BigDaddy;
I went to school at UofM in the 70's & now live in the Great Falls Area. I do find myself in Mazzola, the oiliest city in Montana, occasionaly. In fact, the females are herding me over there this weekend for St. Paddy's day at Sean Kelly's Irish Pub.
There are several good gun stores in the area. Axman South is a little harder to find, but well worth the search.
It is possible to find real, wild, wildlife a relatively short distance out of town in the woods. I know, been there & survived the encounter.
Not a whole lot of gopher shooting in the area, more's the pity. But you can travel, PM me if you want the experience. All you need is an accurate .22lr & a brick of ammo.
It's a day trip up to Kalispell to MRC, Serengetti, & the gun culture up there. Just be aware that you have to drive 93, "Pray For Me, I drive 93" bumper stickers used to be available.
900F