Thread: test-firing on public land

Okay, this is an honest question from a newbie, so I apologise in advance if it seems stupid or has been covered elsewhere.

What's the etiquette for test-firing a rifle in a public hunting block? I'd like to check my scope is still sighted in when I next head out after taking a knock on my last trip (don't ask - rookie mistake!). Unfortunately, work & family commitments have prevented me from being able to get to a range on one of the open-days. I guess this could also apply to checking a borrowed gun, or if taking a mate out, that sort of thing.

Obviously all the safety rules would apply such as checking the firing zone, etc. I'd pick a spot as far as possible from areas likely to hold game and avoid morning/evenings to lessen the chance of spooking an animal that someone else is stalking in the next valley, but I imagine some hunters could get pissed off if someone lets off a few rounds in the area unnecessarily. I'd also be interested in whether it actually matters - do animals stay jittery or go to ground for ages if there's been a shot fired nearby, or do they go back about their business fairly quickly?

Cheers guys, I appreciate all the great info generously shared on this forum as it is a wealth of knowledge for someone starting out without an experienced mate. Mods - please move to another section if more appropriate elsewhere.