How to Prepare for an Event Not everything listed here is necessary. This list was compiled from the experience of those who have attended an Appleseed. It includes those things that did or would have made their experience more enjoyable. Remember that you need to bring whatever it takes to learn to shoot better.
The lists below are a general guide. This post is rifle-centric, but there is good pistol information here too. Be sure to download the attached guide for your particular event!
Also be aware that you do not have to bring the perfect rifle. If nothing else, please get a GI Sling put on your rifle. Scopes or open sights are OK - but if you struggle to keep the front sight in focus, recommend a scope for your rifle. Any rifle is OK - bring what you have, so long as it is safe and in good working condition.
If you need a 'loaner' rifle we may be able to help, just email us at: loaners@AppleseedInfo.org (//loaners@AppleseedInfo.org)
| Personal Items for the Event | | | | |
| Item | 25m Event | Rimfire KD | Known Distance | Appleseed Pistol Clinic |
| *A Teachable Attitude | X | X | X | X |
| *Ear protection | X | X | X | X |
| *Eye protection | X | X | X | X |
| Shooting mat or equivalent | X | X | X | |
| Elbow pads | R | R | R | |
| Weather-appropriate attire | X | X | X | X |
| Closed-toe shoes | X | X | X | X |
| Weather-appropriate hat | X | X | X | X |
| Sufficient water | X | X | X | X |
| Trail mix/high-protein snacks | R | R | R | R |
| Light, high-protein lunch | X | X | X | X |
| Folding chair | R | R | R | R |
| Wet wipes | R | R | R | R |
| Sunscreen and bug spray | R | R | R | R |
| Small notebook & pencil | X | X | X | X |
| Sharpie to mark targets | R | R | R | R |
| Rifle-specific Items for the Event | | | | |
| Item | 25m Event | Rimfire KD | Known Distance | Appleseed Pistol Clinic |
| Rifle (see download for details) | X | X | X | |
| Quality Pistol or Revolver (see download for details) | | | | X |
| Either iron sights or scope. | X | X | X | |
| Rifle Ammo (2-days/1-day) | 400/200 | 450/250 | 400/200 | |
| Pistol Ammo (2-days/1-day) | | | | 500/250 |
| Two magazines (spares are nice to have) | X | X | X | X |
| Four speed loaders (revolvers only) | | | | X |
| USGI style cotton web sling, 1 ¼" wide | X | X | X | |
| Sight adjustment tool | All - if applicable | | | |
| Firearm cleaning kit and oil | R | R | R | R |
| Trash bag and light-colored towel | R | R | R | R |
| Pushpins or a staple gun & staples | X | X | X | X |
| Firearm operator's manual & sight/scope manual, if you have them | R | R | R | R |
| Case for rifle or pistol | R | R | R | R |
Ready your equipment1. Be prepared for blowing sand and dust, rain, mud - all those weather conditions a rifleman would have to generally put up with.
2. In event of blowing sand and dust, you'll need to totally degrease your rifle. Any lube should be a dry lube, like graphite. Be ready to protect your rifle with a plastic rifle bag or a simple waterproof wrap for the action.
3. Be ready to protect ammo and mags from the same weather. Ziplock bags are great for this.
4. Again, be prepared. You should function-test your rifle and, if possible, have it zeroed for 25 meters or 200 yards. You can also adjust your sights so your group prints 3" above point of aim at 100 yds, and mark your sights with paint, magic marker, or fingernail polish. Doing so will leave you properly sighted for the 25m AQT.
Downloadable How to Prepare GuidesHow to Prepare – Appleseed Pistol Clinic (https://appleseedinfo.org/pdf/How%20to%20Prepare%20-%20Appleseed%20Pistol%20Clinic.pdf)
How to Prepare – Known Distance (https://appleseedinfo.org/pdf/How%20to%20Prepare%20-%20Known%20Distance.pdf)
How to Prepare – Rimfire KD (https://appleseedinfo.org/pdf/How%20to%20Prepare%20-%20Rimfire%20KD.pdf)
How to Prepare – 25m Rifle (https://appleseedinfo.org/pdf/How%20to%20Prepare%20-%2025m%20Rifle.pdf)
How to Assemble a Liberty Training Rifle (https://appleseedinfo.org/pdf/Assemble%20a%20Liberty%20Training%20Rifle.pdf)