Range Description
Empire Gun Club, managed by the Bayfield Lions Club, offers a unique shooting experience at the Art Davis Free Public Gun Range, located at 4499 County Road 223 in Durango, Colorado. This facility stands out as a free public gun range, making it accessible to a wide range of shooting enthusiasts, from beginners to experienced marksmen. The range is open to the public and is managed by Colorado Parks and Wildlife, ensuring a safe and well-maintained environment for all users. The range operates from April 1 to October 31, with hours from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM, and from November 1 to November 30, it operates from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The facility is closed from December 1 to March 31. The Art Davis range features a rifle/pistol range with a covered firing line, equipped with six concrete benches for rifles and two positions for pistols. Target backers are available at various distances, including 15, 25, 50, 75, and 100 yards. Additionally, there is a shotgun range with a covered area and concrete firing line, although users must bring their own target throwers and clay pigeons. The archery range complements the offerings with target butts at 15, 25, and 35 yards. The range is frequented by local 4H groups, clients from nearby dude ranches, and hosts a ladies day shoot twice a year. With an estimated 3,000 to 4,000 shooters annually, the range experiences high usage, particularly during the hunting season in late September and October. While the range is free to use, it relies on donations for maintenance and operation costs, with donation pipes located at both the rifle/pistol and shotgun ranges. The atmosphere at Empire Gun Club is welcoming and community-oriented, providing a safe space for shooters to practice and improve their skills. Overall, the Art Davis Free Public Gun Range is an excellent choice for anyone looking to enjoy shooting sports in a beautiful Colorado setting.