Procedure for initiating change(s) to the Rules and Regulations.
- The proposed changes are to be submitted in writing to the applicable Chairperson. On agreement the Chairperson with or without modifications would submit the request to the Board of Directors at a Monthly meeting under “New Business”.
- After due consideration the Board of Directors would issue its decision by a vote of the Directors.
- The particular section of the rules would be modified to reflect the changes if any.
- The master copy of the modified section would be signed by the Club President and counter signed by the Section Chairperson, the revision number and date would be modified and the document put on file by the Club Secretary.
- The modified rules would be issued to the Section Shooters, and only at this time can the modifications be implemented.
- If there is a request for an additional Rule (for Safety reasons) that does not effect in any way an existing Safety Rule approved by the Board of Directors, the additional Safety Rule may be implemented forthwith.
The Board retains the right to overturn the Rule if in subsequent deliberations it is found to be not in the Clubs best interest.
Members and Guests must obey all of the Federal and Provincial Laws with respect to their personal conduct, in addition to the Rules established by the Board of Directors.
The following Code of conduct including the rules and procedures have been created by each of the following groups and endorsed by your Board of Directors in an effort to promote safe shooting practices.
Section #1: Code Of Conduct
- Obey and support all Range Officers commands. The Range Officer has complete authority.
- The Club is private property, open only to Members and their invited Guests.
- Guests invited by a Member may only return to the Club for a maximum of 3 occasions in any 12 month period.
- Members must accompany Guests at all times. Guests must not be allowed on the Club property unless accompanied by a Member. Divulging Combination Lock Codes to non-members is considered a serious infraction of Club Rules due to the increased risk of accidents along with our Insurance liability considerations. Such conduct will cause the Board of Directors to revoke the membership of those responsible.
- Members are responsible for the safe conduct of their Guests at all times while on the Clubs property.
- Members must ensure that guests are familiarized with the safety rules relative to the planned activities.
- Only one Visitor may shoot at any time with each available Member.
- Do not climb the burms. This causes significant damage.
- The Event Chairperson shall be the defacto “Range Officer” unless he delegates to a Member selected by the group present. In the absence of a Chairperson the Shooters will select a “Range Officer” from the group of Shooters present. The Range Officer has full authority over the conduct of the Shooters with respect to Club rules.
- The Violation of any rule may result in removal of the shooter from the range by the Range Officer, and could result in disciplinary action by the Board of Directors.
- Abuse of Club property and equipment will result in the loss of membership, with the membership dues being applied to remedy the damage.
- Ear and Eye protection is required by all shooters and spectators at all times when shooting is in progress.
- Shooters must maintain muzzle control in a safe direction at all times. Pointing of a Muzzle (Barrel) at another person even if by accident is considered a serious infraction of our safety regulations.
- Do not distract other shooters with your conduct or actions.
- All accidents and or incidents must be reported in writing through the relative Chairperson to the Board of Directors. This will allow the Board to consider methods of avoiding such accidents and or incidents in the future.
- Do not throw live rounds or misfired shells into the garbage containers or on the club grounds. This increases the risk of injuries to unsuspecting people.
- Gun owners are responsible by Law for the safe storage and transport of their firearms and ammunition. The law also requires you to be in control of your firearms at all times. In addition you must have proof of firearm ownership.
- If the firearms are classified as restricted you will require authorization to transport with you whenever in transit to or from the Gun Club.
- The front gate shall be locked by the last member leaving the Club. If in doubt, lock the gate: all members have the combination.
- Membership Fee’s are due on the 1st of October each year. Members in arrears will cause the Club to notify the “Ontario Chief Firearms Office” of their lapsed membership. This will result in the loss of transport privileges.
- Appropriate dress must be worn. Camouflage and or military clothing is not allowed due to the loss of visibility in the undergrowth. Shooters and guests should be highly visible at all times to reduce the risk of accidents.
- Shoot only on “Open Ranges”. If you open a range, be sure to close it when leaving.
- Handguns of all types shall be pointed down into the firearm Case when removing the “Trigger Lock” and or opening the action. If on the “Firing Line” the Muzzle shall be pointed downrange.
