If you ever read my reviews before, then you'll know this is my first ever review for a gun range,…read moreand that is because until recently, I've never stepped foot inside of one. While driving along the Gulf coast on the way to Destin, I noticed a sign for the store on my left hand side. I've always enjoyed archery and wanted to test my shot at least once in my life, but was always quite intimidated. I've past up the opportunity to experience a range countless times prior but after seeing the recent contest in the Olympics, I figured what the heck, let's just at least check it out.
Upon walking in, I told the fellas behind the counter that we're from 100% newbies, have never shot or even held a gun before, and were visiting from New York. One employee grinned and jokingly remarked "ohh just the words we love to hear", to which we all had a good chuckle. We told them our intentions of going to the range for the first time and they were very patient and informative every step of the way.
First, they gave us an 45 minutes to an hour of private safety instruction. They went over the do's and don'ts, foundational aspects of stance, safety and aim. Our instructor was very clear, calm and professional. After we felt comfortable enough and passed his standards, we were on our way to the actual range. While dawning proper ear and eye protection, we were allowed to pick any guns we'd like, and could swap out anytime.
What was so unexpected and neat about it all, was the price! We shot one full box of ammo, tried a handgun and a rifle, for about an hour or so, all for only $70! If we had time, we were told we could literally stay there the entire day, as the main charge is really only for the ammo. While I'm totally guessing here, I'd totally assume it would be 2-3x that up here in New York.
While I'm not sure this is an activity I'd do again, I'm certainly glad to have tried it and can cross it off my list. Big thanks to Oak Ridge Gun Club for being so patient and professional. I'd recommend them to anyone whose in the area looking to give it a try.