As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
If you are interested in becoming a professional shooter, then it is important for you to spend adequate time practicing so that you can improve your skills. However, not everyone is fortunate enough to live in an area where gun ranges are easily accessible or affordable.
In such instances, a convenient solution would be for you to build your own gun range at home where you can practice your shooting. The first step involves finding out whether the state laws allow you to carry out target shooting in your backyard.
Contents
Can You Shoot on Your Property in Tennessee?
Yes, you can shoot on your property in Tennessee because the state law allows individuals to discharge a firearm on private property. However, depending on where your yard is located, certain municipalities might have local ordinances that impose additional restrictions.
USSCA website reports that Tennessee is a shall-issue state, where the Department of Safety and Homeland Security is tasked with the responsibility of issuing concealed weapons permits.
From 21st of July 2021:
- Both open carry and permit-less concealed carry will be legal for anyone who is above 21 years of age.
- Before this date, open carry is legal for residents with an Enhanced Tennessee Handgun Carry Permit (EHCP) whilst concealed carry is legal for residents who possess a Tennessee Handgun Carry Permit or an EHCP.
Reasons Why You Should Set up a Backyard Range in Tennessee
More and more gun enthusiasts in Tennessee and other states are deciding to set up backyard shooting ranges. You might be wondering what could be causing this upsurge in numbers. Here are some of the reasons why many gun owners nowadays prefer to shoot on their private property:
Provides More Time for Target Practice
One of the most effective ways for you to improve as a shooter is by getting more hours of target practice. Most gun ranges will have a large number of patrons lining up to shoot during each session and this congestion can lead to delays such that you will only have a limited amount of time for actual shooting.
An article on Gander Outdoors blog states that champion shooter Taran Butler credits a large portion of his success as a shooter to the fact that he has a home range.
Reduces Expenses
Whether you admit it or not, the reality is that shooting can be quite an expensive sport. This is especially true when you factor in the cost of frequent visits to the gun range, which is basically a necessity if you intend to keep your guns in good working condition.
An easy way to ensure that your guns are discharged on a regular basis is by setting up a home range where you will be able to conduct target practice without worrying about range fees or membership subscription at the local gun club.
Provides an Opportunity for Customization
This is a huge benefit that pleasantly surprises many gun owners when they start setting up a backyard gun range at home. If you have always been dissatisfied with the position of certain targets at the shooting range, then building your own DIY home range gives you the amazing opportunity to customize the shooting area to suit your specific needs.
Tennessee Gun Laws
| Law | Long Guns Requirement | Handguns Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Permit to purchase | No | No |
| Magazine capacity restriction | No | No |
| Carry permit requirement | No with certain conditions | Yes |
| Open carry | Yes | Yes |
| State preemption of local restrictions | Yes | Yes |
| Child access prevention | No | Yes |
| Safe storage | No | No |
| Stand Your Ground | Yes | Yes |
| Background check for private sale of firearms | No | No |
| Background check for ammunition | No | No |
| Guns in bars and restaurants | Yes | Yes |
| Guns where judicial proceedings are taking place | No | No |
| Guns in schools | No | Sometimes |
| Guns on college campus | No | Yes |
| Guns in parks | No | Yes |
| Guns on public transportation | No | Yes |
Related Questions
How Much Land Do I Need to Shoot in Tennessee?
There’s no clear answer to this except that you can only shoot within 100 yards of a visible dwelling house without the owner’s permission.
Can You Shoot on Public Land in TN?
You can shoot on public land in TN as long as it’s target shooting on BLM-administered public lands. However, you also need to keep in mind not to damage natural resources or improvements.
Do You Have the Right to Protect Your Property in Tennessee?
Yes, you have the right to protect your property in Tennessee as long as it is justified. If you have legal justification to use force or threat to prevent or eliminate unlawful interference in your property then you aren’t liable.
Conclusion
Whether you are a gun collector looking to fire your guns occasionally to keep them in good condition or you are a competitive shooter looking to win national tournaments, every gun enthusiast can benefit from having a backyard shooting range.
An article on the American Survival Guide magazine provides excellent tips on how you can build your own shooting range at home.