- Rifles shall be pointed “UP” when removing the “Trigger Lock” and or opening the action. If on the “Firing Line” the Muzzle shall be pointed downrange.
- Violation of any of these safety rules may cause the Board of Directors to revoke your membership.
Section #2: Archery Range
- Obey and support all Range Officers commands. The Range Officer has complete authority.
- Access to the range is along the designated route only. Do not walk through the woods or along the creek.
- Be safe and be seen. If possible wear bright colored clothing when on the archery range. Camouflage clothing is not acceptable on club property for safety reasons.
- Bows and Crossbows are only to be loaded at the firing line.
- When drawing your bow keep the angle of the draw below the line of sight.
- Use a spotter at the firing line when looking for lost arrows.
- Shoot only at designated back stops or “Butts”, or 3D targets with suitable arrow heads.
- Do not shoot before 9 am, unless it is part of, or practice for an event approved by the Board of Directors.
- When you are finished shooting remove used targets and put them in the appropriate garbage container.
- Shoot only on “Open Ranges”. If you open a range, be sure to close it before leaving.
- The Violation of any rules may result in removal of the shooter from the range by the Range Officer, and could result in disciplinary action by the Board of Directors
Section #3: Outdoor 50 – 100 – 200 Yard Ranges
- All shooting of rifles on this range is to be done from the firing line.
- Ear and Eye protection is mandatory for all shooters and spectators.
- No loaded firearm is to be raised above horizontal.
- The Event Chairperson shall be the defacto “Range Officer” unless he delegates to a Member selected by the group present. In the absence of a Chairperson the Shooters will select a “Range Officer” from the group of Shooters present. The Range Officer has full authority over the conduct of the Shooters with respect to Club rules.
- Targets may only be posted on the approval of the Range Officer.
- Rapid Firing is not permitted. Subject to the discretion of the Range Officer.
- Ensure that firearms are unloaded, safe, with the action open before moving downrange.
- Do not shoot before 9 am, unless it is part of, or practice for an event approved by the Board of Directors.
- When you are finished shooting remove used targets and put them in the appropriate garbage container.
- After a misfire or hang-fire, the action must remain closed for a full 60 Seconds with the muzzle pointed down range (in a safe direction).
- Shoot only on “Open Ranges”. If you open a range, be sure to close it before leaving.
- All unlocked Firearms are to be unloaded with the action open, unless on the firing line.
- Whenever a “Cease fire” is called (by anyone) on any range all participants must immediately unload and make their firearms safe and step away from the firing line..
- Gun owners are responsible by Law for the safe storage and transport of their firearms and ammunition. The law also requires you to be in control of your firearms at all times, and have proof of firearm ownership.
- If the firearms are classified as restricted you will require authorization to transport with you whenever in transit to or from the Gun Club.
- Only load your firearm on the firing line, when ready to shoot.
- Rifles shall be pointed “UP” when removing the “Trigger Lock” and or opening the action. If on the “Firing Line” the Muzzle shall be pointed downrange.
- The Violation of any rules may result in removal of the shooter from the range by the Range Officer, and could result in disciplinary action by the Board of Directors.
Section #4: Black Powder Section
- Obey and support all Range Officers commands. The Range Officer has complete authority.
- NO SMOKING within 10 feet (3 m) of the loading benches and firing line regardless of presence of shooters or equipment.
- Carry firearms with the (“MUZZLE UP”) Muzzle pointed in the up position, with the trigger finger out of (not in) the Trigger Guard, and in a safe manner at all times.
- Keep Powder container caps tightly closed at all times.
- Never load powder directly from a container. Always use a Powder Measure.
- Prime Flintlocks or Cap the Gun at the firing line on command of the Range Officer.
- Advise the Range Officer of any problems with a firearm.
- All firearm problems are to be solved at the firing line under the observation of the Range Officer and with the firearm pointed downrange.
- Post and change targets when the Range Officer declares the range “Inactive”.
- All Gun cleaning patches are to be place in the proper waste receptacles for further disposal.
- Eye and Ear protection is mandatory.
- Do not shoot before 9 am, unless it is part of, or practice for an event approved by the Board of Directors.
- When you are finished shooting remove used targets and put them in the appropriate garbage container.
