Tag: indoor shooting range

What to Consider When Building a Home Shooting Range

Posted on by Action Target
Private home gun range with ballistic shooting stalls and target retriever

Few things offer as much joy and freedom as being able to shoot your firearms in your own private gun range. A home shooting range provides more than just a fun venue for shooting and a place to entertain your friends, it also provides you with training scenarios to hone your abilities as a shooter and develop the skills you need to protect and defend yourself, your family, and your home. If you’ve decided to build a private shooting range, there are many considerations to make sure you create a high-quality, engaging, and economical range that is reliable, easy to maintain, and safe.

Experience

Select an experienced shooting range vendor to work with your architect and general contractor. Shooting ranges are highly specialized, so your architect will certainly have questions regarding the design. Action Target™ designs, builds, and installs commercial and private gun ranges worldwide, and has the experience you need to build a quality home gun range. Action Target shooting range consultants are ready to assist with custom range designs and drawings for your home gun range. Reach out to the Action Target team early to help guide you through every phase of your project. (See past Projects here)

Planning

Consider how you present your plans to the city in which you are building your range. Some homeowners prefer to postpone installing a shooting range until after they occupy the home, often listing the space on the plans as cold storage, an archery range, or a panic room, and use the space accordingly until they are ready to build out the shooting range. However, in-home shooting ranges require careful planning during the design phase of the home to ensure proper dimensions, materials, penetrations, and space for the shooting range equipment. When planning a home range, meet with local zoning and planning departments early on to understand any codes with which you must comply.

Safety

When it comes to shooting ranges, safety is paramount. When designing a range, the materials used must provide complete safety for shooters. Walls should be solid concrete at least 8” thick (filled CMU, tilt-up, or poured in place), and use at least 4,000 PSI concrete. The ceiling should also use at least 4,000 PSI concrete, but you should avoid hollow core or other pre-cast concrete that contains voids or foam because it offers reduced ballistic protection. Solid concrete walls and ceilings provide the best solution to dampen noise and offer extra ballistic protection—crucial if your range is in a basement with occupied space above. The floor should use 5,000 PSI concrete (3,000 PSI min).

Purpose

What is the primary purpose of your home shooting range? Leisure, entertainment, 50BMG mag dumps? If you begin with a clear understanding about how you intend to use your range, Action Target range consultants can design a home shooting range to meet your needs and identify the right equipment and controls to operate it. By working with Action Target, you can ensure that you build a range that not only fits best with your budget but provides you with equipment that is tailored and built to last.

Design

Modern shooting ranges offer more than just concrete walls and paper targets. Today’s ranges are completely customizable to allow them to blend in homogenously with your home. Action Target range consultants help you make your product selection based on needs, performance, and aesthetics. Action Target offers standard and custom product designs that provide different functionalities and appearance for your home gun range. Combined with a variety of bullet trap options, ceiling baffle layouts, shooting stalls, and sound abatement solutions, your range will be custom-tailored to your needs and design specifications.

Product Offering

Action Target is the foremost provider of true turn-key solutions for any size gun range. From ballistic partitions, safety baffles, and acoustic treatments to target retrievers, bullet traps, lighting, ventilation, and even paper targets and range supplies, Action Target is the go-to for all home gun range needs. Why is this important for a homeowner considering installing a private gun range? Imagine needing service, or parts, only to discover that the vendor is no longer in business. Or worse, imagine you need to have several products serviced and you must coordinate with multiple manufacturers. Action Target simplifies the process of owning and maintaining a home gun range by being the expert for all equipment installed. Further, Action Target has a proven track record of maintaining range equipment—our longest-running target retriever has been in operation for over 15 years. When it comes to products, choose a company that offers everything you need for your home range, and who stands behind their products with long warranties.

Target Retrievers

Perhaps the most important choice you make in designing your private shooting range is the type of target retriever used. Action Target offers multiple retrievers to fit nearly any budget, but where possible, we recommend that customers use the Genesis retriever. The Genesis features pre-loaded games and training drills developed by leading firearms trainers to challenge every shooter. Whether you want to train or just simply be entertained, the Genesis can meet all your shooting needs. The addicting scenarios associated with a variety of dynamic targets provide you with an entertaining and unique shooting experience unlike any other.

