Not everything is in the rulebook. We have items that fall under match etiquette. Let’s discuss when it’s okay and not okay for competitors to be inside the shooting area.
1.) Before the match starts – At matches, especially major matches, the matchbook will announce when the stages are open for inspection. Do not show up to the range before that time and start walking stages. The Match Director has set that time to ensure that the stages are completely setup. During any stage inspection period, remember that altering the stage and playing with props (like moving targets) is subject to a DQ (8.7.4.1). You are welcome to be inside the shooting area and air-gun the stages during this time, but if the setup crew is still working on the stage, then give them room to work.
2.) During staff match/pre-match – Stages always have to be open for inspection once the match starts, which is when the staff match or pre-match commences. Competitors shooting the main match are welcome to inspect the stages, but if a squad who is in the pre-match shows up, you need to yield the stage to them. You can watch them shoot, but stay off the stage and out of the shooting area until they are done.
3.) When waiting for squad ahead of you to finish – During the match if your squad is waiting for the previous squad to finish, stay clear of the stage. The squad doesn’t need you getting in the way. Stay back and let them finish. You will get your walkthrough period to inspect the stage.
4.) Walkthrough period – This is the period after the Range Officer reads the Written Stage Briefing aloud and is restricted to the number of minutes stated in the WSB. It’s usually 3-5 minutes. This is when the squad should inspect the stage in an orderly manner and finalize stage plans.
5.) Between runs, during stage reset – The on deck competitor (next person to shoot) is the only one who should be in the shooting area between competitors. Rest of the squad should be out resetting the stage. Do not be the person who is constantly “poaching” the shooting area from the on deck competitor. You will quickly annoy your squad.
6.) During the Course of Fire – Between “Make ready” and “Range is clear”, the only people who should be in the shooting area are the competitor and the range officers. No one should be walking the stage. Camera people should also be outside the shooting area unless they have permission from the ROs to be in there. And camera people always stay behind the most uprange RO.
7.) When instructed by the Range Officer – If a RO asks you to stay out of the shooting area, please comply. The job of the ROs is to maintain safety and smooth operation of their stage and there may be a time not discussed above that they need you to clear the shooting area.