Recently I found myself invited to a local members-only shooting range and realized that I quite liked the atmosphere compared to the hustle and bustle of your everyday range.
Last month I had applied for a membership at the same establishment and after a couple of weeks they emailed back saying that I could start my membership in June... of 2014.
At first I couldn't believe the long wait, but after seeing what a private range looked like I felt like anyone in their right mind would want a membership at a place like this.
Apparently this isn't an isolated instance of long waits either. I heard that some other ranges not too far away have 2 or even 3 year-long waiting lists and after that you still have to prove yourself to be a viable candidate and in good standing with the NRA.
People seem to be weary of long lines in crowded indoor shooting ranges these days. Can't say that I blame them, because I sure am. Now that Autumn is here I feel like outdoor shooting is in its prime in New England. Being stuck inside an echoing cavern with pistols and rifles going off 10 feet away on either side of me isn't my idea of a good time.
Most private shooting ranges are starting to put a cap on the number of new members and from there the only way you're getting in is almost purely based on knowing the right people. So check for local members-only ranges sooner rather than later because they're filling up quick!
On the upside I got the opportunity to shoot an acquaintance’s S&W .357 revolver. He had hand loads of .38 and .357 ammunition for it and it was a hoot and a half to shoot and sadly I can shoot it better than my own Glock, which I've owned for quite some time. Also had the chance to shoot the tiniest 1911 Kimber I've ever seen or held and was impressed by its manageability even for its small size.
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| AMD-65 and Glock 30SF after cleaning |
Luckily I was able to dust off my Glock 30SF and AMD-65 for the beautiful and cool Fall day and share them with new shooting friends. Still find that I get compliments and inquiries for my somewhat unique-looking Hungarian AK whenever I shoot it, which is nice.
Well here's wishing me luck to getting into a private, members-only range at some point in the future...
