When asking yourself about something to do near me in Phoenix with a group of friends or family, consider
Phoenix Rod & Gun Club
Why Phoenix Rod & Gun Club is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Phoenix Rod & Gun Club, established in 1937, is a highly regarded shooting and outdoor sports facility located at the base of South Mountain in Phoenix, Arizona. It offers a comprehensive selection of shooting ranges suitable for rifle, pistol, archery, and air guns, making it an ideal gathering spot for enthusiasts of all skill levels. The club features a notable 500-yard High Power firing line, a 40-yard archery range, and a covered public range with 27 shooting positions, providing ample space and variety for members and guests to enjoy target practice or competitive shooting. Open daily from 7:00 AM to sunset for members, and with public hours on weekends, the club supports a vibrant community of sharpshooters and outdoor enthusiasts. Amenities such as restrooms, picnic areas, and well-maintained facilities add to the welcoming atmosphere. Whether meeting friends for casual shooting sessions or engaging in organized competitions, Phoenix Rod & Gun Club offers a safe, professionally managed environment with a strong emphasis on safety and skill development, making it an excellent place to socialize and practice marksmanship.
Here's what people think of Phoenix Rod & Gun Club
As of recent, Phoenix Rod & Gun Club holds a 4.6-star rating based on 176 reviews.
Reviews for Phoenix Rod & Gun Club reflect a strong overall satisfaction, showcasing a 4.6 rating from 176 reviews. Many users appreciate the club's well-maintained facilities and variety of shooting ranges, highlighting the excellent range conditions, availability of multiple shooting disciplines, and friendly, knowledgeable staff. The positive feedback often mentions the welcoming community atmosphere and the club's commitment to safety, as well as the valuable educational and training opportunities available. On the other hand, some negative reviews point out occasional issues such as limited public hours during certain seasons, the $18 range fee for non-members, and the requirement to bring your own ammunition, which some find inconvenient. A few users also mention that the range can be busy during peak times, which may restrict shooting space. Overall, the reviews conclude that Phoenix Rod & Gun Club is a top choice in the Valley of the Sun for recreational and competitive shooters alike, balancing quality facilities with a strong community spirit and dedicated support for all members and visitors alike.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Saad hollywood
Phoenix Rod and Gun Club is a top-notch outdoor range with a wide variety of options for members—pistol, rifle, rimfire, bows, tactical steel targets, and even a 200–500 yard long range. The location is super convenient, and the staff are always professional, knowledgeable, and ready to help. If you come across negative reviews, keep in mind they’re often from public day visitors who showed up when the public range was already full on a weekend, or from individuals who were asked to leave for violating safety rules. Members here are experienced, respectful, and always happy to assist if you need guidance. Ben is the manager very professional and helpful man Highly recommended if you’re looking for a safe, diverse, and well-managed shooting range in the area!
Ebony M. Moody
I had a blast! I was able to shoot all of my tools in a fun environment. It was not crowded at all, which I loved. Romeo the manager was great thank you so much. Can’t wait to come back again.
mcapek
Great time at the steal bay. 4 stars only because the awning is metal and it causes a lot of reverb from the concussion. Never had to wear two ear pros before here. The rifle range does not have this problem.
David Ryan
Joined recently. Weekdays have very little traffic in mornings. Has ranges out to 500 yards (100/200/300/500 on long range) and a public range area at (my recollection) at 10/25/50/75/100). The public range has a machine for shooting clays, too. There are a couple of tactical ranges (approval and some orientation or training required before use), and range for .22's, for air rifles... and an archery range. The manager is a young man serious about what he does and - a very good thing - strict about following rules. I believe his name is Ben. You get a very thorough orientation, the rules are reviewed in detail, plenty of signage explaining the rules, and the manager encourages questions. If in doubt, ask, first - it is a gun range and run as one. I had been driving out to Rio Salado or Bob Foss (when previously open to public). This one has all one needs. I would encourage anyone interested to reach out and inquire, particularly those in downtown/south Phoenix/Laveen/Tempe/ Chandler areas.
