Ben Avery Shooting Facility

The Ben Avery Shooting Facility, spanning 1650 acres, stands as one of the largest public shooting ranges in the United States. This impressive facility provides diverse target shooting opportunities, regularly hosts regional and national class competitions, and serves as the venue for major shooting sports events. Additionally, the Arizona Game and Fish Department’s annual Outdoor Expo takes place here.

Founded in 1957 and formerly known as the Black Canyon Shooting Range, the facility has gained recognition as a City of Phoenix Point of Pride. It proudly boasts a Five Star rating from the National Association of Shooting Ranges, highlighting its commitment to offering a top-tier recreational experience. This distinction also marks it as the first government facility to earn such a designation.

Amenities:

• Rifle & Pistol Ranges: Multiple shooting tables are available, with two shooting positions at each table. Cease-fires are called every 15 minutes, allowing shooters to set up, change, or remove targets.
• Clay Target Center: Suitable for those who enjoy clay shooting.
• Archery: Perfect for bow enthusiasts.
• Camping: Ben Avery offers on-site camping for those attending events and matches. Details can be found on the website regarding the camping rules and specific locations for both Rifle & Pistol Range and Clay Target Center camping.
• Corporate Events: The facility provides space for corporate events, ensuring a unique and memorable experience for attendees.
• Safety and Guidelines: All visitors are required to watch a seven-minute safety video and familiarize themselves with the range-specific rules. Both eye and ear protection are mandatory for shooters and spectators.

What Reviewers Are Saying:

Strengths:

• Clean, organized, and affordable.
• Friendly and helpful staff.
• Strong emphasis on safety.
• Quality amenities for an excellent price, as low as $7 for certain activities.
• Highly organized, making it suitable for both solo practice and organized matches.

Weaknesses:

• Some reviewers suggest clearer communication about range rules, especially for first-time visitors.
• A few reviewers expressed concerns about sudden changes in pricing.