Newsletters
Annual Letter
Hey Everybody,
ANNUAL LETTER
The Annual Letter was sent out several weeks ago so if you haven't seen it yet, let Charlie ([email protected]) know right away. A couple comments about the letter:
TRAP CLINIC REMINDER
Quick reminder to reach out to Dave Foti ([email protected]) if you want to sign up for the Nora Ross Trap Clinic on May 3-4. Details on the website.
GATE PENANCE
There was a certain well-known member a couple weeks ago who accidentally left his card in his wife's car and had to get into the Club for one of the youth practices. (No more details so as to protect the name of the perpetrator.) Jim McBurnett took pity and gave him a one-time code but we're thinking of imposing penance for such a "violation." Some suggestions are:
- If you forgot your ID card and have a TAP and DANCE story needing urgent access to the club the penance options are:
- Beer— a 6 pack to a case based solely on the security team's view of the request's urgency
- A paid round of skeet/trap
- A paid round of skeet/trap including the shells .
- A 50 round box of pistol rounds
- A 6 pack of soda of the gate team’s preference
- A $10 donation to the junior team of choice with a picture of the contributor holding a sign—“I forgot my ID card!”
Seriously, the gate has been working well with only a few blips. We have a non-obvious hardware issue right now that will be fixed with a new part shortly. No charge from the vendor. There was another recent problem with a sensor becoming mis-aligned. As always, please be patient as we get grooved on it.
WNC JUNIOR HUNT COMPETITION
Thank you to everyone who helped with this event. The DNR and teams had another successful year.
ASI
Caton has had several successful events in the past two months and reports this was posted on the ASI website. https://asi-usa.org/affiliate-club-locations/polk-county-gun-club/
AUSTRALIAN LAWS
Charlie forwarded this link which makes for interesting reading if you're thinking of going to Australia. https://www.nraila.org/articles/20250324/just-one-more-step-australia-s-new-weapon-laws
Terry
March 2025
Hi Everybody
WNC Junior Hunter Competition This Weekend--A few parking volunteers needed
I need a couple more folks to help park visitors on Saturday morning. The bad news is the shift starts about 5:45am with trailers coming in at 6am and everybody else at 630am. The good news is it is "fast and furious" and kind of fun to help park 350 vehicles in an hour. If you can help, please let me know asap by responding to this email; I have 2 helpers already and need 5-6. Bring a flashlight/spotlight. We'll provide instructions.
For the rest of the event, it's helpful to have a few of our members roaming the ranges as RSO support for the DNR rangers.
March 1 Workday a Big Success
In preparation for the Hunter Competition, the following projects were completed: gravel spread at the gate, protective bollards for the readers installed, grass seed and straw spread where the electric company dug our new gate power line, sheds moved off the rifle range, broken clays removed from the ranges, probably a few other things I didn't hear about. Huge thanks to all the members who turned out to help.
Annual Meeting Letter Coming
Charlie's annual letter will be out shortly with details on the slightly different procedure given the new electric gate and no need for codes. Look for it in the next week or so. The deadline to renew is May 1 after which your ID card will be deactivated.
Board Nominations Announced
We will have 3 board openings as Ed Skeels, Beryl Mollette, and Sid Landers are rolling off without re-running. There are 5 candidates to replace them (in alphabetical order): Kevin Brown, Bill Hurt, Alton Kelley, Dominic Mastruserio, and Jim McBurnett. Voting will take place at the Annual Meeting on May 15. More details, and a brief bio on each candidate, will follow next month.
Electric Gate in Operation
The new gate continues to work well. We've had a bug or two but nothing major and we are working through them. I think most folks are coming and going without a problem. One note. If you bring a guest, send the guest through in their car first using your card and hit the doorbell button on the reader. Then enter yourself on your card.
Electric Club House Door Locks Coming
We will shortly be installing electronic locks on the club house so you can use your new ID card to access. When the first person of the day uses their card to unlock, the door will stay open throughout the day for easy entrance. The doors will automatically close and, at the end of the day, they will automatically lock so we will no longer need to worry about an open club house after hours.
Murph Retiring
Mike Murph has decided to stop his membership in the club. Murph ran Clay Busters for years and contributed to the shooting success of many of our youth. He sends this message: "I would like to express to Polk County Gun Club membership and BoD my sincerest appreciation for a great experience. The help and guidance I have received in forming and leading the Polk County Junior Clay busters is immeasurable, and is in large part responsible for the success of the program." Murph is a good guy and his presence around the Club with the kids will be missed.
Classified Ads
We still post ads on our website. Please check them out from time to time. If you posted an ad once upon a time, please check it for continued relevance and/or tell me to take it down if the item has sold. If you want to refresh an ad, change the price. If you want to post an ad, send it to me with the text you want to appear and any photos to include.
Terry
February 2025
Members:
Quite a bit of information in this issue.
Nora Ross Trap Clinic
PCGC will be hosting a Nora Ross Trap Clinic May 3 and 4, 2025. The fee for attending is $450 covering both days plus extra for standard trap target fees. PCGC has hosted this clinic several times and receives compensation for hosting. Trap field #2 will be reserved for the clinic both days. The clinic will also host classroom sessions in the clubhouse. Please keep the noise level to a min if using the clubhouse during class time.
Day one will focus on singles and the following day will focus on doubles and handicap. The program will begin each day at 9:00 am and will usually finish between 5:00 and 6:00 pm. Several times during the day, each shooter will be videotaped. The video will be played back so that Nora, the shooter and class will have an opportunity to analyze their shooting styles. Each student will shoot approximately 8 rounds per day. The shells and target fees are the shooter's responsibility. Participants will be limited to a max of 10. PCGC members will have 1st opportunity to enroll, prior to opening enrollment to the general public. A $150 deposit will be required to secure a seat. Prior clinics have sold out rather quickly. PCGC will receive compensation for hosting the event. Please contact David Foti ([email protected], 845 546 2226) with any questions or to secure a seat.
Electronic Gate Update and Tips
The gate went live on Tuesday Feb 11 following the monthly meeting and we have had relatively few problems. A few minor incidents have taken place but have been solved quickly and shown us where we needed to adjust. Most members are accessing the club with their new IDs without any problems.
If you still don’t have your ID card, contact me by replying to this email.
One incident is worthy of comment. A member somehow forgot his ID and called the help number on the gate and, after having his identity verified by Jim McBurnett, was granted a one-time access code to get in that day. NOTE: after discussion among the gate security team, we have decided that we will NOT repeat this generosity. If you forgot your ID, just as if you forgot your ammo, go home and get it. DON'T call the number!
You shouldn't access the club without an ID even if another member who knows you comes along. Just like with the old ID’s, all members are required to wear their ID in the open; that's why we offer plastic sleeves and lanyards.
If you bring a guest in with you, ideally they should be in your car. If you do bring in a guest and they are in a different car- have them pull in first and you walk up and badge in letting them enter. Then press the door bell button on the bottom center of the keypad between badge swipes.. this will show up in the logs and we will know you have a guest. We may adapt or modify this process as we get more experience but if guest entry causes problems or gets abused, we will be talking to those involved.
The gate will open as you leave just by pulling forward but we request that all members "card out" as you leave. We then have a record in the log.
Touch or "show" your card to the reader keypad, not the metal shroud around it.
If you have a problem and can’t get in with your ID, the number on the gate calls 3 people. Please use that number, and understand these points.
1. If there is no power at the gate, an emergency plan will be shared by the gate team at that time. The gate is supposed to 'fail open' in event of power loss. If that happens, call the number.
a. The team can verify power loss remotely.
b. A gate team member MAY come by the club before doing anything else.
2. If your card does not work and has been touched to the keypad and the lights don’t change and no beep is heard, it is likely your card is DAMAGED.
a. If it is determined to be damaged, a $20 replacement fee applies and it will be replaced when the gate team has time
b. A one time entry pin will be given for a damaged card. ALL PINS are recorded as to which person gets them.
Work Day
The Spring work day will be Saturday, March 1 from 8am until noon, or when the work gets done. Projects include: installing metal bollards/posts at both gate card readers, seed and straw where the power company buried our electric to the gate, sweep up broken clays on the ranges, smooth out dirt where the metal silhouette plates were removed on the rifle range, spread gravel at the gate if it’s not done already. Please come out and help improve the look of the club before we host the WNC Junior Hunter Competition on March 14-15.
WNC Junior Hunter Competition
This very important annual event will take place on March 15 with March 14 being a prep day. The NC DNR rangers run the event and the Club gets a fee. The Club will be completely closed on both days other than for the competition. We need volunteers to help in three areas. On Friday the 14th at 9am, we need a couple guys to help mark the parking area. It will be much easier this year as the metal target plates on the ground are gone and we don’t need to park around them. Then on Saturday the 15th, we need 7-8 guys starting at 5:45am to manage parking for the approximate 350 vehicles that will be arriving. Trailers come in at 6am and then cars and trucks at 630pm. It’s fast and furious! Bring a flashlight/spotlight. It will be all over about 730-8am. Finally, the DNR rangers like to have a few members around to help act as RSO’s during the competition. Please let me know if you can help with parking on Friday or Saturday. If you want to help be an RSO, just show up.
Thanks for reading all this information.
Terry
December 2024
Hi Everybody,
Lots of news today.
WORKDAY--JANUARY 11, 8am-Noon
We have a lot to do. We are renting an excavator to help remove trees from our fence line. Bobby will run it. We need a few guys with chain saws to help. Also need guys with tools to repair the wire fencing and the posts. We also want to get the table tops on the shooting supports on the 50 yard range. We will finish fixing the fence between skeet fields 2 and 3 if it's not done by then. There are always a few other things to do.
