For the seventh year in a row, August is National Shooting Sports Month, and events are being held at a variety of locations across the nation. Some of the biggest in the industry are supporting the celebration, including the NRA, MidwayUSA, SIG Sauer, Mossberg, Trijicon, Browning, Ruger, Smith & Wesson, Winchester and dozens more.
In many cases enthusiasts are granted free use of ranges on special days during the month. It’s a great, no-cost opportunity to get behind a trigger at a facility they’ve never visited before.
On Saturday, Aug. 19, for example, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Wildlife is hosting a Free Range Day at five of Ohio’s premier public shooting ranges—Deer Creek Wildlife Area, Delaware Wildlife Area, Grand River Wildlife Area and Spring Valley Wildlife Area.
Arkansas is celebrating all month at its Fiocchi Shooting Sports Complex. “To start things off, any children 6 to 17 years old and any adults 65 or older will be able to shoot for free on the rifle and pistol ranges all month long,” said Arkansas Game and Fish Commission Range Manager Bill Haynes. “We’re also going to extend that free pistol or rifle range time for anyone who has a proof of purchase of a new firearm within the last 60 days. And anyone who buys their hunting or fishing license on or after July 1 of this year will also get a free admission to either the rifle or pistol range so they can start getting ready for their hunts.” Skeet and trap are half off the entire month and a round of clays is only $2, too.
In Salt Lake City, UT, the state’s Lee Kay Public Shooting Range is staggering its celebration throughout the month. On Aug. 12 visitors shoot at the big-bore rifle ranges (100, 200 and 300 yards) for free. Then on Aug. 19 there is no cost to use the 25- and 75-yard rifle and handgun ranges. To cap the month off, on Aug. 26 enthusiasts can enjoy one round at one of the shotgun venues—25 targets per person, trap, skeet and five-stand—at no cost.
There are other state agencies involved, but they don’t hold an exclusive on special deals and events. Simply visit this National Shooting Sports Foundation webpage and click on your state or enter your zip code to find a list of participating retailers and organizations near you.
