KAYSVILLE—It’s taken a few months to make all of the improvements on the Davis Shooting Range in Kaysville but gun enthusiasts will see that it’s worth the wait. The shooting range is set to reopen June 28 with a free event for the public from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

“A lot of people don’t even know that there is a range within a few minutes of where they live,” said Range Master Paul Hubenthal. “We’re getting some signage to put us on the map. People are so surprised that there’s a gun range.”

It’s unique and affordable, he said. “It’s a very versatile range and it’s a place that keeps everyone safe and gives them a place to practice and learn. If there wasn’t a range people would go somewhere else. This is accessible and organized.”

Hubenthal said the range basically got a facelift. “The bays are more evenly distributed. It’s been repainted with improved infrastructure and operation.”

There are 10 bays, he said. “The bays are a prepared space with berms for safe control so that bullets don’t escape.”

The bays are like a bowling alley, said Hubenthal. “Once people practice and get the mechanics down they’re wondering what else they can do.”

There are clubs that have more dynamic targets, he said. “Some are interactive where things pop out, move, flip and swing. The cowboy club has a Texas star. If you hit one plate it starts spinning. Clubs allow for more challenges.”

The 4-H kids come up too, said Hubenthal. “Utah is one of the fastest growing 4-H groups. Hunter safety groups also come up.”

Law enforcement uses it for training, he said. “They have two bays. The public and law enforcement can coexist. They just need to be respectful of each other’s spaces.”

Refreshments will also be available, said Hubenthal. “It’s sponsored by the Industries for the Blind (and Visually Impaired). It will give patrons access to beverages and snacks. It can get pretty hot. It not only helps visitors but it helps the Industries for the Blind.”

They plan to install three more pavilions, he said. “It gives shelter and a source of shade.”

The cowboy group has events where they reenact the 1800s, Hubenthal said. “They dress in vests and boots and wear stars. They can only use relic guns. They’d like to have a pavilion with a cowboy flare. We want to support people at the range as long as they adhere to the codes. Everyone could use it, they just want it to create a mood.”

Hubenthal said the range is a great activity for families too. “It’s great to see grandpas, dads and moms pass on that American heritage and introduce their children to firearms. I’ve seen couples come up for date night.”

The range does not provide training, he said. “Some groups offer it. Our purpose is to provide a safe venue in a friendly and respectful manner for people to come and enjoy themselves in the shooting sports.”

That’s the magic the range affords, he said. “It creates a community. Seeing people enjoying themselves in a safe environment – that’s where I get my satisfaction.” 

The Davis Shooting Range is located at 1649 E. 650 North, Kaysville. Summer hours are Friday, 9 a.m. to dusk, Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.