Bullet Trap

For home gun ranges that do not expect a high volume of annual shots fired, a Rubber Berm Trap is often the best and most economic bullet trap solution. At low volumes, a Rubber Berm Trap requires little maintenance and lasts a very long time. Periodically the Rubber Berm requires mining to remove lead and maintain a safe environment, which service Action Target offers. Beyond that, regular maintenance to control rubber depth and fire retardant is required only periodically. The Vortex steel trap offers home gun range owners a high-volume option that simplifies lead collection. While the steel bullet trap has a higher up-front investment, it reduces lifetime maintenance costs by automatically collecting bullets in its deceleration chamber, eliminating the need for fire retardant application and preventing routine maintenance on rubber depth.

Ballistic Dividers

Ballistic dividers are extremely important when you have multiple lanes in your private gun range. These dividers can stop handgun and rifle rounds in the case of an accidental discharge. Action Target offers a full range of ballistic dividers, ranging from very economical to completely customized. A full line of accessories are available for ballistic dividers, including different table configurations for rifle and pistol, muzzle blast barriers, brass deflectors for shooter comfort, and rifle hangers for stowing unused firearms during sessions. Whether functionality, aesthetics, or budget is your goal, Action Target has you covered—literally.

Ventilation and Filtration

Another important safety factor in a home shooting range is the ventilation system. The shooting range ventilation system must be separate from the house system because it filters out harmful lead particulates and heavy metals. Ideally, your ventilation system should achieve a laminar negative air flow of 75 FPM, but not less than 50 FPM, and use an air filtration bank of HEPA filters. Action Target takes care of your ventilation needs, designing and installing systems guaranteed to meet all OSHA and EPA standards.

Life-Long Maintenance

Properly maintaining a home shooting range directly impacts its long-term operation. When properly maintained, you’ll enjoy a lifetime of hassle-free shooting in the comfort of your own home range. To ensure your equipment continues to function properly, Action Target provides a wide range of aftermarket services, programs, and products. Choosing Action Target for all your range products simplifies service and maintenance. Action Target customer service representatives are cross-trained to provide support for all products while on service visits or when providing over-the-phone support.

Warranty

We stand behind our customers and our products. To demonstrate our commitment to your success and satisfaction, and our confidence in Action Target products, we provide a Trusted Partner 3-year comprehensive coverage warranty that is 3x the industry standard.

Home shooting ranges are quickly taking the place as the entertainment option in custom homes. Action Target is dedicated to providing you a safe, comfortable, and fun shooting range where friends and family can compete and practice their skills as shooters.

Reach out to the Action Target Range Design Consultants to discuss your future in-home gun range.

Memberships and Marketing – Building a Foundation for Success

Posted on by Action Target


THE POWER OF BRANDING

Once you’ve built your range, you have the task of attracting and forging relationships with customers. To achieve this, your business requires a distinctive and memorable persona. The marketing world refers to this persona as a “brand.” Having a strongly-defined and reliable brand builds recognition and familiarity, which breeds credibility and trust. Your brand goes hand in hand with your reputation, so it’s imperative you pay ample attention to this aspect of your business.

 


CUSTOMIZE YOUR EQUIPMENT

A consistent look and feel throughout your facility creates an impression of polished professionalism and reinforces your range’s brand. Action Target offers extensive customization options to make it easy to achieve this consistency. For example, we can manufacture shooting stalls decked with your company colors, apply your logo to your equipment, and design paper targets uniquely for your range.

There are additional ways you can brand your building, such as etching your range name and logo into doors, interior viewing windows, walls, floors, and tables. You can also draw attention to your building by making it highly visible with attractive lighting and signs. Consider placing company mascots or branded vehicles in strategic locations to catch the attention of passersby.

Furthermore, invest in merchandise customized with your name and logo. It’s more valuable than you might realize. Not only will your customers enjoy the swag, but they will also serve as ambassadors of your business when wearing and using your branded gear. The sky is the limit when it comes to what you can customize, be it apparel, patches, coasters, mugs, pens, flashlights, bumper stickers, and keychains. Remember, the experience your customer has with your brand impacts your reputation, so we recommend you purchase good quality items.

 


ALL-INCLUSIVE EXPERIENCE

While your facility may be a gun range primarily, it’s no secret that the success of your range is hinged on the quality of your customer’s experience. So why not make a name for yourself by offering more than a shooting space? For starters, ensure information about your products, services, and membership is readily accessible. Install markers to let customers know exactly where to go and with whom to speak if they have questions. Be aware that demonstrating expertise is critical when it comes to developing customer trust and loyalty, so take adequate time to educate yourself and your staff on range equipment, operation, and retail products.

