Point Blank Range is an indoor, 25-yard long shooting range that includes 15 shooting lanes with a high-tech wireless and programmable turning target system. This can be operated from a local keypad, or by a Range Safety Officer using a master control system.
To better understand all it has to offer, its mission and vision, I decided to have a conversation with Brian H. Zins, the Training Director. He graciously offered to explain that although such a facility may be seen only as a hobby/gun-enthusiasts place, its purpose reaches far beyond that. With all the equipment provided, training capabilities, a pro-shop and a member’s club, Point Blank Range is not just for entertaining; it also has a social impact in today’s restless society. As news including guns and violence unfold every day, this type of facilities step-up in providing free education and counseling. All Safety Officers employed at the Range are NRA Certified.
The price of all day pas is only $20. Since not everyone practicing or taking classes owns a gun, the Range provides rental options; the fee for all firearms in one caliber is only$20, and rental upgrade, for all firearms in all calibers is possible with an additional $10 fee. Parent or Guardian must accompany all children ages 8 to 18. For family memberships, each family member age 18 or older will be required to provide documentation that they can pass the federal NICS background check. This rule is part of what I mentioned earlier regarding social impact, safety, and teaching the law and responsibilities that come with gun-ownership.
Brian explained that the large Proshop is carrying various products from the major brands. They also have a particular inventory of hard-to-find firearms. The shop offers an exclusive, in-house, Lifetime Warranty on all their Firearms, and in-house Gunsmithing Services.
Point Blank Range is a place where individuals and families can spend a whole day. It is a social place, for friends to enjoy time together, and new friendship-development to take part over a beverage or while relaxing in a conversation. There are memberships offered, from individual to family, and a special Patriot Gun Club Membership. “From the private restrooms, showers and lockers to the 63” HDTV and custom card table, no detail has gone unnoticed. Nothing has been left to chance in the design of the private, 1300 square foot member’s only Club Lounge. Our video gaming station offers an entertainment option for kids and adults alike.”
Point Blank Range was planned with customer comfort, health and safety in mind. For this reason, the special designed climate controlled ventilation system can keep the particulates and gas from the discharging firearm moving downrange at all times, keeping patrons clean, cool and comfortable. The ventilation system was designed to meet all applicable EPA, OSHA and NIOSH air quality standards. This is the first indoor range to have a climate-controlled ventilation system in Charlotte and the surrounding area.
As I mentioned before, Brian H. Zins, is the Director of Training and a Former Marine Gunnery Sergeant, now retired. When he left the Marine Corps in 2008, Brian acknowledged that he wanted to be a shooting instructor. He is the most accomplished competitor in NRA Precision Pistol Competition. Brian started rigorously training and competing in 1989, and the rest is history. From there we discover an amazing career that includes military policeman, marine recruiter, and competitor/instructor for the Marine Corps Shooting Team and Staff Non-commissioned Officer-in-Charge Marine Corps Pistol Team; and with such a vast line of work the number of accomplishments should measure-up.
Starting in 1995 as winner at the 1995 Marine Corps Championship, later added several State and Regional Championships. In 2004, Brian was a member of US Pistol Team; he became Service Pistol National Champion, Presidents 100 Champion, and won twelve times NRA National Pistol Champion. Presently he holds over 30 NRA Precision Pistol National Records. Being a 12 time bull’s eye champion got him the nickname of “Tiger Woods of bull’s eye shooting” said candidly Brian. His collection of military awards include “(6) Marine Corps Good Conduct Medals, (5) Navy/Marine Corps Achievement Medals, (1) Navy Marine Corps Commendation Medal and (1) Meritorious Service Medal.”
Brian took the time to have a conversation about the importance of Point Blank Range. He was proud of the amount of teaching involved, and pointed out the importance of this education for the community. He knows that his teaching can make a difference in today unsettled, churning world; but in the same time Brian is humbled by the feeling of a job well done when students, including first time visitors, start smiling when realizing they also can reach the target. Among the important for public-value is the teaching of a “responsible gun ownership”, Brian stated. “Point Blank Range is offering this low cost Basic Introduction to Firearms seminar as a community service. It is designed for people who know very little about firearms, who may be considering purchasing a gun, or just want to know more about them. All participants receive a coupon for FREE gun rental ($20 value.).” Without any live ammunition and no shooting at this course, families and groups of various ages (eight and up) are welcome.
Beyond the riches and technological-perfect amenities, Brian Zins considers the level of training and classes provided being the most important and with most impact for the public. There is a large “variety of training and instructional programs, including the North Carolina Concealed Carry Handgun Safety course. NRA certified instructors conduct courses for the beginner as well as the more advanced shooter, including courses for instructors to continue building their NRA instructor certifications. Most programs will include classroom time and time on the range. Brian also pointed out the importance for groups as police officers, members of various security companies, to learn about using firearms and the state law requirement and regulation. They even provide Defensive Shotgun 101, Active Shooter Preparedness and Boy Scouts Rifle Shooting Merit Badge
Point Blank Range has to convenient locations. In Matthews at 10726 Monroe Rd. 28105; Phone 704-230-0262; and in Mooresville at 743 River Highway, 28117; Phone: 704-899-5898 or visit them on line at http://www.pointblankrange.com
