CMP Encourages All to Attend Open Public Shooting Nights

By Ashley Brugnone, CMP Writer

Public shooting is now open at the Civilian Marksmanship Program’s (CMP) world-class air gun facilities in Camp Perry, OH, and Anniston, AL. All ages and genders are welcome and urged to take a “shot” at the rousing world of shooting from our safe and fun indoor ranges.

The Gary Anderson CMP Competition Center at Camp Perry is the completed result of the $1.1 million-dollar expansion to the formerly known CMP North Marksmanship Center. The expansion includes an open reception and common area, fully equipped classrooms, cylinder filling room and CMP retail store. The addition also includes projection screens and flat-screen television sets throughout the building.

Connected to the new expansion is the existing 80-point air gun range, which replicates the impressive South Range in Anniston. Each 10-meter firing point is equipped with state-of-the-art electronic targets to accommodate air rifle, air pistol or National Match Air Rifle shooting. Shooters who wish to fire in the range must complete a one-time CMP Eligibility Affidavit and a Liability Waiver, as well as attend a short safety briefing. Shooters under the age of 18 must have a parental consent form signed.

For those new to the sport, the lightweight, easy-to-use air guns are available for loan at both ranges. Sporter class air rifles are free of charge, while the National Match Air Rifles are available to rent for a reasonable fee. Participants must supply their own pellets or may purchase them at the range. Shooters who own personal air guns may use them at the range as well, as long as they are under 600 fps.

The Gary Anderson CMP Competition Center is open Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 5:30 to 8:00 p.m., September through June, except for holidays and special events. The range can also be rented for a fee for your next company or business/family outing.

The 20,000 sq. ft. CMP South Competition Center, located in Anniston, AL, houses classrooms, offices and changing rooms. Open Shooting hours for the public at the South Range are Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4-7 p.m.

Both ranges also host Monthly Matches, open to the public for viewing and participation. The next Monthly Matches will be held on September 20, October 18 and November 15. Registration information for the Monthly Match can be found at www.thecmp.org/3P/MonthlyMatches.htm.

For more information on Open Public Shooting, visit www.thecmp.org/3P/PublicShooting.htm. Questions may be directed to Lue Sherman at lsherman@thecmp.org or 419-635-2141 ext. 1107 for the Gary Anderson CMP Competition Center and Matt Carroll at mcarroll@thecmp.org or 256-835-8455 ext. 1015 for the CMP South Competition Center.