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_smojface OP t1_j6mlt4s wrote

Reply to comment by DeleteSystem33 in Never shot a gun, want to learn (38m) by _smojface

I’d love that.

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PhotoCropDuster t1_j6n4n97 wrote

If you haven’t talked to the commenter yet, to use PA state game lands you either have to buy a hunting or trapping license, or you can buy a game lands range license from the states website. Very easy and just print and keep it on you when you go

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razzy57 t1_j6n8sql wrote

I think you can just pay to use it too like $5 or something.

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PhotoCropDuster t1_j6nb3hi wrote

I haven’t gone in a few years, so you’re probably correct. I know pre 2020 you needed a license, just in case the game warden showed up. However, I never saw one once

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WheelyMcFeely t1_j6nexc6 wrote

I used it for most of 2020 and 2021, since I didn’t have a hunting license I had to get the range license online and keep it on me. I believe the rule was you’re allowed to bring one guest for free.

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NSlocal t1_j6ni56c wrote

I have been going to the PA Game Lands off of 910 near Wexford for 25 years. You will either have to have a valid PA hinting license which costs $20 and runs from July 1 through June 30 or you get a range permit.

I usually opt for the license because I can get it at most places that sell ammo. You are allowed to take one guest. You must have eye protection and some sort of hearing protection is a must. No more than 6 rounds at a time. Though it isn't always the case, wardens do pop in on people from time to time.

Be respectful, observe safe handling practices, and have your license/range permit handy. Also, clean up your brass.

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WheelyMcFeely t1_j6nkbp1 wrote

Yup, all of this is great info for anyone looking into it. Also, I’m not trying to scare anyone away but for any newer people going, please be extremely aware of your surroundings. SGL 203 is much safer than a lot of the other state ranges, but there’s always a chance that the person next to you is learning as well or maybe just a purposefully ignorant person who doesn’t care about the rules. If you see something unsafe, let the person know. If they refuse to stop doing whatever they’re doing, move to a different part of the range or come back another time. My rule of thumb was to only go on weekdays when it was the least busy.

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NSlocal t1_j6nvtpd wrote

Yes, I have left after observing yahoo behavior. In all fairness, it's come a long way in terms of the type of person who frequents the range now.

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soupsoup1326 t1_j6nn5cy wrote

This is true, however if you already have the necessary license or permit (which I’m assuming the OC does), you are allowed to bring one guest so OP shouldn’t “need” one.

However, a range permit only costs $31.97 for a year per the Game Commission website and that money supports local wildlife and habitat conservation so you’re not wasting your money if you get one anyways. Hunting licenses are a little cheaper but require the completion of an online hunter safety course. More info about PA State Game Lands Range use can be found here.

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SecretSquirrelSauce t1_j6o44iq wrote

A permit holder or hunting license holder can bring up to two guests with them to the Game Lands range unless they changed that just last year

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