View Full Version : Colorado Springs/Fort Carson Public Range
lv2tinker
01-18-2013, 17:25
FORT CARSON, Colo. – The Cheyenne Mountain Shooting Complex opens to the public Jan 23 at 1:30 p.m. The public opening will be proceeded by an invitation only" ribbon-shooting” ceremony at 11 a.m.
The shooting complex, which is the largest outdoor shooting range in the State of Colorado, is a joint project between Fort Carson, El Paso County, the U.S. Forest Service and Colorado Parks and Wildlife.
Shooters can use the range free of charge from 1:30 - 4 p.m. on Jan. 23. Rates for a daily pass are $10 after that.
The 400-acre site is located on Fort Carson land near Interstate 25 just off mile marker 132. The entrance is just outside Fort Carson’s Gate 20 security perimeter. Because the entrance to the shooting range is outside Gate 20, visitors will not have to enter the military base or register their weapons with Fort Carson to utilize the range.
The opening marks the completion of the first of a three-phase construction plan. The complex currently consists of seven shooting ranges with approximately 120 covered shooting positions. Three ranges are designated for rifles with distances from 300 to 500 yards. There are also four designated pistol ranges and one multi-position range prioritized for law enforcement and public safety training purposes.
A small archery range will also be on site with plans to expand it as funding becomes available and a five-stand trap range is expected to be available in the spring for shotgun enthusiasts.
The second phase of the project will include the construction of five skeet & trap ranges and a clubhouse. The clubhouse will include a retail store, classrooms and offices.
El Paso County has established a nonprofit organization called the Soldier’s Friend Foundation to raise funds for the next two phases of the complex. A web site under construction will allow for donations to help fund the two additional phases of the project.
One 1,250-yard-long shooting range will be for the exclusive use of law enforcement, Monday through Friday, but open to the public on weekends.
The range complex will be staffed by military and civilian personnel. Profits from the range will be used to fund the Fort Carson FMWR program, which supports Soldiers and their Families.
For directions and hours of operation, call 719-896-6196 or go to: http://www.elpasoco.com/CMSC/Pages/default.aspx.
muddywings
01-20-2013, 15:46
The homepage:
http://www.elpasoco.com/CMSC/Pages/default.aspx (http://www.elpasoco.com/CMSC/Pages/default.aspx)
Mountain Man
01-23-2013, 23:38
They have caliber restrictions for rifles though. No 338 or 50 and several other calibers. It has to do with some odd federal regulations on post.
RYAN50BMG
01-26-2013, 21:24
went out there today for a dry run. Very nice range setup. The signs specifically state "no 50 cal weapons". Also, I talked to an RSO and asked about full-auto. Although not specifically stated on a sign, it would be frowned upon. BTW, he was cool and did not agree with the 50 cal./FA restrictions. Also, he said "SWAT does what they want to". That was the answer to my "I saw full-auto on tv" question. From looking at the range, the 50 cal/FA restrictions look to be more of a function of proximity of the shooter next to you (the point are close together), rather than a lack of proper back stop or narrow range fan/impact zone. I will shoot there.
I would think ricochets might be a reason for the 50/FA restriction too, the range is 150 yards off of I25. I assume no steel targets too?
They have caliber restrictions for rifles though. No 338 or 50 and several other calibers. It has to do with some odd federal regulations on post.
Not a federal regulation, it's based on the distance to the closest stuff down-range.
Quick Question: Are they restricting all 50 calibers or just the BMG? For instance, would the SW500 pistol would be off limits?
Thanks
JackRyan
02-10-2013, 15:38
I checked it out last week. Its a pretty nice facility. Handgun range set up for 25' 50' 75' and 100 yards. I had a BLAST :)
TheBelly
02-10-2013, 19:26
I checked it out last week. Its a pretty nice facility. Handgun range set up for 25' 50' 75' and 100 yards. I had a BLAST :)
Their range 4 has a 10m as well..
bruceleroy
02-10-2013, 21:55
I live 1 mile from it and have yet to go...[Abused]
TheBelly
02-10-2013, 22:12
Quick Question: Are they restricting all 50 calibers or just the BMG? For instance, would the SW500 pistol would be off limits?
