Home Shooting Ranges

[RussP]

This could even be a Sticky as a resource for new places to shoot, or places we can visit around the Commonwealth.

I shoot at Dominion Shooting Range. It's a bit hard to find the first time as it's tucked back off the road.
http://dominionshootingrange.com/

I've never really looked at others around the area. Where do you other Richmond area Glockers shoot?

Here, now arranged by region, is the list a/o 6/17:
First, the NRA Listing of Ranges in Virginia
http://www.nra.org/frame.cfm?url=http://www.nrahq.org/shootingrange/findlocal.asphttp://www.dgif.state.va.us/global/elements/vdgif_shield.gif
Here is the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries' list of shooting ranges in wildlife management areas and national forests.
http://www.dgif.state.va.us/hunting/where_to_hunt/shooting_ranges.htmlhttp://www.members.cox.net/triggertime/index.htm
Trigger Time
The Tidewater/SE VA Single source for Shooting Sports
Local Shooting Clubs
Shooting Sports - Where To Go For IDPA, For USPSA, For Cowboy Action Shooting
Also, area ranges, gun shows, dealers and a great deal more about teh Tidewater shooting life!

This is a must see site. Thanks go out to redrum for his work!!

Northern VAArlington Fairfax Izaak Walton League
14708 Mt. Olive Road
Centreville, VA
Phone: 703-631-4495
Facilities include: Chapter Field House, Rifle-Pistol Range, Skeet & Trap Range, Field Archery Range
Range Access: Membership
Email: Spencer.Brown@arlingtonfairfax-iwla.org
http://www.arlingtonfairfax-iwla.org/
Patrons


The NRA Range
11250 Waples Mill Road
Fairfax, VA 22030
Phone: 800-672-3888
Facilities include: Indoor Pistol (50 yds), Indoor Rifle (50 yds)
Range Access: Public
http://www.nra.org/frame.cfm?url=http://www.nrahq.org/shootingrange/findlocal.asp
Patrons
Wicked96SS
Frefoo
vafish
SELFDEFENSE

Blue Ridge Arsenal Inc.
14725 K Flint Lee Rd.
Chantilly, VA 20151
Phone: 703-818-0230
Facilities include: Indoor Pistol (25 yds)
Range Access: Public
http://www.blueridgearsenal.com/
Patrons
frefoo

Shooters Paradise
13979 Jefferson Davis Hwy
Woodbridge, VA, 22191
(703) 491-4867
james@shootersparadise.com
http://www.shootersparadise.com/index.php?option=com_frontpage&Itemid=1
Patrons
Wicked96SS
SELFDEFENSE

Quantico Shooting Club, Inc
PO Box 212
Quantico, VA 22134
703.640.6336 Phone
info@quanticoshootingclub.com
http://www.quanticoshootingclub.com/
Patrons
Wicked96SS
SELFDEFENSE

Gilbert Small Arms Range
8194-M Terminal Rd.
Springfield, VA 22079
703-550-8005
http://www.gilbertrange.com/homepage/]
Patrons
Glockman67

THE RANGE
62 Potomac Creek Drive
Fredericksburg, Virginia 22405
(540) 720-1754
Fax/Phone
(540) 720-5922
E-MAIL:paulidpa@indoorrange.com
http://www.indoorrange.com/index.html
Patrons
Garanddad

FAIRFAX ROD & GUN CLUB, Inc.
7039 Signal Hill Road
Manassas, Virginia 20111-4212
Phone: 703-368-6333
Facilities include: Eight lighted shotgun fields, Rifle & pistol silhouette range, Porasky Range, Culver Range, Highpower and benchrest rifle range, Smallbore rifle range, Pistol ranges, Archery Range, Cotting Lake Fishing
Range Access: Membership, limited to 1,000.
"Currently the Associate membership fee is $1,250.00. Active memberships, when available from the Club, have a membership fee of $2,500.00. Annual dues for both types of memberships are $300.00, payable in full on April 1 each year. Based on the present number of applications on our waiting list, there is a projected wait of approximated 3 to 6 months for an Associate membership."
Email: President, BARRY L REED, reedbl@aol.com
http://www.fxrgc.org/index.html
PatronsCentral VA
Black Creek Shooters Association
4292 Range Road
Mechanicsville, VA 23111
Phone: 804-781-0267
Facilities include: Outdoor Pistol (25, 50 & 100 yds), Outdoor Rifle (25, 50 & 100 yds), Rifle Silhouette, Trap
Range Access: Private
Patrons
dbrowne1
GlockGuy19

Cavalier Rifle and Pistol Club
Boondock Ln.
Montpelier, VA 23192
http://www.cavrpc.org/crpcDirections.htm
Patrons
Albert Shear

