Every Tuesday is Ladies' Day from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. at The Range in McKinney, offering women half-off indoor firearm lane fees and free handgun rentals.
"We wanted to build a different kind of gun range, one designed to make everyone feel at home,” emphasizes Julie Beyer, director of communications at The Range in McKinney and co-founder with her husband, Thom Beyer. “A range with great customer service and a family-friendly environment where men, women and families interested in firearm instruction, safety and proficiency could feel comfortable, as well as learn about and practice target shooting."
Since officially opening on Nov. 1, 2022, Julie says The Range in McKinney experienced significant changes and growth. She adds that over the past year, there has been an increase in the customer base as more people have discovered the establishment, and the events at The Range have catered to a diverse range of occasions.
"Our events have expanded over the last year. We've hosted a wide range of events, including bachelor parties, office team-building events, birthday parties, community fund raisers, friends and family get togethers, reunions, and anniversary parties,” states Julie.
Through their passion for target practice and years of experience, Thom and Julie established a community-oriented business that caters to a wide range of visitors seeking to enhance their skills and knowledge in a safe and supportive setting. Complete with an interactive live-fire range, on-site training, personal firearms and an immersive 300-degree video simulator, The Range in McKinney supports individuals and families interested in firearm instruction, safety and proficiency.
This range stems from Thom's lifelong passion for shooting, which he says began at the age of 8 on his family's property. Emphasizing the importance of proper teaching and respect for firearms, Thom dedicated years to sharing his knowledge with others, initially by taking friends to his family's property for shooting lessons. Inspired by their travels to various ranges across the country, the Beyers share they had envisioned creating a unique practice range that prioritizes customer service and fosters a welcoming environment.
New membership options at The Range were introduced to better serve the needs of the clientele, including corporate armed security, school districts, school marshals, church safety and firearms trainers seeking a dedicated teaching space.
Julie says the beginner private lessons, allowing up to two participants per session, have proven to be extremely popular, with couples and families often opting to learn target shooting together instead of a classroom setting. Gun Safety Camps for youth and teens were launched, offering both online and in-person LTC options. Julie shares that the Silver memberships have exceeded expectations, providing an affordable option for individuals older than 65 and fostering a sense of community among members.
“One of the most pleasant surprises for us has been how The Range in McKinney has helped bring people together. For example, our Silver members include a group of retired gentlemen who met at The Range In McKinney and have formed strong friendships through their shared weekly target practice, coffee breaks and post-range lunches every Tuesday," she says.
A key aspect of The Range in McKinney's ethos is its focus on education and safety. Julie explains, "We offer specialized membership classes and comprehensive training programs to ensure our patrons have the knowledge and skills necessary to handle firearms responsibly."
She adds, "From beginner private lessons to free Women’s Situational Awareness classes, we strive to empower individuals of all backgrounds."
A 20% discount is offered on memberships, lane fees and classes for all first responders, including military and veterans. Additionally, group memberships are available for security organizations and law enforcement agencies. Special training sessions are provided for women and other groups, such as tailored classes for women realtors and first-time women shooters is available.
A new specialized training class, The Texas Guardian Program, is the Texas D.P.S. approved training for school district employees and teachers to be accessible for schools and independent school districts to train, become certified, and comply with the new Texas state guidelines. Texas License to Carry courses are available both online and in-person.
Thom and Julie say they've developed a deep appreciation for McKinney and its residents. "The warmth and friendliness of the people have left a lasting impression," states Julie. "Witnessing families and friends come together to celebrate and spend quality time at our range is truly heartwarming. It brings immense joy. We are proud to own a range where everyone, regardless of background, feel at ease and welcome."
Julie says The Range in McKinney's commitment to the McKinney community extends beyond providing a welcoming space for shooting enthusiasts. "Giving back is a core value," explains Julie.
Over the past year, complimentary Civilian Response to Active Shooter Events (CRASE) and Women’s Situational Awareness classes were offered to educate and empower the community. Additionally, support has been provided to several schools, a respite charity, as well as veteran, military and law enforcement charities. A drop-off point for Toys for Tots was facilitated, and collaboration with a regional local hospital has led to the development of a hospital to develop a program focused on suicide prevention and gun safety for families in the community is in the works.
Looking ahead, Julie shares The Range in McKinney's plans for the future. She mentions, "We have exciting projects in the pipeline, including fundraisers, shooting competitions and large corporate events, all aimed at enhancing the experience for our patrons."
Thom and Julie invest a significant amount of time and effort into the unique aspects of operating The Range in McKinney, with a strong focus on creating an inclusive environment indoor range where everyone feels welcome. "Every day, we strive to improve our customers' experience and make everyone feel at home,” says Julie.
972.330.4415
TheRangeInMcKinney.com
The Range in McKinney is open to the public so no memberships are required to participate there at 415 Industrial Blvd. In addition to target practice, training, simulations and special events, they offer in-house cleaning and light smithing. The owners also coordinate with an external gunsmith for advanced work.