Thanks
they've amended their caliber restrictions to those big calipers, such as .338 lm and .50 bmg. Their reasoning is that those calibers will fly past their impact range.
Roger Ronas
02-12-2013, 13:53
Went opening day, had a blast. will go back. One thing I don't agree with is NO FIREARMS in the building (trailer) where you sin up. Even ccw not allowed. I think it's kinda sad to have a gun free zone at a shooting range. But that's just me.
Roger
jerrymrc
03-17-2013, 15:29
they've amended their caliber restrictions to those big calipers, such as .338 lm and .50 bmg. Their reasoning is that those calibers will fly past their impact range.
A quick glance looks like Range 7-8 is about 4-5000 yards in line with it.
TheBelly
03-17-2013, 16:23
A quick glance looks like Range 7-8 is about 4-5000 yards in line with it.
theyve amended their restriction to 'nothing with a max range greater than 4100yds' ....
JMBD2112
03-18-2013, 20:36
Are they using paper targets or do they have steel on the 1250yd range?
TheBelly
03-18-2013, 23:24
they have steel all the way out there, but I'm not sure the ranges.
On the 300 yd range, they have an 18"x18" plate at 480m (yards, I can't remember and I'm too lazy to convert)
I'm going tomorrow, so I'll get a good look while I'm there.
Blockhead
03-19-2013, 09:13
Took my wife a few weeks back. Great place. I'll be returning.
Aloha_Shooter
03-19-2013, 16:58
I finally went this past Sunday. Great range, excellent staff, but some of the clientele bug me. People kept breaking the ready line while we were going "cold" including one guy who was standing next to his pistol reloading magazines during the whole "line is cold" period. Same guy laid his pistol down with the muzzle facing right down the firing line while he went to the point next door to talk to his buddy. I didn't freak because he ejected the magazine and I could see the action was open and chamber empty but I'm not real keen on firing next to guys who don't think about how their weapon is facing.
I'm just a stickler for things like muzzle control and not having anyone within arms reach of a weapon while the line is cold. If you need to reload mags, then take them and your ammo behind the line to reload while we're cold.
Inconel710
03-19-2013, 17:12
I went this past Friday. The RSO on range 1 was cool but still firm. I think your RSO wasn't paying attention or was overwhelmed by the crowd.
I'll be going back. Heck of a lot nicer and a bit cheaper than Dragonman's.
Roger Ronas
03-19-2013, 17:47
And second Sat of every month is ladies day. Ladies shoot free. Called "Annie get your Gun Days". Also Wed 4-24-13 is free all day for everyone. I'll be there.
Roger
NightCat
03-19-2013, 22:02
...You and everyone else... haha
I am yet to check this place out, I need to re-zero my AR...
Had problems finding places where I can do a USMC Zero...yes...I was Army....and yes, I prefer the USMC Zero...26/300yrd
JMBD2112
03-20-2013, 18:28
Well myself and a couple of my buddies will be coming down on the morning of the 31st.
TheBelly
03-20-2013, 18:37
I went there today. Good shooting and good company. It's fun to ring steel with a .300 win mag.
TEAMRICO
03-20-2013, 20:23
I live five minutes away and have yet to stop by!!!
Damn I need to get off my ass!
We should plan an outing/get together.
TheBelly
03-20-2013, 21:02
tomorrow....
jerrymrc
03-20-2013, 21:13
I live five minutes away and have yet to stop by!!!
Damn I need to get off my ass!
We should plan an outing/get together.
Why not.
tomorrow.... A little notice or do I just have to bring it to work with me and we "Do Lunch" [LOL]
TheBelly
03-20-2013, 21:18
Lunch, Jerry..... I have an appointment on post at 1430, so I'll be set up and shooting by 11AM. gives me a couple hours to shoot, then get over there.
