Unleash Your Inner Marksman: A Guide to Route 66 Shooting Sports Park Fun

Are you looking for an exciting and unique way to spend your day, perhaps trying something new or honing an existing skill? Do you crave an environment where safety meets exhilarating action? Look no further than Route 66 Shooting Sports Park! This premier destination offers an unparalleled experience for both seasoned shooters and curious newcomers, promising a day filled with Route 66 Shooting Sports Park fun.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make the most of your visit, from the diverse range options to essential safety tips, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable outing.

Discovering Route 66 Shooting Sports Park

Nestled in the scenic San Bernardino, California foothills, Route 66 Shooting Sports Park is a sprawling, nearly 90-acre facility dedicated to the shooting sports. It's more than just a shooting range; it's a vibrant hub that caters to a wide array of shooting disciplines and skill levels. Whether you're a first-timer or a competitive shooter, the park's welcoming atmosphere and extensive offerings make it a must-visit.

Why Choose Route 66 for Your Shooting Adventure?

What sets Route 66 Shooting Sports Park apart? It's a blend of top-tier facilities, a strong emphasis on safety, and a commitment to fostering a supportive community. The park is home to various shooting areas, including private bays, a steel gallery, and a 100-yard rifle range, providing diverse options for every interest. Beyond recreational shooting, it even serves as a training center for organizations like the LAPD and various SWAT teams, highlighting its professional-grade capabilities.

Activities and Ranges for Every Shooter

One of the biggest draws of Route 66 Shooting Sports Park is the sheer variety of shooting experiences available. You'll find a range (pun intended!) of options to suit your preferences and skill level.

Pistol & Rifle Ranges: Precision and Power

For those who enjoy the focused challenge of static target shooting, the park offers numerous lanes for both pistols and rifles. You can test your accuracy at the 100-yard rifle range, which features 8 individual lanes, or opt for one of the over 20 individual private bays for a more secluded experience. These bays are perfect for practicing fundamental shooting skills with various firearms, including popular options like AR-15s.

Shotgun Sports: Clay Target Thrills

Ready to try something a bit more dynamic? Shotgun Alley is where the action is for clay target enthusiasts. With nine stations featuring machines that offer various flight patterns and degrees of difficulty, you can enjoy skeet, trap, or sporting clays. It's a fantastic way to improve your hand-eye coordination and enjoy a fast-paced shooting sport.

Archery: A Different Kind of Aim

While primarily known for firearms, some shooting sports parks also offer archery, providing a quiet, focused alternative for those who prefer bows and arrows. It's always a good idea to check their official website for the most current offerings to ensure your desired activity is available.

Getting Started: Tips for a Fun and Safe Visit

Safety is paramount at Route 66 Shooting Sports Park. The park employs dedicated Range Safety Officers (RSOs) who are there to ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable time.

Safety First: Essential Rules for Every Shooter

Before you even pick up a firearm, understanding and adhering to the four universal rules of firearm safety is crucial:

• Treat every firearm as if it were loaded. Always assume a firearm is loaded, even if you know it isn't.
• Never point a firearm at anything you don't intend to destroy. Always be aware of your muzzle direction.
• Keep your finger off the trigger until your sights are on the target and you're ready to fire. This prevents accidental discharges.
• Be sure of your target and what's beyond it. Know what you're shooting at and what lies behind it to prevent unintended harm.

Additionally, the park strictly prohibits the use or possession of drugs or alcohol on the premises. Eye and ear protection are mandatory and available for purchase if you don't bring your own.

Gear Up: What to Bring for Your Day of Fun

For a comfortable and productive visit, consider bringing:

• Valid ID: Required for check-in and firearm rentals.
• Eye and Ear Protection: Essential for safety.
• Appropriate Clothing: Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are a must, and a hat can be beneficial, especially on sunny days.
• Ammunition: While the park sells ammunition, it's wise to check availability and consider purchasing in advance, especially for specific calibers, as limits may apply.
• Sunscreen and Water: For outdoor ranges, staying hydrated and protected from the sun is important.

First-Timer Friendly: Making the Most of Your Visit

Feeling a bit intimidated as a beginner? Don't be! Route 66 Shooting Sports Park is highly welcoming to first-time shooters. They offer various training and safety courses, including Firearm Safety, Handgun, and Long Gun classes, as well as private 1-on-1 sessions. Renting a firearm is also an option if you don't own one, provided at least one person in your party has a Firearms Safety Certificate (FSC) or is willing to take the test on-site. The staff is known for being friendly and helpful, eager to guide you through the process and ensure a positive experience.

Beyond the Range: Amenities and Experience

The Route 66 Shooting Sports Park fun extends beyond just shooting. The facility is designed to enhance your overall experience.

Comfort and Convenience: Facilities at Route 66

The park offers a gun store and retail store where you can purchase firearms, ammunition, and other shooting accessories. They also have an "Ammo Club" for those looking to save on ammunition purchases. For convenience, you can sign your waiver online before your visit to save time at check-in.

Family Fun and Group Outings

Route 66 Shooting Sports Park is a family-friendly range, welcoming children of all ages as long as they are accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. This makes it a great spot for a unique family outing or a group event. You can make reservations for groups, though walk-ins are highly recommended for weekdays.

Maximizing Your Route 66 Shooting Sports Park Fun

Ready to elevate your experience? Here are some tips to get the most out of your time at the park:

Consider a Lesson or Coaching

Whether you're new to shooting or looking to refine your skills, taking a lesson with a certified instructor can dramatically improve your technique and confidence. The park offers a multitude of training options, from basic safety to specialized training and even competitive shooting introductions.

Explore Different Disciplines

Don't stick to just one type of shooting! If you've only tried pistol shooting, give the shotgun alley a try, or test your precision on the 100-yard rifle range. Trying different disciplines can add variety and challenge to your visits.

Join a League or Event

For those seeking a deeper engagement, Route 66 Shooting Sports Park fosters a strong sense of community. Keep an eye out for special events like the annual Route 66 Range Expo, which features vendors, activities, and a vibrant atmosphere. Participating in a league or competition can be a fantastic way to meet like-minded individuals and push your skills to the next level.

Conclusion

Route 66 Shooting Sports Park offers a truly comprehensive and enjoyable shooting experience for everyone, from the absolute beginner to the seasoned enthusiast. With its diverse range options, unwavering commitment to safety, and a welcoming community atmosphere, it's a fantastic destination for Route 66 Shooting Sports Park fun. So, why not plan your visit? Experience the thrill, refine your skills, and discover a new passion.

Have you visited Route 66 Shooting Sports Park? Share your favorite experience in the comments below!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Route 66 Shooting Sports Park beginner-friendly?

Yes, absolutely! Route 66 Shooting Sports Park welcomes first-time shooters and offers various training programs and guidance from friendly staff to ensure a positive and safe experience.

Do I need my own firearm to visit?

No, you do not need your own firearm. Route 66 Shooting Sports Park has a wide selection of firearms available for rent, including pistols, revolvers, and long guns. However, at least one person in your party must have a Firearms Safety Certificate (FSC) or be prepared to take the test on-site.

What are the main safety rules at the park?

Safety is a top priority. Key rules include always treating firearms as loaded, never pointing them at anything you don't intend to destroy, keeping your finger off the trigger until ready to fire, and being sure of your target and what's beyond it. Range Safety Officers are always present to enforce rules, and drugs and alcohol are strictly prohibited.

Can children participate in activities at Route 66 Shooting Sports Park?

Yes, Route 66 Shooting Sports Park is a family-friendly range. Children of all ages are allowed, provided they are accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.