[Redhat]

Just found I'll be moving to San Antonio mid summer. What are the best gun shops/ranges in the local area?

Thanks

[TxCajun]

There are plenty of gunshops in S.A. but I find that most are rather proud of their merchandise:

Some gun shops:

http://www.durysguns.com/

http://www.nagelsguns.net/

http://www.thecityofsanantonio.com/gun/index.html



There is a monthly gunshow with better prices:

http://saxetshows.com/



Ranges:

San Antonio - A Place to Shoot, 13250 Pleasanton Road, San Antonio, TX 78221.
Phone: 210-628-1888
Facilities include: Outdoor Pistol (3 - 50 yds), Outdoor Rifle (25 - 200 yds), Muzzleloading, Trap, Skeet, Sporting Clays
Range Access: Public

San Antonio - Bracken Rifle and Pistol Range, 19140 Marbach Lane, San Antonio, TX 78266.
Phone: 210-651-9009
Facilities include: Outdoor Pistol (3.5.7.15 & 25 yds), Outdoor Rifle (50 & 100 yds), Pistol Silhouette, Muzzleloading, Skeet
Range Access: Public

San Antonio - Bullet Hole Shooting Range, 2715 Grosenbacher Rd., San Antonio, TX 78245.
Phone: 210-679-6781
Facilities include: Outdoor Pistol (7 - 15 - 25 - 50 Yds), Outdoor Rifle (100 - 200 - 300 Yds), Muzzleloading, Sporting Clays, Archery, Airgun
Range Access: Public
Email: Rangemaster@bullethole.com

San Antonio - Bullet Hole Shooting Range, 2715 Grosenbacher Rd, San Antonio, TX 78245.
Phone: 210-679-6781
Facilities include: Outdoor Pistol (7yds, 15yds, 25yds), Outdoor Rifle (50yds, 100yds, 200yds, 30), Rifle Silhouette, Pistol Silhouette, Muzzleloading, Airgun
Hours of Operation: 10am-8pm 7 days
Range Access: Public
Web Site: www.bullethole.com
Email: oo_michele_oo@sbcglobal.net

San Antonio - Central Catholic H.S., 1403 N. St. Mary's Street, San Antonio, TX 78215.
Phone: 210-225-6794x2
Facilities include: Indoor Rifle (10 meters), Archery
Range Access: Private

San Antonio - National Shooting Complex, 5931 Roft Rd., San Antonio, TX 78253.
Phone: 210-688-3371
Facilities include: Outdoor Pistol (50 yds.), Outdoor Rifle (100 yds.), Trap, Skeet, Sporting Clays
Range Access: Private

San Antonio - San Antonio Gun Club Inc., P.O.Box 6966, San Antonio, TX 78209.
Phone: 210-828-9860
Facilities include: Trap, Skeet, Sporting Clays
Range Access: Public

San Antonio - San Antonio Rifle and Pistol Club - Camp Bullis, Camp Bullis, San Antonio, TX 78257.
Phone: 210-829-1906
Facilities include: Outdoor Pistol (25 & 50 yds), Outdoor Rifle (25 to 1000 Yds), Muzzleloading
Range Access: Private
Email: shotgunslade@aol.com

http://www.nrahq.org/shootingrange/findlocal.asp?State=TX

Welcome to Alamotown! :D

[Redhat]

Thanks TxCajun!

Sounds like I'll find plenty of places to stay busy!

[TxCajun]

I don't know where you currently live, but you'll find Texas to be a pretty gun friendly state. See you at the range or the gun show!

And, welcome to San Antonio! :)

[BrennanKG]

First I'd like to say hello to everyone, then thank Redhat for asking, and TxCajun for answering.

My family and I are moving out to San Antonio (Helotes, actually) this summer and I had been wondering the same thing.

Coming from PRK, I'm truly looking forward to living in a state that doesn't discourage its citizens from owning firearms.


Thanks,
B.

[Dacoda]

Bullethole is my favorite. You get to walk out and change your targets after a seize fire is called. I like that about Bullethole.

A place to shoot charges you by the gun, and has fixed targets. You can't walk out to the range. Although they have an awesome gunsmith working there. Prices are a little more steep.

San Antonio Gun Club is a Member/Non-Member place, Members get discounts, but it's open to Non Members as well... It's a shotgun only range, they have trap, skeet, 5-stand. It's a nice hoity toity place where all the old retired people go with their $2,000 over/under skeet guns.

Bracken is ok, it's very inexpensive but they don't accept plastic. So have some cash on hand.

As far as gun shops go, definitely check out powderhorn, great selection on milsurp. And the most reasonably priced shop around.

Welcome to San Antonio :)

[marriedguy1]

A buddy of mine likes to shoot out here
http://www.blackhawkrange.com/

I've never been out there with him so I can't comment on the quality of the place or the cost.
I've only shot at Bracken Range because it is very close to my home relatively speaking.
There is also a newer range off of Hwy 46 near New Braunfels. It costs 75 for a year membership and you and your spouse can go as much as you like. I also have not tried this place out, but the gun counter guy at Sportsmans Warehouse highly recommended it.

[Outsider_10fp]

Even though I am in NC, The Bullet Hole is by far the coolest Range in SA.
I used to pull loads quiet alot into S.A. (Truck driver/ owner) and I always left an extra day or two to go shooting there.
The back range is either 2 or 3 hundred yards, they have a middle range that was under const' for a while , so I dont know about that. Then the pistol range is pretty good too.
You can rent FA items also, MP5, Uzi, and not sure what else. They have a HAWTY that owns/manages the place, but Rabbi (XDTALK) and I forget his name on AR and Glocktalk, dates her :( .
My vote goes for The Bullet Hole.

BTW: I found my memebership ID for them just yesterday while I was "
thining out" my wallet. I found about 9 memberships for ranges from NC to AZ

[TangSafetyM77]

I live in San Antonio, a great place. You have all the information here, I'll throw in my 2 cents. I like the Bracken Range. They are serious about safety and have good solid benches. 100 yd rifle range, $7/gun. I took my CHL class there.
I don't care for the bullethole because the benches are elevated wooden platforms that move around, especially when they are busy and there are people walking aroun behind the line. You can shoot 2 and 300 yards there which is nice, but the rickety benches make it hard to test loads or really shoot for accuracy at long range.
I second the Powderhorn, good selection and decent prices. The guys that work there are polite and will help you immediately. Dury's has higher prices, but good service. They gurantee any gun bought from them for life, new or used, which is pretty rare. David Dury is the son of the founder and a good gunsmith. He has done some work for me and I have been pleased with the turnaruond time, advice, and results.
The Saxet shows will normally have the best prices, I have an FFL friend who is a 911 dispatcher but sells guns as a side business. He will order any gun for you for cost +10% and has a real reasonable price on CHL certification. PM me if you want his contact info in the future.

[GEM]

IIRC, from a friend - the Camp Bullus range was closed to civilians after 9/11. If it reopened, that's good but I haven't heard that.

As far as stores - I've shopped at Dury's and they are nice place. Prices are good for a store. For something not standard and smithing, they are quality outfit.

The gun show is cheaper for standard items. Ammo is best bought for standard practice rounds at WalMart or Academy.