Roger Ronas
03-21-2013, 02:36
The second Sat of every month is free for ladies. And on 4-24-13 is a free day for everyone according to their website. calender.
I'll be there,
Roger
jerrymrc
03-21-2013, 04:25
Lunch, Jerry..... I have an appointment on post at 1430, so I'll be set up and shooting by 11AM. gives me a couple hours to shoot, then get over there.
You can send me a PM if ya want. What ya driving? Might stop by.
I'll probably visit sometime next week. Note: you must either build (not too hard) or buy (only $6) one of their target stands to shoot there. Cost and diagrams are on their webpage.
TheBelly
03-22-2013, 15:55
They also have $3 and $2 stands for sale.
muddywings
03-26-2013, 13:29
Fire at the range today.
Probably a tracer.
TheBelly
03-26-2013, 13:37
Wasn't me this time.
eneranch
03-27-2013, 07:00
Fire at the range today.
Probably a tracer.
Drove by there yesterday & this was my first thought; if so I hope the one responsible got the bill!! Have yet to venture inside & take a look; a friend of mine says the place is top notch.
TheBelly
03-27-2013, 07:33
Good place to shoot. It being a public range means that you have to deal with a fudd or two. I ignored them until I saw one digging through my range bag. The RO was right there, though and put a stop to it. I hurt his feelings, but he was finger effing my stuff.
muddywings
03-27-2013, 07:39
While waiting for the Fire Department to put it out, most people left. I snapped a few in standard gawker fashion. Also the RSOs found a tracer round on the range. It was range 4 on the right hand side where they had the concrete shooting benches. (I was on the far left side).
RSO advised they will now have to start inspecting all rifle ammo...ughhhh.
Anyway, here's the pics:
http://i.imgur.com/MF0irTs.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/jKAaAT6.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/mMKPrOQ.jpg
Cylinder Head
04-14-2013, 17:24
Beautiful day out there today. I had no idea the road leading in was all rocks or I would not have driven the Mercedes.
http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d82/youreallclones/84DD7E7D-61B9-4D5C-94AC-D8561E1DF2AF-11697-00000B7FD45D442B_zps7906c002.jpg
jerrymrc
04-14-2013, 21:07
Good place to shoot. It being a public range means that you have to deal with a fudd or two. I ignored them until I saw one digging through my range bag. The RO was right there, though and put a stop to it. I hurt his feelings, but he was finger effing my stuff.
I have to hear more about this. I have only stopped in a few times and the RO's I have met seem to be OK. Tracer on a public range? I guess anything is possible. Might have been one of those reloads from back when Polygunbags advertised that they were selling the tracer bullets as "plinking" rounds since none of them seemed to light.
Guess some did.
Cylinder Head
04-14-2013, 21:30
I have to hear more about this. I have only stopped in a few times and the RO's I have met seem to be OK. Tracer on a public range? I guess anything is possible. Might have been one of those reloads from back when Polygunbags advertised that they were selling the tracer bullets as "plinking" rounds since none of them seemed to light.
Guess some did.
I got the story from the RO at Range 4 today. FUDD bought an AR "with ammo", and the ammo was tracer ammo. FUDD had zero idea. Now they check everyone's rifle ammo.
Went out today, we were delayed long-range shooting for a while but ended up with 400+ yds and had a great time (the army uses the range just west of there and has dibs). Well staffed and wife friendly with close parking, covered shooting rests, tables and porta-johns.
Well worth the drive, just bring some handguns just in case
romeoalphabravo
05-15-2013, 14:28
I feel dumb... what is tracer ammo?
TEAMRICO
05-26-2013, 00:54
Tracer ammo makes pretty little glowing lights as the bullet flys away from you......not so much when they are coming AT you!.......and they make grass fires!!!
Anyone gonna be shooting there Sunday? Gonna drag my ass out in the mid morning.