Dominion Shooting Range
106 Turner Road
Richmond, VA 23225.
Phone: 804-276-2851
Facilities include: Indoor Pistol (25 yds)
Hours of Operation: M-F 10-8, Sat-9-6, Sun 12-6
Range Access: Public
www.dominionshootingrange.com
Sales@dominionshootingrange.com
Patrons
RussP

The Rivanna Rifle and Pistol Club
Charlottesville, Virginia
P.O. Box 3246 University Station
Charlottesville, Va. 22903-0246
http://www.rrpc.org./
Patrons
exkimberpacker (In FL, but he has a key!) Southwest VARoanoke Rifle & Revolver Club, Inc.
P. O. Box 12453
Roanoke, Va 24025-2453
(540) 721-6767
http://www.roanokerifle.com/
http://www.pkcarroll.com/
Patrons
N2Dfire
DannyR

PSS Range And Training
2203 Shenandoah Valley Ave. N.E.
Roanoke, Virginia, 24012
Phone # 1(540) 563-8194
E-Mail tim@pss-range.com
http://www.pss-range.com/HOME.html
Patrons
N2DFire
DannyR

Cedar Hill
Danville, VA
Patrons
VirginianHampton RoadsBob's Gun Shop
746 Granby Street
Norfolk, VA 23510-2012
$79.99/year for membership
Indoor, climate controlled
6 lanes, Shoot any handgun caliber...22, 38, 45, up to 50 Action Express, airguns, and rifles up to .22LR
Open 7 days a week
http://www.bobsnorfolk.com/
Patrons
99hokie

Lafayette Gun Club of Virginia, Inc.
331 Dare Road
Grafton, VA 23692
(Hampton Roads Peninsula)
757-898-8854
http://www.4lgc.org/
Patrons
Jeff82
m4arc

A&P Arms - Lynnhaven Shooting Range
2664 Lishell Place
Virginia Beach, VA 23452
Phone: 757-427-2627
Facilities include: Indoor Pistol (15 yds)
Range Access: Public
Patrons
bodazaphfa
m4arc

Norfolk County Rifle Range, Inc.
4321 South Military Highway
Chesapeake, Virginia. 23321
Phone 757-488-9861
NCRR promotes shooting sports and safe gun handling for the entire family. All shooters are welcome.
We hold IDPA matches the 2nd and 4th Thursday of each month, and Tactical Shotgun matches every other month.
http://www.ncrr.net/
Patrons
bobhundley

[Wicked96SS]

Hey, I remember that place! I used to live in Richmond and I believe that is where I used to shoot! Seems they have spruced up the place a bit...

[Glockman67]

can't go wrong with gilbert's in lorton.

www.gilbertrange.com

great bunch of guys too.

they had a S&W 500 on sale in the display case this past weekend. Boy, that sucka is HUGE!

gman67

[Wicked96SS]

If we can post other ranges outside of Richmond, the ones that I frequent are:

Shooter's Paradise in Woodbridge, VA (http://www.shootersparadise.com) - They are truely a great bunch of guys.. it is owned by Phil Strader a grand master IPSC shooter and a heck of a nice guy. They hold USPSA matches as well as IDPA monthly during the week.

NRA Range in Fairfax, VA (http://www.nrahq.org/shootingrange/nrahqrange/index.asp) - I mostly just shoot the IDPA and USPSA (style) matches that they have. Occasionally I will use the 50 yard indoor range to site in a rifle.

Quantico Shooting Club in Quantico Virginia (http://www.quanticoshootingclub.com) - Lucked into being a member of this club. Mostly they shoot skeet it seems (although I am still a newbie), but have high power rifle matches and all sorts of other stuff there. Only met a couple of people but everybody seems to be very nice.

Those are the 3 places I shoot most...

[N2DFire]

Roanoke Rifle & Revolver Club - http://www.pkcarroll.com
Never shot here (yet) but close by me.

PSS Range & Training - http://www.pss-range.com
Have shot here several times. Very friendly staff & "Range Rats" are kept under a watchful eye.

[Glockman67]

yeah, i use to be a member of the QSC club, but the fees went from $35/yr to $60/yr....just couldn't afford it.

oh well, guess I can renew anytime I want (HOPEFULLY).

gman67

[Virginian]

I shoot at Cedar Hill in Danville. They have an outdoor pistol range, a 100 yard rifle range and a skeet range on premises. No website to list though.

[RussP]

Originally posted by Glockman67
can't go wrong with gilbert's in lorton.

www.gilbertrange.com

great bunch of guys too.

they had a S&W 500 on sale in the display case this past weekend. Boy, that sucka is HUGE!

gman67 Gman67, I tried to get to Gilberts last week. I went by Sunday afternoon to make sure I could find it, then went on into Alexandria.

The trip went straight into the toilet from that point on.

Couldn't get back south until Tuesday afternoon. The trip was so bad my wife was begging me to find a place to shoot so she could stand the trip back to Richmond.