In fact on the intersection of SH-151 and 410 there is a nexus of Academy, Sportman's Warehouse and WalMart for the big store experience.

So if I wanted a Glock 19 - it would be $459 at the show and $50 to 100 more at a store.

Nagel's is pricey and can be attitudinally challenged at times - some folks are very friendly and some get snooty.

Ranges - I shoot IDPA at Blackhawk. For casual shooting, I shoot at Dietz on 46. It is a drive but pleasant. Didn't like the Place to Shoot.

Most outdoor ranges here suffer from the HEAT and the need to moderate your shooting due to the doofus next to you with a Kel-tec 32 ACP that he insists on shooting at 25 yards.

We really need an indoor range for just pistol practice.

For more info:

www.krtraining.com as an Austin area range and match FAQ that covers San Antonio also.

www.rivercityshooters.com has IPSC and IDPA and links.

www.texastactical.com - a bit of a drive but carbine, three gun, IDPA and a range.

There are other matches at Cedar Ridge and an outfit out of there has a mailing list that covers steel, and assorted other shooting fun.

There are significant shotgun resources also as mentioned. There's a big shotgun complex - the National Shooting Complex - http://www.nationalshootingcomplex.com/

[1911jerry]

I will be moving to San Antonio July 26th. Bought a house near the 151 and the 410. I hope to meet a few of you all in the future.

When house hunting, I "accidentally" stayed at the Courtyard by Marriott right next to the Saxet gun show on the first weekend of the month.....

I appreciate your info on the gun shops.

All the best

Jerry

[jeremywills]

I live in the NE Area. That means Bracken, Dietz and Cedar Ridge are the closest.

Everything else is on the South or West sides of town, for me a decent drive. FWIW Bullet hole is a cool place. Michelle who runs the front is very nice, the entire staff is pretty good. Only place Im aware of that that allows FA. One of these days I need to do a mag dump or two when I get an itch to head out there.

As far as gunshops go, Powderhorn is a nice place. I typically frequented Jim McKee's, but hes retiring and trying to sell the shop, so I dont know what he status is on it. I havent been in there for a while now. He did stock 7.62x25 on a regular basis so partly the reasoning I went alot and its close to home. Just down the road from the powderhorn is a decent pawnshop, the Actionpawn on Marbach and 410. Talk to Will, very nice guy. They do a lot of buy sale and trade, new and used stuff, I have been very lucky and found several nice milsurps in there.

I 90 percent of the time hang out at Bracken, look for a young short guy in glasses with the milsurps. :)

Welcome to town. I agree, an Indoor pistol range would be sweet. There used to be one and word I heard was someone was considering reopening it. Lets hope so.

[Grayrock]

I live close to Dietz's. One thing I don't like there is having to step over the cow patties!!

There IS an indoor range in San Antonio (and don't you immigrants here start calling it "San Antone":fire: :cuss: :banghead: :barf: !!) It is : http://www.texasthunderrange.com/ I have not been there. It LOOKS very nice and is a members only set up.

Anyone remember that range out on West Avenue past Blanco? Definitely dating myself with that one!

[lmccrock]

www.krtraining.com as an Austin area range and match FAQ that covers San Antonio also.
Great resource.

www.texastactical.com - a bit of a drive but carbine, three gun, IDPA and a range.
Maybe that was intended to be: http://www.texastactical.net/ (www.texastactical.net/). Members only range, everyone welcome for matches. I do not shoot IDPA, but the carbine and 3-gun matches are great.

Up I-35 before Austin is Cabelas. Prices are not always so good, but it is an experience.:)

Lee

[jeremywills]

wow, it did not know it was open yet, im about to buy a nice Makarov I found the other day, have to wait till fri for the funds, i guess i know where im gonna be looking into to go check it out once i purchase it
:)

[badgerw]

Check out Wayne Ho at:

Hoguns Sporting
7914 Culebra Rd
San Antonio, TX 78251
(210) 521-2288

Wayne's active in the local IDPA/IPSC matches. Great store and a great guy.

I also recommend Alan Jones at:

AJC Sports Shop
723 South Main, Suite A
Clute, TX 77531
979-265-4867

Alan's shop is down near the Gulf Coast near Freeport. He usually comes to the Saxet shows on the first full weekend of the month. Great prices and selection.

Bill

[bender]

I just found this board today. been living in S.A. for 32 years. My usual range is Braken since I live near it.

Way back in 1990 or around there, I used to go to an indoor range somewhere in the Bandera Road area (inside 1604). I think it was called Percision Arms. Was supposed to be "Precision Arms" but the owners mis-spelled Precision as Percision on all their legal docs, so the name stuck... Whatever happened to that range, and is there any other nice indoor ranges around here?

I used to be really into guns & shooting sports back in the late-80's to early-90's but I have slacked off in the last several years. Now my kid is getting into it... so I take him shooting occasionally...

Have used Dietz a long time ago, but back then I don't remember the owners being all that friendly... Went to La Paloma (on 1863 between 281 & new braunfels) and really liked that range. Been to A Place To Shoot only once, been to bracken several times, and the indoor Percision Arms a few times also.

[Grayrock]

Bender (funny- I used to have a pet crawdad called "Bender")- There IS an indoor range in San Antonio. See above posts. La Paloma is still there. It is now called Cedar Ridge Range. They have sporting clays, 5 stand and rifle and pistol ranges. It is where I do my CAS (Cowboy Action Shooting) with the Alamo Area Moderators (check them out at www.alamoareamoderators.com )

Best,

Grayrock

[sw460mag]

i go to cabelas in buda ,alot better prices and more of every thing

[M2]

Well, was looking for some info on Powerhorn as it is near where I work (Lackland AFB), and lo and behold THR comes through! I bought my Springfield XD-45 ACP from Sportsman's Warehouse at 410 and 151, they are some great folks who work there. There is another Sportsman's Warehouse up off of 1604 and 281, and they are equally as nice.

I took my CHL at the Bullethole and Michele taught the class. She and her Mom are doing a great job running the range since Vern passed away earlier this year. The range is OK as long as it is not crowded, I had heard some horror stories about it before I went there but I have fired there many times and have never witnessed any buffoonery. I have also fired at Bracken and it is a nice set-up as well, but go early to both and they do get hot in the afternoons!

With the new Bass Pro Shop opening soon at 1604 and 10, we will have a ton of great shops. I have also stopped by Cabela's on my way back from Austin, what an interesting place that is! They may be a bit more expensive, but their selection is huge. It took Sportsman's Warehouse a few weeks to get me a XD-45 Service, but I noticed Cabela's had on in the display case for not too much more.

I also live near Helotes, off of Braun between 1604 and 1560. It's a nice area, our old house is only a mile from where our new one is. We moved here from Germany in '99, and left in '02 when I got my NATO assignment in Belgium. We came back last year and I retired from the USAF a few months back. I am now a contractor working on Security Hill at Lackland, and there are a lot of shooters in my organization.

I do have a question, I recently acquired a Mossberg 500 and would like to put a few rounds through it. I know Bracken has a shotgun range to the left when you come into the parking lot, but do any of the other ranges here in town have one? Bracken is only a half hour away from me, but the traffic can be a bear sometimes...