- After a misfire or hang-fire, the action must remain closed for a full 60 Seconds with the muzzle pointed down range (in a safe direction).
- Only load your firearm on the firing line, when ready to shoot.
- Shoot only on “Open Ranges”. If you open a range, be sure to close it before leaving.
- Whenever a “Cease fire” is called (by anyone) on any range all participants must immediately make their firearms safe by lowering the hammer on a spent percussion cap, by removing the percussion cap, or, by dumping the powder from the pan of a flintlock firearm. Place the firearm on the shooting bench, or on a suitable rack, and step away from the firing line.
- Gun owners are responsible by Law for the safe storage and transport of their firearms and ammunition. The law also requires you to be in control of your firearms at all times. In addition you must have proof of firearm ownership.
- If the firearms are classified as restricted you will require authorization to transport with you whenever in transit to or from the Gun Club.
- The Violation of any rules may result in removal of the shooter from the range by the Range Officer, and could result in disciplinary action by the Board of Directors.
Section #5: Trap & Sporting Clays
- Obey and support all Range Officers commands. The Range Officer has complete authority.
- Shooters are to check in at the registration desk to be squadded.
- The Range Officer and Squad Referees are responsible for the safe and efficient operation of the ranges. Their direction must be followed.
- Hand traps or portable traps are not to be used without permission from the Board of Directors. Eye and Ear protection is mandatory.
- Gun actions are to be open at all times except: a) When shooter is standing on a shooting pad and it is their turn to shoot, or when placing an over/under, side/side or other fixed breech gun in the vertical Gun Racks.
- Do not pattern your Shotgun on the trap field. The club has a patterning board that is to be used to pattern you shot gun.
- Loaded Firearms are to be pointed in a safe direction at all times.
- Only one shell is to be loaded at the Trap Field unless shooting doubles.
- Maximum Barrel size is 12 Gauge with loads not exceeding 3 1/4 drams equivalent of powder, 1 1/8 oz of shot of a size not larger than #7.5 – 9.
- Shooters should take turns pulling, scoring and loading machines to permit fellow members to have enjoyable outings as well.
- Do not distract other shooters by picking up hulls during the round.
- All firearms are to be carried between stations in an unloaded and open condition and pointed down and away from yourself and others.
- A yellow flag is posted above the trap house to indicate that personnel within the Trap House want to exit. All guns must be unloaded and pointed down at this time.
- Pick up hulls and place in the waste container at the end of each round.
- Do not shoot before 9 am, unless it is part of, or practice for an event approved by the Board of Directors.
- All unbroken targets lying on the ground are the property of the Club. Further use of these targets is left to the discretion of the Trap or Sporting event Chairman.
- After a misfire or hang-fire, the action must remain closed for a full 60 Seconds with the muzzle pointed down range (in a safe direction).
- Gun owners are responsible by Law for the safe storage and transport of their firearms and ammunition. The law also requires you to be in control of your firearms at all times. In addition you must have proof of firearm ownership.
- Shoot only on “Open Ranges”. If you open a range, be sure to close it before leaving.
- Whenever a “Cease fire” is called (by anyone) on any range all participants must immediately unload and make their firearms safe and step away from the firing line.
- The Violation of any rules may result in removal of the shooter from the range by the Range Officer, and could result in disciplinary action by the Board of Directors.
Section #6: Cowboy action
Preamble
All Cowboy Action scheduled events at the Otter Valley club are carried out under SASS (Single Action Shooting Society) rules. All participants must, therefore, be completely familiar with SASS rules. If one or more are newcomers to the sport, the club member in charge of the event must read the published rules aloud to all present.
- Obey and support all Range Officers commands. The Range Officer has complete authority.
- CAS shooting may only be done at approved times on approved ranges.
- A Club chairperson, or approved Range Officer must supervise all practice and club events.
- CAS targets will be supplied by the Range Officer at the approved shooting time.
- A CAS Range Officer must supervise all inter-club events.
- All shooters must wear wraparound shooting glasses or side shields on regular shooting glasses.
- Proper dress code must be followed. No inappropriate apparel including camouflage.
- Do not shoot before 9 am, unless it is part of, or practice for an event approved by the Board of Directors.
- Do not shoot in a rapid fire mode, unless it is part of, or practice for an event approved by the Board of Directors.
