Range Conducting Officer

The NRA Range Conducting Officer’s Course (RCO) is intended for suitable club members to gain the qualification necessary to allow them to sign for and run a Ministry of Defence (MoD) range. Students should be experienced shooters who have passed the Range Safety Officers (RSO) course, with experience of running ranges. Pass requirements are high, and the course is not to be undertaken lightly. Only those members who are considered to be suitable, and who stand a good chance of passing, should be put forward by their clubs. The MoD requires that their ranges, when used by civilian clubs, should be run to the same standards of safety as they are when used by the military. Students must understand the level of responsibility that they are taking on.

The two day course, consisting of both classroom and on range practical work, can be conducted at Bisley and in the regions. The timings and format are flexible, depending on the facilities available. Students will be sent a link to the online pdf NRA RCO Handbook around two weeks before the course. The importance of studying the manual before attendance cannot be overemphasised.

The RCO qualification only allows the holder to run MoD ranges with fixed firing positions and designated fixed target positions. The RCO qualification is valid for six years from the date of issue.

To book an RCO course at Bisley, please click here

For further information on any RCO matter, please either email NRA Training Division or phone us on 01483 797777 ext.149.

For information on booking a Regional RCO course at your club please click here.

RSO / RCO Renewals

The renewal process has been reviewed and updated to fit in with current NRA policy and procedures ensuring the safe system of training are being enforced when delivering range days.

As of 2023 everyone will be required to hold an in date RSO qualification (range officer for civilian ranges) and then if you operate on MOD ranges and you have attended and passed the RCO course an RCO qualification (range officer for Military ranges).

With that in mind on renewal of an RCO qualification you will now be required to complete 2 online tests. You will firstly complete the RSO online test; if successful and you require to hold the RCO qualification, you will then be sent a link for the RCO online test. This will be the new process for all moving forward. Each test is an open book test but you only get two chances to pass the test, if you fail on the second attempt then you will be required to attend the 2-day NRA RSO course to re-qualify.

Renewals may be submitted from six months prior to expiry and no more than six months after expiry of your current RSO / RCO qualification. Your NRA RSO / RCO qualification will be valid for 6 years from the original date of renewal.

If your RSO qualification has lapsed by more than six months, you will need to attend the 2-day NRA RSO course in order to re-qualify.

If your RCO qualification has lapsed by more than six months, you will need to attend the 2-day NRA RSO course, followed by the 2-day NRA RCO course in order to re-qualify.

A civilian RCO should never operate on MOD ranges with an out of date RCO card.

Unfortunately the NRA do not send out reminders for renewing individual qualifications – this is the responsibility of the individual that holds the qualification to ensure that they are current and competent but most importantly, IN DATE.

To renew your NRA RSO / RCO card please click on the link below.

RSO / RCO Renewal Process

Please contact the NRA Training department if you have any questions or concerns 01483 797777 Ext179 or email Jennifer.ansell@nra.org.uk

To book an RCO course at Bisley, please click here

To book an MLAGB Endorsement at Bisley, please click here

For information on converting military-equivalent qualifications, commercial RCO courses or booking a regional RCO course at your club please contact kelly.king@nra.org.uk 

Upcoming Course Dates

Please visit our online booking website for more details: https://online.nra.org.uk/course

Run in conjunction with the MLAGB, this course is not designed to teach about muzzle loading, however the training will cover range management and all areas required to enable current NRA ROs to add muzzle loading and black powder to their qualification.

Attendees are expected to have a good knowledge of all muzzle loading disciplines. The course will involve both classroom and practical range work.

To book an MLAGB Endorsement at Bisley, please click here