Virginia Gun Owners Forum - VGOF

I know that we're talking about gilberts/sharpshooters, but I went to the NRA range instead of them this last Fri. They also do not allow steel core bullets, AND they didn't like my targets because the sillouette had 'apendages' and this violated their 'No human resemblence' policy. They did give me another target, but I felt like I was being watched by the high school principal. At least at sharpshooters I can use whatever targets. Is there any outdoor ranges where I CAN shoot steel core? As for the customer service at Gilberts, I've dealt with some okay guys, but one there is a smak-talking pogue. I don't want to trot out my street creds when it comes to guns, but let's say that I know what I'm doing and have for some time. This guy tall, young and fat seems to treat me and everyone else like he invented gun powder and we should be grateful that he's there to help us out. So, sorry, I just had to vent that.

frac wrote:I know that we're talking about gilberts/sharpshooters, but I went to the NRA range instead of them this last Fri. They also do not allow steel core bullets, AND they didn't like my targets because the sillouette had 'apendages' and this violated their 'No human resemblence' policy. They did give me another target, but I felt like I was being watched by the high school principal. At least at sharpshooters I can use whatever targets. Is there any outdoor ranges where I CAN shoot steel core? As for the customer service at Gilberts, I've dealt with some okay guys, but one there is a smak-talking pogue. I don't want to trot out my street creds when it comes to guns, but let's say that I know what I'm doing and have for some time. This guy tall, young and fat seems to treat me and everyone else like he invented gun powder and we should be grateful that he's there to help us out. So, sorry, I just had to vent that.

The dark haired RSO? He does seem a bit cocky. I like Gilberts too because they pretty much leave you be and let you do your own thing. And they dont care about targets, but I usually shoot a blue silhouette.

frac wrote:Is there any outdoor ranges where I CAN shoot steel core?

Did you check out "The Range" (really that is what it is called) in Stafford? I did not see anything baring steel core ammo on their website. http://www.indoorrange.com/index.htm

I have a membership at SS's, and just thought I'd throw in my 2 cents. The location is good for me(off Rt.1 near Ft. Belvoir). Interactions with the staff have been hit or miss. One taller bald gentleman with a goatee has always been great , but one tall "larger" gentleman and one of the night managers talk to you like they couldn't care less whether you gave them your business or not . The selection of firearms for sale/rent is great, especially compared to the 10/8 store down the road from it. The ammo prices are high, but that's supply/demand for ya. The range is not well lit, but most other shooters seem to keep to themselves and stay out of your way, as do the range officials. All in all, not the best place I've ever fired, but the short drive from home is worth it.

I've got a membership there. Just about everything that I've read here about Gilbert/Sharpshooters has some truth to it. It's not perfect, no. But overall, I find it one of the better indoor places here to shoot, which is why I keep going there.

The vast majority of the staff there really do want to help out. There are some guys of all ages, young to older, and they're all pretty cool. There's also a "middle aged" woman who is just hilarious, total rapier wit. She's a lot of fun. There's a gruff older cop there who looks for all the world like a retired Marine. He's very gruff indeed. But he's also straight-forward, and he's fair. He also knows a heck of a lot.

The RO's range from quiet and helpful to gregarious and helpful. If they find that you're really into it, they'll help you out and give you tips. They also pretty much leave you alone unless they see you doing something stupid (e. g. sweeping people). Then, OH-YEAH will they jump in, and rightly so! Again, good folks.

The lighting system could be more flexible. It's really geared for the common distances of 4yd, 7yd, 15yd, and 22 yd (their max distance). It'd be nice if there were a 10yd distance for the lights. Also, they could be a bit brighter sometimes. Maybe fluorescent lighting could be an option in the future.

There is no air conditioning in the range. Personally, I don't mind that, since I don't care what temperature it is. However, they really need some kind of air handler upgrade that will constantly blow the air DOWNRANGE. Too often I've gotten a face full of gunsmoke after taking a shot, and I am kinda concerned about lead poisoning. Hopefully they'll do this at some point soon.

They allow only handgun cartridges due to backstop limitations. So, no .223/.556's, and definitely no .308 Winchesters. But they'll gladly let you shoot your .454 Casull rifle. And shotguns are allowed, including birdshot.

All in all, it's the best choice around here for my needs. The range may not be "perfect", but it is certainly serviceable, the people there are pretty cool, and I feel comfortable walking in there, which is the most important thing. The membership prices are reasonable, and there's nearly always a lane available. Their inventory of guns is also nice, though priced a little high. Their gun rental policy/pricing, and the guns available for rental, is good.

Hey Cowboy...I shoot there too...hit me up and maybe we can do a meet...several others are close by too.

I'll PM you.

cowboyT, I shoot at sharpshooters every tuesday. let me know if you want to set up something

OK, will PM you as well. I'm usually there 3 times a week.