Well, we drove to Gilberts. There was not a parking place ANYWHERE within two blocks. Then I really was impossible to be around!!!!;t

When's a good time to go there????;f

[Glockman67]

I usually go around 10:30am on saturdays. The problem is that there is a synagogue/christian church located in the same building across the street from Gilbert's. (Yeah very odd) Every sat. morning, the parking lot gets packed. I've actually talked to Glibert's about it, but they said they can't do anything since the parking lot is communal.

What a crock!

I usually park on the side of the road or on the cul de sac.

Darn religious freaks, they need to bow down to the religion of Gaston...hahahaha;f

gman67

[BGPD]

I belong to Cavalier Rifle&Pistol Club.

[frefoo]

I prefer the NRA in fairfax.

However I have been going to Blue Ridge in Chantilly; with co-workers that want to purchase a firearm since Blue Ridge rents guns out.

As a result my friends have more options then the 3 firearms I have access to.

[BGPD]

Just three. Thats how many I carry on me. You need more, much more. ;)

[DannyR]

Roanoke Rifle & Revolver is my home range. Also shoot at PSS once in a while, and practice GSSF stages, including the plates, on a farm in Eagle Rock.

[Jeff82]

Lafayette Gun Club (http://www.4lgc.org/), Grafton (Hampton Roads peninsula). Private club but you can submit an application to join.

Outdoor Ranges (daylight hours):
25/50 yard
100 yard
Trap/Skeet/Sporting Clays

Indoor Ranges (24/7 when not reserved for special activity):
(up to rifle in .22LR)
50 foot, motorized target carriers
separate 50 foot(?) smallbore/airgun range, just opened
;?

[Glockman67]

SHIBBY!;D

gman67

[m4arc]

Originally posted by Jeff82
Lafayette Gun Club (http://www.4lgc.org/), Grafton (Hampton Roads peninsula). Private club but you can submit an application to join.

Outdoor Ranges (daylight hours):
25/50 yard
100 yard
Trap/Skeet/Sporting Clays

Indoor Ranges (24/7 when not reserved for special activity):
(up to rifle in .22LR)
50 foot, motorized target carriers
separate 50 foot(?) smallbore/airgun range, just opened
;?

I'm waiting for my membership application to be accepted ;a

[vafish]

Well lets see,

Sunday afternoons once a month I'm out in Strasburg at an IPSC match.

Sunday evenings it's the NRA range with the Acorns. (darn I usually don't get to shoot)

Tuesday Evenings I'm at the Izaak Walton League in Centreville with the NOVA Sharpshooters. (only occasionally shoot)

Fridays and Saturdays often find me back at IWLA or NRA.

And starting up in a couple of weeks I'll be out at Fairfax Rod and Gun club in Manassas on Saturday mornings for a rimfire league.

[Glockman67]

Originally posted by vafish
Well lets see,

Sunday afternoons once a month I'm out in Strasburg at an IPSC match.

Sunday evenings it's the NRA range with the Acorns. (darn I usually don't get to shoot)

Tuesday Evenings I'm at the Izaak Walton League in Centreville with the NOVA Sharpshooters. (only occasionally shoot)

Fridays and Saturdays often find me back at IWLA or NRA.

And starting up in a couple of weeks I'll be out at Fairfax Rod and Gun club in Manassas on Saturday mornings for a rimfire league.

so when do you find time to take a piss?;P

;f

gman67

[exkimberpacker]

I can't believe nobody's mentioned the Rivanna Rifle and Pistol Club at Charlottesville. It's 80 miles from Richmond, but only 4 miles off Interstate 64. I moved to Florida in Feb, and my club is the ONLY thing I miss after living in virginia for 61 years.

It's wonderful! 14 indoor pistol lanes, skeet, trap, outdoor pistol, rifle range up to 300 yards. 100 acres in all.

It's a private club, but there is public shotgunning every Sunday 1 to 5, and there are many, many competitions open to the public. High power rifle, IDPA, and such, as well as junior stuff. I have my own key, and I'm a thousand miles away!!

Check it out at www.rrpc.org.

[vafish]

Originally posted by Glockman67
so when do you find time to take a piss?;P

;f

gman67

I didn't even mention the working 9-10 hours a day, being a Cub Scout Leader, a member of a camping club that goes out camping once a month, and having 4 kids to chase around.

[m4arc]

I'll be a member of Lafayette on the 6th of June...that's when my "new member indoctrination" class is scheduled!

[Glockman67]

Starting this sunday I will be an employee at Gilbert's.

Hope to see you all there!

;?

gman67

[RussP]

Originally posted by Glockman67
Starting this sunday I will be an employee at Gilbert's.

Hope to see you all there!

;?

gman67 Good Deal, gman67c

Does this mean GTers now get discounts there?;f

[Glockman67]

we'll see, we'll see.;f

gman67

[dbrowne1]

Former Lafayette member.

