Anyone own/operate an Indoor Range?

[jonaddis84]

I am looking into the possibility of opening an indoor rifle/pistol range in my area. Just researching locations and mainly the backstop systems that are available right now.

Wanted to get some input on anything I can, backstops, buildings, insurance, etc...

There is one public range in my area, it is strictly pistol, and everyone hates the place because they are dicks and dont give you the time of day unless they know you.

I am hoping for 100yds if I can pull it off, but 50yds would work also. As long as its a good enough distance to hold some 22lr rifle leagues I think that would draw a lot of people. Also the ability for people to zero their rifles in would be a big deal, its crazy, but a LOT of guys around here rely on bore-sighting to hunt!

Thanks for any input

 

[UKDslayer]

Re: Anyone own/operate an Indoor Range?

I'm not an expert, or have any professional suggestions - I can just tell you that venture would be a pain - not JUST the backstop, but ventilation systems, liability insurance (HUGE), surveillance systems, noise issues (esp. with higher caliber magnums +/- rifle calibers). Plus there are always crazy and plain stupid people (that falls under liability). The indoor range I used to use had two rifle bays - at 25 yards that had another "level" of noise insulation and probable "backstop" separate from pistols. That being said, evenings, weekends there is always a wait list for a lane, you can also be a CHL instructor & generate revenue that way...

 

[Red_SC]

Re: Anyone own/operate an Indoor Range?

A local guy is building one now, I've talked to him about it several times. He spent a lot of time traveling to all the indoor ranges within driving distance and talking to the owners, they were very open and helpful. I'd recommend doing the same, there's nothing like firsthand info.

 

[The Mechanic]

Re: Anyone own/operate an Indoor Range?

this has come up a few times as you might guess and the general consensus is the the NRA has a program that helps with everything you would need to open a range. Check with them on their website.
http://www.nrahq.org/shootingrange/