Throwing clays on opening day

  • Published
  • By Heidi Hunt
  • 509th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo. --  Whiteman's newest outdoor recreation initiative is set to go off with a "bang," when the base's new skeet range open's April 24, 2010.

"We are really excited to have a fully operational skeet and trap range," said Mr. John Hardy, 509th Force Support outdoor recreation manager. "The skeet range serves a leisure sport for Airmen to relax and have fun."

On a shotgun or trap range, the shooter aims, at sporting clays or skeet that are mechanically-fired (or in some cases, thrown by hand) across an open field. These involve shooting clay disks also known as clay pigeons thrown in various ways.

"There are three different target throwers which fling small clay discs into the air for the participants to shoot at," he said. "Throwers can choose to shoot from a high-house, low-house and a trap."

The range is located east of the golf course, will attract shooters for many reasons.

"Some patrons will just enjoy shooting, while others like the competition aspect," he said. "It also helps the bird hunters get ready for a great hunting season."

Customers wishing to use the new skeet range must attend a hunter's safety course prior to any activity, according to Mr. Hardy. The purpose of a hunter's safety course is to help ensure participants know how to handle a gun safely.

Although the range is not manned, shooters must comply with all rules.

According to Mr. Hardy, patrons are asked to use the Wingman concept for safety reasons and for someone to pull the thrower triggers.

The range is designed exclusively for shotgun use, and no other firearms are allowed.

The skeet range is open for use year-around to all active duty, retirees, Guard and Reservist. Registered members of the range are allowed to bring non-military as guests.

The outdoor recreation office will accept annual registration fees during grand opening event.

Members will be provided with the combination to the gate and are asked to sign out the triggers. For more information, contact the outdoor recreation office at (660) 687-5565.