Current Black Creek Shooters (Cold Harbor/Richmond area) member.

[RussP]

Originally posted by dbrowne1
Former Lafayette member.

Current Black Creek Shooters (Cold Harbor/Richmond area) member. Black Creek is private, isn't it? Is there a long waiting list?

[99hokie]

Since no one has listed it yet,

Bob's Gun Shop
746 Granby Street
Norfolk, VA 23510-2012

$79.99/year for membership

Indoor, climate controlled
6 lanes, up to .22LR
Open 7 days a week

http://www.bobsnorfolk.com/

[GlockGuy19]

VA Glocker

I just got my first gun for my 21st a little more than a month ago and this is my first post on Glocktalk. Anyways I just signed up at the Black Creek Range about 3weeks ago. I’m not sure how many spaces they have left this year but I got my membership the same day I applied and was able to shoot there in the afternoon. Sorry about trolling around here for about a month but now I'm going to try and post as much as I can. If any of the Richmond shooters ever want to talk Glocks feel free to PM me.

Thanks
Brett

[SELFDEFENSE]

1. NRA Range
2. Annandale Small Arms Range
3. Quantico Shooting Club
4. Shooters Paradise

[SkYmAn]

I forgot the name of this range but its in jett st.(norfolk)no one has mentioned this one yet. I went there about a month ago and its really nice and cheap to shoot at but its in the cut. The guy that owns it is an excop and he says alot of leo's practice there. The only bad thing about the range though is you cant use nothing but handguns and no rapid fire. Any va glockers know what range im talkin about?

[RandySmith]

Stonewall Rifle & Pistol Club
Rivanna Rifle & Pistol Club
Blue Ridge Shooters Club

Randy

[lawcox]

I'm down in the Marion area, and I'm pretty much stuck with the Wythe Range in the national forest.

[Garanddad]

I shoot at The Range (www.indoorrange.com) in Stafford ( North of Fredericksburg). Bullseye league on Mon. night and IDPA style match every other Wed.

[Darkmage]

Lawcox... you mean the Nat'l forest range on 460 past Blacksburg?

[lawcox]

Darkmage,
No, there is a Wythe range just north of Wytheville on 77 North. Before the first tunnel, take the exit, turn left at the stop sign, take the first right (there is a sign from the road), go up to the gate, take the road to the left, then drive about a half mile to the parking area. You have to walk about 100 yards up to the range unless you have a handicapped tag. It's a national forest range, and the website says that frames are normally kept up there, but don't count on it. I've been up there three or four times in the past couple of months, and I have yet to see them. The range has a couple of 100 yard lanes, and a few 25 yard lanes.
Also, don't go up there after it rains unless you have a four wheel drive vehicle. The road up to the range gets ruts in it and is very muddy for a day or so after a rain.

[girlwithagun]

Originally posted by Garanddad
I shoot at The Range (www.indoorrange.com) in Stafford ( North of Fredericksburg).

We shoot there or at Chancellor Outpost (down Rt 3 a little way.)

[TheEggman]

I went down and paid them a visit a while back and you couldn't ask for a nicer bunch of folks.

VERY Family oriented with a snack area and a very good stock of shooting, LEO and tactical accessories. A good 'atmosphere' for introducing newbies or a shooting 'date.'

If you're in the area give them a try.

They are a bit hard to find but worth the effort.

Egg

Here's the Link (Also mentioned in a prior message) (http://www.pss-range.com/)

[redrum]

Originally posted by SkYmAn
I forgot the name of this range but its in jett st.(norfolk)no one has mentioned this one yet. I went there about a month ago and its really nice and cheap to shoot at but its in the cut. The guy that owns it is an excop and he says alot of leo's practice there. The only bad thing about the range though is you cant use nothing but handguns and no rapid fire. Any va glockers know what range im talkin about?

That's Shooters Inc.

The main problem with Shooters is that you cannot carry LOADED..even with a permit. It's posted on the front door....Go figure...I stopped going there a few years ago...

[Jeff82]

Originally posted by redrum
That's Shooters Inc.

The main problem with Shooters is that you cannot carry LOADED..even with a permit. It's posted on the front door....Go figure...I stopped going there a few years ago...
The Marksman in Newport News is the same way. I told them if they're going to deny me my 2A/SD rights then I'll deny them my $$. A good friend of mine works there so it was a cordial conversation. He explained it is managements view that if something happens in the store then they (store employees) are going to shoot anyone with a gun, so they don't want the good guys carrying. I told them I thought that was ludicrous and I've never stepped foot in there again. Too dangerous.

[Chopper Dave]

I shoot mainly at the NRA Range, as I live in Fairfax (near FFX High School). I've been known to go to Gilbert's and Shooter's Paradise from time to time.

I'll be at the NRA range tomorrow evening if anyone wants to shoot my 37.