- When you are finished shooting remove used (disposable) targets and put them in the appropriate garbage container.
- After a misfire or hang-fire, the action must remain closed for a full 60 Seconds with the muzzle pointed down range (in a safe direction).
- Shoot only on “Open Ranges”. If you open a range, be sure to close it before leaving.
- All unlocked, and un-holstered Firearms are to be unloaded with the action open, unless on the firing line.
- Whenever a “Cease fire” is called (by anyone) on any range all participants must immediately unload and make their firearms safe and step away from the firing line.
- Gun owners are responsible by Law for the safe storage and transport of their firearms and ammunition. The law also requires you to be in control of your firearms at all times. In addition you must have proof of firearm ownership.
- If the firearms are classified as restricted you will require authorization to transport with you whenever in transit to or from the Gun Club.
- Only load your firearm on the firing line, when ready to shoot.
- Firearms must be unloaded when holstered unless on the firing line.
- Handguns of all types shall be pointed “DOWN” into the firearm Case when removing the “Trigger Lock” and or opening the action. If on the “Firing Line” the Muzzle shall be pointed downrange.
- Long Guns shall be pointed “UP” when removing the “Trigger Lock” and or opening the action. If on the “Firing Line” the Muzzle shall be pointed downrange.
- The Violation of any rules may result in removal of the shooter from the range by the Range Officer, and could result in disciplinary action by the Board of Directors.
Section #7: Pistol Section & Indoor & Outdoor Range Rules
- Obey and support all Range Officers commands. The Range Officer has complete authority.
- All Shooters and visitors must sign in the Log Book.
- Ear and Eye protection is mandatory for all shooters and spectators.
- The Pistol Chairperson shall be the defacto “Range Officer” unless delegated to another selected by the shooters present.
- Remain behind the Black Line when range is “Inactive”.
- Approach the firing line only when the Range is clear and the “Red Light” is on.
- Remember: Red Light – Range Active.
- Remember: Green Light – Range Safe. Shooter may retrieve target and post new one.
- No live rounds to be placed in the Garbage.
- Only load your firearm on the firing line, when ready to shoot.
- Load a maximum of 10 rounds.
- When posting Targets on the indoor range Target Holders, post the Target in the centre and lower portion of the board to minimize damage to the target holders.
- Do not shoot at target holders, supports, lights, or side walls.
- 22 Cal. Rim fire or lead bullets under 1000 FPS only. Damage to the Back Stop has occurred due to the use of heavy cal. jacketed ammunition.
- No Jacketed or Semi-Jacketed ammunition to be used in the indoor Range.
- Firearms not in use shall be unloaded, with either the action open or the Trigger Lock applied. Firearms may be in a horizontal position in an open Gun Case.
- When transporting the Firearm to the firing line the firearm shall be unloaded the “Action open”, with the Muzzle pointing in a safe direction: either “UP” or “Down”. Fingers shall not be within the “Trigger Guard”.
- When you are finished shooting remove used targets and put them in the appropriate garbage container. Targets used for .22 Cal. should be left available for heavier Cal shooters.
- After a misfire or hang-fire, the action must remain closed for a full 60 Seconds with the muzzle pointed down range (in a safe direction).
- Whenever a “Cease fire” is called (by anyone) on any range all participants must immediately unload and make their firearms safe and step away from the firing line.
- Shoot only on “Open Ranges”. If you open a range, be sure to close it before leaving.
- Gun owners are responsible by Law for the safe storage and transport of their firearms and ammunition. The law also requires you to be in control of your firearms at all times. In addition you must have proof of firearm ownership.
- If the firearms are classified as restricted you will require authorization to transport with you whenever in transit to or from the Gun Club.
- Handguns of all types shall be pointed “DOWN” into the firearm Case when removing the “Trigger Lock” and or opening the action. If on the “Firing Line” the Muzzle shall be pointed downrange.
- Rifles shall be pointed “UP” when removing the “Trigger Lock” and or opening the action. If on the “Firing Line” the Muzzle shall be pointed downrange.
- The Violation of any rules may result in removal of the shooter from the range by the Range Officer, and could result in disciplinary action by the Board of Directors.