A Guide to Shooting Ranges: Indoor vs Outdoor for New Gun Owners

As a new gun owner, you take personal responsibility, self-defense and the Second Amendment seriously. Owning a gun comes with certain responsibilities, like the responsibility of training and becoming proficient in handling your weapon. One of the best places to practice your skills is a shooting range. As you explore your options for ranges, you’ll encounter two main types: indoor and outdoor ranges. Both have their advantages and the choice between them typically comes down to availability, your needs and your personal preferences. Not sure where to start? CCW Safe is here to help break it down so you can make an informed decision.

Indoor Shooting Ranges

Indoor shooting ranges are a favorite for many new gun owners, especially those in urban or suburban areas because they can be placed amongst other businesses and are more accessible to those living in a busier area. Indoor shooting ranges are climate-controlled and offer a consistent environment for year-round practice. Rain or shine, snow or a heatwave, you can count on an indoor range to be ready for practice. For those who need extra help, many indoor ranges have staff readily available to offer guidance, making these facilities a great starting point for new gun owners. 

There are some limitations, though. Most indoor ranges restrict visitors to handguns or smaller caliber rifles due to space or safety concerns. They also have strict rules and procedures, which can be intimidating at first, but these rules are essential for maintaining safety. Not sure where you can find an indoor range? Just search online for indoor gun ranges based on your location, and you’ll probably find one you didn’t even know existed.

Outdoor Shooting Ranges

For a more dynamic shooting experience, an outdoor range is the way to go. Often located in rural or open areas, outdoor ranges offer plenty of space for practicing shooting in different ways. Outdoor ranges typically allow a wider range of firearms, making them a better option for practicing with shotguns and high-powered rifles. Some ranges even have areas for clay shooting or other sport shooting activities in realistic conditions. The less restrictive atmosphere of an outdoor range is an attractive feature for many new gun owners.

The downside to an outdoor range is that it is at the mercy of the weather. A rainy or windy day may cancel your plans and some ranges in cooler climates close during the winter when snow or freezing temperatures can cause dangerous conditions. 

What’s Best for You?

Choosing between an indoor and outdoor range comes down to your location, your goals as a gun owner and what you value most in your training experience. For instance, if you’re focused on handgun accuracy and want consistent practice, with some extra help every now and then from staff, an indoor range might be your best bet. But if you’re preparing for hunting season or want to practice with a variety of larger firearms, an outdoor range would make more sense.

It’s worth noting that you don’t have to choose just one or the other. Many seasoned gun owners use both indoor and outdoor ranges depending on the time of year and what type of weapon they want to train with. You might find that your training needs change over time, so exploring both options now will most certainly help in the future.

Whether you choose an indoor shooting range or an outdoor shooting range, practicing regularly will build your confidence and improve your skills. Remember, your right to bear arms comes with the responsibility of doing so safely, so it’s important to practice regularly, regardless of whether you practice indoors or out.