[Illustration: Figure 81. Details of Alternating Targets, Pit, etc., for 50-Yard Range.]
Such a range is operated as follows: A marker is sent into the pit for each target to be operated; paper targets having been pasted to the canvas on the frames a sufficient length of time previously so as to be dry. The marker pulls down one of the targets which raises the other into the firing position. As soon as the shot is fired, the marker, using a 10-foot rod with an iron disc 2½ inches in diameter fastened on the end as a pointer "spots" the shot by placing the disc over the bullet hole, and then pointing to one of the numbers over the target corresponding to the value of the shot. The disc on the pointer should have one side painted white so that it can be easily distinguished when covering shots in the bull's-eye.
The scorer at the firing point then scores the shot as indicated by the marker. The marker then raises the target at the bottom of the pit in position for the next shot, which brings the first target down into the pit where the marker covers the bullet hole with a paster. This operation is repeated for each shot.
Where a score of ten consecutive shots is to be made on each paper target without covering the bullet holes with pasters, as in the United States Revolver Association Matches, the target is fastened to the frame with double pointed carpet tacks and left in the firing position until the ten shot score is completed, each shot being "spotted," marked, and scored as fired. When the score is completed, another paper target having been placed on the alternating frame in the pit, the latter is raised promptly ready for the next score.
In large cities it is often necessary to provide a suitable range for target shooting indoors and by artificial light. Such a range is designated a "gallery." The standard range is 20 yards for the revolver and pistol, and 25 yards for the rifle. The arrangement at the firing point is practically the same as in the case of the 50-yard ranges, the booths being at least 3 feet wide. On account of the small size of the target and the short distance, it is feasible to move the target back and forth, from the firing point to the butt by "trolleys" operated by a hand wheel, the latter being located generally at the left hand side in the booth at the firing point. The "trolley" carriage consists of a heavy steel spring clamp holding a cardboard target (about 9 inches square) at the top edge of the target, the carriage being supported by a No. 8 or 10-gauge wire stretched from the firing point to the butt, at a level of about 2 feet above the line of fire. The supporting wires are attached to the wood-work at the firing point by means of eye-bolts, which also regulate the tension of the wires. The trolleys are operated back and forth by an endless braided cord passing around angles over pulleys screwed to the wood-work of the booth, and around the hand wheel. A steel plate with the lower part inclined away from the firing point 20 or 30 degrees is placed about 12 inches back of the targets to stop the bullets and prevent them from gouging out the wall or wood-work behind. By deflecting the plates as described, the spatter of lead is directed downward, and thus prevents damage to the wood-work around the targets. A suitable background behind the targets may be provided by white or light gray paint, or by a suitable fabric.