Introduction
Ranchi, the capital of Jharkhand, has gained recognition in various sports over the years, and shooting sports is steadily gaining popularity in the city. Whether you’re a novice or someone who wants to pursue shooting professionally, Ranchi offers several avenues to get started. Here’s a guide from the perspective of a shooting club member on how to embark on your shooting sports journey in Ranchi.
1. Choosing the Right Shooting Club
Ranchi has a few well-established shooting ranges where beginners and enthusiasts can train. It is essential to choose a club that is both accredited and equipped with modern facilities. As a club member, I can vouch for the fact that joining a reputable shooting club in Ranchi gives you access to certified coaches, a safe environment, and the opportunity to participate in national and state-level competitions.
2. Understanding the Basics
Once you’ve enrolled in a club, the next step is to get familiar with the basics of shooting. This includes learning about the types of guns, ammunition, safety protocols, and posture. Most clubs in Ranchi emphasize safety and will guide you through the mandatory lessons before you even handle a gun.
- Air Rifle/Pistol: A popular choice for beginners as it’s safer and less costly compared to firearms. These use compressed air or CO2 to shoot pellets at targets.
- Firearms: As you advance, you can practice with rifles and pistols. However, handling firearms requires licenses and additional permissions, which your club will assist you in acquiring.
3. Safety First
Safety is the cornerstone of any shooting sport. As a club member, I’ve learned that safety is non-negotiable, and every practice session begins with a refresher on safety measures. You will be trained on how to handle a gun, how to store ammunition safely, and the importance of using safety gear like ear protection and shooting glasses.
4. Investing in Equipment
In the beginning, most clubs provide basic shooting gear, including guns and safety equipment. Club members usually recommend starting with a reliable air rifle or pistol before moving on to more advanced and expensive firearms.
- Air Rifles/Pistols: Brands like Feinwerkbau and Walther are favored for their precision and durability.
- Protective Gear: Invest in good-quality shooting glasses, ear protection, and a stable shooting jacket for optimal performance.
5. Coaching and Competitions
One of the most significant advantages of joining a shooting club in Ranchi is access to professional coaching. Coaches at JSRA and Ranchi Rifle Club are experienced and often hold credentials from the National Rifle Association of India (NRAI).
- Coaching: Regular practice under a coach’s guidance can refine your skills and help you understand the nuances of the sport, such as breathing techniques, trigger control, and aiming.
- Competitions: Clubs frequently organize state-level competitions, which are great platforms for new shooters to showcase their skills. As you improve, you can aim to participate in national-level events like the National Shooting Championship Competitions (NSCC).
6. Obtaining Licenses
For those who wish to progress beyond air rifles to firearms, acquiring a gun license is necessary. Your club will help you navigate the process, which includes submitting an application to the local police station, undergoing a background check, and providing a valid reason for owning a firearm.
7. Staying Consistent
Shooting is a skill that requires patience, focus, and regular practice. From my own experience, consistency is key. Regular practice not only improves your aim but also enhances your concentration, mental discipline, and ability to perform under pressure. Try to dedicate time each week to practice and attend any training sessions organized by your club.
8. Enjoy the Journey
Starting with shooting sports can be intimidating, but it is also incredibly rewarding. Whether you’re pursuing it as a hobby or aiming for a professional career, the community in Ranchi is supportive, and there are plenty of opportunities to grow.
Conclusion:
If you’re in Ranchi and passionate about shooting sports, now is the perfect time to get started. By joining a reputed shooting sports club in Ranchi, understanding the basics, investing in the right gear, and staying consistent with practice, you can excel in this sport. With guidance from experienced coaches and the chance to compete at various levels, your shooting journey in Ranchi will be both exciting and fulfilling.