Cheers! M2

[bender]

I live in the Judson Road / 1604 area. Been to Sportsman's Warehouse on 281/1604 a couple times, but Academy seems cheaper on guns.

My boss told me about the Bass Pro opening up across from Fiesta Tx. Will check that out when open. I work near that area.

I've driven by Cabela's in Buda lots of times when driving up to Austin. Never stopped in.

Bracken has a shotgun range to the left when you come into the parking lot, but do any of the other ranges here in town have one?
Cedar Ridge does (I think), at least they used to when they were called La Paloma. Its on 1863, which is up 281 about 10 miles north of 1604.

[keystone hog hunter]

a place to shoot has different shotgun ranges and nice people.. national shooting for the vest and hat set.. shotgun ranges all over town but these are my favs..

[keystone hog hunter]

ps... the powderhorn a very nice placegots to be hurting with the sportsmans wharehouse down the street..and we sure do miss dave... but give them a chance very nice people..dont miss the black powder section..

[bender]

I went into texas guns for the first time today. That's the place that has the Texas Thunder indoor range next door. They were telling me that san antonio now has a law that indoor ranges are no longer allowed in town. Texas Thunder was around before the law, so they are OK to stay. Maybe that's why their prices are extremely high.

[GEM]

I have never heard that there was a new law to that effect. Tell them to cite the ordinance and then post it here, please.

If there isn't and they actually said that - then that's a real problem with them.

[bender]

ok. I'm just repeating what the guy said. I may go back in there to look around, its a big store with tons of stuff. Prices seemed a little high, or at least full retail, but maybe they deal, I don't know.

I googled on the subject, but couldn't find anything..

[BrennanKG]

I just stopped in at TExas Guns today with my wife.
We arrived in San Antonio from San Diego, late Sunday night. My wife finally broke down after hearing me insist on getting to a TX gun store, and we were driving along Bandera when we saw it.

Spoke to a very polite and patient guy named Jim at the store.
The store was clean, well-stocked, and nicely displayed.
I didn't ask about the range so I can't comment to that end.

I'll be checking out other stores of course (OK, I'll be checking out ALL OF THEM) but this one seemed pleasant enough and my wife liked the idea of an indoor range.


Hurray we're in TX!

B.

[Dirty Bob]

I use the Bracken Range because it's close, but I find the Blackhawk Range, outside SATX, in Atascosa County, to be my favorite. They're friendly, it was 4.75 a gun last time I went (about 10 days ago), not crowded like Bracken often seems to be, and I can mark and replace my own targets.

It's a bit far, but it's not a terrible drive (much shorter than driving out into the National Forest from San Diego!), and I've always felt welcome.

Regards,
Dirty Bob

[M2]

I agree, the folks at Powderhorn are very friendly, and they have a nice selection.

I also stopped by the Bullethole on my way home last week and found they can accomodate individuals like myself who just want to fire their shotguns. They ask that you bring some cardboard for a target, and they will take care of the rest. Of course no clay shooting or anything fancy like that.

Speaking of which, does anyone know the story on the National Shooting Complex (http://www.nationalshootingcomplex.com/)? Can you go there to shoot, or do they only host competitions? It is real close to me, and it would be convenient if they aren't too expensive.

Cheers! M2

[Grayrock]

AFAIK, the National Skeet Shooting Complex is not open to the public. There is a skeet and trap range at Randolph Air Force Base- anyone know if the public can use it?

[GEM]

The Texas Thunder Range has a very expensive membership, IIRC. $365 for a year. Thus, if I shot there once a month it would be $30 ish for a session. Since I shoot about two matches a month for $17 each and then might go to Dietz for $7 bucks - it makes no sense.

If Bass Pro has an indoor range - they will be in trouble with that business model. If they had a $10 an hour fee, I might use them. If I have to buy ammo way over big box prices - forget it.

[Dirty Bob]

I called TX Thunder a while ago, and they quoted me a price of $25/hour for non-members. Way too rich for my blood.

Regards,
Dirty Bob

[M2]

Grayrock

Randolph does have a range...but it is only open to active duty military, dependents, retirees and Randolph civilian employees...

Skeet Range

The Skeet and Trap Range hosts monthly National Skeet Shooting Association (NSSA) and Texas Skeet Shooting Association (TSSA) registered shoots. The facility consists of two skeet ranges and one trap range.

(web site (http://www.servicesatrandolph.com/cm/templates/community_support.asp?articleid=38&zoneid=4))

Same for Camp Bullis...

Camp Bullis also offers a Sportsman's Range where shooters can fire their personally-owned firearms. The range is open to DOD ID card holders on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m.-2 p.m., October-May and from 8 a.m.-Noon, June-September. Call (210 295-7577/7529 ) before coming out to use the range. Firearms must be registered with the Camp Bullis Outdoor Recreation Center.

(web site (http://www.fortsamhoustonmwr.com/rfd/campbullis/default.asp))

What I don't know is if a military ID card holder like myself can bring someone on base to shoot. If you find out, please let me know.

Cheers! M2

[bender]

has anybody dealt with Mckee's Guns on Randolph Blvd lately? There's a new owner. His prices seem great, but there's not much stock in the store. Has to order what you want. Also wants full payment at time of order, which I'm not crazy about.

[M2]

I went by Powderhorn again today, with my boss who is also looking at the same shotgun I am. The folks there are nice enough, but we both did our homework and found that we could order the same gun online for about $60 cheaper. Now, you have to factor in shipping and FFL charges, but you also have to factor in sales tax if bought locally, so as such the online price was still a lot better. But when I asked if there were any discounts if we bought two of the shotguns, I was was promptly told that the price on the tag is the price of the gun. Well...:neener: on that!

Neither of us expected them to match the online price, but we were expecting at least some sort of discount. I mean, there were over a half dozen of these particular model shotguns on the rack. I guess we were mistaken. So, the end result is the Powderhorn--although friendly--lost two sales and we both walked out empty handed. No one came out ahead. :banghead:

I tried calling the dealer in NC who has them at the cheaper price once I got home, but they were closed for the day. I'll try again tomorrow.

Of course there is always next month's gun show! :evil:

[Nicolai]

Lots of good info here.
I've shot at Bracken and it's decent (good benches). Guy running the place is very safety-conscious and really helpful. Have a friend who's used Cedar Ridge a lot and likes it. The Dietz Range in New Braunfels is home to a couple of shooting clubs--one a silhouette club (nice range!) and a Schuetzen club (www.nbshootingclub.org).
Unfortunately, New Braunfels is down to only a couple of places that sell guns, so I "have" to spend my gun $ at McBride's, Dury's, AJC, or the shows around (SAXET is 1st weekend of month in San Antonio and 3d weekend of month in Austin). Like lots of others, I've spent some time drooling over the selection at Cabela's in Buda. Cabela's was one of the major supporters for the recent Friends of NRA event in New Braunfels, so, thanks to them, and it's one more reason for shopping there.
If you're into collecting, there's the Alamo Arms Collector Assn.--not sure if I got the name right--that might be worth a check.
So, enjoy being a naturalized Texan and keep 'em in the 10-ring!