ELECTRONIC GATE UPDATE
Rutherford Electric is running electricity to the gate and installing a light pole TODAY. It'll probably be done by the time you read this. Photo attached. With a couple more tweaks, the gate will be operational and ready to go. We are targeting to go live with the gate about January 15! About 200 of you have submitted photos to have your new ID/gate access cards printed. About 100 of you are delinquent! TAKE A SELFIE HEAD SHOT WITH A SMOOTH, PLAIN, CLEAN, NEUTRAL WHITE OR OFF WHITE BACKGROUND AND SEND IT VIA EMAIL (NOT TEXT) TO JIM MCBURNETT COPIED ON THIS EMAIL. DON'T SEND IT TO ME. I CAN'T PRINT THEM. The list of guys who we don't have photos for is at the bottom of this email. If you know someone on this list, please let them know or take a photo of them yourself and send it to Jim. Let's make sure everyone gets the word and a photo submitted.
ID CARD DISTRIBUTION
We will have three card distribution days on December 28, January 4 and January 11, all Saturdays from 10am to Noon in the Club House. Jim McBurnett will likely be the person in charge of handing them out and if you STILL don't have a photo by then, he can take it and print your card while you wait. We want to hand you your card in person so we can be 100% accurate on getting the card to the right person. If you are out of town and can't make any of these dates, let me know when you are back in town and we will make arrangements to meet the next time you come to the Club. But PLEASE try to make one of these time slots to make my and Jim's life easier. We are NOT going to mail any cards so don't ask.
I will have another email out in early January before the gate goes live with the rules for using the gate. It's going to be a big change. The Club will NOT be open to the public and non-members wanting to shoot now will have to make arrangements to come in with members.
NOMINATING COMMITTEE FOR NEW BOARD MEMBERS
Bobby Robinson, Greg Ficklin, and yours truly are the nominating committee to find candidates for the three open positions we will vote on in May. If you are interested in being on the Board, and have been a member for 3 years, contact one of us.
LOCKING THE CLUB HOUSE
I've been informed that folks sometimes are finding the club house unlocked when they arrive in the morning. If you are last to leave the area, please confirm both doors are locked. The latches are a little tricky so please test them after locking.
EMAIL BLOCKAGES
Any of you with a windstream.net, chestnet.net, rcn.net, rsnet.org, citcom.net, or comporium.net email extension--there are about 24 of you--do not receive all the emails I send because your server kicks it back. I don't know why for sure but it might be because I used words in the body that likely triggered the message being blocked. You can imagine what those words were, most likely rhyming with 'run'. If you have an email address with these extensions, you are not receiving some club mail from me. You should look into another email address such as a gmail.com address which has never had problems. A member also sent the following: "Startmail.com is secure. Allows multiple aliases if desired to further protect your identity from big & low tech. Check it out." If you do change, let me and Charlie know.
CLASSIFIED AD REMINDER
Check out our classified page occasionally. A couple items were just added. We could use more. If you want to place an ad, write the text out (so I don't have to) and attach a photo if you want. I will get it placed by our webmaster.
NRA LIGHT RIFLE
In late 2024, Polk County Gun Club began hosting monthly NRA Light Rifle competition. This competition is offered during the F-Class shooting season from April through October and is held on the fourth Saturday of the month in conjunction with the club’s monthly FClass tournament. NRA Light Rifle competition is intended for sporter-type .22 rimfire rifles. It is deliberately designed to emphasize the light rimfire rifles that shooters are likely to have for plinking and small game hunting. We will shortly have more information on the website.
November 2024
All,
Here are a couple of notices from Tuesday's monthly meeting.
MEMORIAL BOARD
The PCGC board has approved a memorial board for deceased club members who have made substantial contributions by their participation in club activities. The definition of substantial contributions is somewhat open-ended but generally refers to individuals who have given back to the Club over the years in generous acts of service. We are requesting nominations of deceased members to be sent to Dominic Mastruserio at [email protected]. Please give a short statement as to why the individual should be included along with their DOB and DOD. Those nominated will be submitted to the board for approval. Initial names need to be submitted by November 30 2024.
100 YARD RIFLE MATCH THIS SUNDAY
PCGC has granted a request from the Asheville Gun Club to hold a one-time rifle match on the 100 yard range this Sunday from noon to 3pm. This is the final match of a series they have conducted this year and a new site was needed to complete the series due to damage from the hurricane. The Board was influenced by the fact that several of our members are participating. PCGC members may shoot as usual from the 50, 200, or 300 yard ranges during this time although they must obey the hot/cold directions from the RSO's on the 100 yard range during the match.
ELECTRIC GATE
If you have been to the club recently you will have noticed that the new electric gate has been installed. It is operational (and tested) on battery power but has been disconnected until full electric power is run over to it. REMC currently gives no timetable for this new installation as they continue to be focused on hurricane issues. The attached video shows the gate in action.
October 2024
All,
I have been out of town the past three weeks and won't return until late next week and we didn't have an October meeting so this newsletter is later and shorter than normal.
ELECTRIC GATE UPDATE
The electric gate installation is delayed as the power company has rightly been focussed on hurricane repairs and not addressing new installations. Currently, there is no timetable for completion although you may see some prep work on posts and boxes. When we do get it done, everyone will get a new ID card with your personal access electronic code to the gate. We will have details later about how we will distribute the cards.
DUNHAM'S COUPON
This weekend, Friday through Sunday, is one of the 20% off weekends at Dunham. Use the attached code if you go. Not everything is eligible.
RIFLE RANGE REFLECTORS
It has been brought to our attention that there is a need for awareness of reflectors on the rifle range. Please read the following:
Rifle Range Shooters,If you have shot on our 300 yard rifle range and have looked into the little shed on the left side of the 300 yard target line, you probably noticed wooden frames stretched with light green material. These are target reflectors. During our matches, we put these contraptions behind our targets, and they reflect enough light to allow our competitors to see the bullet holes in their targets. Particularly for those shooters using .223 calibre rifles, the reflectors are a critically important resource for spotting the tiny bullet holes. The reflectors were built by a member of the club who invested a great deal of his personal time and a good bit of his personal money in making them - and repairing them as needed. They play a very important role in our matches.These reflectors are intended for use in our matches (and practice for matches) only and must be used ONLY as REFLECTORS behind the targets. They are NOT target frames and may NOT be used as substitutes for cardboard target backers. When they are used, they should also be placed back in the shed immediately after use, and under no circumstances removed from the 300-yard firing line. We owe it to our fellow members - and especially to the colleague who made these items for us - to use them responsibly.
September 2024
All,
Not too much new news other than one big announcement, one big congratulations, and an upcoming memorial event!
Electronic Gate Finally Happening
Thanks to some great design and pricing work by Jim McBurnett, the Board accepted his proposal for implementing an electronic gate and work is already well underway. The target is to have the gate functional by mid October. Entrance will be by a coded key card for each member and details for how this will be implemented are being worked out. A lot more information will be coming.
You may see gate workers on the road from 10-3pm tomorrow (Tuesday).
Beagle's Big Win
Many of you may remember Mary Beth Parris, aka "Beagle", one of our long time members of Clay Busters. "Beagle" shot a 100 straight at the 2024 State Skeet Championships at Fort Liberty Clay Target Center (pre woke Fort Bragg) to win the N.C. State 20ga title and have her engraved name plate attached to the championship trophy with former State Champions. Quite an accomplishment in the presence of many World Championship shooters. Congratulations to Mary Beth!
Memorial Shoot Honoring Paul Hammer
Dominic Mastroserio is organizing a trap and skeet shoot on Saturday, October 12 from 9am-2pm. It will be an informal event on one trap field and one skeet field since Paul shot both. Come on out and shoot with some buddies and reminisce about Paul.
Old Newsletters
If you ever miss a newsletter or want to look up an old one, we post each of them on the website under News.
Terry
August 2024
All,
Here is the news for August.
We had a successful 4-H competition again this year. All of the volunteers did a good job. Two dogs--not allowed on property for safety reasons-- were noticed and the owners complied with taking them back to their vehicles.
Sam Summey's son Cliff, also a PCGC member, passed away on July 22 following a long battle with cancer. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Sam. This also was apparently the same day Paul Hammer passed away.
A couple members have proposed several actions to recognize those members we have lost. The first idea is creation of a plaque--design TBD--to hang in the club house listing the names of members who have passed away. The Board approved and the process is underway. Dominic Mastruserio is planning a memorial skeet shoot for Paul Hammer. Information to follow when a date has been determned. It has also been proposed to plant a new tree on the grounds in honor of each person lost. This idea is still being considered.
This is almost complete, except for the range cover, awaiting mounting of the table tops. Rod Combs has agreed to construct four shooting benches.
Several regular skeet/trap shooters have noticed the machines are almost empty when started up on some days. Everyone shooting on these ranges is reminded that there is a responsibility to fill up the machines when finished shooting. This goes along with the privilege of having a key to the houses. Please be considerate of shooters following you and refill the machines completely when you are finished.
The Board requests that no one park on any of the grass at the rifle range, including backing up the hill to get closer to the shooting platforms. It is difficult enough to maintain a grass lawn without the extra pressure. Only vehicles permitted on the grass are the golf carts and those other vehicles doing maintenance or support for an event.
It was reported during the 4-H event that several guns were spotted unattended for significant periods. Please be careful about this as no one wants to lose one nor have it picked up by someone unqualified.
July 2024
Good morning,
NEW BOARD MEMBER
The Board elected Sid Landers to fill the remainder of Ron Wilson's term ending in May 2025.
