Spent a week in Arizona with my old man which in itself was a treat. I grew up around guns in video games and I've owned several airsoft and pellet guns, but it's been a dream of mine to actually hold, load, and fire the genuine article and Gunfighter Canyon made that dream a reality.
Walked up one afternoon and met one of their super laid-back and approachable employees, Reid, who upon seeing us asked if we were here to shoot. We walk in the store with Reid and he explains all the packages and picks out The Gunfighter as a good beginners package, offering a Glock 17, MP5 and a pump-action shotgun. I happily agreed to his suggestion and after filling out a short form we put on the provided ear and eye protection and hit the range. Reid explained everything very well and very professionally---finger off the trigger till you're ready to shoot, always keep the gun down range. I expected the Glock to be pretty wimpy in terms of recoil, since 9mm is a pretty small caliber, but that thing had a little more kick than I expected. Reid could see that I was a little uneasy, I'd never heard a gun go off before let alone felt one go off in my hand, not to mention one of the other shooters was firing something with much more boom. He told me to remember to breathe, which really helped. The MP5 was next and between the vertical grip and red dot sight the gun was super easy to control and fired beautifully. Saved the shotgun for last and I was glad I did. I figured the shotgun would have the most kick, and rightly so, but that thing obliterated my shoulder--I probably needed to hold it tighter to my shoulder. I only paid after my experience and it was well worth it.
However, It didn't end there. I didn't get to fire the guns I was really itching to fire--the 1911, AK and SCAR. As luck would have it, our trip took us back Williams way and I would once again enter the range. Reid wasn't there this time, but an equally chill and professional guy, Ian, was more than happy to help. I explained I'd been here already so we could skip right to the fun part. I was able to make my own package for a reasonable fee, picked the 3 aforementioned firearms and off I went--ears on, eyes up. Ian explained everything once again, making sure that I kept my finger off the trigger and kept the barrel pointed at the target. Started with the pistol again, the 1911 and I loved every second, I'd shaken most of my apprehension and quickly put all 7 rounds down range. Went with the SCAR next, which was apparently so loud my dad almost left the room. All I know is it had a lot of kick and my shoulder wasn't too happy with me. Got the AK-47 in my hands. I feel it's the only gun games get accurate in terms of recoil because that thing kicks like a mule. Once again, paid after the fact and was more than satisfied.
It was such a nice experience I did it twice. I don't know when I'll make it back to Arizona but when I do I'll definitely stop by again. Thanks Reid, Ian, and everyone behind Gunfighter Canyon for making my first gun experience a memorable and...
Read moreBeing from UK we don't have access to firearms anymore - unless you count Airsoft etc. When my son noticed a large billboard displaying this activity on our way to Lake Powell, at Page, Arizona, we were all up for it.
Unfortunately, the place was closed by the time we noticed the advert, and our son was poorly the day after that. It was clear he'd love to go, but we planned to leave that morning and the place didn't open till 10am. We told him we would drive past but not to expect much so late.
His face was a picture (he's 25!) when they said not only he, but all of us could use the range that moment. Our boy was in heaven, he ordered the whole six armaments to shoot.
My husband and I chose a 22 pistol and then automatic rifle. Of course, my husband was brilliant, done it before (vet).
I'd shot 22's before, but not an automatic. After hearing all the horror stories about the recoil, I was hoping it wouldn't break my shoulder! Fortunately our designated member of staff reassured me and even held my shoulder in place behind me - just in case.
Naturally, the boy not only went for all six guns, he also had double ammo too. Took forever, nearly blew my ears off, even with ear defenders. But, the look on his face was priceless. The staff member also took photos for us all on our phones. Awesome.
The Staff were actually amazing throughout our experience. I was a teeny bit worried they might be 'shot jockeys', but they were serious, took their time, ensured we were okay, held the weapons and us respectfully. Totally professional and safe.
Next time we are over the pond we are definitely going to attend a...
Read moreVacationing in Williams as a gateway into the Grand Canyon. After taking the family to downtown Williams shopping, I needed my own "me" time. Saw the advertisement of Gunfighter Canyon when we checked in, I was curious to see what it is all about that deserved a perfect rating on Trip Advisor. I walked in and met a friendly and knowledgeable instructor, Reid. He answered my questions and showed me around, including the packages that are available. Surprisingly, he was able to accommodate me right away. I chose the Pick-3, including Thompson submachine gun, The Master Chief and the Uzi. Oh my goodness! What fun! As an Air Force Veteran, I was completely comfortable with each one of them. The Thompson was heavier than I imagined. After short 4 bursts with all the guns, Reid let me "rip it". What a rush! My favorite is the "Master Chief", powerful and loud! Reid is a great instructor and was very easy going. Again, he is knowledgeable about the arsenal that they have. At the end of the experience, I was a very happy man. Considering the cost of the ammo and being able to try different firearms, I'd say it was money well-spent. Highly recommend this experience and kudos to Reid for providing the instructions!
Update:
Second visit! Took my 2 boys back to the Gunfighter 2 days later so they can experience the thrill. As expected, they were both ecstatic and said this experience is a highlight of their trip. I specifically looked for Reid again and he was great and patient with the boys. He gave them a great experience they...
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