Larry Sims
I got to watch my son today at the gun club practicing his pistol and rifle on the Range very well organized very safe up by South Mountain
How to reach Phoenix Rod & Gun Club
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Why Phoenix Rod & Gun Club may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Phoenix Rod & Gun Club with your friends? The Phoenix Rod & Gun Club stands out as an exceptional gathering place for groups seeking a blend of outdoor activity, camaraderie, and skill development. Nestled at the base of South Mountain Park in Phoenix, AZ, this club offers an inviting and safe environment for friends and family to bond over shared interests. With a strong reputation, reflected in its excellent 4.6-star rating from over 170 reviews, the club is well-regarded for its friendly atmosphere and well-maintained facilities. Whether you are looking to sharpen your marksmanship skills, participate in events, or simply enjoy some quality time away from the city bustle, PRGC provides all the essentials. The natural setting creates a perfect backdrop for social meetups, encouraging interactions in a relaxed yet engaging setting. Its accessibility and well-organized operations—public hours on weekends and daily member access—make it an ideal venue for hosting meetups with varied schedules. In all, the Phoenix Rod & Gun Club is a destination where fun, learning, and fellowship come together seamlessly, turning ordinary get-togethers into memorable experiences.
What activities can you enjoy at Phoenix Rod & Gun Club? The club offers a diverse set of shooting disciplines and recreational opportunities that cater to a wide range of interests and skill levels. Its public range is open on weekends and provides covered shooting positions with tables, accommodating 27 shooters simultaneously. The range supports rifle and handgun shooting at distances from 10 to 100 yards, which is ideal for both beginners and advanced shooters looking to practice precision. Additionally, the club offers specialized divisions including High Power shooting at 500 yards, which appeals to serious marksmen and competitive shooters. For younger guests or newcomers, the club allows supervised shooting for those under 18, making it a family-friendly destination. The venue also provides ear and eye protection for sale and a variety of targets, with the option to bring your own, ensuring convenience and comfort. These activities not only make it a hub for shooting enthusiasts but also a dynamic environment to learn, compete, and enjoy quality time as a group.
Why is Phoenix Rod & Gun Club perfect for a group meetup? The club is designed to accommodate both casual visitors and dedicated members, with ample facilities that allow multiple people to engage simultaneously without overcrowding. The weekend public hours, combined with daily access for members, provide flexibility in planning a meetup. Groups can schedule their visit to enjoy exclusive access during less busy hours or engage in weekend public sessions. The peaceful, scenic setting near South Mountain creates a refreshing environment to socialize beyond the typical indoor venue, enhancing the meetup experience. Safety and education are paramount, with clear range rules, safety briefings, and supervision available, ensuring that everyone in your group, regardless of experience, can participate safely. The club’s long-standing history since 1937 and emphasis on fostering a respectful community also mean attendees can expect a welcoming and well-organized visit. Whether your group is focused on shooting sports, or just seeking a unique social gathering spot, PRGC provides an unmatched balance of fun, education, and safety.
How does Phoenix Rod & Gun Club ensure a safe and enjoyable experience? Safety is a cornerstone of the club’s operations. All shooters are required to wear ear and eye protection, which is available for purchase if you do not bring your own. The club enforces safety guidelines rigorously, including mandatory sign-in and waiver forms for all members and guests. These protocols ensure that everyone understands and abides by the rules designed to protect participants and preserve the quality of the facilities. Experienced staff and rangemasters are on site during public hours to oversee activities and provide assistance as needed. This supervision is particularly valuable for groups with mixed experience levels, allowing beginners to receive support and guidance while more experienced shooters compete or practice safely. The club also restricts firearm rental and ammunition sales, encouraging visitors to come prepared and be mindful of safety regulations. This responsible approach creates a secure and controlled environment conducive to both learning and enjoyment.