It is also recommended that you invest in additional services, thereby creating a “destination location” for visitors. Such amenities may include:

  • Coffee shops/dining establishments/grab-and-go snacks
  • Locker rooms
  • Gun safe room
  • Firearm build services
  • Corporate event space
  • Member-only lounge

Remember, you don’t have to break the bank to make your space more inviting. If funds are limited, consider a comfortable conversation area and luxury coffee station.

 

MEMBERSHIP PROGRAMS AND PERKS

Gun range membership programs are one of the best revenue builders a business can employ. They provide a reliable income, grow your customer base, and motivate shooters to return again and again. It benefits both you and your customers to build a solid and rewarding membership program. There are many ways to enhance these programs, such as multi-member discounts, family packages and corporate bundles. You can also advertise gift memberships for special occasions such as holidays, birthdays, and anniversaries.

When it comes to making your gun range membership program enticing and accessible, don’t be afraid to think outside the box. Consider combining memberships with discounted training classes. In addition to growing membership, this will also strengthen participation in your education platform. Furthermore, don’t hesitate to be creative in your approach to incentivizing membership and encouraging member participation. For example, nominate a “Member of the Month” and assign a prime parking space for this special member.

 


PROMOTIONS AND EVENTS

Product promotions and gun range events are a tried and true method for growing your business. While the options are countless, here are some suggestions to kickstart your creative ideas:

  • A special discounted item of the month. Educate range employees about the item and encourage them to discuss it with customers.
  • Member-only discounts on non-sale items. This shows loyalty to your members and promotes the perks of membership.
  • Offer discounted lane time during off-peak hours or during extremes in temperature when shooting outside is undesirable.
  • Host events such as special product release nights, date nights, zombie shoots, carnival night, costume parties, birthday parties, and bachelor/bachelorette functions.
  • Capitalize on local events such as rodeos, fairs, and elections. For example, recognize customers who participate in an election by offering them a free patch or T-shirt (adorned with your range logo, of course!).
  • Participate in charity fundraisers. Being active in your community has reciprocal benefits and raises awareness of your business.

Whatever your promotion or event may be, it is essential that you keep your members and followers in the loop via social media. Post well-timed, useful, and appealing information about product discounts, special rates, and upcoming events. Additionally, engage your followers by posting exciting images and stories during exciting and special occasions.

Beyond capitalizing on social media, invite a local news station to get the word out. It usually doesn’t require much effort to coordinate a media visit. Simply call the desired local radio or television station and provide event details. It’s a win-win situation: it provides content for the media and brings visibility to your business. Additionally, the presence of cameramen and broadcasting vans are an effective way to create hype and interest among those in the vicinity.

Remember to keep careful track of the performance of your promotions, gun range events, and advertising strategies so that you learn which efforts are most profitable. This will allow you to determine which activities you should repeat and evolve.

 

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

Networking with other local businesses may not seem practical for the niche shooting range business. However, crossing industry borders and working with other businesses in the community provides you with the opportunity to appeal to patrons from other industries who may not have otherwise been aware of your business.

Exactly how do you work with your community and appeal to different demographics, thereby expanding your customer base? Consider sharing your facility, for starters. Make your classroom available to other groups that need a place to convene, such as self-defense clubs, scouting programs, charity organizations, and your local chamber of commerce. Furthermore, become acquainted with catering companies and event organizers. Let them know referrals are welcome and provide them with details regarding group discounts and other package deals.

We also recommend building a strong relationship with your local law enforcement agency. Consider offering special “closed-range” training sessions for officers. In addition, show your support of military members through exclusive product promotions, special membership rates, and discounted shooting range time. Having a reputation as a select training facility for law enforcement and military will have a significant influence on your brand and credibility. Moreover, your customers will be attracted to the prestige and bragging rights of training in a select range of police officers and military personnel.

You’ve Just Built A Shooting Range: Now What?

Posted on by Action Target


You’ve undertaken the multifaceted process of planning, designing, and building an indoor shooting range. You’ve discovered that creating a viable, ballistically-safe facility is no small feat. In fact, the process can challenge even the most stout-hearted, second-amendment-supporting, gun-crazed patriot. However, you persevered because the satisfaction and rewards of owning and operating a shooting range can be substantial.

