By 1808Delaware
On Saturday, August 17, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Wildlife, in collaboration with the National Shooting Sports Foundation, is hosting Free Range Day at three of Ohio’s premier public shooting ranges, including the Delaware Wildlife Area. This unique event offers an excellent opportunity for both seasoned shooters and newcomers to gain hands-on experience with firearms, guided by certified instructors—all at no cost.
From 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, participants can visit the Delaware Wildlife Area, located at 1110 State Route 229, Ashley, OH 43003, where on-site staff will provide all necessary equipment, including firearms, ammunition, ear protection, and eye protection. Whether you’re interested in honing your skills with a rifle, shotgun, or handgun, or simply curious about learning the basics of safe firearm handling, this event is designed to be both educational and enjoyable.
The Significance of Free Range Day
Free Range Day is part of National Shooting Sports Month, a broader initiative by the National Shooting Sports Foundation Inc. to promote safe, responsible, and enjoyable shooting sports across the country. By waiving the shooting range permit requirements on this day, ODNR aims to make the sport more accessible to everyone, encouraging participation and fostering a community of responsible shooters.
Public shooting ranges like those managed by the Division of Wildlife are more than just places to practice; they are vital resources for promoting safety, skill development, and community engagement. With Ohio’s outdoor ranges being the choice for 71% of the state’s 1.1 million target shooters, events like Free Range Day play a crucial role in sustaining and growing the shooting sports community.
What You Need to Know: Range Facilities and Permit Waivers
ODNR’s shooting ranges are categorized into three classes:
- Class A: Supervised rifle and pistol target shooting.
- Class B: Unsupervised rifle and pistol target shooting.
- Class C: Unsupervised clay target shotgun shooting.
During Free Range Day, the permit requirement for all Class A, B, and C ranges will be waived, allowing participants to enjoy the facilities without the usual costs. This is a rare opportunity, as outside of Free Range Day, individuals aged 18 and older are required to purchase a shooting range permit, available for $5 daily or $24 annually, to use these facilities.
For those who wish to continue practicing their skills beyond this event, a complete list of Ohio’s range facilities, along with detailed information on the amenities offered at each, can be found on the Wild Ohio website.
The Economic Impact of Recreational Shooting in Ohio
Recreational target shooting is more than just a popular pastime; it’s a significant economic driver in Ohio. In 2022 alone, the state’s 1.1 million target shooters contributed an impressive $2.6 billion to the economy, supporting over 22,000 jobs. With around 20% of Ohioans participating in target shooting annually, the sport continues to grow, underlining the importance of accessible and well-maintained shooting ranges.
Don’t Miss Out on Free Range Day
Whether you’re a seasoned shooter looking to practice in a supervised environment or a beginner eager to learn the ropes, Free Range Day at the Delaware Wildlife Area is the perfect occasion to enjoy a day outdoors, sharpen your skills, and connect with fellow shooting enthusiasts. Mark your calendars for Saturday, August 17, and take advantage of this free event to experience the best that Ohio’s public shooting ranges have to offer.
Image by Monica Volpin from Pixabay
