Just passed my PAL course and am waiting for results to be sent to me so that I can send in my application for my PAL. Thought that I would do some pre-shopping for my first rifle and find out more information about joining as a member as I would like to work my way to getting a restricted. I understand that most places wouldn't let me handle a rifle until I actually have my PAL in hand. But I just wanted to get some more information that would help me on choosing my first rifle. So I went for a drive on Sunday afternoon to this range that was recommended to me by a friend on the Police Department. Unfortunately, the experience that I had here wasn't what I expected. "Do your research on the internet." or "start with a .22" (with no explanation other than ammo is cheap) is the response that I got. They didn't even explain properly as to how I would proceed on getting my restricted and joining the club and getting an ATT. I'll admit, that I'm not savvy on anything firearms, regarding licensing and the certifications. But it made me feel that they didn't even want to talk to me, until I actually had my PAL in hand.
I got more information and respect from the 20 year old at Sail, on which rifle to choose, the reasons why (without handling a firearm), and on how I should proceed to joining a club and getting my ATT.
I don't know if the shop's attitude is in any way a reflection on the range itself, but it's making me think twice about joining as a member. read more