It’s just important that you remember a “build it and they will come” philosophy does not apply to your gun range business. Persistent effort, strategic marketing, and awareness of industry trends is required to attract, engage, and maintain your customers.

ACTION TARGET’S BEST PRACTICES
Action Target has been the world leader in shooting range design, technology, supplies, and aftermarket services since 1986. With our time and standing in the industry, we have become experts in how to develop and manage a successful shooting range. Over the next few months, we will be collaborating with key individuals across our organization to share our best practices with you. Our expertise will help you excel in the business of running your range, while making you aware of potential pitfalls along the way.

So that you know what to expect, we have divided these best practices into the following 8 categories. Each category will be fully explored in a dedicated future post.

1. Memberships and Marketing
In this post, we will discuss the importance of branding your range and products. Other topics we will cover include growing your customer base and enhancing customer relationships through product promotions, giveaways, loyalty points, multi-member discounts, and corporate events. We will also delve into lesser used marketing strategies, such as cross-promotion with the assistance of other local business.

2. Training your Staff
We will demonstrate how to amplify your success through great customer service. We will show why it is important to find employees who not only have broad gun knowledge but are also experienced in retail sales. Learn how to build a loyal and happy sales staff through incentive programs, specialized training, and strategic staff meetings. Discover the importance of leading your grand opening with a soft opening and how neglecting to do so may have significant repercussions for your reputation.

3. Retail Sales
This post will be dedicated to helping you understand how much inventory you will need based on the size of your retail space. We will examine the importance of stocking retail items according to demand and local needs, as well as maximizing your gross profit through tracking retail turns. We will also walk you through analyzing data from your point of sale system.

4. Website and Social Media
Successful businesses are familiar with free advertising through social media platforms. We will provide pointers on how to think outside the box for marketing your shooting range via other businesses in the community. You will also have access to our experience on branding and creating a “personality” for your shooting range as well as pointers for your website and other range events.

5. Engaging Your Customers
Learn how to implement and structure memberships. We will dive into concepts for developing classes that reach all ages, genders, and lifestyles and will also provide ideas for home and personal defense training. Additionally, we will discuss how adding gun build options and services to your retail offerings drives revenue.

6. Security
It’s vital that you protect your range adequately from criminal activity. We will highlight security, closed circuit cameras, various types of alarm systems, locking cases, as well as offer suggestions about how to safely store excess inventory. You will learn how to implement emergency protocols in the event of injury or fatalities and how to deter tragedies of this nature from occurring in your range.

7. Other Revenue Streams
We will teach you how to capitalize on other revenue streams for your shooting range business, such as recycling your lead and brass and saving money through dealer pricing programs with Action Target and other vendors. We will also examine how you can share your knowledge and experience of planning and building a shooting range with other interested parties.

8. Range Maintenance
One of the most important aspects of your business is keeping your range clean and safe. We will show you how to do this through scheduled maintenance protocols along with a maintenance log sheet. We will discuss how to train employees on required maintenance procedures and performing minor range repairs. All methods we disclose are compliant with OSHA and EPA standards to ensure the protection of your employees, patrons, and range equipment.

SHOT Show 2017 New Products

Posted on by Action Target

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 

ACTION TARGET ANNOUNCES INNOVATIVE NEW PRODUCTS TO BE DISPLAYED AT SHOT SHOW 2017

PROVO, UTAH – January 2, 2017 – Action Target INC., the leading manufacturer of modern shooting ranges, has announced the launch of new innovative shooting range technology, including: The Dual Running Man Pro, The AWD Pro, The Guardsman Shooting Stall, The American Series Shooting Stall, the PT Gong Series and the PT Twist Rimfire steel targets. Visit the Action Target booth #14568 at SHOT Show 2017 for live, hands-on demonstrations.

Duel Running Man Pro

Created to exceed the standards of Law Enforcement training and professional shooters, DRM Pro provides first-of-its-kind precision control, acceleration, speed, and programmability. These features have the unique simplicity of being controllable from your own tablet, smart phone or PC. The DRM Pro offers instructors the ability to train for and replicate real-worlds scenarios. Within the new user’s interface, instructors can input the speed of each runner independently from 2-20 feet per second, move the target along the track by sliding the on-screen target indicator to any positon, and receive real-time validation on the screen for speed and track position.