[Glockman67]

Originally posted by Chopper Dave
I shoot mainly at the NRA Range, as I live in Fairfax (near FFX High School). I've been known to go to Gilbert's and Shooter's Paradise from time to time.

I'll be at the NRA range tomorrow evening if anyone wants to shoot my 37.

Why don't you bring that bad boy over to Gilbert's, huh? ;f

I'm working there this Fri, from 10-6.

See you there,
gman67

[Chopper Dave]

Friday I'm helping a friend move. I'll try and get down to Gilbert's some time soon.

[MADISON]

DannyR:
How much is membership in Roanoke Rifle & Revolver Club?
I have had shares of stock in the Club sine 1971. The last I heard it was $80 a year, if you didn't work.

[bobhundley]

Norfolk County Rifle Range www.ncrr.net

We hold IDPA matches the 2nd and 4th Thursday of each month, and Tactical Shotgun matches every other month.

We have a T.Shotgun match this Sat.


Bob

[Carlitos]

I run the indoor USPSA competition at Shooters Paradise (www.shooterspsradise.com) in Woodbridge, Virginia . Our USPSA/IPSC matches are usually the third wednesday of the month from 3 to 9 PM; pre-registration/ time slot request is required & all info found on www.shootersparadise.com .

Never shot USPSA/IPSC before? New shooters welcome. We also have a comprehensive class for USPSA/IDPA; no experience needed. Why shoot USPSA or IDPA? Ever shoot your Glock in complete darkness using only a Surefire light to illuminate the target? We have had 2 dark stages since our match began last year. We set a record last time with an 82 round course of fire. Every match features a classifier and at least one stage with shooting on the move.

We also have IDPA style matches run by Glock Talk's own Helmie Ashible (owner of I-Shot) & Grand Master Phil Strader (Range owner). Fans of IDPA may remember Phil's epic Glock battle with David Sevigny at the last IDPA National Championship (Winter Nationals); both of these Glock supermen fought tooth, nail & bullet for the win with Sevigny narrowly edging out Phil in the last stages.

For fans of Cowboy Action/SASS, we have a good selection single actions and cowboy rifles (both original pre-1898 and reproductions) for sale in the pro shop.

And finaly, we have GLOCKS!! We have rental guns for you to try out different models before you buy (small rental fee; no home/reloaded ammo/must use store ammo for these). We sell the complete Glock line & will order you any Glock not in stock. Special discounts on blue lable/LEO only Glocks for law enforcement w/ credentials. We also sell used Glocks when they become available & even have the .22 conversion units from time to time. Hope to see everyone there!

Gman67: congrats on the new job! Gilberts is good place & you co-workers are all cool guys; esp Tim & master gunsmith Tim. Enjoy.

C.
G17
G19
Steyr M9, M49
CZ 85 Combat, 97B SA, 40B
Jericho 941B
Action Arms AT-84S
SV .40
S&W 625, 340PD, 29-3, 686

USPSA TY-44934
NROI Range Officer
GSSF Member of Team Blazer
My name is Douglas and I am a USPSA/IDPA shooter.

[Glockman67]

Gman67: congrats on the new job! Gilberts is good place & you co-workers are all cool guys; esp Tim & master gunsmith Tim. Enjoy.

Master Gunsmith Tim Baccus is da man. I have yet to meet OT (other tim).

Yeah, it's pretty fun, sometimes it doesn't feel like I'm working at all, OTH, now this maybe heresy, but there are times where I actually experience gun overload.

I have yet to go shoot and check out Shooter's Paradise ^3

gman67

[va_roadrunner]

My home range is the Fairfax Rod & Gun Club (http://www.fxrgc.org/index.html) located in Manassas, VA.


Skeet and Trap Ranges
Five-Stand Range
300 yard Rifle Range
200 m Rifle and Pistol Silhouette Range
200 yard High Power Rifle Range
100 yard Rifle and Pistol Range
Handgun Ranges
Muzzleloader Range
Archery Range


Shooting Matches almost every weekend, many open to non-members. Check out the Match schedule:
http://www.fxrgc.org/match.html

[Catbird]

Although I haven't been there in quite a while, the Alexandria, VA chapter of the Izaak Walton League of America has their outdoor range located approx. 10 miles west of I-95 on route 610 (Garrisonville Rd.). Their facilities include an archery range, a 25 yd. handgun range and a 100 yd. rifle range.

[Navy87Guy]

Originally posted by Wicked96SS

Quantico Shooting Club in Quantico Virginia (http://www.quanticoshootingclub.com) - Lucked into being a member of this club. Mostly they shoot skeet it seems (although I am still a newbie), but have high power rifle matches and all sorts of other stuff there. Only met a couple of people but everybody seems to be very nice.