BENCHREST UPDATE
Due to family issues, Steve Bengston had to resign his brief effort to continue .22 Benchrest but Bobby Robinson has agreed to lead it at least through the end of the year. Matches will move to the 4th Sunday starting about 1230pm on August 25, September 22, and October 27. Contact Bobby at 828-817-3123 with any questions. We are still looking for someone to lead the center fire part of the matches.
BROKEN PISTOL RANGE ACTIVE TARGETS
Steve Summey reported that several of the (green) targets (the circles) have been pulled off/separated from the banks of these targets. We're not sure whether this is deliberate or accidental but we request that everyone take care not to damage them any further and to ensure supervision of any youth that might be on the range. If you observe damage, please report it to the Board.
4-H COMPETITION AUGUST 10
This annual competition will take place Saturday, April 10 and all ranges will also be closed Friday, August 9 while they set up and on Saturday the 10th.
FUTURE IDEAS/PROJECTS REQUESTED
The Board is seeking to put together a list of ideas for club improvements, no matter how big or small. We have no limit on the time frame for completion either. Examples would be paving the road, installing a gate, a new rifle range building, etc. Please send any ideas back to me or tell any Board member. What would YOU like to see done to improve the Club for the next 10 years?
50 YARD RANGE
The shooting table supports have been built thanks to Dexter Estes and we're waiting to place the table tops soon. The range is open. Bring your own cardboard for backer boards. The next improvement will be a roof similar to that on the other rifle ranges. A special flag system is being designed to inform all four ranges at the same time when all go cold.
ELECTRONIC GATE
The effort to progress a cloud-based system to record gate entries has been halted due to the inability to get enough Internet speed to the gate location. Numerous options have been considered without success. However, Jim McBurnett, who is an IT expert, is investigating a simpler option that would record and store data on a controller at the gate and could be accessed via a laptop plugged in at that location. More manual but it would get the job done. Details will be provided hopefully in time for the August meeting.
Terry
June 2024
Hi Everybody,
Several big announcements this month:
RON WILSON RETIRING FROM THE BOARD
Ron Wilson, after many many years of great service to the Club, has decided to resign from the Board for health reasons, effective immediately. Nothing significantly wrong but Ron just wants to spend more time with his wife and not worry about Club stuff. He says he'll still be around so tell him thanks for all his service when you see him!
The Board will now look for a person to fill the opening to serve out the remainder of Ron's term until next May. We have several candidates already.
NEW AUTOMATIC WEAPONS RULE
An observation at one of the ranges recently caused a board discussion about firearms that are set up to fire like automatic weapons which are, of course, already banned from Club grounds. Here is the new rule that the Board approved on Tuesday night and is putting in place EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY. We're sorry for any inconvenience but as always our chief concern is club and range safety everywhere.
The use of pyrotechnics, tracer bullets, tracer shotshells, fully automatic firearms, devices that simulate automatic fire such as binary triggers, bump stocks, and forced resets., 50 Caliber BMG center fire, grenade launching devices and cannons are forbidden on any part of the range.
We have borrowed this language from another club after learning that most have some sort of language like this in their rules. This will now become part of our RSO training and rules.
NEW ACTION PISTOL (ASI) PRACTICE OPPORTUNITY
On the third Wednesday of June, July, and August, Tom Brooks will lead an abbreviated (one stage) ASI event from 4-6pm on the 25 yard range. FIRST ONE IS JUNE 19. No scores, no fees (donations welcome.) Approximately 12-15 rounds. More details on the website for those dates.
NOTE FROM THE MEMBERSHIP CHAIR REGARDING BACKGROUND CHECKS
Charlie recently wanted to pass on this new bit of information:
On our Wolfe background check site is a notice about a change in California. CA has amended their rules about background checks eliminating birthdays and addresses as one of the elements. According to Wolfe, these are two of the most critical bits of info needed to correlate the searched person and the SSN data. This has now extended the time a background check can be completed. Any PCGC applicant that has a CA address listed in former addresses, may face an extended time before the check is 100% complete. I have not run across this issue yet, perhaps Wolfe gives a preliminary report, but then cautions that CA has not responded yet. Any PCGC with CA history may have to be admitted on a conditional basis based on the final report that includes CA..
NEW DUNHAM YEAR AND DATES
We're signing up for another year of Dunham discounts. As usual, everyone gets an everyday 10% discount with your card (available in the club house) and a 20% discount on the following four weekends:
August 9-11 2024November 8-10, 2024February 7-9, 2025May 9-11, 2025
EVALUATING RIMFIRE AMMUNITION
This tidbit is from Dan Henk: "Another rimfire "catch" from our friends at Watauga Gun Club. My only reservation is this: the test was conducted with one rifle. Although that rifle is likely to be as good as it gets for rimfire accuracy, it has a particular throat/chamber. Another rifle of equivalent quality might have a somewhat different match throat/chamber. I suspect the accuracy ranking would be at least somewhat different. The benefit of this article is that it does give some insight into ammo quality."
CONGRATULATIONS ON TOP RESULTS FROM GREG CHAPA
EVERY FIRST SUNDAY OF THE MONTH AT 1PMCHECK IN 1200 - 1230 PM ----- $15 ENTRY FEESAFETY BRIEF 1230 PMFIRST SHOT DOWN RANGE AT 1 PMDURATION IS APPROXIMATELY 3 HRS (DEPENDING ON THE NUMBER OF SHOOTERS)AMMO REQUIREMENTS AT LEAST 60 RIFLE AND 60 PISTOL."COWBOY LOAD" LOW VELOCITY (400 - 1000 fps PISTOL; 400-1200 fps RIFLEPISTOL AND RIFLE BULLETS MUST BE LEAD **** NO JACKETED BULLETS ****SHOT SHELL NO LARGER THAN 71/2 LEAD SHOT **** NO STEEL SHOT ****NEVER SHOT?!COME ON OUT AND GIVE IT A TRY OR STOP BY AND SPECTATE FOR A SPELL.VERY POSSIBLE THERE COULD BE EQUIPMENT TO BORROW.LOCATION:2600 SC-11, Travelers Rest, SC 29690*** LOOK FOR THE "SASS COWBOY MATCH" SIGNS ***CONTACT: JOE WASCAVAGE, aka "LazyEye"; 301-904-7648, [email protected]
Terry
May 2024
ELECTION RESULTS
The three existing Board members were re-elected for another three year term: Charlie Liberto, Terry Lynch, and Bobby Robinson. In an executive session after the annual meeting was adjourned, the Board voted to keep everyone in their current officer positions:
President---Beryl Mollette
Vice President--Doyle Estes
Treasurer--Al Boehm
Secretary--Terry Lynch
Membership--Charlie Liberto
Exec Officer--Bobby Robinson
The Board wishes to thank Bill High and Alton Kelley for putting their names on the ballot and be willing to serve as Board members, if elected. Perhaps they will become part of the Board at a future time.
50 YARD RANGE
We have set up a WORK DAY for this coming WEDNESDAY from 8am til noon to make progress on the 50 yard range. We hope to place the target stands in the ground and use cinder blocks to build the four shooting stands. We have concrete table tops already to place. If you are free Wed morning, please come out and help. If someone has masonry skills to place and glue cinder blocks, we especially need you to come out and help with that.
BENCH REST
I mentioned in a previous email that Shelley Gudger has resigned this leadership position after 7 years! She did an outstanding job and we thank her. Now, Steve Bengston has stepped up to run the rimfire portion of Bench Rest going forward. The inaugural match under his guidance will be Saturday, July 13th at 2pm. Note the day change. Going forward matches will be the second Saturday at 2pm in March, April, May, September, October, and November. Stay tuned for further details. We are still seeking someone to run the center fire portion of Bench Rest. Reach out to Steve or a Board member to volunteer.
VENDING MACHINE MANAGER AND SKEET/TRAP SHOT CARDS
Alton Kelley has been the STAR for the club on both these activities. He has volunteered to be our vending manager and has discarded all old merchandise from all 3 machines and restocked with fresh inventory. He also got the repair guy in and fixed two of them. Then, we discovered we were almost out of shot cards and Alton, with his printing background, got 5,000 new cards printed within a week with minimal cost to the club. This is a great service and a big cost savings. If you bump into Alton, make sure you say thanks on both counts. This is what we count on our volunteers to do to help the club. (I try to catch folks who do good volunteer work and publicize it but I don't get everyone. Let me know who's doing good stuff.)
MEMBERSHIP
Charlie reported at the Annual portion of the meeting that we are at exactly 300 members. In executive session, the Board agreed that we will allow the total membership to float between 300 and 325 so that the numerous applicants in line can join, once approved.
SURVEY
Charlie also reported on the survey in the annual membership letter. He got 232 responses which is awesome. On Q1, exactly half said they used the pistol range and half said no. On Q2, 58% agreed with allowing shooters to sight in ("get on the paper") with any rifle on the 25 yard pistol range. On Q3, 75% agreed further rifle usage should move to the longer ranges. On Q4, 84% agreed folks could continue to use rifles with pistol calibers on the range. The Board approved all this by consensus. Good survey, Charlie, and thanks to everyone who responded.
EMERGENCY ACTION PLAN (EAP) AND FIRST AID KITS
Dave Foti, Jeannette Burrell, Devon Cole, and Jim McBurnett are getting new first aid kits and new EAP signs posted on all the ranges. Please note their location and take a moment to read the instructions. It can be crucial if we have an incident. These complement the AED defibrillator device recently purchased and installed in the Club house.
