Victoria Firearms Licence: 40856760F

​

At Lorco Shooting Academy, we uphold a strict, zero-compromise approach to firearms safety. Every student, instructor, guest, and affiliate must operate with discipline, vigilance, and personal responsibility when handling firearms. These rules are non-negotiable, and adherence is a condition of participation.

 

Core Firearms Safety Rules

 

1. Treat Every Firearm as If It Is Loaded

Regardless of your experience or confidence level, assume every firearm is loaded. Visually and physically inspect every firearm upon handling. Never become complacent.

 

2. Always Point the Muzzle in a Safe Direction

The firearm’s muzzle must remain pointed in a safe direction at all times—downrange, toward designated targets, or in a clearly marked safe area. Never allow the muzzle to cover another person or unintended object, regardless of the firearm’s condition.

 

3. Keep Your Finger Off the Trigger Until Ready to Fire

Trigger discipline is critical. Your trigger finger must rest along the frame or receiver until you are on target and have made the conscious decision to shoot. Premature finger placement is one of the most common causes of negligent discharges.

 

4. Be Sure of Your Target and What Is Beyond It

Identify your target clearly. Know what lies in front, behind, and to the sides of it. Bullets can pass through targets and unintended backdrops. Accountability does not end with the target.

 

Range-Specific Conduct & Safety Expectations

 

5. Obey All Range Officer Commands Without Delay

The Range Officer (RO) is the final authority on all range matters. All commands, especially ceasefires, must be followed immediately and without question. Failure to comply will result in removal from the range and possible expulsion from training.

 

6. Firearms May Only Be Handled at Designated Benches or Firing Points

No handling of firearms behind the firing line or outside of approved areas. Firearms must remain unloaded, with actions open and chambers visibly clear until directed to load by the RO.

 

7. Use of Eye and Ear Protection Is Mandatory

Every individual on the live-fire range must wear certified ballistic eye protection and sufficient hearing protection at all times. This rule applies even when not shooting.

 

8. Only Approved Ammunition May Be Used

Use of reloads, handloads, surplus, or unverified ammunition is strictly prohibited unless pre-approved by Lorco instructors. Ammunition must match firearm specifications. Any misuse will result in immediate ejection.

 

9. Never Rely on Mechanical Safeties Alone

A mechanical safety is no substitute for common sense. It may fail at any time. Safe handling is a mindset, not a switch.

 

10. Report Any Unsafe Acts or Equipment Immediately

Safety is everyone’s duty. If you observe unsafe behaviour, firearm malfunctions, or equipment concerns, report it to a Lorco instructor or RO without delay. Silence endangers everyone.

 

Prohibited Behaviours – Zero Tolerance Policy

 

The following will result in immediate removal from the course or range facility:

• Handling firearms under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medication affecting judgment

• Horseplay, aggressive behaviour, or intentional rule violations

• Pointing a firearm at another person or engaging in unsafe muzzle discipline

• Unauthorised loading, discharging, or handling of firearms

• Use of banned or unapproved gear, optics, or accessories

 

Additional Range Expectations

• Firearms Transport: Must be carried unloaded in a case or bag with the action open. No slung rifles or uncased handguns outside of live-fire bays.

• Children & Spectators: Must be under direct supervision at all times. Spectators must remain behind safety lines.

• Misfire or Jam: Keep the firearm pointed downrange. Raise your non-shooting hand and await Range Officer assistance.

• Ceasefire Protocol: On the “Ceasefire” command: stop shooting, remove magazine, clear chamber, and bench your firearm—hands off until given the all-clear.

• Hot/Cold Range Procedures: Follow all “Range is Hot” or “Range is Cold” procedures as announced. Do not cross the firing line under any circumstance during a Hot range.

 

Acknowledgement of Responsibility

 

Before participating in any Lorco Shooting Academy training activity, each individual must:

• Attend a safety briefing led by an accredited instructor

• Sign the Lorco Firearms Safety Agreement

• Demonstrate safe handling in a controlled environment before live-fire is permitted

 

Instructor Authority

 

Lorco instructors and Range Officers have the absolute right to suspend or expel any participant who poses a safety risk or disrupts the learning environment. Decisions made in the interest of safety are final and not negotiable.

 

Questions or Clarifications?

​

If you have any uncertainty regarding a rule or procedure, ask before acting. There is no such thing as a silly safety question.