HOUSTON – Gun ranges across the state of Texas seem to be following a new trend, and experts said it's intended to attract a broader crowd to the shooting sports.
"Guntry clubs," as they have been dubbed, are appearing in different parts of Texas and are intended to bring a country club feel to traditional gun ranges.
"The old days of coming to a gun range or gun store and not really being treated too well are long gone," said Thom Bolsch, owner of the Saddle River Range near The Woodlands. "Everyone is trying to get in the 21st century to really take care of their customers."
Bolsch, an ex-Secret Service agent, opened the range in 2015 and designed it to be as comfortable as possible for patrons.
"We try to make it a destination and not just a place where people come to shoot," Bolsch said.
That destination includes a café, archery range, retail shop, shooting simulator and a private, members-only club with its own gun range and lounge.
Similar luxury ranges have popped up in other parts of the state, including the $12 million Frisco Gun Club, which opened north of Dallas in 2013. That club boasts a cigar lounge, craft beer bar and even a concierge for members.
Patrons of the Saddle River Range seem to be impressed with the customer service-oriented atmosphere one might associate with a high-end hotel or restaurant.
"They're very family-friendly," said Barney Bennett, who brings his two children to the range. "I can bring my little one and he's able to shoot and get in there and have fun."
Another "guntry club" development is planned for Sienna Plantation in 2018.
Work is underway to design and plan the Brazos Shooting & Social Club, and construction is set to begin late this year, according to a report by the Houston Business Journal.
Many clubs like these offer memberships in addition to walk-in range fees.