CLASSIFIED ADS
Don't forget to check the classifieds occasionally. Recently we've had a few more things posted. https://polkcountygunclub.com/classifieds/
HOLD HARMLESS AGREEMENTS
Thanks to everyone who is filling these out but PLEASE help me out by punching holes in them and inserting them in the notebook by guest last name. No one seems to be doing this. This really helps if we have to find someone.
Please send me any comments or questions.
Terry
April 2024
Lots of information this month:
ANNUAL MEETING
The monthly May meeting and the Annual Meeting are being combined on Thursday, May 16 at 7pm. Voting for the three Board openings will be available from 3pm until 7pm. All voting must be in person at the Club. As required by the By Laws, we have five candidates in alphabetical order for the three openings for a three year term: Bill High, Alton Kelley, Charlie Liberto, Terry Lynch, and Bobby Robinson. You have to have been a club member for three years in order to be eligible to vote.
SHELLEY RETIRES FROM BENCH REST LEADERSHIP
Shelley Gudger sadly announced her resignation last night as leader for Bench Rest matches. Shelley's been leading Bench Rest since 2018! She's done an outstanding job managing this discipline for the Club, turning in well over $7,000 in profits since she began. Everyone thanked her and we wish her well going forward. So, we now need a new Bench Rest leader. If you want to take this on, Shelley is more than willing to help with the transition. Let me or Shelley know if you'll do it and I'll get you in touch with the Board and Shelley.
MEMBERSHIP RENEWALS
As of last night, there were 103 of you who haven't renewed yet! If you're waiting, please do it now so Charlie doesn't have to chase you. If you are an existing member, we won't drop you until we verify contact (because some letters do get lost) but 100+ is a lot to check up on. If you never got a renewal letter or lost it, send your correct mailing address to Charlie at [email protected].
MEMBER POLL ABOUT PISTOL RANGE
Charlie reported on prelim results from his poll on the registration letter. Half of the respondents said they used the pistol (25 yard) range. 76% approved using the 25 yard range for sighting in rifles but the same 76% said 'no' to using rifles on this range for any other purposes. However, 85% agreed we should allow rifle use there for pistol calibers which is the way we've currently been handling the range. We'll get more clarity when the 50 yard range is completed.
50 YARD RANGE
The concrete pad has been poured. Bobby reports he hopes to place the target stands this weekend. After that, the shooting tables will be placed. We're going to get some gravel placed around the concrete too.. Then we can open the range.
VENDING MACHINES
All of you candy addicts will be happy to hear that Alton Kelley has volunteered to take over managing the three vending machines. I'll meet with him today to hand over the keys and I'm sure he'll be refilling soon with fresh stock. Say thank you if you see him. He's also been doing a great job getting new signs printed around the ranges, the latest for First Aid and soon our new Emergency Action Plan.
WNC JUNIOR HUNTER COMPETITION
This went very well this year and we received a $1500 check from the DNR. $500 will be used to reimburse the school team for providing food to the DNR per our contract and then $500 each will go to Junior Rifle and Clay Busters. Parking and prep again went smoothly with help from Sam Summey, Bill High, Bill Dennis, Kevin Brown, Rod Combs, Ken McFadden, Ron Dethloff, I hope I didn't miss anyone. Jason Ashley arranged to have over 30 GFL trash containers placed around the club and they were invaluable in managing all the trash. Altogether, there were 34 teams this year and the usual ~350 vehicles and 750 or so people. We dodged the heavy Friday rains again due to good sand drainage on all our fields.
SKEET TOURNAMENT DATES
Doyle finalized dates for four matches and they are listed on the website calendar: May 31-June1, July 19-20, August 23-24, and Nov 9. Doubles on May 28, July 16, August 20 and Nov 8. Contact Chris Bates.
Terry
March 2024
Good Morning, Everyone.
Lots of stuff this month.
WNC Junior Hunter Competition THIS Weekend
This is a big event for us. There will be 34 youth teams, the most ever, so we may have 1,000 people and up to 400 vehicles on site. All ranges are closed Friday and Saturday. We will be prepping the parking area on Friday morning starting at 9am. I have one helper but could use a few more. probably only for a couple hours.
Parking Saturday morning starts at 6am sharp. I have a couple volunteers so far but need several more. Trailers come in at 6 and everybody else starts in when the gates open at 630pm Cars will line up on Little Mountain Rd but bypass them and come to the gate and the rangers will let you in if you tell them you are a club volunteer. We should have a yellow vest for you. It is a VERY BUSY hour as most vehicles are parked by 730. Our volunteer assistance is critical to keep things moving. Bring a mag flashlight or spotlight.
AED/CPR Class Thank You!
Jeannette Burrell led the class on the Sat morning of work day. She did an outstanding job and the club thanks her profusely. Attendees thought it was great and she will be offering the class again.
Board Candidates Needed
Ed Skeels and Greg Fickel are seeking a few more nominations for the Board vote at the annual meeting on May 16. Charlie Liberto, Bobby Robinson, and I are up for reelection and all three of us have agreed to run again but per the by laws there are supposed to be at least 5 candidates. If you want to run, and we always need fresh blood, let Ed or Greg know. The pay is great and the hours are short!
Vending Machine Volunteer Manager Needed
If you don't want to run for the Board, we need a vending machine manager. We have three machines and it's important to keep tabs on the merchandise, refill as needed, and discard old products. If you want to take over this important volunteer positionB, let someone on the Board know.
Bench Rest Match RSO's Needed on April 7
Shelley Gudger reported a great turnout for the first match of the year on March 3 but she needs 2-3 more RSO's for the April match. Please volunteer to help her out Details on the website including Shelley's contact email.
Hold Harmless Agreements Need to be Put in the Notebook
Folks, you are doing a good job filling out the HH agreements but can you PLEASE punch holes in them and stick them in the notebook alphabetically by guest last name? There are about 25 stacked up and I really don't want to do it myself. Please help me out. And while you're a guest on site, please wear one of the Visitor lanyards.
Membership Update
Charlie reported we have 320 members and new approvals are on hold until after all the renewals and cancellations are in by April 30. If you need to reach out to Charlie for some reason, his email is on the Contacts page on the website. Just go to him directly rather than through me.
Website Link: https://polkcountygunclub.com/
Thanks to all on behalf of the Board for all the volunteering going on around the Club!
Terry
February 2024
Work day is March 2
The Spring work day is coming up in less than 2 weeks. We'll start 8am for the early birds but get there when you can. It's over when all the work is done. Projects as of now are as follows. Pick one or two and bring tools you think might be needed.
1. Pistol Range--Reset the distance markers from the firing line, re-position the railroad ties, fix other signs, straighten up target stands and materials in shed.
2. Well House--fix up as needed (Beryl Mollette)
3. 50 Yard Range--Build 4 target stands. May or may not put in ground at this time.
4. Inspect outer club fence line; remove downed trees. (Bobby Robinson)
5. Spread crusher run on rifle range parking lot--Need someone to bring a tractor with a bucket to spread it.
The wads and broken clays on the skeet/trap ranges have already been cleaned up by an early bird crew last Wednesday. They did a great job.
WNC Jr Hunter Competition (March 16)
We need a small set-up crew starting at 9am Friday. 4-5 guys. Meet on the rifle range. Should only take a couple hours. Let me know if you want to help then.
We also need a parking crew starting at 545am on Saturday. Meet at the entrance to the rifle range for a quick org meeting. Trailers not arriving on Friday will be allowed in at 6am and the gates for cars/trucks will open at 630am. Bring a strong flashlight or spotlight. Let me know if you are coming for this. Good if a couple folks can come both Friday and Saturday. Helps with parking in the dark if you saw the layout in daylight.
The NC Rangers also always like to have a few folks help with RSO duties during the day. Come on out if you want to help with this.
Active Target/Throom Vote Results
We got almost 50 votes from last month's survey question. 71% voted in favor of the club purchasing a few of the targets to try. 65% indicated they would like to shoot at them. Thanks to ALL who took the time to cast a vote. So, the Club is going to purchase three sets and likely make all of them available on the pistol range. They'll be mounted on sawhorse type stands that can be moved to different distances on the pistol/25 yard range.
Asphalt and electronic gate update
We continue to gather estimates for both projects. Laying either asphalt or tar and chips on Jack's Way from Little Mountain Rd back to the Club House will be in the $32,000-35,000 range depending on supplier. The estimates were all actually pretty close and all suppliers are considered good. We're currently holding on going forward.
Dave Foti and I have obtained two electronic gate estimates so far and the scope on the two is quite different as is the price. Next step is to compare the two and finalize what we really want. We're going to involve some of the club folks who have looked at this before too. We're going slow because it's not an easy proposition. We do know that we can have REMC drop a power line to the gate for a few thousand dollars and Windstream can drop an Internet hard wire for a couple hundred dollars. Stay tuned for more information on these topics.
The Board would be interested to hear your thoughts on which project to prioritize first, do neither, or do both, perhaps over a couple years.
50 Yard Range
The Board approved pouring of a concrete pad for this range. Once this is done the shooting tables will be placed and the target stands (hopefully built on the work day) mounted. A roof will follow this spring or summer. We're going to spread some seed, fertilizer, and straw this week. Hope we get rain.
Bench Rest Matches
Shelley reports these matches are getting popular and she could really use 2-3 more RSO's to come out and help!
Navy Arms Website
Charlie LIberto reports that he was checking all his firearm websites and Navy Arms is still active. On this site, for anybody who likes the movie, 'The Last Samurai', here is a chance to own an original Mauser that was in the movie. A bit pricey, but can be sent to you with no FFL due to their age.
https://www.navyarms.com/current-products/mauser/
Terry
January 2024
All,
Hope you are finding time to shoot in between the rain and freezing weather. Here's what's new and needed.
