Gilbert's is now Sharp Shooters?

[logistixz]

anybody else have more info on this? are they just changing the shop/range name? or are they actually renovating changing things up inside?

[zephyp]

I stopped by Sunday and was surprised to see the work going on. The range does need updating, but I haven't heard anything about a name change. Nothing on their web site either.

[rogon]

They have a new web site: http://www.sharpshootersva.com/index.php

Also, according to the web site, they are getting a turning target retriever system for the range: http://www.sharpshootersva.com/indoor-range.php

If I remember correctly from what a range officer said, they are also changing the layout of the retail area.

[zephyp]

Thanks. Much improved over their old web site. The calendar is in spanish though. The new range pics look pretty good.

[logistixz]

I'll have to check them out once all the renovations are completed, maybe ill have to actually purchase a membership there if all looks well.

[zephyp]

I should too since they give full members a discount and that's where I usually shoot and shop.

[Tinygnat219]

New name, new range.

It's going to be MUCH improved.

[rogon]

Thanks. Much improved over their old web site. The calendar is in spanish though. The new range pics look pretty good.

The calendar is in english for me. You may need to change your google calendar settings.

[zephyp]

Thanks. Much improved over their old web site. The calendar is in spanish though. The new range pics look pretty good.

The calendar is in english for me. You may need to change your google calendar settings.

Thanks!

[Aroooo]

The pictures on the web site are not from their range (stock photos). The range and shop are in the final stages of rebuild. They should open tomorrow (Saturday). My son and a few friends work there.

[Aroooo]

Update. Went by there this weekend, Saturday to browse (my wife hates that) and Sunday to shoot (with my wife).

The store area is nicely redone. All the firearms are now along the walls, no more awkward rifle rack in the middle of the floor. The lighting looks improved as well. The overall range design is the same. New target carriers (no longer the cable type) with digital distance display. The floors and walls (and ceilings too I think) are repainted (same colors). The booths are a bit wider now by virtue of smaller (narrower) lane dividers. The dividers are deeper offering more protection from flying brass.

The range lighting is about the same, maybe a bit better. But its still overall a bit on the dark side. (Personally it works for me, others may want it brighter.)

The air handling still leaves a bit to be desired. It was warm and smokey in the lanes. The observation booth was nice and cool though.

They were having some 'opening day' growing pains of course. Some of the carriers were down. But overall, as a paying annual member there I was happy.

[rogon]

Showed up Saturday morning to shoot; pretty much concur with what Aroooo said about the remodeling though I don't recall having problems with the lanes being warm (probably because it was still early in the day) and smoky.

They were having some 'opening day' growing pains of course. Some of the carriers were down.

I ended up being the first one with carrier problems. Yay me . No biggie as I was moved to another lane.
Later on, a lady apologized about that and mentioned they'll get the installer to fix it as soon as possible.

[SherKhan]

Looking forward to returning from my trip to see the new arrangements! My family and I have been regulars there for years.

[gregj]

I will try and check them out this week, they're right up the street from where I work. I have never felt like I was treated like potential customer everytime I've gone in there in the past, so I've never been too motivated to go back. Seems the guys behind the counter were always too busy talking with their buddies than to ask someone if they needed help. Hopefully this has changed too.

[dean2k]

same old crap down there - poor customer service - they got new range equipment but no improvement in the air conditioning (a/c) or air handling - read my posts about the numerous BS at that gun shop

[zephyp]

same old crap down there - poor customer service - they got new range equipment but no improvement in the air conditioning (a/c) or air handling - read my posts about the numerous BS at that gun shop

You dont have to go there. More room for me. Read my posts about the numerous good things.

[dean2k]

now that have put up new signage that they do not accept trades from certain companies - blah blah blah - what a waste of $300 in membership fees - oh and do not try to get to the owner - I left a message a week ago - still no response - next stop BBB and office of consumer affairs - if you join get it in writing because they are full of BS

[zephyp]

Dean - just thought you might like to know that I was there Sunday and it looks like they've solved the air problem on the range. I'm certain I can thank folks like you who complained and I appreciate that. I sincerely hope you can get your problems solved.

[Aroooo]

Not really. I was there last night and had to leave the range every 10-15 minutes because it was hot.

Last night the flow did seem a bit better than a week or so ago - less 'foggy' at the firing line, but down range it was still a bit hazy.

FYI Sharpshooters' observation gallery is air conditioned, but the range draws unmodified outside air in for range ventilation. Its of course filtered as it exits the range. But if its hot outside, the range will be hot. Cold in winter and the range is cold...

[zephyp]

Thanks, Tony. I havent been since last week. And the observation booth is much cooler than the range and the store. I'll be heading over there again this weekend and will pay attention. I'm going to complain if its hot. I had a similar experience a couple weeks ago when I had to step out a few times to wipe down.