Ben Avery Range: A Comprehensive Guide To Arizona's Premier Shooting Destination

Benton Gleason 09 Jun 2025

The Ben Avery Range has established itself as one of the most iconic shooting ranges in the United States, offering enthusiasts and professionals a world-class facility to hone their skills. Located in Arizona, this range has become a must-visit destination for firearm enthusiasts, competitive shooters, and outdoor adventure seekers alike. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced marksman, the Ben Avery Range provides a diverse array of amenities and opportunities to elevate your shooting experience.

As one of the largest public shooting facilities in the country, the Ben Avery Range caters to a wide variety of interests and skill levels. Its reputation for excellence stems from its commitment to safety, education, and community engagement. With over 1,200 acres of land, the range offers an unparalleled environment for shooting sports enthusiasts to practice, compete, and connect with like-minded individuals.

For those looking to explore the world of shooting sports, the Ben Avery Range serves as a gateway to discovery and improvement. Through its extensive offerings, including firearms training, competitive events, and recreational shooting, the facility has become a cornerstone of Arizona's outdoor recreation scene. In this article, we'll delve into everything you need to know about the Ben Avery Range, from its history to its amenities, ensuring you're well-prepared for your next visit.

History of Ben Avery Range
Facilities and Amenities
Safety Protocols and Guidelines
Firearms Training Programs
Competitions and Events
Membership Options
Tips for First-Time Visitors
Environmental Considerations
Community Engagement
Future Developments

History of Ben Avery Range

Founding and Development

The Ben Avery Range was established in 1960, thanks to the vision of its namesake, Ben Avery, a prominent figure in Arizona's conservation and outdoor recreation community. The facility was originally created to provide a safe and controlled environment for shooting sports enthusiasts, addressing the growing need for structured recreational spaces. Over the decades, the range has undergone numerous expansions and upgrades, transforming it into the state-of-the-art facility it is today.

Located just north of Phoenix, the Ben Avery Range quickly became a hub for shooting sports in Arizona. Its strategic location, combined with its commitment to excellence, has solidified its status as a premier destination for firearm enthusiasts across the nation.

Facilities and Amenities

Shooting Ranges

The Ben Avery Range boasts an impressive array of shooting ranges designed to cater to various disciplines and skill levels. From pistol and rifle ranges to archery and shotgun facilities, the options are nearly endless. Each range is equipped with modern amenities, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.

Pistol Ranges: Featuring multiple lanes and adjustable targets, ideal for both beginners and advanced shooters.
Rifle Ranges: Offering long-distance shooting opportunities with distances up to 1,000 yards.
Archery Ranges: Equipped with both static and 3D targets, perfect for honing archery skills.
Shotgun Facilities: Providing clay pigeon shooting and other shotgun-related activities.

Safety Protocols and Guidelines

Ensuring a Secure Environment

Safety is paramount at the Ben Avery Range, and strict protocols are in place to ensure the well-being of all visitors. Before entering any shooting area, participants must adhere to the facility's safety guidelines, which include proper firearm handling, wearing protective gear, and following range commands.

Range safety officers are always on hand to enforce rules and assist visitors as needed. Additionally, the range offers safety courses for those looking to enhance their knowledge and skills in firearm handling.

Firearms Training Programs

Education and Skill Development

The Ben Avery Range is dedicated to promoting education and skill development through its comprehensive training programs. Whether you're a novice looking to learn the basics or an experienced shooter aiming to refine your techniques, the facility offers a wide range of courses tailored to your needs.

Topics covered in these programs include firearm safety, marksmanship, defensive shooting, and competitive strategies. Trained instructors provide personalized guidance, ensuring participants receive the highest quality instruction possible.

Competitions and Events

Celebrating Excellence in Shooting Sports

The Ben Avery Range hosts numerous competitions and events throughout the year, attracting participants from across the country. These events range from local matches to national championships, providing opportunities for shooters to showcase their skills and compete at various levels.

Some of the most notable competitions held at the range include:

NRA National Matches
Benchrest Shooting Championships
IPSC Handgun Matches

Membership Options

Enhancing Your Experience

To further enhance the shooting experience, the Ben Avery Range offers various membership options. Members enjoy exclusive benefits, including priority access to ranges, discounted rates, and invitations to members-only events. These memberships cater to individuals, families, and organizations, ensuring there's an option for everyone.

Membership fees vary based on the level of access and benefits desired, making it easy to find a package that fits your budget and needs.

Tips for First-Time Visitors

Maximizing Your Visit

For those visiting the Ben Avery Range for the first time, a few tips can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience:

Arrive early to allow ample time for orientation and setup.
Familiarize yourself with the range rules and safety protocols beforehand.
Bring all necessary gear, including firearms, ammunition, and protective equipment.
Consider booking a training session to optimize your learning experience.

Environmental Considerations

Conservation and Sustainability

The Ben Avery Range is committed to environmental stewardship and sustainability. The facility implements various practices to minimize its ecological footprint, such as proper waste management, habitat preservation, and energy-efficient operations. These efforts align with the broader goals of promoting responsible outdoor recreation and conservation.

Community Engagement

Building a Stronger Shooting Sports Community

Community engagement is a core aspect of the Ben Avery Range's mission. The facility actively collaborates with local organizations, schools, and law enforcement agencies to promote shooting sports and foster a sense of community. Programs such as youth shooting leagues and outreach initiatives help introduce new participants to the world of shooting sports while reinforcing the importance of safety and responsibility.

Future Developments

Expanding Horizons

Looking ahead, the Ben Avery Range continues to explore opportunities for growth and improvement. Plans for future developments include expanding existing facilities, introducing new programs, and enhancing digital resources to better serve the shooting sports community. These initiatives aim to maintain the range's position as a leader in the field while ensuring it remains accessible and relevant to all.

Conclusion

The Ben Avery Range stands as a testament to Arizona's commitment to promoting safe, responsible, and enjoyable shooting sports. From its rich history to its cutting-edge facilities and community-focused initiatives, the range offers something for everyone. By adhering to safety protocols, participating in training programs, and engaging with the community, visitors can fully immerse themselves in the world of shooting sports.

We invite you to visit the Ben Avery Range and experience firsthand what makes it such a special destination. Whether you're a seasoned shooter or a curious newcomer, there's always something new to learn and enjoy. Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below, and don't forget to explore other articles on our site for more insights into the exciting world of shooting sports.

Data and information for this article were sourced from reputable organizations such as the National Shooting Sports Foundation, the National Rifle Association, and the Ben Avery Range official website. For further reading, consider exploring these resources to deepen your understanding of shooting sports and their impact on communities nationwide.

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