Cape Ann Sportsman or Reading Rifle

[VTski4x4]

Just wanted to get your thoughts on either of these clubs. I have friends that shoot at each, but frankly, I'm not sure which I would like more. I have been shooting at DFG, but I am looking for somewhere with key card access so that I can go after work & when my schedule permits. I'm in Marblehead, so Reading is probably a few minutes closer, but there is more to do in Gloucester after/before shooting.

Any thoughts or insights? Thanks

 

[DW357]

Never been to Reading but heard its a great club especially for rifle.

Been to DFG and they have a good facilities but needing to have a range officer present at all times is a huge turn off for me.

I'm a member at Cape Ann and pretty enjoy it for the most part. Nothing fancy and you don't need a range officer present. Though I've ran into some safety Nazis on Sundays. It's also open to the public from 9-12 on Sunday. They let you use your own steel targets after getting approval from the club president which is nice because that's all I shoot.

Indoor range is dated and ventilation sucks but it's available 24/7 - lead or copper plated bullets only. No magnum or rifle calibers.

It's five minutes from my house so it's a no-brainer to be a member for me. Though I wish I lived closer to the nicer clubs like Harvard.

Theres also Hamilton Wenham Rod and Gun club. Never been but a few of my friends are and say its good.

Andover Sportsman's Club isn't terribly far from Marblehead either - just shoot down 114.

 

[EddieA]

Also a member at Cape Ann, and have often shot matches at RR&R.
Andrew is right about the ventilation, but it's really only a problem with multiple shooters (not very common). Pretty chilly in the winter, too.
The 24/7 access is what sold me originally, it's pretty convenient sometimes. I'm also just a few minutes away, easy to get to for me.
The outdoor ranges are a great place to meet other club members, almost everyone is downright friendly and helpful. Sunday breakfast, too.
I'd suggest a visit to each club for a tour before you make up your mind.
I don't think you would go wrong with either club.

 

[shiprec13]

Have you considered Andover Sportsmens club?

 

[VTski4x4]

Thanks for the input everyone.

I used to shoot at DFG, but after the second time showing up to shoot only to turn around and leave because the range master had other plans, I'm done.

I have looked into Andover Sportsman, but from what I heard there are some nit picky things that don't interest me. (5rd limit in magazine etc.)

Cape Ann seems like a great option, as I love the city of Gloucester (may even buy there soon). I will investigate Hamilton Wenham - I have a friend that shoots there, but only shoots Trap so I haven't picked his brain too much.

 

[amb]

I have looked into Andover Sportsman, but from what I heard there are some nit picky things that don't interest me. (5rd limit in magazine etc.)

You might want to get a rundown on the rules at Reading as well, then. I don't think they're horrible, but one person's not-so-bad is another person's non-starter. (In particular, the walk-and-paste utility range at Reading is single-load only for rifles, though it looks like that range is about to get bulldozed and split up anyway.)

I've been at both a bunch, and they both seem decent. Reading has a big bunch of serious rifle shooters, and both clubs have good groups of pistol shooters at GBPL matches. The big rifle range at Reading is awesome, while Cape Ann only goes to 100 yards but has a covered firing line. Cape Ann is open to the public Sunday mornings and all matches at Reading are open to the public, so you can get a pretty good look at both of them.

 

[RG Sports]

How much is Cape Ann on Sunday mornings?

 

[EddieA]

Web site says $20

 

[VTski4x4]

Think I'm going to head up to CASC on Sunday. Thanks for all of the input!