Action Target’s Product Marketing Manager Chris Hess explains, “Developing the DRM Pro has been exciting. The more time we spent with top Law Enforcement trainers and professional shooters, the more we realized there was an opportunity to fill the technology void in training. This product is the perfect upgrade to any range looking to modernize their equipment and outfit their instructors with the ability to provide world-class training.”

Tempe PD firearms instructor and competitive shooter Kyle Schmidt said, “This is most versatile moving target system I have ever used. Instantly making changes on my device screen gives me more time with trainees and allows me to customize the training on the fly for any need without changing equipment.”

All Wheel Drive Pro Target Retriever

The wireless AWD Pro retriever is the most engaging and robust retriever on the market. It features a modern, easy to use interface with 27 addicting games and training scenarios for all skill levels. These programs offer shooters an unparalleled experience, improving both novice and expert shooters and keeping them at the range longer.

“Shooting at a static target is no longer sufficient to engage this new generation of shooters. They expect more from their equipment and are looking for an entertaining experience. The AWD Pro engages shooters like never before, with its intuitive interface, self-guided shooting scenarios and easy-to-setup drills.” – Jesse Nelson, Action Target Product Marketing Manager.

The Guardsman Shooting Stall

The Guardsman Shooting Stall boasts a rugged ABS protective skin that resists brass impacts for long life and low maintenance and also features a stainless Steel trim that protects all of the edges of the Guardsman from damage. The Guardsman Shooting Stall consists of a standard Action Target stall table or extended rifle table with a non-slip rubber top and an optional lower shelf that adds functionality for shooters that is unmatched in the industry.

“The new Guardsman shooting stall allows the most budget-conscious facility to upgrade to the superior quality and unmatched ballistic standards of Action Target’s industry leading products.” – Jesse Nelson, Product Marketing Manager at Action Target.

PT Twist

The patent pending PT Twist Rimfire interactive target may be the most effective way to burn through your stock pile of 22lr. Made from 3/16 inch A514B steel, it combines rugged impact resistance with supreme reactivity on the range. Uniquely formed from a single piece of steel, there are no welds or bolts to break or ricochet providing a safe and long lasting target.

“Using the PT Twist shooters can develop their accuracy and acquisition skills as each shot walks the target further away. With two PT Twists side by side, shooters can challenge one another in an engaging duel that will quickly determine the best shot.” – Chris Hess, Product Marketing Manager

The PT Twist Rimfire will be available February 2017 at the new Store.ActionTarget.com with an MSRP of only $25. Stop by Action Target booth #14568 at SHOT Show 2017 to sign up as a dealer.

PT Gong Series Steel Target

Hanging a piece of steel down range isn’t new, but it has never been more affordably or of higher quality. Action Target is proud to offer more than 30 new target shapes and thicknesses to hang from any chain, rope or the innovative The Last Stand target hanging system.

Precision shooters will enjoy circles from 4-18 inches. IDPA and IPSC Torsos for training and sportsmen will love shooting our life-size animal shapes including: Boar, Coyote and Prairie Dog. .25 inch, .375 inch and .500 inch are available.
“Action Target prides itself in the highest possible quality AR500 Steel. As one of the largest buyers in the world we are able to pass on our quality and low cost to our loyal customers.” – Chris Hess, Product Marketing Manager.

MSRP $10 – $150 Available February 2017

Visit booth #14568 at SHOT Show 2017 to become a dealer.

The American Series Shooting Stall

The American Series Shooting Stalls provide ranges an unparalleled ability to customize their range.  The extra deep stalls, built in muzzle blast barriers, integrated lighting and floor to ceiling walls provide shooters a comfortable atmosphere unrivaled in the industry.  Ranges will love the ability to make their stalls truly unique.

Customers may choose from one of our standard designs or customize literally every element of the stall to match their range’s design and needs.  An on-staff interior decorator is available to assist ranges with their selections.

“Ranges are constantly looking for ways to set them apart in today’s competitive market.  With the American Series Shooting Stalls, ranges now have the ability to customize every aspect of their stalls, providing shooters the most unique, luxurious and comfortable environment possible.” – Jesse Nelson, Product Marketing Manager, Action Target.

