A man checking in firearms to use at a store's indoor firing range accidentally shot a shopper when one of his weapons discharged.

The 52-year-old San Bernardino, California man was placing six guns on the front counter of Bass Pro Shop on Sunday when he noticed the hammer on a gun was pulled back.

He pulled the trigger of the .45 caliber handgun, apparently thinking it was unloaded because the magazine was removed. But the weapon went off, hitting a nearby woman in the buttocks.

Authorities said the shooting appeared to be accidental and no crime was committed.

Four gay rights activists in the vicinity, however, were immediately taken to jail.

The shooter was said to be apologetic, after initially shouting, "Look, ma, I bagged a big one!"