The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 5 plus 5 letter word POINT BLANK
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More clues leading to the result POINT BLANK
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "at close range" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case at close range = point blank.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does POINT BLANK mean?
POINT BLANK adjective- (forensics) very close; not touching but not more than a few metres (yards).
- The distance between a firearm and a target where a projectile in flight is expected to strike the centre of the target without adjusting the elevation of the firearm.
- Disconcertingly straightforward or blunt; outright.
- In a direct manner, without hesitation.