Range Security

Action Target now combines all security solutions into one easy-to-use system. Video confirmation and two-way audio prevent incidents and reduce false alarms to less than 1%. Trained security professionals review alerts 24/7. The advanced video analytics offer a number of reliable alerts to provide accurate threat assessment. Stay connected, arm/disarm your security system and view live video from anywhere.

“Our security solutions provide ranges the highest level of confidence.  By integrating cutting edge technology and industry leading hardware we are able to provide a tailored solution unmatched in the industry.” – Jesse Nelson, Product Marketing Manager, Action Target.

LE Targets Rebrand to Action Target

Action Target is excited to announce the successful rebrand of Law Enforcement Targets. All of the paper targets, cardboard targets and range supplies sold by www.letargets.com can now be found on the new Action Target store: Shop.ActionTarget.com

SHOT Show attendees looking for Law Enforcement Targets will find them at Action Target’s booth #14568 near the “Dealer Services” section. New and current dealers are encouraged to visit the booth to take advantage of special pricing and SHOT Show specials.

Choosing A Concealed Carry Course

Posted on by Action Target

According to the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF), the number of concealed carry holders increased 29% from 6.9 million people in 2010 to 9 million people in 2012. Whatever the reason or motivation, more and more people are making the decision to become a concealed carry permit holder. Making a decision to become a concealed carry permit holder is a big decision and can often be met with a lot of questions and possibly uneasiness, especially for those who may be new to the gun industry. Every state is different in their requirements and how they issue, but most states require a person to demonstrate competence with a firearm before they will issue a concealed carry permit.

One of the most common ways to do this is by taking a class. This may be a safety course, law enforcement or training course; whatever it is, they usually vary in curriculum and length. It may be appealing to take the shortest course and complete the minimum requirements, but most experts in the industry suggest against this.

Especially for those who are new to firearms and the gun industry, a concealed carry course can be a great introduction and foundation to understanding proper gun etiquette and conduct. A longer course can provide more range time and more instruction about state laws and regulations. An in-depth knowledge of state laws and the responsibilities associated with concealed carry can prevent costly fines and other issues that result in being ignorant about concealed carry laws. Many suggest thinking about why you want to get a concealed carry permit, and then finding the course that will help you achieve your objective.

It is also recommended that additional training be completed after the concealed carry course is over. When it comes to firearms, there is no such thing as too much practice. Many shooting ranges offer concealed carry courses along with other courses designed to enhance firearms proficiency. These ranges also offer special events and promotions such as Ladies Night where women can shoot at a discounted rate, or receive additional instruction from a Range Safety Officer.

Whatever the level of shooting expertise, taking time to choose a concealed carry course that matches your objectives and ideals will help to increase firearm proficiency and safety.

 

Other Things to Consider When Thinking about Concealed Carry:

Keep your firearms clean and operational. It is recommended to clean your firearm after each shooting session and check for any worn or broken parts.

Keep firearms out of reach of children (or anyone else that should not have access to them).

Tactical training is highly recommended. Look for courses in your area and sign up.

Let it be known to very few people that you concealed carry.

 

The Gun Vault

Posted on by Action Target

Gun Vault Exterior BestThe Gun Vault, a 25,000 square foot facility based in the suburbs of Salt Lake City, says it sets the standard for what Utah residents can expect in an indoor shooting range. The Gun Vault owners designed their range to be not only one of the largest in Utah, but one of the most upscale and high-end, providing a quality experience for anyone who visits the range. The Gun Vault was created with the idea to provide Utah residents a great shooting environment no matter a shooter’s individual skill level.

 

Gun Vault Lobby 3The facility hosts a 7,000 sq. ft. retail space. The exposed rock architecture and high ceilings with skylights give the area an open atmosphere with plenty of light. Friendly and knowledgeable staff members are on hand to answer questions and provide information. One of the goals of The Gun Vault is to create a non-threatening environment where anyone from the first time to professional shooter can come and enjoy an indoor shooting experience.the idea to provide Utah residents a great shooting environment no matter a shooter’s individual skill level.

 

Gun Vault Stalls 2The shooting range features 15 lanes at a 25-yard distance with a viewing area behind the range. The range features Action Target equipment including a Total Containment Trap, overhead safety baffles, wall baffle system, target retrieval system, shooting stalls, and sound abatement material to help contain noise within the range. A Carey’s ventilation system provides top air quality and protects consumers from lead and other harmful air contaminants. Regarding the range equipment the staff says, “We have chosen the best in the industry to make sure our customers have the best experience possible when they come see us.”