Reactive Targets--SURVEY QUESTION
One of our members is attempting to become a dealer for Throom and may be able to get these targets at significant discounts. Check them out at this website.
- Should the Club purchase a selection of these targets for everyone's use on some of the ranges, most likely the shorter ones?
- Do you think you yourself would use them?
PLEASE REPLY TO THIS EMAIL WITH A YES OR A NO FOR EACH OF THE 2 QUESTIONS.
Volunteer Opportunity
The Club recently purchased two truckloads of crusher run to fill in bare spots at the far end of the rifle range parking lot. We NEED A VOLUNTEER to bring a tractor with a loader to spread it. If you can do it, just come on down. If you let me know, I'll push it out to the whole Club so we don't get duplicate effort. Two loads of screenings were also delivered to the pistol range last week to fill in low spots and these have already been spread.
Hold Harmless Agreements (HHA)
With the new year, all guests must fill out a new 2024 HHA. Please fill in the guest name and sign, punch holes, and please please insert in the notebook by guest last name. Also, all guests should wear one of the VISITOR lanyards instead of pinning on the name cards which we have discontinued. Remember to return the VISITOR lanyards to the club house before leaving.
AED Now in the Club House; Training Planned at Work Day
The Club has purchased an AED device and it's mounted on the wall in the club house. An AED, or automated external defibrillator, is used to help those experiencing sudden cardiac arrest. It's a sophisticated, yet easy-to-use, medical device that can analyze the heart's rhythm and, if necessary, deliver an electrical shock, or defibrillation, to help the heart re-establish an effective rhythm. Jeannette Burrell is going to offer some basic training at various times during the work day on March 2 so we will be looking for interest via signups.
Spring Work Day--March 2
Mark your calendars for the Work Day on March 2. We will have a list of projects by then. All ranges will be closed until work is completed.
WNC Junior Hunter Competition--March 16
This annual competition among school shooting teams will be March 16 at PCGC. Friday, March 15 will be a prep day. All ranges will be closed both days. We will need a few volunteers on Friday to set up the parking area and then 7-8 volunteers starting about 6am Saturday to park the 350+ vehicles we get. Let me know if you are able to help.
50 Yard Range--Progress Report
The berm and shooting pad are completed. Bobby Robinson is getting prices to pour a concrete pad on which we will place 4 of the concrete shooting tables. Then we'll build 4 target stands identical to the ones on the other ranges. Later this year, we plan to install a cover similar to the other three ranges. Until this range is completed, 50 yard shooting is permitted on the alley to the right hand side of the 25 yard (Pistol) range. We had installed a target stand for the 50 yard shooters and someone took it down. If you know about that, please let me or one of the Board know. Removing it without authorization is a violation of Club property.
Reminders
- The NRA Regional Annual Meeting in Asheville is Feb 9 and the Club has purchased a table for the Clay Busters. If you would like to attend with them or make a donation, all the details are on the website.
- Don't forget to check out the Classified Ads on the website occasionally, There was a bunch of stuff just added. If your item has been up for a long time, please either tell me to take it down or do something different like change the price.
- The Annual 4-H competition will be August 9-10. More on this later.
- Ed Skeels and Greg Ficklin are looking for people who want to run for the three Board openings. Contact one of them if you are interested in this three year position. The elections are at the annual meeting in May and we need at least 5 people to run.
December 2023
Happy New Year, Everyone! It's been a while since the last newsletter but I, like I hope most of you, had a busy holiday season and I'm trying to catch up. Here is the latest news.
ASI Match Cancellation This Saturday
The ASI (Action Shooter) pistol match for THIS Saturday is cancelled due to weather. Saturday is not looking good.
New 2024 Hold Harmless Agreements Needed for Guests
With the start of the new year, all guests (adults and minors) need to sign new HHA's for 2024, punch holes in the form, and put them in the notebook alphabetically by last name of the guest. Guests only need to fill out a form once for the whole year. Guests need to wear one of the VISITOR lanyards while on site. Please return when leaving.
Junior Hunter Skills Tournament March 16 Calendar Announcement
Looking ahead to Spring, here's an advance notice of the NCWRC District 9 Youth Hunter Education Skills Tournament on Saturday, March 16, 2024. Our Spring Workday will be the preceding Saturday, March 9. Please mark your calendars. All ranges will be closed those two days (and also Friday the 15th.)
On the Website
1. High Power Rifle announces their 2024 Schedule
2. Long Range Handgun match details for 2024 posted.
3. Final Buffalo Rim Fire tournament results from December 30.
Pistol Range
Operation of the 25 yard range seems to be going well. We've heard lots of positives. The target stands for pistol shooting (courtesy of Jason Ashley) are all painted and available for general use. The vertical boards are missing so you may need to bring your own 1x2s or 1x3s. As always, make sure targets on the pistol range stands are at eye level to ensure all rounds hit the berm, especially at distances 10 yards and under. The large temporary target stand we put in the ground for the 50 yard alley on the right of the range has been taken down and we don't know why. If anyone knows about that, please let me know. We're going to try to reinstall it this weekend subject to weather.
50 Yard Rifle Range
The berm and range have been built for this and it looks great. It is not usable yet. The plan is to install four target stands, put in a concrete pad soon with four shooting tables and then a cover. We intend to make it just like the 100/200/300 yard range.
Used Brass
Please pick up all brass from your shooting. If you don't want it, please toss it in the available buckets. DO NOT PUT LIVE ROUNDS IN THESE BUCKETS! Put live rounds in the trash. Used brass gets melted down and live rounds would not be a good thing. Do NOT put non-brass cases in these buckets either. The Club takes used brass to a metal recycler periodically and gets cash back.
Firearms for Freedom NRA Legacy Program
As we all grow older, are you wondering what will happen to your firearms when you are gone? The NRA has a program called Firearms for Freedom. Sam Summey brought this to our attention and it's posted under Our Club/Programs. Link here: https://polkcountygunclub.com/firearms-for-freedom/ The NRA offers many ways for your firearms to be passed on to the next generation. Take a look at this if it might work for you.
Major Capital Projects
The Club is taking a serious look at 1) asphalting Jack's Way from the main road back to the Clubhouse and 2) (again) considering an electronic gate of some sort. We have two asphalt quotes both around $35,000. We haven't got that far with the gate idea yet but we're working on it. Personally, I think an asphalt road entry would be a nice addition and reduce the need for maintenance of the gravel road that is constantly washing out. If you have pro or con thoughts on either, please let the Board know via responses to me.
Monthly Meeting
The next monthly meeting is Tuesday, January 9 next week.
2024 Board Nominations
It's still way early but Ed Skeels and Greg Ficklin are chairing the Nominations Committee for our elections in May. Charlie, Bobby, and my terms are up. Let Ed or Greg know if you are interested in a Board position.
Terry
October 2023
MODIFIED PISTOLRANGE
As mentioned a couple of weeks ago and repeated here, the modified pistol range with the pavilion moved up to the 25-yard line is now in operation.
Adjusted/Temporary Pistol Range RulesHere's how the pistol range should operate until the new 50 yard berm is completed on the rifle range. At that time, we may make the pistol range 25 yards only. All 50 yard shooting would move to the rifle range. This MAY change as we get experience but this is where we are headed.1. Right now, the pavilion firing line is at 25 yards and there is a 50 yard firing line off to the right. Two firing lines get complicated but we are trying to accommodate everyone temporarily.2. The 50 yard lane will be for anyone wanting to shoot pistols or rifles at that distance. When a 50 yard shooter is present, that distance takes precedence and there will be NO SHOOTING from the pavilion or anywhere closer than 50 yards. We ask during this temporary period 50 yard shooters don't take over the range for extended times and keep their shooting times brief. Please cooperate!3. All other shooting will be from the pavilion firing line 25 yards from the berm. Target stands, yours or the ones there now, may be placed at any distance from the pavilion.4. Shooters must ensure their targets on the stands are at sufficient height (e.g. eye level) that rounds impact the berm and not the floor of the range. At shorter distances, this means targets have to be 3-4' or more above the ground.5. ALL OTHER USUAL PISTOL RANGE RULES APPLY, PARTICULARLY WHEN THERE ARE MORE THAN ONE SHOOTER. PLEASE FOLLOW THE USUAL SAFETY RULES AND PROCEDURES!!6. There is a lot more available parking behind the pavilion. When someone is shooting at 50 yards, don't park there. If there are 25 yard shooters and their cars present, cars in front of the 50 yard line need to be moved before shooting starts from the 50 yard line.
NEW TARGET STANDS FOR PISTOL RANGE
Jason Ashley, one of our members, made a number of wooden pistol stands for anyone to use. Photos attached. Many thanks to Jason for a nice job! They have different slots for the verticals so the width can be customized to your targets. Use them at any distance but the taller verticals should be used at closer distances to help make sure your rounds impact the berm. Please leave the stands at the range for all to use.
DUNHAM DISCOUNTS
Reminder to use your discount cards available at the office for 10% off at Dunham's in Hendersonville anytime. I've used it several times. NOTE one of our FOUR 20% off weekends is coming up November 10-12. Good time to pick up a Christmas present.
CLASSIFIED ADS
We've had a flurry of activity recently. Remember to send me items you want to post and take a look at what's there. If you've had something up for a while with no action, you might want to change the price.
WEBSITE NEWS AND CALENDAR
Reminder that the leaders of our various disciplines regularly post match results under NEWS. Check it out. Also the 2024 calendar is updated with match dates that I've been given.
