Like everyone else here, my target shooting zen time is subject to the ebb and flow of work and life. Over the years I have developed a personal range with steel, target stands, tables and barricades to support my addiction. The downside is that it is about an hour away and pretty much uses a half day to enjoy slinging some lead. It just has not been an accessible option for the last 18 months, having only had a few chances with clear weather to go.
My wife, knowing that I will not walk away from commitment and responsibility, surprised me with a membership to an indoor range for my birthday. She’s pretty cool that way. The location would facilitate my being able to get some smaller packets of time without all the windshield time.
The facility is 7 x 25 yard lanes with the expected stalls and mechanical target holder. Floor is painted concrete. Walls and ceiling are acoustic absorbing something. The walls and ceiling of the pit behind the stalls has panels of compressed rubber mould tits from tire mfg. Climate control was comfortable and appears to have controlled laminar airflow, drawing away from the shooting line...no smoke in the face.
I’m going to enjoy the facility. Here’s a few things I have not expected:
I always wear foam plugs under my walker muffs. I only had the plugs in upon entering with 1 guy shooting a 9mm. Always have both on! Even with all the sound control and the foam plugs the volume is significant.
I usually have the tailgate, benches and tables to spread out on. I’m going to have to get used to a minimalist approach. The 3’ x18” stall counter got crowded really quick.
Bring a cardboard backer board. The airflow causes the target to move. Also, the concussion from the rented SW 500 really moves it. I am seldom startled. That first shot, not knowing he was even there made me flinch.
Outdoor ranges call cease fire for down range. The mechanical target delivery and retrieval seems to always have something in motion down range. Ultimately I think it’s going to improve my focus, but habits have been to cease fire when there is unexpected motion down range.
Lighting really messed with my distance and depth perception. Shadows are constantly changing based on distance. My front sight appearance changed. I’ll have to work on that.
Brass retrieval. They allow handloads and retrieval of your brass. I haven’t been in conflict with anyone so far, but it goes everywhere and will get stepped on. Deal with it.
Bored yet?
Thanks T, it is a cool gift.
Bevan