Gun Vault Members Lounge 2

But The Gun Vault doesn’t stop with an impressive retail area and quality range equipment. It also houses two simulators, classrooms and a lounge. The simulators provide an opportunity for training, target shooting, and just a chance to become familiar with a gun in a non-threatening environment. The simulators feature a variety of conceal carry, target and home defense scenarios. The Gun Vault also offers classes ranging from basic handgun to CFP to private seminars.

 

The lounge area tops off the facility with leather couches, poker tables, pool tables and six large televisions. Strategically placed skylights throughout the lounge add natural light and an inviting atmosphere. The lounge, simulators, and classrooms are all available for rent to the general public. Corporate events, training sessions, or company parties can all be hosted at The Gun Vault.

The Gun Vault offers Utah what more and more ranges are trying to offer to shooting sports consumers across the nation: a premier environment where anyone can come and enjoy a high-quality shooting experience.

Thinking about Building a Shooting Range?

Building a shooting range can be an overwhelming process. Your time and resources deserve a partner who will listen to your ideas and turn your dreams and plans into a successful, thriving business. If you are considering building a range, talk to the Action Target Range Consultant in your region, and he will be happy to help you find the right equipment to fit your needs and budget. You can also use our Request a Quote form to get started on your range project today.

Please note, the tips included in this message have been found to be helpful for many clients throughout the years but may not apply in all situations. Please use judgment in determining which tips will be helpful in your particular situation.

The Shooting Sports Industry: A Consumer’s Market

Posted on by Action Target

The National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) recently issued a report to assist member companies in better understanding their customer’s shopping experience. This report highlights the use of mobile eye-tracking technology to help retailers understand what really attracts consumers to products. This is just one example of how retailers and businesses within the shooting sports industry are evaluating customer behavior, and in turn understanding and serving customers more effectively. It’s a good time to be a consumer in the shooting sports industry and here are a few reasons why.

The Social Connection

Social media is not a new or novel concept when it comes to business strategy. In fact, some businesses or individuals might be getting sick of hearing about social media and all the different platforms available to communicate different ideas and media. However, social media has provided a valuable method of communication for retailers within the industry. Businesses ask questions like, “Who would be interested in a family shooting night?” or “What’s the most important thing when you visit a gun range?” The list goes on, but businesses are reaching out to customers, listening to what they have to say, and then implementing popular ideas into their business model. Social media gives businesses a real-time pulse of their customer base. It also provides the customer a voice that can be heard instantly, regardless of the company’s size or location.

Recognizing Areas of New Growth

Recognizing areas for new growth within the industry and catering specifically to these markets has opened up new product lines and a new way of thinking for many companies. For example, there has been a lot of media coverage given to the increase in participation among women in shooting sports. Shooting ranges, distributors and retailers alike have made marketing to women a focus within their organizations. To the outsider looking in, changing the color of the gun or making something glitter might be the answer. But retailers realize that some women don’t want to shoot a pink gun. The answer might be in a cleaner facility, a slimmer gun model, or an instructor they can relate to. There is not one correct way to go about this, but realizing and capitalizing on growing market segments has created new ideas and innovation within the industry.

Putting Data into Practice

I talked to a shooting range owner recently who explained research and surveys this way: “I find it odd that businesses in the gun industry don’t put more focus on what their consumers are telling them.” He says he listens to what his customers are saying and what they want, and in turn, they have always taken good care of him and his business. This owner also teamed up with a local university to survey his customer base. When the university provided the results of the survey, the company implemented changes based on the information to try and improve their processes. This shooting range owner is not alone in his pursuit to understand his customer base and meet their needs more comprehensively. Online surveys and a closer analysis of website traffic are helping businesses to adjust their practices based on consumer wants and needs.

When it comes to customer service, customer behavior, and better understanding what customers ultimately want, there is never just one answer. The market is evolving and changing rapidly with consumers having more of a voice about products and services. The one size fits all mentality is becoming less common as all companies try to provide solutions to serve the needs of each unique customer.

Please note, the tips included in this message have been found to be helpful for many clients throughout the years but may not apply in all situations. Please use judgment in determining which tips will be helpful in your particular situation.