Range & Target Range Officer Training
Shooting Sports Resources
Leadership and Training
When "Weekend Camping", units and districts supply their own properly credentialed range leadership to use the equipment and ranges. Leadership requirements for these activities are defined in the National Shooting Sports Manual and the Guide to Safe Scouting; links to both are available under the links section at the bottom of the page. Training for BSA Shooting Sports Leadership roles is from USA Archery and the National Rifle Association, offered by Scouters serving on the council shooting sports committee. Links to all trainings can be found at the bottom of the page.
NRA Certified Rifle Instructor/NRA Certified Shotgun Instructor Training
The NRA RSO credential is different from the Cub Scout BB Certification, and the NRA RSO is a position necessary to operate the Scouts BSA Ranges.
The NRA RSO certification course is a nine-hour course that includes classroom instruction and practical exercises, though the duration may vary based on the participants' experience.
The course teaches the essential knowledge, skills, and attitude to organize, conduct, and supervise safe shooting activities and range operations. Upon successful completion of the course and a written exam with a score of 90% or higher, candidates receive their NRA RSO certification, which is valid for two years.
Course Content
- Roles and responsibilities of an RSO
- Range Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
- Range inspection
- Range rules
- Range briefings
- Emergency procedures
- Firearm stoppages and malfunctions
Key Requirements
- Age: Candidates must be 21 years or older.
- Experience: Candidates should have familiarity with both handguns and long guns.
- Written Exam: A short, multiple-choice exam with a minimum passing score of 90% is required.
- Certification: Successful completion results in an NRA RSO Certificate.
- Recertification: The RSO certification card is valid for two years and requires renewal.
Shooting Sports Awards
Shooting Sports activities provide an opportunity for instant recognition for improving upon personal marksmanship as well as learning and understanding how to use firearms in a safe manner. Listed below are resources for some of the awards that youth, and even adults, can earn while shooting. For more information about the awards, most of the links below redirect to external website.