I joined QSC about 3 months ago. On a typical weekend, they usually open up the 300-yd rifle range, the shotgun range (skeet & trap - both American and international) and the pistol range. It all depends on the Marines' schedule and the availability of an RSO. It's a volunteer organization, so it varies by schedule. But it's a great deal -- max of $60 for a family membership for military folks, or $60 per person for civilians. It's a good bunch of people and the facilities are great (considering it's where they teach the Marine Corps sniper school!) In the warmer months, they run a series of rifle and shotgun matches, including (usually) a long-range (.50 cal) rifle on the 2000 yd range.

[Glockman67]

2 yrs ago, I was a member at QSC as a civvie/associate - it was $35 to join. ;P

As of late, they've had their fair share of surprised closures, especially one unannounced visit by a VIP that has his own motorcade and bodyguards to boot that came straight from 1600 PA ave.

gman67

[gmshtr]

If you haven't been by Shooters Paradise lately, it's definitely worth the trip. We just finished a huge renovation on the store, and it truly looks like a different place. It's unbelievable the difference some paint, new carpet, walls, and gun cabinets make. If you're in the No. Va area, you should stop by.

Phil Strader
Owner/CEO
Straighter Shooting, Inc.

[Catbird]

If you haven't been by Shooters Paradise lately, it's definitely worth the trip.
How long ago is "lately"?
We just finished a huge renovation on the store, and it truly looks like a different place. It's unbelievable the difference some paint, new carpet, walls, and gun cabinets make.
Cosmetics are nice, but until major staff changes are made, I'll pass. I've been in there standing at the counter for 10 minutes or longer with an obvious question while the store personnel are just standing around chit chatting among themselves. When finally asking for assistance, I get a negative attitude for interrupting their conversation. Who is that young guy who dresses like he thinks he's a rodeo star with black cowboy hat, cowboy boots, western-style shirt, etc. Is he able to speak any sentence without inserting Moth..Fuc.. in it somewhere?

I'm NOT a young guy, born and raised in Northern Virginia, and have been shooting, gun collecting and reloading for over 30-some years. I just can't bring myself to put up with anyone's poor behavior. For me, "Shooter's Paradise" = no thank-you!

FWIW, my opinion is NOT based upon one bad experience; it's developed over time.

[gmshtr]

Catbird,

I'm sorry you feel this way. I've only owned Shooters Paradise for 2 years, and I've done everything in my power to change the way things WERE done here. I can only hope that your opinion hasn't developed over these two years.

I, myself, waltzed into Shooters Paradise a few weeks before my purchase as an anonymous patron, and experienced the same poor customer service. For 30 minutes I looked around with no help. Therefore, I understand your frustration.

Your comments will be considered and handled promptly. I still must operate with the understanding that I will never be able to make everyone happy all the time. I'm also limited in my level of direct involvement with the store, since the U.S. Capitol Police still consumes most of my time.

All I can ask is that you give us another chance. You may be pleasantly surprised! If you do manage to visit us again, please address any concerns, positive or negative, directly to me at phil@shootersparadise.com We will certainly continue to prosper without your patronage, but we would still like another opportunity to gain your business.

WHEW! Let me step down...:soap: ...and again extend the invitation to any and all shooters, members or not, to stop by the new and improved Shooters Paradise, or visit www.shootersparadise.com I welcome all visitors and emails - good or bad.

Phil Strader
President/CEO
Straighter Shooting, Inc.

[Glockman67]

I hate to rain on your parade, but I also received the same treatment Catbird did, but I visited SP last spring!

However, the number 1 gripe I got on SP is its sucky location. Try shooting there after work - forget it, 95 and 1 are parking lots!

gman67

[gmshtr]

I hate to rain on your parade

Not really sure what that means, but like I said, you'll never please everyone all the time. We're just very lucky that most of northern VA shooters don't feel the same way. We're still in business, we're still making money, and we'll continue to improve.

However, the number 1 gripe I got on SP is its sucky location. Try shooting there after work - forget it, 95 and 1 are parking lots!

Well at least that's the #1 gripe! I can live with that. BTW, everywhere in the DC area is parking lot after work. That hasn't changed since I've been here. Maybe when the lease expires (or when I win the lottery), we'll be able to buy our own building in a better location! ;z

Any other defenses will be mounted at phil@shootersparadise.com
Happy Shooting!

Phil

[Navy87Guy]

Originally posted by Glockman67
2 yrs ago, I was a member at QSC as a civvie/associate - it was $35 to join. ;P

As of late, they've had their fair share of surprised closures, especially one unannounced visit by a VIP that has his own motorcade and bodyguards to boot that came straight from 1600 PA ave.

gman67

Two years ago, the USMC was still supporting the club with full-time NCO help. Someone finally woke up and decided those Marines could better serve the Corps doing something else. As a result, they ended up paying more to get the right full-time help (Ops officer, accountant, etc.) to keep the Club straight and legal.