PCGC HIGH POWER RIFLE PROGRAM EXPLAINED
Sam Summey explained in a recent note how several of the high power rifle disciplines you see on our calendar link together. It was helpful to me so I'm passing along the information. (Sam, I rearranged and edited a little!)
There are two governing bodies, the NRA and the CMP (Civilian Marksmanship Program). The latter was started by the US Government around the turn of the 20th Century. Both entities sanction matches in their name and have similar but separate sets of rules. Both have High Power Rifle Programs. (Both also sanction small bore and air rifle too.)
PCGC embraces both governing bodies (as High Power Rifle.) We hold NRA Service Rifle Matches (6) in the summer and CMP GSM matches (4) in the winter. As a rule the CMP League matches are more relaxed and instructive. We started doing these matches to introduce new shooters/competitors to high power rifle competition. In February we hold the Frozen Chosin which adds another position (sitting) as a fun "club match".The CMP winter "League" is still classified as High Power Rifle and includes the WW II Garand, WW I Springfield, and Modern Military rifles (M14, AR-15, FNFAL, and derivatives of the German G3) and thus adds the GSM acronym (Garand, Springfield, Modern Military).The NRA F-class matches that PCGC holds are also an NRA High Power Rifle Program with a side program of small bore F-class.
JUST IN: GREG CHAPA TAKES TOP HONORS AT 1000 YARDS
Dan Henk passes on a very hearty congratulations to club member Greg Chapa for taking top honors as F-Open competitor at the NC State 1000 yd F-Class championship on 28 October at Burlington NC. Kudos, Greg! Says Dan: "We've watched you practice faithfully and we're all proud of your win!"
Terry
September 2023
Hi Everybody,
Sorry for the long absence of a newsletter but I've missed the past two club meetings due to vacations, and then my computer died, so I'm just getting back in the swing.
Junior Rifle Brass Processing Machine
At the September meeting, Bobby highlighted the need for a new high power brass processing machine for the Junior Rifle team. The current system is old and inefficient. Cost is estimated at $3250. Rather than club fund it directly, it was suggested that we first ask for donations from members to help pay for it. We already received several hundred dollars in pledges at the meeting. Please make a donation if you can. Make checks out to PCGC and put them in an envelope marked Jr Rifle Brass Machine and stick it in the safe or give it to Bobby or another Board member. For perspective, we have 300 members and if just 30 of us can give $100 each, we'd have it made.
US Representative Chuck Edwards May Attend October Meeting
Thanks to Caton McBride's invitation, Representative Edwards (NC-11) may attend the October regular meeting and address the group. He apparently is an avid shooter and Caton has invited him to shoot with some of us.
Clay Pigeon Costs
The cost of the latest delivery of clays is coming in at about $20,000 later this month. It's up from approximately $12,000 in recent years. While we are not yet raising prices to shooters again, be aware of this rising cost and don't be surprised if cost/round of skeet or trap goes up at some point in the future.
Clay Pigeon Handling
We have noticed an increase in the amount of clay breakage in loading the machines. With the number of new keys out there and maybe more and newer people loading, we need to be extra careful in handling and stacking clays into the machines. Given the cost, (see above!) please be careful with loading clay targets into the machines.
4-H Donation
Following the 4-H event here in August, the 4-H folks took a collection and donated $372 to the Club. We thank them!
Modified Pistol Range Proposal
There have long been complaints requiring pistol shooters to place all targets at the berm making folks shoot from the open field. Also, rifle shooters on the 50 yard range have been damaging the metal fencing used for hanging targets at the berm. So we are proposing a major change at the pistol range.
We will move the covered pavilion up to the 25 yard mark. We will remove the wire fencing and clean up/square up the berm. All shooting will now be from the pavilion using your own target stands at any distance you choose. All target stands will need to be positioned to ensure rounds strike the berm and not the floor of the range.(We may provide standard ones at some point in the future.) The range will now be PISTOLS ONLY. NO RIFLES OF ANY CALIBER will be allowed on the pistol range now. (We will make an exception only for .22 shooters at the Junior Hunter Event in March and the 4-H Event in August.) To accommodate rifle shooters, we will construct two new 50 yard target stands in between the 100 and 200 yard ranges. Shooting table 210 will have a clear line of sight to both the #10 target at 200 yards and the #1 target at 50 yards. Table 101 will have a clear line of sight to both the #1 stand at 100 yards and the #2 stand at 50 yards. (It is still possible we may move the 50 yard stands to the right of the 100 yard range and/or use fold-up, semi-permanent stands for them at the above location.) A side benefit of moving the pavilion will be a lot more parking for pistol shooters behind the relocated pavilion.
The Board is in favor of these changes but we wanted to push it out to the membership for any additional questions or comments we may not have thought of. We will probably confirm all this at the Oct 10 meeting and hopefully implement the changes at the Oct 14 Fall Work Day. Please reply back to me or to any Board member. I will forward anything that I receive to the Board at the meeting.
Long Range Handgun
The Sixgunner is the top national handgun hunting periodical. Dan Henk recently submitted an article about our Long Range Handgun matches and it was included in their most recent issue.
The link to the magazine is HERE: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1CfLUMhJPRDWhiDP_f9n4eK9ken5-WsAD/view
Sixgunner also offered a FREE subscription to the magazine HERE: subscribepage.com/thesixgunner
The number of long range pistol shooters has been decreasing a bit at our matches so if you're still interested, please make a point to come out and join in. Only one match left this season on Tuesday, October 3 at 630pm. If you just want to try it, Dan Henk might be able to set you up.
July 2023
Just a few updates following last week's meeting.
HOLD HARMLESS FORMS AND NEW GUEST PASSES
Every guest, shooting or not, is required to complete a Hold Harmless Agreement (HHA) once a year. It must be signed by a Member. The NEW procedure this year has been to insert the form alphabetically by the guest's last name in the notebook. (Some were still putting the forms in the black mailbox which was on the floor but we've now put that away in the office.) NEW THIS MONTH, instead of the little guest cards to wear, we are making up a bunch of VISITOR tags on lanyards for guests to wear around their necks. We decided the cards were being used erratically and what was important was for everyone to know who the visitors were. PLEASE GET YOUR GUEST TO WEAR A VISITOR LANYARD AND RETURN IT BEFORE LEAVING THE GROUNDS.
CLASSIFIED ADS REMINDER
Don't forget about our classified ads on the website. Ads submitted have been coming a little slow. Purchases have also been slow. And, if you have an ad there that hasn't generated any interest recently , it might be time to reduce the price and/or take down the ad for a while. LMK.
NEWS ITEMS ON THE WEBSITE
We continue to post results of each of the Club's matches on the website. If you want to know who's been shooting well, check out the site.
FALL WORK DAY SCHEDULED: OCTOBER 14
Mark your calendars for Saturday, October 14. We will have our semi-annual work day. If you want a project done, let someone on the Board know.
SAFETY FENCE EXTENSION
Ron Wilson is leading a group to extend the safety fence between the skeet/trap fields and the other ranges. Let him know if you can help.
4-H TOURNAMENT AUGUST 11-12: RANGES CLOSED
The annual tournament is scheduled for August 11-12 and all ranges will be closed for this event.
CONTACT INFORMATION CHANGES
As always, if your email or snail mail address or phone number changes, please let us know.
June 2023
Hi Everybody,
I was on vacation last week and missed the meeting so this newsletter is a little late this month.
Membership Check Deposits Problem
Al has had a problem making deposits. Our bank is requiring special deposit slips and he had to order more. Also, the bank is moving to electronic deposits which introduce another layer of complexity and delay. Net, deposits are being made but slowly so just sit tight if your check hasn't cleared yet. If you got your new gate code in the mail, your membership is ok.
Membership Update
At this time, the Club's membership quota has been reached and no further action on applications will be taken until there are vacancies. Those currently on the wait list as of 6/13/23 will be allowed to complete the membership process and be voted on. We will continue to take applications, and those applicants will be up for membership sequentially by the date they were received by the membership chairman when vacancies occur. Our 2 meeting requirement is still in place and easy to meet, but it would be beneficial for any applicant to first, get to the club, participate in something, and make associations such that you will have two sponsors, one of which will request the application. There are many hopefuls with the meeting requirement completed, but no application submitted. So, preferred process: visit the club, get sponsors, submit application, attend meetings, wait for opening.
AED Unit
The Club is in the process of purchasing an AED (Automatic External Defibrillator) unit which will be mounted in the Club House. Once it is received and installed, we will have training on its use for any interested member. One of our members, Jeanette Burrell, who has a Masters in Nursing and teaches CPR and other classes extensively in addition to her regular hospital job, has volunteered to conduct our training. More information on that will be forthcoming.
Dunham's Discount
The Club has applied for and received 10% discount cards from Dunham Sports. Look for a separate email with details.
Email Updates
Just a reminder to let me know if you change email addresses (or any other personal data.) I'll forward it to Charlie and keep you on the newsletter list.
Coffee Pot
Another reminder. If you use the coffee pot, when done, please make sure it's cleaned and left unplugged.
Terry
May 2023 and Annual Meeting
I will combine news from both meetings.
ELECTION RESULTS: CHANGE AT THE TOP
Despite light attendance, enough votes were cast "legally" and as expected Doyle Estes, Al Boehm, and Greg Ficklin were re-elected to the Board for a three-year term. When officers were selected after the Annual Meeting, Doyle and Beryl nominated each other for President, and Beryl was selected as the new president. Doyle will be VP, Al will remain as Treasurer, I will continue as Secretary, Charlie will continue as Membership Chair, and Bobby will continue as Executive Officer. Note Charlie's email is posted under Contacts on the website if you have membership questions. Go to him, not me!