[BrennanKG]

Just made it down to Dury's Guns yesterday.
Amazingly helpful folks and a great selection.
Some gems at the store:

FN FS2000, felt nice when shouldered, although I didn't care for the trigger

DW commander in 10mm with an extra BarSto 40 barrel, very nice little pistol

HK USP45CT, REALLY made me miss my full-sized USP45

Sig 220, old style (no rail) but NIB/unfired for such a nice price I was sorely tempted despite being on a continuing hunt for a P220 SAO.

Met the owner's wife/co-owner. She was sweet and helpful. All the employees there were amazing, especially the young gentleman whom helped me with the handguns, Kyle I believe.

I will definitely be going back to Dury's.

I'm probably going to visit a few more stores in the city today.
:)

I
B.

[bender]

I've never been to Dury's, and I've lived in S.A. for 33 years... :o

I never took the drive since I figured any nice, big gun store would have high prices.

maybe I should sometime...

[bender]

I went to Cedar Ridge today for the 2nd time. I went today with the same guy I went with last time. Well, today it turns out we both got a long lecture about "the rules". In particular, the rule about shooting the wooden target stand legs. Turns out last time, after we left, they say that they found out one of us shot one of the legs, and didn't report it. Well, today I said, I didn't know we shot one of the legs last time.

After we got done shooting today (great fun by the way... :) ) they give us both another LOOOOONNNGGG lecture about "the rules". Seems they saw one or both of us with "something in your hand" while the other one was walking around picking up brass or changing targets. Well, I made a HUGE EFFORT today, that every time my buddy was walking around, I had my gun laying on the table with the slide open. I would either just sit there and drink my coke, or check out the targets with my binocs. So we got a very long lecture about "nothing at all in your hands..." not drinks, not binocs, not anything.

So, now we've gotten 2 lectures out of 2 visits. They also keep a notebook about everyone they've given lectures to, and now we are in there twice. They told us they've banned LOTS of people for not following these strict rules.

Well, in my opinion, and I've been shooting since the late 1970s without incident, and my shooting buddy has been shooting since the 1940s, their rules are IDIOTIC!! I'm not going there again. It's not worth being treated like a little kid in grade school.

I like being able to walk to my targets and change them, but if they are gonna be spying on us and writing us up if the other one is holding a drink, or binoculars, screw them.

Looks like Braken from here on. They are very friendly there, and they appreciate my business, and tell me that every time.

[BrennanKG]

That would be annoying.
I'm all for standing back and away from firearms while the range is cold and others check/adjust/set targets. But objecting to you drinking your coke and using binoculars? That seems a bit excessive.

I've been to the Bullet Hole range 4 times now, and I really like it.



B.

[bender]

Cedar Ridge has all these "separate areas". Its not one big open range. I mean, that there may be, say 4 benches in a 10-yard wide range - with a back berm, and a bern on both sides of the range. Then next to you, over the berm, will be the next range. So, therefore me & my buddy had "our own little range" there was nobody else in view. We were surrounded by a berm to the left, to the right, and at the back. Basically, you and your shooting buddy call your own cease fires, while one of you goes and changes the target. Meanwhile, people in the next ranges (over the berms) are still shooting.

And while someone is changing the targets, in your own little range, the other one better just be sitting there with their hands in their lap doing absolutely nothing!!! God forbid if he picks up binocs or a coke or anything... he'll get a scolding like a little kid!!!

I doubt I'll ever go there again. Too bad, I used to go there a lot way back when it was called "La Paloma".

edit: I need to try the Bullet Hole. Never been there. Where is it anyway?

[Dirty Bob]

Although it's off to the south a ways, I like the Blackhawk Range a lot. Very nice folks, and I've always felt welcome. Haven't tried the Bullet Hole.

Regards,
Dirty Bob

[Reloader]

Some good things about Dietz's range:

Family memberships available. Used to be 45/yr.
You can bring others and not be charged if they are on your membership.
The Central Texas
sillouette range is also there. He OWNS the property.
Excellwent gunsmith.

Downside:
closed during deer season. He hunts too and wants deer meet.

Great place to go. the fee covers all guns and 2 targets. Not priced per gun.

[BrennanKG]

Bender,

http://www.bullethole.com/main/map/map.html

1604 to
Potranco Rd. to
Grosenbacher

I shoot there every Tuesday morning with my father-in-law in case anyone wants to join us.



B.

[bender]

does Dietz let you change your own targets? I went there maybe one time back in the mid-1980s, but have not been there since then.

regarding Bullet Hole, I found it by using Mapquest... but how far is it outside of 1604? I will be coming from 1604 / Interstate 10, then turning outside the loop on Potranco Rd. I'm wondering how far Grosenbacher Rd is on Potranco.

edit: ok, I was posting this at the same time as Brennan above...

another edit: oh yeah, I forgot. When we first got to Cedar Ridge today, and they asked what range I wanted to shoot at... I said 50 yds. (I had my SKS and my M-1 carbine). Then they went into this lecture about how they wanted to be sure shooters could keep the holes on the paper, and not the target stand legs.... so they set up my target at 30 yds instead...

Another thing, they keep everyone's drivers license. No other ranges do that do they?

[BrennanKG]

Bender,

I'd say Grosenbacher is 2 or 3 miles down Potranco.



B.

[BrennanKG]

I don't know about other local ranges, but Bullet Hole doesn't hold your DL.



B.

[M2]

Just an update. I bought the Mossberg Persuader at the gun show a few weeks ago, I only saved about $30 over the price at Powerderhorn, but the main point was I wasn’t going to spend my money at a shop that was so rude about a simple inquiry on a discount for buying multiple guns. Maybe that is my opinion only, but that one incident means I won’t be spending any of my hard earned money at that particular shop. I have to say I am sorry to say that, as most of the gentlemen who work there were very friendly, but it only takes one bad experience to drive a customer off and that one incident was enough for me!

I took the new Mossie out to the Bullethole a few days later, Michele told me I could fire it on the 25 yd pistol range. As there was no one else on the pistol range, I could not only shoot my shotgun, I could also move down to the shorter ranges to test out my new Springfield 1911 and fire a few rounds through my XD-45. As always, the folks at the Bullethole were friendly and easy to get along with. When there is a range officer on the pistol range, they are very good about making sure everyone is safe without patronizing anyone. I have also found where there is no range official around, everyone does a good job of looking out for each other.

Same holds true for Sportsman’s Warehouse, I constantly go by there to buy ammo or other gear. Just yesterday I was at the one at 410 and 151, and asked if I could see if the Uncle Mike’s holster I was looking at would hold my SA 1911, so they let me try one of the guns from the case. Sure, not much of a favor to ask, but they were glad to let me make sure it was correct so I wouldn’t have to bring it back later. That is the kind of customer service that keeps bringing me back to that store. Now, with the new Bass Pro Shop opening up later this week (19 Oct), it will be interesting to see how they are; but to be honest I expect that place to be a madhouse for the first month or two. I still plan to check it out.

One last, I am at Camp Bullis this week for training, so I plan to stop by and find out what the rules and regs are concerning their range. I might just go ahead and register my guns with them, so I can bring them on base at a later time without hassle. I will post once I get more info, or a chance to check out their range.

