Just got back from my vacation to DC. Saw all the sites including the Smithsonian but by far and away the best attraction in the area was the NRA National Firearms Museum. They have 2000 weapons on display that beats the Smithsonian hands down. The Smithsonian is down to just a small corner next to the Philadelphia gun boat. 30 years ago their display on guns and military history was many times larger and much more interesting . Even the settings at the NRA for the various displays impressed me, in some cases you felt you were standing in the middle of TR's plush recreation room or study. The Smithsonian was a bit of a disapointment (my 5th trip) with the ever increaseing PC displays. My son and I only went to 3 of the museums, their subject matter and point of view has changed a great deal in 30 years.
While we were at the NRA we checked-out there state of the art firing range, only $12 an hour to shoot indoors and you can fire rifles! There was tons of empty brass I would have loved to claim If you are within 150 miles or so its worth the drive to check it out. Renewed my NRA membership while I was there, the staff were extremely friendly and polite, the highlite of my trip.
While we were at the NRA we checked-out there state of the art firing range, only $12 an hour to shoot indoors and you can fire rifles! There was tons of empty brass I would have loved to claim If you are within 150 miles or so its worth the drive to check it out. Renewed my NRA membership while I was there, the staff were extremely friendly and polite, the highlite of my trip.