What membership options are available and why might you consider joining for repeated visits? Beyond its public access hours, Phoenix Rod & Gun Club offers membership options with numerous benefits that appeal to frequent visitors and dedicated shooters. Individual memberships require a one-time initiation fee plus annual dues, while family memberships provide coverage for multiple people under one account. Members enjoy daily access to the ranges from 7:00 AM until sunset, significantly extending the time available compared to public hours. Additional perks include priority for matches and events, ability to bring supervised guests, and a sense of community with fellow shooting enthusiasts. For groups who find themselves wanting to meet more often or participate in friendly competitions, membership offers cost savings and convenience. New members also receive a safety briefing and a guided tour, ensuring they understand the club’s operations and offerings fully. With well-maintained facilities and a strong community ethos, joining Phoenix Rod & Gun Club can transform occasional meetups into a regular social and sporting routine.
What makes the location of Phoenix Rod & Gun Club special for meetups? Situated at 915 West Olney Drive, just where 7th Avenue meets the base of South Mountain Park, the club offers a unique combination of natural beauty and accessibility. The proximity to a major city like Phoenix ensures it is easy to reach for most local residents, yet it feels removed enough to provide a peaceful escape from urban environment distractions. The surrounding landscape adds aesthetic value to the experience, creating a scenic backdrop for meetups that combine outdoor adventure with social interaction. The club’s location adjacent to the Phoenix Police Academy also underscores its commitment to safety and professionalism in its operations. Moreover, the spacious layout reduces noise conflicts and congestion, allowing groups to converse and enjoy their time without disturbance. This blend of convenience, scenery, and well-managed facilities makes Phoenix Rod & Gun Club a standout destination for group events and gatherings of friends and family.
How do events and competitions enhance the group experience at the club? Phoenix Rod & Gun Club regularly hosts shooting matches and competitive events open to members and the public. Participating in these activities can add a layer of excitement and challenge to your meetup, fostering friendly competition and shared achievement. These matches cover various shooting disciplines and skill levels, encouraging all participants to engage and improve. Even if your group does not wish to compete, watching events can be entertaining and educational, providing an opportunity to learn new techniques or simply enjoy the thrill of marksmanship sports. The club posts event schedules on its website, making it easy to plan meetups to coincide with competitions or special gatherings. These occasions also serve as social hubs where members and visitors mingle, exchange tips, and build connections, enriching the overall community feel and creating opportunities for group bonding beyond casual shooting.
What facilities and amenities support a comfortable stay? The Phoenix Rod & Gun Club is thoughtfully equipped to ensure visitors are comfortable during their time at the range. Covered shooting tables provide shade and protection from the elements, which is especially valuable in the Arizona sun. Restroom facilities are available onsite for convenience during longer visits. The clubhouse and administrative offices offer resources and support for new shooters and groups organizing events. Although the club does not rent firearms or sell ammunition, it offers a variety of targets and sells protective gear at nominal costs, reducing the need to bring every item from home. The ample parking area also makes arrival and departure hassle-free for groups traveling together. This attention to visitor comfort and convenience reinforces the club’s standing as a welcoming venue for social, recreational, and competitive activities alike.
Why does Phoenix Rod & Gun Club foster a strong community spirit? Since its founding in 1937, the club has cultivated a culture centered on respect, education, and shared passion for marksmanship. This tradition has attracted generations of shooting enthusiasts who contribute to a friendly and supportive atmosphere. Members and staff alike emphasize safety, sportsmanship, and learning, which cultivates an environment where newcomers and veterans feel equally valued. The club offers mentorship through safety briefings and supervised shooting opportunities, encouraging skill development while nurturing social bonds. Group meetups benefit from this community spirit since attendees not only engage in activities but also build lasting friendships and networks. This strong sense of belonging transforms visits from mere outings into meaningful experiences, making Phoenix Rod & Gun Club more than just a shooting range—it becomes a hub for social connection and personal growth.