Cheers! M2

[bender]

As always, the folks at the Bullethole were friendly and easy to get along with. When there is a range officer on the pistol range, they are very good about making sure everyone is safe without patronizing anyone.

ok, 2 or 3 miles on Potranco, thanks Brennan... I was hoping it was just a few miles.

M2, Bullet Hole sounds like a good range. Let me add to my above complaints about Cedar Ridge... They made me read aloud the rule about shooting target stand legs even by accident, must be reported... So I read the first half of it... then the guy banged his finger on the rest of it... for me to read...

I swear, I don't know if one of us accidentally shot one of the stand legs last time we were there, although they say that one of us did. Well, my buddy put his target out at 50 yds for his Glock .40s&w... maybe he hit a leg. The point is we didn't know we shot one of the .59 1x1 wooden legs. I mean, 59 cents - some major damage there. The more I think about it, I should have told the guy "forget it, I'm never coming back".

[M2]

Or you you can take 90 West just past 1604 and there is a righthand turn off on to Grosenbacher...

Cheers! M2

[Jacks]

I've been shooting at the Cedar Ridge Range for several years and think it's a great facility. Yes they have a few rules to follow... so what? I usually shoot with three other guys and we've never had an entrance or an exit lecture in any shape or fashion. The owner's are honest, don't charge you ridiculous "per gun" fees and simply want to provide a safe environment for their clients. I don't even like people sitting at the tables when I'm down range.

[bender]

yes, ok. Well I myself started going there back when they very first opened up, which if I remember was back in the 1980s. It was called La Paloma Shooting Range back then.

I used to live in the Bulverde area back then. In 1996 I moved into San Antonio, so I didn't go to that range anymore for many years. Now in 2006, I've been there twice, and I doubt I'll ever go back. I don't know if these guys are different owners than the first ones, or still the same ones but way older. However, back in the 1980s I never got any lectures and was not treated like crap.

I've been to several ranges in the S.A. area, including A Place To Shoot, La Paloma / Cedar Ridge, Braken Range, and the range that used to be in Helotes, off of Bandera Rd. Never, ever had any problems, or complaints from any ranges... except Cedar Ridge.
Plus... right off the bat, they keep your license. So they are treating you like a potential bad guy as soon as you walk in.

Yeah, $10 flat fee with no gun limit is pretty good. According to Bullet Hole's website, their range fee is $7.50 with no gun limit. I guess that makes Bullet Hole's pricing even BETTER. I can't wait to try out Bullet Hole. According to other members here, they treat you like an adult and not a 4-year old.

Cedar Ridge was telling me & the guy I went with... "we've banned over 140 people so far for not following these rules exactly...". Yeah, ok. over 140 people spending their money somewhere else. Maybe after they ban everyone except just a few, maybe they'll go out of business.

I seriously doubt that all of these "140 people" were jumping around and waving their guns in the air and acting crazy.

and another thing. I'm around 75% deaf (from a motorcycle accident, not from guns), and the guy I was with (72 years old, ex military) is very hard of hearing also (just due to age). Well, these owners get a little irritated when you don't hear something they're saying...

:cuss:

[BrennanKG]

Hey,

I'm just glad we have such options!

Different strokes...

:)


B.

[M2]

According to Bullet Hole's website, their range fee is $7.50 with no gun limit

Bender

Yep, you do have to pay a few bucks more the first time you go, to register and get your card; but after that it is only $7.50 to shoot with no limit on the number of guns.

Having done most of my shooting in the military (over 24 years in uniform), I am a staunch advocate of range safety. However, I am not a firm believer of the policy where "one person ****s their pants, and everyone has to wear diapers." Cedar Ridge's rules seem a bit extreme, I agree that everyone should be behind the firing line and all weapons are locked open when the range is cold; but not being able to drink a soda or look at your target with binoculars is over the top. Plus, what range brags about banning 140 people? I hate to damn the place without ever having been there, but if Bender's experience is any measure of how they treat their customers, then it won't be on my list of places to check out. I don't see any reason why Bender wouldn't be telling us anything than the honest truth.

As for Camp Bullis, due to the rain we were able to track down the Outdoor Recreation shop today. I will try to get by there tomorrow and post some info. I know many of you probably have never been back there, but it is some beautiful country and I would suspect it is full of deer and other game to hunt. The season out there runs November to January, according to their web site (http://www.fortsamhoustonmwr.com/rfd/campbullis/default.asp). The ROE can be found here (http://www.fortsamhoustonmwr.com/rfd/campbullis/huntingguide.asp).

Cheers! M2

[bender]

they weren't bragging about banning people, just mentioning it... as a warning to us I guess...

Personally, I like Cedar Ridge. I like the "separateness" of the ranges. Shooters basically have their own range to shoot. The people on the other sides of the berms to your left and to your right, have their own little range. You and whoever you are shooting with pretty much decide on your own cease fires.

However, the owners driving back and forth watching everyone, or else just walking around watching everyone... even if you're doing nothing wrong... it still makes you worried... "am I doing something wrong..." :confused:

My shooting buddy (who still intends to go there) told me, from now on, when he's shooting with someone, and that someone decides to walk around a pick up brass, or change targets... my buddy is gonna raise his hands in the air and stand there like that... as if a mugger came up behind him and said "this is a stick up!". Just in case.

Another thing I just remembered. When me and my buddy were shooting (we were shooting slow and easy and careful), someone or more than one nearby was really blazing away... so fast it almost sounded like full auto.

... and yet... me & my friend get the lectures....

[BrennanKG]

It's funny, or maybe sad how easy it is to get a bad association to a given place, be it a store, restaurant, or gun range.

A handful of years ago (6 if I had to guess) a new indoor range opened up in San Diego. It was the 2 range within the city, and the only one that was set up for rifles as well as pistols.

I went there soon after its opening and found it staffed by a bunch of arrogant, hotdogging shop-monkeys. I went back to the other, older range, which was less posh but run by decent folks. I went back to the "newer" range just before I moved to TX and found that the current crop of folks working there were amazing.

I'm not sure what the lesson is there, I just wanted to share the anecdote.

;)

B.

[M2]

Bragging, warning, whatever...sounds like a threat to me; otherwise, why mention it? Seriously, those kinds of comments put me off any range.

Plus, I enjoy shotting at the Bullethole. They have been friendly and helpful to me and all my friends who go shoot there. The only reason I am considering Bullis is that it is much closer to where I live (Braun & 1604).

Cheers! M2

[bender]

I'm going to go to Bullet Hole next time. I'm also interested in seeing how much farther of a drive it is for me. I'm estimating Cedar Ridge is about an 18 mile drive for me.

I wish they opened earlier in the day. I usually go at 9am, before ranges get more crowded.

I'm guessing Bullet Hole will be maybe only 5 miles more.

I'll probably go by myself, or maybe take my son. Probably just one or two guns, and just meet the owners and check out the range.

[bender]

Well, I finally made a trip to the Bullet Hole range in san antonio. Got to the shop, paid the girl 10.50, she took my pic for an ID card. Next time it will just be $7.50. Went to the pistol 15-yd range, spent about 2 hours there with a buddy.

Everybody on the firing line was aware of who wanted to change targets, or just to put up their first target. No cease fire problems.... after a little bit, a range officer started hanging around, but he was very cool and basically just called occasional "cease fire", and then "fire when ready".