As far as closures -- yes, it happens. There have been three in the past 3 months (one was today...Dubya wanted to go for another bike ride! It delayed the start of shooting by about 2 hours.) The other time was unscheduled maintenance on the rifle range...something MCB forgot to tell them about at the scheduling meeting.

But all things considered, I've already shot more than $60 worth of range time (at $12+ an hour in the local area) in just a couple of months...so I can survive a few inconveniences. I'm also fortunate that I live near by (10 minute drive)...I might feel differently if I was driving down from Fairfax or Herndon!

[Glockman67]

That sux, my co-workers were going to shoot there Garands and Springfields today (12/19) at Quantico. Oh boy they'll be PO'd.

I forgot to mention it went from $35 to $60. I only go about on avg 3-4 times per yr, thereby NOT justifying paying my $60 fee.

gman67

[chingo]

Shooters as a range is pretty good, Almost everytime I've gone I could jump right in a slot. I hope they open it up for memberships soon.

josh

[chingo]

Shooters paradise has been pretty cool, I havent checked out any other ranges. I may check out NRA range soon...I've never been and here lots about it. I'm eligible to join QSC but I'm concerned that the pistol ranges are not open alot..I dont want to have to guess when the ranges will be open.

Shooters paradise get's busy alot but I've had no problems getting a lane on saturdays. Only problem is that I almost got run over by a truck there last week, but that's not their fault :)

josh

[trio]

Im new...hello all!

I live in Orange, which is southeast of Culpeper, southwest of fredericksburg, and north east of charlottesville...

right now i drive to work in richmond everyday...


i have been to the NRA range and the range in stafford...both good places, i like that i can bring my own cheap walmart ammo...

i also lately have been shooting at clark bros in warrenton...

outdoor range...they have up to 100 yards pistol/rifle...also have a couple of clay throwers for shotgun...

no range fees, but you have to buy their ammo...a box of 45 ACP is about 2 bucks more than it is at walmart...so cost is a wash in the long run IMO


id love to get into the rivanna club, but it seemed awfully hard...

at any rate, great post...wish i had seen it months ago when i started to look around!

[CajunBass]

My wife and I shoot at "The Range" in Stafford, and have been to Clark Brothers in Warrenton once. We're in the Chancelorsville area, so it's about equal distance to either place.

We shoot there or at Chancellor Outpost (down Rt 3 a little way.)

Where is the Chancellor Outpost? I've never heard of that. Is it open to the public?

[Mathew]

I'm taking a class at Shooter's Paradise on Thrusdays, but shoot at NRA on Wednesday or Fridays usually.

I would highly recommend NRA.

[Mathew]

Phil,

You should do a quick demonstration for the class if you can.

Thanks,
-Mathew

[pete1953]

There is a security training range that is open to the public just outside Harrisonburg off I-81 exit 243 in vicinity of Early Road. I don't remember the name of it, I just shoot there when I am in town. Possibly called Top Gun.

[jferrell54]

For those in the Richmond/Petersburg area there's also an indoor range called "Shooters". It's located on Jeff Davis highway,also known as the Boulevard in Colonial Heights. It's just before you cross the bridge into Petersburg. I believe the address is 127 Boulevard, I remember cause I just went there last week.

[Poodleshooter]

For any interested in membership at Rivanna Rifle and Pistol Club, I can brief them on the procedure. It's not that hard,but requires a month long wait. I'm reasonably local and can give folks a tour as a guest if my schedule allows it.

[VinnyT]

I can also vouch for them. VERY nice people to deal with. I shoot there often. They also have a nice selection of guns.

[anr6t]

Ill second that I love the Rivanna Rifle and Pistol club. It has nice facilities, its relatively inexpensive, and everyone there is really nice. Downside is it takes a month to join, but in the long run, thats not a problem.

[gman79]

I just stumbled upon this thread, and I know it's old, but I wanted to give my $.02. I am a member at shooters paradise, and I love it. I too noticed the customer service problems, but have also noticed a lot of improvement over the past few months.

It never takes long for someone to ask me if I need help now. Phil, you must have drilled something in them because it appears to be a different staff now. True, they are always talking about their next lunch at five guys, or which pizza place to order from, but that's just normal employee banter. I've noticed that if I go up to the counter, they quickly ask me if there's anything I need, and I appreciate that.

While this next thing is minor, it still speaks volumes about the general attitude of the store: the web site used to have pictures of employees with goofy profiles, some of which made subtle jokes about customers. The profiles have been updated and look more professional now.

My only two gripes about shooters: 1) the lighting inside the range stations could be a lot better. 2) More classes! I am glad to see the beginner's IPSC class and the Utah CCW class, but they are always full. I would definitely like to see more classes where people have expressed an interest. There is an old thread on the shootersparadise.com web site with people asking to bring back the reloading class too.

By the way, the inside of the store itself is immaculate with the new cabinets. Keep up the good work and improvements, and I will keep renewing my membership.

