powder shooter.
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Charge black powder firearms only with a separate powder measure— never directly from a flask or horn.
4.🔒 General Safety Guidelines
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No smoking on or near the firing line. Use only designated smoking areas.
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Keep all loaded firearms pointed downrange and attended at all times.
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Once a firearm is primed, it must remain in the shooter’s control until fired.
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Carry unloaded firearms muzzle-up when moving.
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Store powder in your range bag or use designated storage sheds—never bring powder into the office.
5.💣 Powder Rules
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Powder must be in a closed container unless actively filling a powder measure or loading a pre-measure.
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Only use original factory containers for storage. No breakable containers (e.g., glass).
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Only one (1) pound of powder per shooter is allowed on the firing line.
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All extra powder must remain sealed and stored behind the line.
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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:
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All powder and cap containers must be sealed and stored in a closed range bag or box.
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Do not transport open powder or caps beyond the shooting areas.
9. 🔫 Firing Procedures
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Prime only when on the line, muzzle pointed downrange, and ready to fire.
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Capping must occur at the line, with the firearm pointed downrange—never carry capped cylinders.
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Flintlock shooters: Call out "Flint!" before firing to alert shooters near the touch hole.
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Never knap a flint in the cocked position when charged.
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Respect the “1-Minute Warning”:
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Do not start loading after the warning is called.
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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.
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6.⚙️ Caps & Cartridges
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Caps must be in a closed container at all times unless being used.
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Only one container (e.g., tin) of caps is allowed on the firing line per shooter.
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Store all extras in a closed bag or box behind the line.
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No loose caps or glass containers are permitted.
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Paper cartridges must remain in closed containers until ready for use.
8. 🔄 Loading Instructions
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Always use a separate powder measure—never load directly from a flask or horn.
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Pre-measured chargers/cartridges are acceptable.
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Clearly mark ramrods for “empty” and “loaded” positions.
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Stay focused. Avoid loading while distracted.
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Never place body parts near the muzzle during loading.
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Be aware of others—do not expose powder if nearby shooters are preparing to fire.
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Clean all spilled powder from the bench. Scatter any powder on the ground thoroughly before continuing.
10. 🚨 Malfunctions & Ceasefires
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If loaded during a ceasefire, raise your hand and wait for a Range Officer’s instruction. Do not fire without explicit permission.
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Misfires must remain pointed downrange until cleared safely.
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If you must pull a load, notify range staff before doing so. It may need to be removed off-line.
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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.