Always check the Calendar before coming to the Range!
The Marines conduct training on 39 ranges and 11 landing zones across 52,000 acres. While we do our best to keep the Calendar updated, Marine training takes priority and could change our intended schedule so, take one more look at the Calendar before driving to the ranges.
Do you offer training or hold classes for new shooters?
No. Our liability insurance does not allow us to instruct shooters, hold classes or provide formal training. Our RSOs can offer hints, tips and advice, but if you need formal training, you should consider some of the off base, NRA Certified, providers.
Is there an age limit for shooting activities?
Yes, currently anyone attending our range and shooting a firearm, per MCBQ directives, must be 8 years old or older, and under the constant supervision of a parent or guardian. Children between 8 and 12 years of age are also restricted to .22 rimfire calibers, except for certain matches and based on RSO evaluation of skills and competency.
Do I need to bring my own targets?
Yes and no. QSC can provide "Known Distance" target frames for the pit carriages in Ranges 2, 3 & 4. These 5'x5' frames have backers but you still need to provide a paper target face for the frame. For Range 1 and Ironman, you must bring targets and target stands. There is more information about targets and frames in the Range Tab, Targets Section.
As a reminder, please consider the weather for your clothing choices and always bring hydration, sun screen and bug spray in spring, summer and fall.
Why are you only open weekends?
The QSC only has range availability on weekends; active duty units use the ranges during the week so, we are only open Saturday and Sunday. We have first shot as early as 8a.m.and shoot until 3p.m. (although when it's blazing hot in the summer the RSOs tend to close by 1 to 1:30p.m.). Check the Club Calendar for availability as we post ranges by Thursday evening / Friday morning for the coming weekend.
We are also only open when Range Control is operating. If MCBQ, for example, takes a holiday weekend (such as the 4th of July) there is a good chance Range Control will close all ranges.
Why is range availability posted so late in the week? It's hard to plan with such short notice.
We understand, but the military range scheduling process doesn't lend itself to better notice. Range control, each week, de-conflicts 39 ranges across 52,000 acres that are used by numerous active duty, tenant and agency units. Range Control notifies QSC which ranges are available on Sunday evening and posts them to a Marine system for viewing by our Range Scheduler and Chief RSO, who then distributes availability to our Range Safety Officers. Our volunteer RSOs sign up to oversee ranges and we post those results by Thursday evening / Friday morning on the Club Calendar.
Why do I see Matches on the Calendar but no ranges?
As mentioned above about de-conflicting ranges, we only know recreational fire range availability the Sunday in advance. You will see Matches posted weeks to months in advance as we must obtain MCBQ G7 approval to schedule and hold a match.
If there are no ranges on the calendar on a Friday, then there could be no ranges available or open. Once QSC verifies range and RSOs availability, the the range is scheduled through Range Control and is placed on the calendar. This is typically completed by Thursday evening, but conflicts or additional coordination could push calendar posting to Friday for the upcoming weekend (we could also add a range as late as Saturday if it becomes available). Remember, this is an all volunteer organization and as such we depend on our cadre of RSOs for all our shooting activities. Members are highly encouraged to become an RSO for these reasons. In summary, any and all ranges available for Rec Fire, Precision Fire, Structured Fire and Matches will be posted, if a range is not posted then it is NOT available.
How do I use Quantico Shooting Club's calendar?
Click on the calendar event's hyperlink to see more details. A box will open with additional information including range opening and safety brief times, schedule of fire and special notices from the Range OIC for that event. Remember we receive range information from Range Control on Sunday and update the calendar with available ranges on Thursday for the upcoming weekend. Only matches are scheduled ahead of time and may appear on the calendar weeks to months in advance. Lastly, many matches are hosted on Practiscore, where you will find sign up and match information.
Can I use the ranges if I am not a member?
No, you must be a member or a member's guest to use the ranges according to our operating agreements with Marine Corps Base Quantico (primarily an insurance / liability concern). Membership is divided into Regular (Active, Reserve and Retired Military and DoD employees) and Associate (Civilian). Membership fees for Regular members are based on pay grade. Membership applications can be found on the Membership page. Applications can be emailed (we will send you an invoice through our "Square" processor) or brought to the clubhouse. For a nominal fee (currently $10) guests of members may enjoy the ranges for a day. Guests must be accompanied by a member at all times and sign a liability waiver.
Club matches allow non-members to participate by paying the Match Registration Fee.
When can I use the range?
Weekends only and based on:
1. Availability - We typically have a number of ranges available each weekend, including pistol, rifle & shotgun. There are times when Reserve Units may be firing or a sanctioned match is being held. Military use takes precedence and may limit availability.
2. RSOs: The QSC Range Safety Officers are our life's blood. QSC RSOs are members who have gone through MCBQ RSO training and then volunteer to open ranges. If no RSOs are available, we cannot open a range, so their participation is vital. The QSC offers incentives for our RSO to include free memberships so consider becoming an RSO to help us open ranges!
How are shooting positions allocated on a range for recreational fire?
We rarely have anyone waiting to get a shooting slot as the recreational and precision ranges are so large they can easily accommodate 50+ shooters. You may have to wait to put up or remove your targets though as a recreational fire range operates on a Hot and Cold schedule of 45 minutes hot (shooting) and 15 minutes Cold (not shooting). If you arrive just after they go Hot, you will have to wait for the next rotation.
Do you rent firearms, sell ammunition, or supply targets and safety equipment?
No, the club does not own, rent or store firearms or ammunition. You are responsible for providing your own firearms, ammunition, targets, target stands, safety equipment, hydration, sun screen, bug spray, etc. The only targets the club provides are clay targets for shotgun. The Marine Corps Exchange does sell firearms and ammunition and there are two gun shops in Stafford and others in Fredericksburg and Prince William county.
Why can’t I use ammunition listed in the restricted ammo list?
The splatter pattern of steel core ammo is different than lead ammo and as such, safety is a major concern for MCBQ due to the proximity of ranges and the safety "fan" based on bullet flight distances. At present it would be overly cumbersome to verify each shooter's ammunition to ensure NO steel core ammo is used.
Do you sell or provide hunting or fishing licenses or sponsor hunts?
Licenses: No, we do not. You can buy them at the Marine Corps Exchange.
Hunting: No, however, the base does sponsor Wounded Warrior hunt events and does allow limited hunts during hunting season. Go here for information.
Does QSC operate an Archery Range?
No. MCBQ relocated the Archery Range from QSC to an area closer to the West FBI Gate several years ago. MWR now operates the archery range, go here for information.
Does Quantico Shooting Club provide for FFL transfers?
No, the base removed our ability to have an FFL back in the 2010 time frame.
What is the best way to get started in shooting for the first time or to try a new discipline in shooting?
Those interested should look at our links page for further information which provides excellent resources in which to become familiar. The club calendar provides the schedule for recreational fire and this is the best way to actually try out new types of marksmanship. Our members are friendly and enjoy teaching others.