RECENT CLUB PURCHASES
A total of $1,000 was approved for lumber to extend the safety fencing alongside of Field #3.
An AED device has been ordered for approximately $1,000 and will be installed in the clubhouse. We will probably arrange for training on its use for anyone interested.
Ten new Samsung tablets totaling about $1,000 were approved to facilitate electronic scoring on the rifle ranges.
TRAP/SKEET KEYS
Exactly 50 keys have been given out so far. We still have a few more. Contact me to arrange a meeting time if you want one.
TRAP/SKEET SIGN-IN LOGS
At one point, we announced we were going to have logs in each skeet/trap house to log in opening and closing, but we have decided not to do that. However, all shooters must continue to complete the sign-in books at each range. We need to know who is shooting, especially the last person leaving.
Without the close-out logs in the houses now, everyone must remember that the LAST trap or skeet shooters of the day MUST follow the closing procedure (to be posted in each house) and make sure all machines are re-filled and houses are LOCKED. A key is not needed to lock them. ONE IMPORTANT POINT: When the last MEMBER is finished shooting, the houses must be closed/locked. A non-member cannot continue to shoot withOUT a member present.
CONCRETE STEP REPAIRS
Bobby is working on this and by the time of this writing, I believe all the repairs/replacements have been completed.
Repeating two points from last month:
Terry
April 2023
Charlie mailed the Annual Meeting notice with the new gate code on Tuesday, April 18. Be on the lookout. If your check hasn't cleared yet, be patient as Al deposits them in batches to avoid extra fees from the bank. If you get your letter in the next few days, you are good.
Nominations for Board Positions
There were no volunteers for the Board except for the three going off--Doyle, Al, and Greg--to recommit for another three-year term. If last minute you want to run, you'll have to have the Board consider it.
Clay Busters Leader Announced
Johnny Cantrell has agreed to take over leadership of Clay Busters. Please congratulate him and help him out if he needs a hand.
Nora Ross Clinic Coming May 6-7
Details on the website PCGC members can get first dibs by signing up now with Dave Foti.
WNC Junior Hunter Event Recap
We had 31 teams and parked 377 vehicles. We're almost at capacity. There were lots of people here and the event ran very smoothly and safely.
Women on Target
We're still seeking a person to lead this. It would be a great service to the ladies of the community. It requires a lot of effort but a well organized, manager-type individual would be able to manage it. Contact the Board if you are interested or want to recommend someone.
ATF News
Sam Summey has reported a couple of very positive results on gun legislation by NC legislators. Details are posted on the website.
Lawn Care
We started a lawn service this week and they mowed and weed eated everything on Wednesday morning except the rifle range which Ed did himself last week. In my opinion, they did a GREAT JOB. The service will generally be there on Wed morning and alternate between the rifle range or all the rest of the ranges each week until we get a pattern figured out..
Trap/Skeet Keys
We have "given out" 45 keys in exchange for a refundable security deposit. Thirty-two old ones were turned in. I have 5 more left from the second production run. When they are gone, we will get some more made. Contact me to meet sometime at the club to get a key.
We are dispensing with the opening/closing logs in the houses but NOTE THAT A KEY IS NOT NEEDED TO LOCK UP. Therefore, anyone can close up the ranges but you must follow the shut down process--turn the machines off, refill the trays, etc-- and remember to lock the houses if you are the last shooter.
Gate Lock
Gate--If you are fortunate enough to open the main gate sometime, be sure to lock the lock back onto the chain after you swing open the gate and spin the dials to hide the code. If you don't relock the lock, you can't spin the dials and the gate code will be exposed for all to see all day.
Club House Lock
If you are last out, make sure both doors are locked. It's possible to flip a switch on the combo lock so it's turned off, and similarly, the other door automatically stays unlocked when opened from the inside. Check both, please.
New Parking Area
A new parking area for 10-15 cars parked on an angle has been completed just behind Field #1. This will also be convenient for the Pistol Range. John Holbert did the work and also replaced the culvert between the fork and the Pistol Range. Great job!
Dogs Still Prohibited
Once again, a reminder to all that no dogs are allowed on property for safety reasons, both for the dog's sake and for the humans' sake. Most everybody has been good but there have been a few dogs here. If you see one, do your RSO duty and ask them to leave with the dog.
Upcoming Events
F Class Match--April 22
Buffalo/Rim Fire--April 29
Long Range Handgun--May 2
ASI Pistol--May 6
Bench Rest--May 7
Turkey Season
Check out the attached photo taken just before the March meeting. They knew the season wasn't open yet.
Hope you made it this far.
March 2023
Lots of important information this month. Not everybody reads emails so please pass this stuff on by word of mouth.
NEW TRAP/SKEET HOUSE KEYS TO BE ISSUED
The new locks will be placed and new keys will be exchanged with old ones on April 8 from 10am to Noon in the Club House. This date/time will be for people with current keys only. It's a tight window but we want to get it done quickly. If you want the new key, make it a point to get there because the locks are being changed that day. Bring your old key and a $50 deposit check which is refundable if/when you return the key. People not having a current key and wanting one will be taken care of later after we see how many current holders claim new keys. Not everybody reads these emails so spread this event by word-of-mouth to your friends with keys!
WNC JUNIOR HUNTER COMPETITION THIS WEEKEND
All ranges closed THIS Friday and Saturday. Need a few volunteers for Friday setup (9am), Saturday parking (6am), and RSO support (9am-3pm). There will be ~300 cars and ~700 people on site Saturday.
NO DOGS ON PROPERTY
We continue to remind everyone that the club policy is NO dogs on property. This is primarily for safety (human and animal) reasons.
CLUB HOUSE DOORS BEING LEFT UNLOCKED
This is another reminder that if you are the last one in the Club House on any given day, MAKE SURE BOTH DOORS ARE LOCKED. We've had several instances where the combo lock door is locked but the other door is open. For the latter, if you open it from the inside, it AUTOMATICALLY UNLOCKS from BOTH sides. When you leave, you have to turn the button. Check it! The combo lock door needs to have the interior switch in the correct position to lock from the outside. Check it too! Please!
RIFLE RANGE NUMBER SIGNS REPLACED/PENALTY TO SHOOT AT THEM
Recently, new signs were installed. Please make every effort NOT to put bullet holes in them. We know there is an occasional flyer but we have seen tightly grouped patterns on some of them suggesting people are unwilling to hang targets and use the number signs as targets. THIS DESTRUCTION OF CLUB PROPERTY IS A VIOLATION OF CLUB RULES AND IF OBSERVED WILL BE PUNISHED BY TERMINATION OF MEMBERSHIP. As RSO's, if you observe someone shooting on the rifle range without targets, we'll assume they are shooting at the signs so please find out the name of the person and pass it on to the Board immediately.
HOLD HARMLESS AGREEMENTS
Every guest needs to complete a Hold Harmless Agreement before shooting but only once a year. Forms are on the rack on the wall. There is NOW an alphabetized notebook on the table to put the completed forms in by last name of the guest. Don't stuff the mailbox; it's gone!
ASI PISTOL MATCH #2
Since it's the newest discipline in the Club, we'll give this a bit more of a plug! The second ASI match was a success. The weather was good and the shooting was great. There were 15 competitors, twice last month, with several from the first match. Also they were about equally split between members and non-members. The word is spreading. After the safety briefing, we started at 1215 and ended up at 330. We shot 4 stages with a round count of 46 rounds What was surprising and a good sign was that almost half of the competitors were rocking with 1911’s. Yay! Also, 9mm ruled today! The best overall shooter was Jake Davis with a time of 58.20. Everybody was safe and shot great. Some were new to this style of shooting and as the stages went on you could see improvements. I want to thank Tom Brooks again for his RO duties and scoring, Kathy McBride for signing everybody up and keeping the paperwork straight. The next match is April 1 and I (Caton McBride) am already looking at some different stages with a couple really challenging ones.
LONG RANGE HANDGUN
OK, the second newest discipline! Dan Henk sent me a nice article but it's too long for this newsletter. I'll send it separately next week and read it if you're at all interested. The next LRH match is Tuesday evening, April 4.
WOMEN ON TARGET
At the Feb meeting, the Board discussed a desire to restart this program which teaches women how to be more comfortable and competent with shooting. PCGC used to run it but the leadership dropped away. The program needs a strong, capable administrator. If you have an interest in taking on this project for women both in our Club and the community as a service to both, please contact someone on the Board and we would be happy to discuss what's involved.
RUDY EIDAM LEAVES TOWN
For those of you who knew Rudy, he recently moved away and sent me a nice note he asked to share:
I want to thank the entire club membership for the manner in which they accepted, and instructed me, during my three years of shooting. Polk has proved to be the very best club I have ever been associated with.I have moved to Indiana to be closer to family. But please let the good folks at the club know how I appreciated the way they allowed me to enjoy being part of their organization.Respectfully,Rudy Eidam
February 2023
February 2023
Well our next meeting is tomorrow night which, of course, is Valentine's Day. Given the kind of guys your Board is, we decided to leave the date alone and take our spouses/others out for dinner on a different night and beat the crowds. But YOU can bring your spouse along to the meeting for a romantic night out. Parking lot will be real dark after the meeting!
Website
We've made a couple small changes to the website.
1. Past newsletters are now posted under News.
2. There is a Volunteer Project List now posted under Our Club. Take a look. Pick a project you could help with, or send new project ideas to me to post.
3. The Classified page continues to be popular so give it another look. If you have something to sell or want, send me an ad for it.
New members
Last month, Lee Wangsted, Marc James, Devon Cole, and Bob Shutt were approved as new members. Two more will be interviewed tomorrow. We are at about 315 members., I think.