Dark Grey Nissan Titan....look for the BIGFOOT sticker.
3beansalad
05-30-2013, 10:57
I've have enjoyed my stops at the range, but there are some gripes as well.
I hate that they don't allow draw work, while I understand the reasoning behind it. The fact that there is federal property involved messes with concealed carry too. Nor shoot and move of any type.
Plinking with the kids, or sighting in some new hardware it's fine. Actual training not so much. All said, I do prefer it to Dragon's for safety, cleanliness, and access.
Circuits
05-30-2013, 12:45
I have to hear more about this. I have only stopped in a few times and the RO's I have met seem to be OK. Tracer on a public range? I guess anything is possible. Might have been one of those reloads from back when Polygunbags advertised that they were selling the tracer bullets as "plinking" rounds since none of them seemed to light.
Guess some did.
This - the market was flooded with a lot of old M196 because it was in stock and even slightly cheap, comparatively, during the ongoing panic. It was bought by people desperate for ammo, any ammo, and not aware or caring what the loaded bullets were.
2 for $10 deal of the day from the Gazette
http://dealoftheday.gazette.com/engine/Splash.aspx?contestid=86498
O2
3beansalad
07-03-2013, 11:43
2 for $10 deal of the day from the Gazette
http://dealoftheday.gazette.com/engine/Splash.aspx?contestid=86498
O2
Thanks for this ^^ at that price I can't even gripe.
TEAMRICO
07-03-2013, 15:03
Call ahead to see what ranges they have operational.
The rains washed out some of the stands a couple of weeks ago when I took my dad and nephews.
Range four, I think, was INOP. It has the 25-100 meter targets.
Had to get packed onto the range that had the separate rifle and pistol tables.
Had to wait for the long range shooters to walk out 300 meters and back etc.......
It was chaotic with everyone on one range.
FYI
Stopped in on my way back from Pueblo to check it out since I hadn't yet. The guy working told me no 300 win mag or larger cartridge's, 7mag was ok for now but for how long he didn't know. I guess the guy in charge of 10th group about crapped himself when he heard 300wm's were ok so he through a fit and now they aren't. So one of if not the most common hunting round is not allowed to even be sighted in at hunting season. Good call, I won't be supporting these guys until they get their head out of their ass.
TEAMRICO
10-25-2013, 21:00
Cheyenne MT Complex.....Third try shooting there today......I'm never going back.
That asshat RSO old man named Steve makes you want to leave after five minutes of listening to him yell and walk around getting in your business. They only had the first range open so I get all my gear and then when it is time to set up my target they don't have 25 meter stands for the rifle table only 50 meters. Does me no good. So I ask him why don't they have them and when will they open another range, preferably the range where you can shoot rifle and pistol from the same bench. He says they don't have enough people to cover that range....even though there where 3 guys in the building. I figure I can shoot pistol until then, nope, all tables are now full but I hear they are gonna open up the rifle range now. So I get the rest of my stuff and drive over to the next range and they are hot. Ok, now the younger kid is working there and he is fine. Well after 15 minutes I get to go put my target up and one of the holders has this chunk of wood jammed into it that I can't get out with out a hammer. So I get one leg in and rig it up so it is semi straight. So after an hour I may get to finally shoot. Some of the other guys are complaining about A hole Steve and I join in. Ok now I get 3 shots off to start my zeroing of my iron sights, next will be my red dot optic. Ok, if you are familiar with military zero targets you shoot three then check to see how many clicks up, down, left or right then make adjustments blah blah blah. So that took 3 minutes..........now I have to wait for the range to go cold like the other guys who are doing the same. Well our line is done........but we have to wait for ALL the range to go cold. So now itis another 15 minutes or so of standing around.
I'm done! I'm not going to spend and hour to get 12 shots off then sit around.
I even left my target out there, they can have it, I won't use it again.
Now I will be going to the South Site from now on, the ride is long but nobody to ruin my day.
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