Very pleasant trip all around. The girl in the office was friendly, the range officer was friendly, the shooters next to me were friendly...

too bad its a 40 min. drive for me... doh !!!

next I'll give Dietz a try. Went there once back in the 1980s, but haven't been there since.

[BrennanKG]

Hey Bender.
I was there today as well.
It was really busy, much busier than I'm used to seeing.






B.

[Jody Johnson]

I go to SA once or twice a year for training...luv th' city...and I always go to Nagels and sometimes to Texas Guns.

I've dealt with both and enjoyed the experience.

Nagels is to me much like Collector's Firearms in Houston, if perhaps a bit smaller.

I've found that anything that I've ever bought from either of them has been fairly marked or better towards the prospective buyer. BUT, you need to have some idea of the worth of that which you're seeking, OR if you don't, be totally "up-front" about not knowing. Most employees will, instead of "puttin' it to ya'", try to be helpful and honest, at least in my experience. IF ya' don't try to flam them, that is!

Good luck in a really neat city!

[bender]

Hey Bender.
I was there today as well.
It was really busy, much busier than I'm used to seeing.

what time were you there? I was there from 10am to around 12 noon. Me and the guy I was with are both around 6'3" and were at the 15-yd firing line.

It wasn't crowded at all until after 11 or so...

[M2]

I figured it might be crowded today, with it being a Federal holiday and all. But I almost took the wife out to Bullet Hole as the kids were in school and I thought it might be a good opportunity to get used to some of my handguns and maybe one of the shotguns (.410, not the 12ga). But alas we didn't go...

It'll probably be around Christmas before she gets to go with me, while her mom is here and can babysit the kids.

It is almost a 30 minute drive for me, which sucks as it is so close to where I work (on Lackland AFB) but I have to come all the way home to get my weapons. Can't take them on base, y'know...

Cheers! M2

[BrennanKG]

what time were you there? I was there from 10am to around 12 noon. Me and the guy I was with are both around 6'3" and were at the 15-yd firing line.
It wasn't crowded at all until after 11 or so...

I don't think I got there until close to 1pm.

Ships in the...err...day.
:D

When I got there, Michelle hustling behind the counter. Had there been an organized shoot there earlier?

B.

[bender]

When I got there, Michelle hustling behind the counter. Had there been an organized shoot there earlier?
not that I know of...

next time I go there, I may take some rifles and hit the 100 yard range. I didn't see anybody at the 100-yd range while we were there...

I have 2 rifles I've never shot yet. A Mosin dated 1894, and a 1903 Springfield, re-arsenal dated 1943. Wouldn't mind dragging them to Bullet Hole to try them out....

[bender]

Finally made it to Dietz on Hwy 46. Turned out to be a 24 mile drive, going the "scenic" way (FM 3009).

Was trying out my new FN 9mm (FNP-9M).

Dietz is a pretty laid back range. There's nobody keeping an eye on people, at least I didn't notice anyone. All shooters were responsible and considerate of others. A lot of my brass was landing in the middle of a bunch of large cow patties unfortunately... but I picked it up anyway :) Noboby else shooting was a reloader, apparantly... they just left their brass. Probably thought I was weird... :uhoh:

$75 for a one-year membership seems very cheap.

[M2]

Just to note that I bought a Century AK-47 (actually a Yugo M70AB2) and took it out to the Bullethole to shoot. Not only was the range officer friendly and helped me try to sight it in, he brought out his Saiga and let me fire a few rounds through it. I also had a Norinco 56S that I am "gunsitting" and we both shot that as well. I was fairly accurate with the Saiga and Norinco, but the Century is way off. I emailed Ho Guns to see if they can do something about it, but I just wanted to mention yet once again how nice the folks out at the Bullethole are...

Cheers! M2

[bill larry]

+1 For Cedar Ridge Range in Bulverde

I'm a San Antonio native, and that was my place to shoot, other than Bracken (only shot pistol there, though, didn't care for their rifle line setup).

The couple that runs Cedar Ridge is awesome, just play by their rules and all will be well. They keep a running book of idiots they've asked never to come back. In fact, one time, the woman jumped all over me when I got there because she thought I was someone they had banned. After she looked my name up and found out it wasn't me, she was extremely apologetic. I let it go. They leave you alone there and dont really care how you shoot as long as you are safe and do not destroy their property.

FWIW, the owner, Greg Ferris, and his wife, are both very safety concious and dont want anything in anyones hands when anyone is down range. The reason? THEY HAVE BOTH SURVIVED GUNFIGHTS. In fact, Mr. Ferris has been in two seperate ones, both when armed gangmembers tried to rob his gunstore on Austin Highway. At least one left in a bag.

He would be an excellent individual to take a class from.

[M2]

And as for gun shops, I think I found a new favorite with HoGuns Sporting on Culebra. I stopped by and talked with Wayne yesterday and he was extremely helpful. I am taking my M70AB2 there next week to get the front sight straightened. My only problem with HoGuns is that there is too much temptation, I will be very hard pressed not to walk out of there with a little less cash and another gun for the collection. Wayne's got a beautiful Springfield black stainless steel 1911 that would be covered with slobber if it wasn't protected in the display case! :neener:

Cheers! M2

[BrennanKG]

I looked for HoGuns on Culebra when we first moved here and was unable to find it.

Address?


B.

[GEM]

I think the Ferris gun fight was in a store on Hilterbrandt, IIRC - and I spelled it correctly.

[M2]

Brennan

7914 Culebra Rd, Suite 110
S.A., TX 78251
(210) 521-2288
hogunz@yahoo.com (yes, with a 'z' and not an 's')

About two miles up on your left as you go north on Culebra. Look for the Sonic, and it is in the strip mall right behind it. There is a sign, but the front of the store is all mirrored tint.

Call Wayne if you need help with directions.

Turns out quite a few people I work with go there.

Cheers! M2

[usmcgrunt]

This page got reccomended to me by another member! Glad he sent me the link! Hope to see some of you guys at some of the SA ranges!

Grunt Out!

[BrennanKG]

usmcgrunt,

Welcome!
We're glad to have you here.



B.

[usmcgrunt]

Thanks Brennan! Glad to be here! Just trying to read all the info on this thread alone! I live in Floresville but dont mind hitting all the gunshops in SA and now I may be joining in on the ranges! I might hit Blackhawk for the matches! I really like Drury's as well, Nice! Look forward to hitting the Saxet shows as well! Hope to mee some of you around the shops,ranges,shows!

Grunt Out!

[M2]

Grunt

Might want to check on SAXET, I went last month and was told it was the last one for several months as the venue (S.A. Airport Convention Center) was sold and would be leveled to build a new hotel. However, there was a tattoo show there this past weekend. The SAXET web site (http://saxetshows.com/_schedule.htm) just mentions the change, it does not state if there is a show or not. It used to list dates, now I notice it doesn't...:scrutiny:

Cheers! M2

[Richiec77]

I'm a newby to the SA area and have had great dealing with the powderhorn and Wayne at Hoguns. Wayne helped me set up my rig for comp shooting. Very hepful guy. Very knowledgeable. From what I've seen and the guns he's put out, he's almost a defacto for comp pistols.

