The study examined the level of heavy metal contamination by dividing military rifle shooting ranges into the three areas, i.e firing, trajectory, and target. The target area was found to be contaminated at a level higher (Cu 845 mg/kg, Pb 30,487 mg/kg) than the Worrisome Level of Soil Contamination (hereinafter referred to as the “Worrisome Level”) The trajectory area was predicted to be free from contamination, but it did indicate contamination although it was pretty much lower (Cu 23 mg/kg, Pb 99 mg/kg) than Worrisome Level. This is attributed to the contamination spread when rearranging the soil of the target area during the maintenance of the shooting range. The firing area was also predicted to be free from heavy metal contamination, but the results analyzed indicated a contamination higher (Cu 201 mg/kg, Pb 2,286 mg/kg) than Worrisome Level. This is attributed to the fragments of the broken bullet scattering due to the pressure generated as the bullet leaves the muzzle. An examination of heavy metal contamination in the discharge area as well as gutters to prevent the intrusion of rain water from perimeter revealed a high level of contamination (Cu 298 mg/kg, Pb 6,497 mg/kg), which makes it necessary to take measures.

Keywords: Heavy metal contamination;Military rifle shooting range;Worrisome level;