Located in a redundant quarry, the latest Airgun Club of the Month roots go back further than the eight decades it’s been running.
Minehead & District Rifle & Pistol Club has antecedents going back to the 1880s, and there is a painting owned by the National Rifle Association showing the Dunster Militia practising musketry with targets set against the local cliffs.
The club started in 1937 as the Royal British Legion Club and in 1984 it changed to the Dunster Rifle Club. In 1995 the new range was completed and the club became Minehead & District Rifle & Pistol Club.
Facilities include an indoor range of 25 yards and 50 metres. Airgun shooting takes place at 10 metres and 20 yards, with automatic target changing.
The membership is currently numbered about 40, with ages ranging from 10 to the mid-70s. There is no minimum age for joining, although the determining factor is the ability to hold the equipment.
There is an open and welcoming atmosphere for those wishing to try shooting, with new members having individual tuition from NSRA-accredited instructors. The club has provided support for the Scouts, Duke of Edinburgh and Pony Club, as well as providing occasional social shoots for organisations.
Target shooting is one of the few sports that males and females may take part in on equal terms and with a full range of ages, and one the entire family can take part in.
This is highlighted to the parents of youngsters who have expressed an interest in taking up the sport as they require a parent or guardian to attend with them. This often leads to the adults taking up the sport as well.
Leave a Reply