Dave at the powderhorn has been super helpful with me and buying my 1st couple of handguns. I had bought a Sigma 9mm from him and a day later I was at Academy getting some ammo and saw the same piece for $50 less. When I called he said he would help me out by giving me a gift cert for $50. Great place to deal with so far. Their prices are definitly going to be higher then online. What store can really match online sales? The overhead is higher and they have to make enough to cover operating cost right?

Ever since I bought my Glock, I've been at the bullethole about 4x a week (I'm on terminal leave from Hood) Everyone there has been awesome to deal with. I've started shooting in their USPSA IPSC league and I love it. Never been more happy with a place then this. It's a family run business and it feels like it.

Hope to see some of you around the area.

Side note. I'm thinking about selling my glock 22 if anyone is interested. Just bought it, but the grip angle is giving me fits. Just isn't sitting natural enough for me. I need a more straight up grip angle.

[target4fun]

Ive been to all of the gun shops listed on this forum and by far durys has the best service and prices. I live 45 minutes from durys and would gladly make a drive there than to any other closer gun store because they are reasonably priced and service after the sale is the best in town.

[M2]

Just a revival to let everyone know that Sportsman's Warehouse at 410/151 is closing the end of January. They have a 'going out of business' sale going but the downside is that everything--to include non-sale items--are non-returnable, even at the Sportsman's Warehouse at 1604/281 which is remaining open.

Cheers! M2

[GEM]

By now, most of the firearms are picked over. The handguns are gone but the prices were a tad too much even with the discount.

Same with knives - base prices were too high. However, on some ammo, supplies, clothes, etc. You can do ok.

[1SOW]

+1 on Bullethole's League Shooting, RO's, shooters.

Shot through the barrel just last Sunday. I drive 35 miles to get there.
I'm thinking about trying AASA too....also good people!

I don't like their basic pistol range.
Bexar Community Range is closer for me, much more flexible, good people
too, but costs a little more.

[bender]

I hope SW at 1604/281 stays open, I spend a lot of money there.

[M2]

Bender

No plans to close, as far as I know.

And the firearms were picked over shortly after the sale started. What pissed me off was that I bought some rifle socks and they were full priced, so not everything is on sale and as I said, no refunds/exchanges allowed even for items purchased at the full price.

Cheers! M2

[jsimmons]

Ranges:

I've been to Bullet Hole, Bracken, Bexar County, and the CTSA silhouette range (next door to Dietz). Since the CTSA silhouette range is for competition (or member practice), it's not really appropriate to discuss in the same vein as public ranges, but their silhouette setup is pretty nice (but it could be better).

As far as Bullet Hole is concerned, sure it's inexpensive to shoot (if you're shooting more than one gun and one target, but I don't like the range layout. At the 50-yard rifle line, there's two pistol lines BEHIND you with no berms blocking the line of sight between the firing lines. The targets are hung from thick twine which is subjected to the nearly constant windy conditions there. Further, you're not permitted to shoot offhand on the 100-yard rifle line (I do ALL of my practice shooting offhand), and it's real easy to walk into the 100-yard field of fire - there is NOTHING preventing you from doing so - no signs, not fence, not evven orange traffic cones. Lastly, I have yet to see a range master - at all. The ONLY reason I've gone there is it's real close in terms of driving, and I can use my own targets. I consider it to be an unsafe range. They provide ear/eye protection, and those cheap plastic rests that should be filled with sand, but aren't (and rifles tend to slip off of them).

Bracken is the complete opposite of Bullet Hole - the targets are mounted on stationary frames, offhand shooting is permitted on all rifle firing positions, and there's a range master on duty at all times. The only problem I have with Bracken is that I can't use my own targets on weekends. It's also kinda pricey at $3.50 per gun, and $3.50 per target. Like someone else said, it can get crowded, but not unreasonably so. They provide ear/eye protection, carpeted rests, and (cheap) spotting scopes.

Bexar County Municiple is east 1604 on Highway 90, and is very poorly maintained as far as the rifle and pistol ranges are concerned. On the other hand, the skeet ranges are manicured lawns with bleachers for observers/audiences. They allow you to use your own targets, but the rifle and pistol range is completely unmonitored. I consider it to be an unsafe range if there's more than two or three people shooting. As far as I know, they do NOT provide ear/eye protection or spotting scopes.

Gun Shops

The PowderHorn (Loop 410 @ Highway 90) - Nice, clean and generally uncluttered store with lots of antique or replica firearms, lots of shotguns, and a lot of military surplus rifles (mostly russian stuff). There selection of .22's is limited, and lever guns seem to be an afterthought as far as stock on hand is concerned. HOWEVER, the folks are real nice, and their blacksmith is almost always available for simple "while-you-wait" service, and the smithing services are reasonably priced.

Dury's Guns (Hotwells off Highway 37) - Clean and uncluttered, but with lots of inventory. They are priced higher than many of the smaller shops, but every gun they sell - new OR used - has a lifetime warranty. I bought a CZ-452 Silhouette .22LR from them. I called them to see how much it would be to drill/tap a hole for a tang sight on my Henry .22 lever gun, and they quoted me $80. That's your typical "I-don't-want-to-do-it" price..

Hoguns (Culebra outside Loop 410) - I took my Henry .22LR in there for them to drill/tap a hole for a tang sight. WI asked if they could please put the globe sight (supplied by me) on the gun as well (killing two birds with one stone such as it was). The guy said "Nope, you can do that yourself." Needless to say, I was baffled as to why he would turn away business like that. I went ahead and had them drill/tap, but I won't ever go back to their store due to his refusal to install the globe site. After getting my rifle back ($35 and a week later), I went home and tried to remove the factory sight. I ended up bending a brass drift punch in half, without so much as budging the sight. I took it to PowerHorn and he charged me $15 and did it while I waited.

Nagel's (San Pedro Rd inside Loop 410) - If a fire marshal ever walked inside, he'd shut them down. It's impossible to make it down an aisle without having to use sidestepping. The people appear to be nice enough, but I can't get past the clutter and apparant disarray.

Bass Pro Shops (IH 10-west outside Loop 1604) - Their prices are outrageously high. I don't understand the attraction to the place.

Texas Guns (Bandera Rd outside Loop 410) - I was looking for some .22 stuff, and they had NOTHING for that caliber - guns, or otherwise). Parking sucks, but the store is reasonably uncluttered and easy to move around in.

I like .22 rifles and lever guns. San Antonio gun shops are not what I would call .22 friendly. Everybody here seems to want high-power over-scoped rifles, or shotguns. You would think being in Texas, it would be a simple matter to find a good selection of lever guns too, but that's not the case. Pretty much anything other than a Marlin 39a requires a special order. If I'm going to special order, I'll go to Walmart because they simply charge you for the rifle and the tax, and nothing more. At Dury's I had to pay a "special order fee" AND "shipping costs" for my CZ.

Saxet Gun Show

They've moved the gun show to the Alfazar Shrine to the north side on (outside) 1604 east of IH 10. However, be sure to check the website because I've heard they're going to move it again.

