Poway Weapons & Gear Range — Local services in Poway

I was so delighted when this range and retail store opened I signed up for a Platinum Membership. First year was great - good service good employees, most knew what they were doing, especially the older aged employees. I renewed for a second year and my experience was good but I noticed quite a bit of turnover of employees. Didn't see the old guys anymore - mostly younger people especially in the retail side. Along with this I experienced a decline in courtesy and knowledge and a curtness in customer service on the retail side. One lad, I think it was assistant manager, had a big ego and did not display any kind of customer acumen. I gaffed him off because I was enjoying shooting at the range but I overheard several customers complaining about long waits and rude service. It wasn't until I ordered a $1,600 rifle when I experienced this myself. I received a call from a lad in retail that the rifle had arrived and I could come down to complete the necessary paperwork. Two days later I was there. Waited for 30 some minutes for a clerk to help me - one employees there already helping someone. The clerk finally acknowledged me after a long wait, still gabbing with his other customer. Then a young lady employee appeared and asked how she could help me. I explained I was there to purchase the rifle I ordered. She asked me for the normal ID (drivers license) (I'm retired military and law enforcement, so I showed her both ID cards). She then wanted to see a Firearms Safety Certificate. I informed her that retired military and or law law enforcement satisfies that requirement. She looked at me with a confused look on her face and walked back to a door in the retail store to consult with someone inside another room. When she returned she stated I needed other ID besides my retired military and law enforcement credentials because they could not verify my residence addres (My retired law enforcement credential has my mailing address which is a PO Box). I said I could get my car registration but she said no, that will not help because I needed two picture ID's to purchase a firearm. Funny thing is I had purchased two other firearms at this same retail store over the past two years with no problem, using the ID's and vehicle registration. No go this time, however. This lass simply said no can do. Hate to admit it but I got a little frustrated - had already wasted too much time waiting and being ignored. So, I simply gathered my papers and told her I didn't want the rifle anymore, that I'll take my business elsewhere, which I did. Not renewing my membership now. Joined another range - one with knowledgeable and courteous...

Poway Weapons & Gear Range, Poway, California, is an exceptional facility that stands out as a premier destination for firearms enthusiasts, beginners, and seasoned shooters alike. This 42,000-square-foot complex redefines what a shooting range can be, combining state-of-the-art amenities, unparalleled customer service, and a commitment to safety and education that is truly world-class. From the moment you step into Poway Weapons & Gear Range, the professionalism and attention to detail are evident. The facility boasts 42 lanes across three distinct ranges—25, 50, and 100 yards—offering unparalleled versatility for shooters of all skill levels. The 100-yard indoor range, a rarity among indoor facilities, is a standout feature, allowing for long-range practice in a controlled, climate-regulated environment. The ranges are impeccably maintained, with an advanced filtration system that ensures clean air, making the shooting experience comfortable and safe even during extended sessions. The staff at Poway Weapons & Gear Range deserve the highest praise for their expertise, patience, and welcoming demeanor. Whether you’re a first-time shooter or a seasoned professional, the staff members like to go above and beyond to ensure every visitor feels confident and supported. Membership at Poway Weapons & Gear Range is a fantastic value, with perks like unlimited range visits, free gun rentals, discounts on accessories, and even CCW insurance through select plans. For frequent shooters, the Platinum Membership is a no-brainer, offering access to exclusive benefits that make every visit even more enjoyable. The facility’s commitment to meeting the National Shooting Sports Foundation’s Five-Star standards is evident in every aspect, from the state-of-the-art design to the proactive safety measures enforced by attentive range officers. What truly sets Poway Weapons & Gear Range apart is its dedication to fostering a community of responsible, well-trained shooters. The facility’s mission to provide tools and training for personal protection and skill development is reflected in every interaction, making it a welcoming space for everyone, from local residents to visitors from afar. My experiences here have been nothing short of outstanding, and I wholeheartedly recommend Poway Weapons & Gear Range to anyone looking to explore firearms, hone their skills, or simply enjoy a top-tier shooting experience. This is, without question, the best range in San Diego County and a must-visit destination for any...

Pros. This range is new, and it shows. The showroom is top notch and well organized, the lanes are well lit and there's plenty of knowledgable staff readily available to help with any questions. There are plenty of inexpensive rentals to try out and a great selection of new and even used firearms for purchase. Their pricing is on par or better than most local ranges.

Cons. Let me preface this first bit by reminding you that we're in a heat wave, it gets hot and AC's can't always keep up with the temperature demand. However the 100yd lane we were in was almost unbearably hot. It was cooler outside in the shade in 93 degree heat. The lobby/showroom was very cool in contrast. The lanes didn't seem very well ventilated, two hours in at about 3:30 there was noticeable gunsmoke lingering.

The biggest complaint I have is how they deal with shooters hitting their equipment. They charge $20 per hit that damages anything. Don't get me wrong, I understand thats how they keep their equipment new and as undamaged as possible, and be able to afford to immediately fix it. BUT, what isn't clear is that includes ANY hit to the equipment, even just hitting a protective plate designed to withstand bullets will net you a $20 charge per. That seemed a bit excessive when the range master came out with a ($4) can of spray paint to "fix" the damage. Having said that, I highly recommend you verify there are no impacts to the equipment when you arrive in your lane, especially before you bring out your firearms. If there are any impacts, photograph them and call an employee over to "fix" it so you won't be charged for something someone else did before you got there! This was sadly my first experience here, and we came into a lane with 6 small impacts on the protective plate but didn't notice. After a shooter next to our lane hit and damaged their clamp the range master noticed ours. In the end they charged us for two hits vs. six, but that's still $40 for not catching someone else's' mistake.

Conclusion My experience prior to entering the shooting line was phenomenal and I would certainly not hesitate in recommending them to anyone looking to purchase parts, accessories or firearms. For someone looking to go shooting in a relaxed, comfortable atmosphere I would recommend Discount Gun Mart.

I will not be coming back to use the range, but I may swing by to handle and/or purchase a firearm if I'm in the area...