Nominating Committee
Bobby Robinson ([email protected]) is chairing the nominations committee for the three new board positions coming up for election at the Annual Meeting on May 16. If you'd like to run, get in touch with Bobby.
Frozen Chosin (February 18)
Shooting begins at 10am. Match is held under modified CMP rules. Will be a 40 shot match (due to limited availability of ammo) conducted at 200 yards on standard SR targets. Sighting shots are allowed. Shooting positions are: prone slow fire, prone rapid from standing, sitting rapid from standing, and standing (off hand) slow fire. A competitor will need 60 rounds total which includes sighting rounds.
Spring Clean Up Day (March 4)
To get ready for the Junior Hunter competition--we'll have over 700 visitors to the Club--we'll have our annual Spring Clean Up Day on March 4 starting at 8am. It usually lasts until between noon and 2pm depending on work and attendees. All are encouraged to attend and the more who do, the quicker the work gets done. Projects are being planned so if you know of something to get done, let me know.
Next ASI Pistol Match (March 11)
The first ever Action Shooting International pistol match went off smoothly on Feb 4 with 8 shooters braving the cold weather. Reports were it was a lot of fun. The next match will be on March 11, one week later than first scheduled due to the Club Work Day on March 4. If you'd like to shoot, give Caton McBride ([email protected]) a heads up so he can plan.
WNC Junior Hunter Competition (March 18)
This year's Junior Hunter competition will be on Saturday, March 18 with Friday, March 17 as a prep day. All ranges will be closed both days. On Friday, March 17, while the State DNR guys are setting up ranges, Club members will do prep work getting the rifle range fields ready for parking. If you can volunteer on Friday, please let me know. We could use a half dozen or so folks. On Saturday morning, starting about 6am, we will be parking the 300 or so vehicles that will be coming. It's crazy but fun--in the dark! If you want to help with this, let me know you are coming and make sure you have fresh batteries in your flashlight. It's all over by 9am but some of us hang around to help with RSO duties.
Terry Lynch
PCGC Secretary
January 2023
Shooting at the Number Boards on the Rifle Ranges is a Violation
ASI Pistol Matches Rescheduled (Caton McBride)
Long Range Handgun (Dan Henk, Shawn Risdon)
WNC Junior Hunter Competition March 18
Spring Clean Up Day March 4
Update on Website Classified Ads
New Trap Machine
Keys to the Trap and Skeet Houses
Club to Purchase an AED Device for Club House
Mike Murph to Retire from Clay Busters Leadership
Murph has announced his intention to retire from his position taking care of the Clay Busters. All of us on the Board and in the Club who have benefitted from Murph's leadership and unselfish coaching will be sad to see him leave. He has spent many, many hours coaching our youth with many of them going on to great success in state and national competitions. It's a great legacy! While we are confirming a replacement, we hope Murph will be around to offer assistance as needed.
Secretary
December 2022
Christmas is coming . . .
Check the PCGC Classified Ads section for gifts for your family or favorite shooters! https://polkcountygunclub.com/classifieds/ It's also a good time to post anything you want to sell. We've had good movement of items recently.
New Members
At the November meeting, Lindsay Bagwell, Justin Nelson, and Mike Lovelace were approved as new members.
Trap House completion
Glover McMurray and a few buddies completed the trap house on the new (third) trap/skeet range. They did an outstanding job. Check out the photo attached. Now they are making some repairs on the other two houses. Both of these houses need some paint. If you want to volunteer to do it, let me know but go ahead and do it. The club will reimburse for the paint if you will supply the labor.
Jack Arcularious Way
The sign naming the entrance drive for Gunny is now installed! As you drive into the Club, please remember Jack and the many years of service he gave to Country and to our Club.
Upcoming Events
Saturday, Dec 31, 8am Buffalo Rimfire New Year's Eve Match
ASI Action Pistol Matches Coming in January, February, and March
PCGC, led by Caton McBride is introducing an ASI (Action Shooting International) pistol match for the first time in January. The first three test matches will be on the first Saturdays of January, February, and March. Dates are on the calendar and full information is under the News heading on the website.
Each match will start at 1200. Registration, depending on weather, will be in the clubhouse or at the pavilion at the pistol range and starts at 1100. New shooter briefing at 1145am. Cost per shooter is $20.00 and ALL shooters must register.
Any caliber handgun may be used. A holster is preferred but not required but the handgun must be in either a holster or bag, UNLOADED, and VISIBLY LOCKED OPEN if a semi-automatic. Shooters will need at least 50 rounds of ammunition, extra mags if available, and hearing and eye protection.
If you are interested in participating in the match, please email Caton at [email protected] or call 8282201778. He would like to have an idea of the attendance.
Here is a link to a sample of what one of these matches might look like. Obviously, each "session" would need to be adapted to the available range geometry. That is what Caton is planning.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xZjtA9NSd3Q&authuser=0
Reminder to Sign In When Using Each Range
Please remember to sign the logs whenever you use one of the ranges. I personally witnessed a couple guys leaving the rifle range who had apparently forgotten. We need a record in case of any problems encountered on each range.
Hold Harmless Guest Release Forms
Every guest, adult or minor, who shoots at the Club is required to complete a Hold Harmless Form. No exceptions. We have separate forms for adults and minors. Each signed form is good for a calendar year. At the end of this month, all of the 2022 forms become invalid and every guest needs to sign a new form for 2023. The blank forms go quickly so if you use the last one, please make and leave a few copies for others on the printer right there. Let me know if there are no more forms and I can get some more there pretty quickly too.
I hope everyone has a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year if we don't see you at the Club this month!
September 2022
LONG RANGE PISTOL MATCH--SEPTEMBER 6 (TOMORROW!)
Format of the match remains the same: twenty shots for record on a groundhog target in a time period of fifteen minutes. Rimfire shooters will shoot targets on the 100 yard range. Centerfire shooters will shoot targets on the 300 yard line. Assuming there are more than three shooters in a class (rimfire or centerfire), first-place winners will receive a cash award. Registration fee for the match is $15.
OTHER UPCOMING MATCHES
MONTHLY MEETING
FALL CLUB WORK DAY--SATURDAY, OCTOBER 8, 8AM
CALENDAR AND CLASSIFIEDS
NORA ROSS TRAPSHOOTING CLINIC--MAY 6-7, 2023
What to expect:
Terry
July 2022
It's been a while since I sent a newsletter. I've been doing a lot of traveling. Here goes with a few comments and questions seeking a comment.
At a recent monthly meeting, there was discussion about how difficult it has become to find reloading components of all sorts. If anyone has extra components of any type that they are not using and may wish to sell, or who has found a reliable source, please share the information with me and I will forward it to the whole group. If you know of a good source for reloading supplies, especially powder and (shotgun) shot, please share also.
Ads on the calendar.page, reflecting a negative experience of and comment by one member, are there because we are using a free calendar app. My advice is not to click on any of them. I can't vouch for the security.
QUESTION #1: IS THERE ANY INTEREST IN A CLASSIFIED ADS SECTION ON THE WEBPAGE WHERE FOLKS COULD LIST ITEMS FOR SALE, AS WE DO ON THE BULLETIN BOARDS NOW. WE WOULD HAVE A SEPARATE PAGE ON THE SITE. I THINK I WOULD RECOMMEND SELLERS LIST ONLY AN EMAIL ADDRESS WITH AN ITEM FOR SALE.
QUESTION #2: DAN HENK AND SEAN RISDON ARE PROPOSING A MONTHLY LONG-RANGE PISTOL MATCH ON TUESDAY NIGHTS STARTING IN AUGUST AND CONTINUING THROUGH DAYLIGHT SAVINGS. IT WOULD LAST LESS THAN ONE HOUR. DETAILS IN THE ATTACHED PDF. THE BOARD IS GOING TO CONSIDER THIS IN THE JULY 12 MONTHLY MEETING. WE ARE CHECKING THE RANGE SHEETS FOR "BUSY-NESS" ON THOSE EVENINGS WHICH IS A CONCERN. PLEASE READ OVER THE PDF AND REPLY TO ME WITH COMMENTS AND A EITHER YES OR NO ON THE PROPOSAL. IF YOU YOURSELF WOULD SHOOT AT SUCH A MATCH, PLEASE LET ME KNOW THAT TOO. SUCH DATA FOR THE BOARD WOULD BE HELPFUL.
Finally, from the last survey, here are some key points:
Survey Results
35 people responded which is less than 12%. Not a very good response considering we have 300 members. But most people were appreciative of the opportunity to provide input and I'm guessing the responses were probably fairly representative.
PISTOL RANGE
Q1: 21 shoot both pistol and rifle, 4 shoot pistol only, 1 rifle only
Q2: 17 shoot 1x/month or less, 7 shoot a few times per month, 1 shoots 1x/week
Q3: Pistol distance: 7 yds – 11 shooters, 10 yds – 6 shooters, 15 yds – 7 shooters, 20 yds or more – 8 shooters, 5 yds or less – 24 shooters, 20 yds or more – 8 shooters
Q4: Rifle distance: 50 yds – 17 shooters, 25-30 yds – 3 shooters
SKEET/TRAP RANGE
Q5: 10 admitted to having keys. I won't list them here.
Q6: At least 10 others said they arrived and no one had a key, some many times.
Q7: Sometimes people came with a key and sometimes not.
Q8: Most common day seemed to be Friday but also a few Tuesdays and Saturdays
Thank you to everyone who took the time to respond!! We will use these results to 1) consider improvements/changes to the pistol range and 2) how to better manage key availability.
As always, comments welcome.