[Austin Cowart]

The Bullet Hole off of Highway 90 right out past 1604 is the best range around! Great service, nice people, 3 dollar member ID and then 7 dollars afterwards with no gun limit, RAPID FIRE, and automatic weapon rentals where all you pay is 15 dollars a clip! Check them out at www.bullethole.com

Cheers
Austin

[LSDude]

I shot at Bass Pro last week and it is well constructed and reasonable.

It's a good way to beat the heat.

[Mike Franklin]

Dury's is by far better to deal with and yep, a gun part breaks on any gun they sold you they fix it free.
Cedar Ridge is famous for running off customers. The CAS club moved recently. Several of my friends were banned. Everyone of'm for shooting target stand legs(?) Unfortunately Ferris can not be depended on to be truthful and apparently just doesn‘t like some people…..
I have 110 acres behind my backyard so don't go to a range except for competition.
BTW, the weekend Manager at A Place To Shoot, is much nicer and easier to get along with than the weekday Manager.

[M2]

Shot at Blackhawk Range (http://www.blackhawkrange.com/)this past Sunday for a River City Shooters (http://www.rivercityshooters.org/) IDPA match, and to be honest I don't think I am going to go to the regular range and stand and shoot at paper targets anymore! IDPA is a lot more fun and challenging, it is a good way to further develop your skills, and you will learn more from this kind of shooting than you ever will at a static range.

I have to thank Wayne at HoGuns Sporting (mentioned earlier). Whereas Wayne may not have the largest shop in town, he will work to get you the best deal on any gun you want. Drury's and Nagel's are OK, but they are usually crowded and I believe that Wayne will beat any deal they've got. HoGuns is now the first place I recommend to people looking for a gun shop, and I may go look at the other shops; but when I want to buy, I go see Wayne...

By the way, I took a shotgun to Wayne because the end of the barrel got a slight dent in it. He recommended a way for me to fix it myself. I don't think he is trying to turn away business, but actually trying to help you save money on work you can do yourself. I did fix the barrel, cost me about $8 for a plumb bob which did the trick.

I had a bad experience at the Powderhorn that I think I mentioned. Got a guy who wasn't willing to work a deal despite the fact that the two of us wanting to buy the Mossbergs knew we could get better deals at the SAXET show. We didn't ask him to match the price, just give us a break since we were buying two guns. The reply we got was rude, and needless to say I wouldn't buy a gun from that shop even if they had the Springfield M1911A1 I've been looking for...

By the way, the SAXET shows are now mainly at the Freeman Coliseum next to the AT&T Center (where the Spurs play). They still have them at the Alfazar Shrine once or twice a year, but the monthly shows are at the Freeman. Check SAXET's site (http://www.saxetshows.com/) for all the info you need...

Cheers! M2

[senior]

WELL AWARE OF TEXAS GUNS and their indoor range, unless u got a pocketfull of cash, stay away, cost $365.00 a year to join and u MUST use their ammo! (priced wayyy outta line too) buying their guns expect to pay MSRP at least and NEVER try to sell a gun to them, offer u pitance for any gun. Owner is a nice guy, but prices are skyhigh, use a gunsmith and base charge is $55.00 to just look at it!! Example- kel tec i looked at, asking $330.00 for a p32. +++ for Ho GUNS, Wayne is a super guy and like someone said before, will offer free advice to help a person to save a buck!

[beaucoup ammo]

I'm going to Dury's later. They've got some .38 hollow point and some .357. But not much of either.

[Geno]

I have only been there once, but sure enjoyed myself. The folks were nice as could be:

Bullet Hole Shooting Range
2715 Grosenbacher Road
San Antonio, TX 78245

:D Geno

[beaucoup ammo]

Thanks, Geno...I've still got some cheap .38 ammo I got in January. May just head over!

[M2]

Well, I finally got a chance to stop by a new gun shop called Lock-N-Load (12135 Potranco, just before the Alamo Fireworks stand on the north side of the road).

Went in and met a guy named Mike, a real nice fellow. They have a small selection of handguns and hunting rifles, but not much else. I didn't notice any ammo, but I may have missed it. Being that they are on the way to the Bullethole, and the Walmart at 1604 and Potranco is touch-and-go for ammo, it would be a smart idea to stock up on it as the prices at the Bullethole are a bit ridiculous.

Mike said they just opened a week ago, and that business has been brisk. He realizes he needs to get more stuff in the store, but obviously they need to sell some stuff to do that. He also said they are working on a web site, but none exists at the moment.

Overall, it is a nice shop but needs merchandise. To compete with the Powderhorn, Dury's, Nagel's or even the Bullethole, they will need guns and ammo on the shelf. Given that they've just opened, I am willing to give them a little time to get their feet wet; I plan to drop by again in a few weeks to see how they've progressed. Hopefully they will have.

Lastly, their number is (21) 314-8694 if anyone wants to give them a call.

Cheers! M2

[M2]

Oh, and if anyone is considering heading over to the big gun show in Houston this weekend (allegedly the largest in Texas! See info here (http://www.hgca.org/)), don't bother. My son and I got up at 4:30am this morning to drive over (we had to stop for breakfast) and while it is about four times larger than the SAXET show here in San Antonio, we couldn't find any decent prices on anything with one exception. I did pick up a 1943 Izhevsk Mosin-Nagant in nice shape for $99, but my quest for a decent M44 or M38 went unfulfilled. The ones I saw were crap, and all were overpriced. It wasn't worth the 450-mile round trip.

Lastly, SAXET (http://saxetshows.com/) is ending its events at the Freeman Coliseum after December. Starting in January, the shows will be at the San Antonio Events Center at Marbach and 410 (8111 Meadow Leaf, San Antonio, TX 78227). It is the same place Texas Gun Shows holds their events. That's a much shorter drive for me, and no more $3 to park!

Cheers! M2

[GEM]

That's a nice change. The Freeman shows were a pain to go to.

[beaucoup ammo]

Saxet in S.A. Nov. 14th and 15th.

[M2]

Yeah, just to ensure everyone realizes, the remaining 2009 SAXET shows (Nov and Dec) will still be held at the Freeman Auditorium.

It is only the shows starting in Jan 2010 that will be held at the SA Event Center at Marbach and 410!

[soup54]

First Post...

Drurys is great IMO. Just went there today and enjoyed my time at the shop. Very well stocked new and used, great staff and patient with me while touching every pistol before I purchased. I never felt rushed or pressured into the sale (unlike Texas Guns and Nagels-I still visit both often but seldomly purchase from them).

I plan to purchase firearms from Drurys in the future.

[M2]

Well, a little bad news; Hoguns is closing!

Wayne is retiring from the firearms business and is shutting the doors in about a month. I believe his FFL expires about the same time, which may account in part for his decision to retire. Wayne hopes to sell the store but if that doesn't happen (it doesn't seem likely), it appears he'll sell remaining inventory en mass. No word on what will happen to Chris, his gunsmith and one of the best smiths in SA. Hopefully he'll get picked up by another good shop nearby.

While not having the largest selection in town, Hoguns was always a great "local" gun shop. It was a great place to hang out and talk about guns and other things, and Wayne was very active in the pistol competitions down at Backhawk Range. Hopefully he'll continue after the shop closes, it would be a shame otherwise...

Cheers! M2