Albuquerque’s Shooting Range Needs a Make‑over
The Albuquerque Shooting Range Park is a cornerstone for local gun enthusiasts, offering:
- Long‑range target practice
- Trap and skeet fields
- Specialized concealed carry courses
It also welcomes women eager to learn safe handling and self‑defense techniques, fostering a community of responsible shooting.
Staff Excellence
The park’s staff are highly trained National Rifle Association instructors who emphasize safety and friendliness. Whenever new shooters arrive, the range serves as a live classroom to demonstrate proper etiquette and operations.
Maintenance Challenges
Despite its importance, the park’s condition has deteriorated:
- Wooden target frames are riddled with splinters and broken cardboard, posing hazards.
- Distance markers on benches at 15, 25, 50, and 75 yards are damaged, making target alignment difficult.
- Road access from the registration office to the trap and skeet fields is plagued by potholes that reappear after patching, creating an unsafe drive.
These issues signal a lack of funding and maintenance, turning the municipal gem into a neglected space.
Environmental Value
The facility offers an eco‑friendly alternative to off‑site shooting, reducing litter and lead contamination in natural areas.
Call to Action
City leaders must secure resources to restore infrastructure and uphold safety standards. A well‑managed range supports responsible gun ownership while protecting the surrounding environment.
