FAQ                                                                                                                                                                                  


Frequently Asked Questions

Members new to Watervliet Fish and Game Protective Association, Inc. often have questions concerning what may be permissible on the club grounds, and where things can be done.

This document may help answer some of those questions. Be advised, however, that the written rules of the club always take precedence. If in doubt on any question, please consult a club officer or Board member first, before proceeding.

Question: I’m only a beginner, but I’m interested in joining one (or more) of the shooting sports or competitions at the club. How do I do this?

Answer: New shooters are always welcome in any of the sports or competition leagues. Come to the club meeting and speak to the chairman of the particular sport or competition committee, or talk to any of the club officers or Board members. All will be happy to fill you in on the specifics. Competitive and sport shooting with like-minded people is always fun, and the more experienced will be glad to give you tips on improving your skills. The experienced were once beginners too.

The fancy gear used in some sports and competitions is not necessary when first starting out. You can use the basic items for the sport, and as your skills develop, add any special equipment you feel may help you. No one will insult you for not having the “latest hot setup.”


Question: I want to pattern my shotgun. Where can this be done?

Answer: The new combat shotgun pit to the right of the Rifle range is where shotgun patterning should  be done. There are NO SLUGS allowed on this range at all. Follow all posted rules along with the rules below.

a)    Shotguns ONLY. No pistols, NO rifles, NO EXCEPTIONS!

b)     Birdshot & Buckshot only. NO SLUGS (use the rifle range for slugs)

c)    ABSOLUTELY NO exotic rounds (flares, flechette, bolo, dragon's breath, etc.)

d)    PAPER TARGETS ONLY. Hang targets on backer material

e)    DO NOT USE the bases & target stands from the rifle/pistol range.

f)     OBSERVE minimum and maximum shooting distance signs.

g)    When there is more than one shooter on the range, all shooters MUST shoot from the same distance.

h)    Clean up after yourself!

Question: I use a handgun for hunting, and want to sight it in at 100 yards. However the pistol range is only 50 yards deep. Where do I go?

Answer: The rifle range may be used for 100-yard sighting of high-power handguns. Your target may not be closer than 100 yards when using a handgun on the rifle range. Shots must be fired from a benchrest position, and all the regular rules of the rifle range must be observed.

Question: Where can I practice shooting my rifle from the prone position?

Answer: The raised position at the right end of the bench rest rifle range is designated for prone shooting.

Question: How do I get to use the indoor range?

Answer: The indoor range is for qualified handgun and rimfire rifle shooters. You must shoot a qualifier with your chosen type of firearm. With a rimfire rifle, you must place five sequential shots on the target from a freestanding position. With a handgun, you must place five sequential shots on the target while shooting freestanding and holding the gun one-handed. All shots are from 50 feet. It is strongly suggested that you use the outdoor ranges to practice before taking the qualifying test.

You must be a member of WFGPA for a year before you may attempt to qualify. Qualifying is performed by the Chief Range Officer.

Question: How do I know if a particular range is open or closed at any particular time?
Answer: There is a calendar on the office door inside the clubhouse. All club functions and special range uses are posted on this calendar – which can be checked on this website.

Question: What are the back ranges?
Answer: The back ranges are used by some organizations for specific functions, and for some organized club functions. Club functions include scheduled high-power rifle, black powder rifle and practical pistol competitions (IPSC, ICORE, Steel Challenge). Spectators are allowed at these club functions, but  must  wear ear and eye protection.

Question: Where do I get target stands and backings to use on the combat range?
Answer: All targets must be posted on the plastic snow fence.

Question: How Can I Help the Club
Answer: Get involved. Come to the meetings. Participate in club work days. Volunteer to help on committees in which you have an interest. If participating in club shooting sports or competitions, help the organizers set up before the event and tear down afterwards. If you have time to assist in building and grounds maintenance, volunteer your time to that committee chairman. This is your club, and any help you give will only make it, and your own enjoyment of it, better.