A definite trend we’ve seen in the past eighteen months is the number of ladies that have an interest in learning to shoot and practice shooting at the Gun Club at Cordillera Ranch. It’s not only Texans we are seeing, but also a large number of out-of-town folks who have recently moved to Cordillera Ranch from elsewhere. The primary areas of interest are handguns and shotguns. This fall we are bringing back a series of workshops designed specifically for women and young ladies. Simply based on the time I have spent with our members and their guests at the Gun Club over the past few years, it’s my opinion that most women are interested in firearms and shooting for both self-protection and recreation.
There are few benefits to offering shooting workshops for ladies, only. It offers a judgment-free zone for women to come together, learn from each other, encourage each other and share common interests. It creates community and a sense of sisterhood with other ladies who enjoying shooting.
These workshops are designed to take beginners to whatever skill level they wish to achieve and provide experienced shooters with more opportunities. The objective is to improve skill levels for self-defense and/or recreational shooting. Others are also interested in learning how to choose the right guns, gear and accessories for long-term participation in shooting sports.
It is important for ladies to get together in a recreational atmosphere and do some shooting just for the fun of it! It is one of the many reasons why people own guns. Our goal is to provide a safe and supportive environment for you; for many it may ease the fear when going to the range. Our workshops provide an opportunity to meet other like-minded women who love to shoot!
We hear a lot in the media about how Americans are supposedly rejecting firearms and desire more gun control. That doesn’t appear to be the truth everywhere, especially in Texas! The members and guests we encounter at the Gun Club continue to support the Second Amendment and citizen gun ownership.
This isn’t to say that the Second Amendment or our right to self-defense isn’t under constant attack. It is, and we need to remain constantly vigilant and active in fighting anti-gun forces. But, the growing participation of women and kids in the shooting sports is certainly a sign of good things to come.
The following information comes from Michelle Viscusi, a competitive shooter from Arizona: “To any shooter, selecting the right firearm is the beginning of a successful shooting journey. I’ve had experience at the range where new shooters are ‘told’ what firearm is right for them. Giving a new shooter a .44magnum or a .500 S&W on their first visit to the range always proves for an unpleasant first time. Do your research, look for a certified instructor who listens to your needs and wants to teach you the fundamentals of shooting. Don’t be intimidated to ask questions. If your instructor makes you feel uncomfortable with answering your questions, find a new instructor. Most important of all is to enjoy your experience and have fun. Here are some things new shooters should consider:
1. Choosing the right firearm. Selecting a quality firearm from a reputable manufacture is going to contribute to your shooting experience. Having a reliable firearm at the range or for personal protection is very important.
2. Select the right caliber. Choosing the right caliber should be researched. Simple questions like: What do you want to use the firearm for? Cost of ammo? Personal protection ammo? Availability?
3. Consider the cost. How much do you want to pay for your firearm?
4. Think about safety. Where is the firearm stored? Will you purchase a safe?
5. Choosing a carry gun. Do you want to carry a full-size firearm? If you want to carry concealed, are you going to enjoy shooting a subcompact firearm at the range? And will the firearm be able to carry you into competition if you’d like to?”
For any questions on guns, workshops or to make a reservation at the Gun Club at Cordillera Ranch, don’t hesitate to contact us.
Shane Reynolds is the Outdoor Recreation Director & Outfitter at The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch. He can be reached at outfitter@cordilleraranch.com or 210.616.6051.