[Catbird]

gman79 -

That's good to hear. I may have to give them another look in the near future.

The constant use of profanity (MF this, MF that) by some SP employees used to be a real turn-off for me in addition for the complete disdain shown to their walk-in customers.

I'm ready to give them another chance and will write back with my experience.

[gmshtr]

Thanks for the compliments, but I can't take credit for them. Since August of last year, Shooters Paradise was owned by someone other than me.

It's always good to hear positive comments about my home shooting club, though!

Phil

[obxglock]

I shoot at Straight Shooters in Colonial Heights. Lane, the owner is a great guy and a Glock Armorer. I work in Petersburg so it'e super easy for me to stop on my way home from work. He's got about 6 or 7 lanes there and is reasonably priced. $8 an hour if you buy his ammo and $15 if you bring your own. It's not the greatest facility in the world, but I would rather have excellent customer service over that any day, and thats what I get at SS.

[02LimitedX]

I'll add another range to the growing list. Potts Slope. Its about 7 miles past New Castle on 311. They have approx 12 or so benches and target stands at 25, 50 and 100 yards. Its covered and there is a restroom there also. The range is in the national forest so theres no charge. Its usually not too busy and open until dark. http://www.fs.fed.us/r8/gwj/newcastle/recreation/shooting_ranges/index.shtml

[NoSuchStudios]

I don't know if this was mentioned somewhere in here but does anyone know of a place to shoot in the winchester / strasburg area? I know there are private clubs but there doesn't seem to be a range for us common folk.

If anyone knows of a proper range or heck, even a field that people can use for shooting it would be much appreciated.

Thanks neighbors

[gunman_23]

Originally posted by NoSuchStudios
I don't know if this was mentioned somewhere in here but does anyone know of a place to shoot in the winchester / strasburg area? I know there are private clubs but there doesn't seem to be a range for us common folk.

If anyone knows of a proper range or heck, even a field that people can use for shooting it would be much appreciated.

Thanks neighbors

+100

[CScott88]

I go to "The Range" In Fredericksburg off Rt. 1 too. I have been looking for somewhere in the area where I can shoot rifles and shotguns, Does anyone know of a place? I'd be satisfied with an old tree to shoot at. I've got a clay pitcher but no where to use it. I don't want to have to drive far through the traffic everytime I want to go shooting. I live in the Fredericksburg/Spotsylvania area and if anyone can point me out a place, I'd be much appreciative.

Casey

[Richard Simmons]

As a member of Ridge Rifle Assoc in Fincastle, VA I do most of my shooting there but have shot on several of the National Forest ranges in this area. It's been years but the Wythe range is very primitive and requires you to park at the bottom of a dirt path and walk up to the range area. Might have been improved by now. The Blacksburg range is nicer and paved but you still have to park below and walk up a hill to shoot. There is a handicap parking spot at the top which if vacant you can pull into to unload then repark. Not the greatest if you have more stuff than you can carry in one trip and are shooting alone. You'll have to leave stuff unattended as you either go get your car or carry your stuff down. The Potts Slope range is the best of the three I've shot at. Close in, level parking, never too crowded, covered shooting positions with benches and seats. Best of the best for a public range,

[Toledo]

Another shout out to Shooters Paradise...great bunch
of folks working there. It gets a bit crowded on the
weekends so I try to get there early. I am seriously
thinking of becoming a member...I must have already
spent double the membership fee in the last year or so.

I am hoping they expand or open up another branch in Manassas.

[Darkmage]

From what I heard when I renewed my membership to Shooter's Paradise, they're going to (or already have) implemented a "members only" shoot time Sunday mornings. I'm going to try and check it out tomorrow. I'll report back!

[permit]

Superior Pawn shop (the old A&P Arms) still has a range, dress warm in the winter as the heating sucks........
On Virginia Beach Blvd. just west of Independence Blvd.

[JaredAG]

Couple of people have mentioned Straight Shooters in Colonial Heights (20min drive from the city of Richmond). Had my first experience there this weekend, the only prior range experience was Dominion (Southside of Richmond), which has also been mentioned. SS seemed really unorganized. The old man that worked the counter seemed more involved with babysitting his grandson than helping customers (Me and my friend). Bring your own ammo for $15 was cool, but they only had like 7 lanes, and they weren't very long either. I'd guess the full length was like 12yds, max. I also didn't have to sign a waiver, didn't have my ID checked or anything, which seemed a little sketchy. Also, when I left, I wanted to talk to the guy about buying some magazines they had for my glock, so I stood there while he talked to one of his buddies for like 3 mins, got annoyed and left.

I guess you get what you pay for at this range. Crappy service, crappy facility. I'll give it another couple of tries though, could've just been an off day.

[epitome]

u forgot hampton roads superior pawn and gun shop on va beach blvd