How to Build a Commercial Shooting Range That Actually Turns a Profit

Opening a commercial shooting range can be a profitable and rewarding venture if you approach it with the right mindset, planning, and execution. Too often, range owners fall into common traps that reduce profitability and lead to long-term headaches. At Spire Ranges, we’ve helped countless entrepreneurs and organizations design, build, and operate successful commercial shooting ranges. Here’s what you need to know to do it right.

Common Pitfalls When Starting a Commercial Shooting Range

Emotion-Based Decision Making

Passion is important, but building a shooting range requires business-first thinking. Many new range owners prioritize personal preferences over profit-generating decisions. From the start, your focus should be on operational efficiency and revenue generation.

Misallocated Budget

We’ve seen owners invest heavily in aesthetic upgrades while leaving little room for essentials like marketing, land improvements, or maintenance. Don’t sink your entire budget into finishes that won’t move the needle. A beautiful range is great, but a profitable one is better.

Ignoring Legal and Zoning Challenges

Noise ordinances, zoning restrictions, and environmental regulations can make or break your range. Conduct thorough research and establish relationships with local officials early in the process to avoid costly setbacks.

What Every Commercial Shooting Range Must Include

A well-designed indoor commercial shooting range typically requires three core components:

• Granulated Rubber Bullet Trap – Safely captures rounds and minimizes lead dust and ricochet.
• Safety Ceiling – Protects bystanders from stray rounds in case of accidental discharge.
• HVAC System – Filters airborne contaminants and ensures breathable air quality for staff and shooters.

These elements form the foundation of any safe and code-compliant range. Learn more in our in-depth guide to shooting range components.

Budgeting and Return on Investment

Investing in a commercial range is like buying a custom vehicle—you can go basic or add high-end features, but every dollar should support your revenue goals.

At Spire Ranges, our first step is identifying what will drive revenue at your location. Whether it’s memberships, training programs, law enforcement contracts, or public rentals, we help tailor your build to match your business plan.

A basic 10-lane indoor range with a premium rubber trap, safety ceiling, and ventilation starts around $468,000 (roughly $47,000 per lane, excluding installation). Installation can add 30 percent or more depending on scope.

Designing for Your Target Market

The features you include should reflect your ideal customer.

High-End Membership Range

• Lounge areas with upscale furniture
• Stone or wood finishes in shooting bays
• Premium target systems (e.g., reactive or programmable targets)

Law Enforcement and Military Training Range

• Ballistic rubber on walls
• Low-light or no-light configurations
• Tactical shooting scenarios and control systems

Public-Access Range

• Focus on durable, low-maintenance materials
• Fewer luxury elements
• Flexible lanes and easy-to-use targets

By aligning your buildout with your customer base, you maximize your ROI and avoid overbuilding for features that won’t generate revenue.

Installation Options from Spire Ranges

Spire Ranges offers flexible installation packages:

• Turnkey Installation – We handle everything from equipment delivery to full on-site assembly.
• Assisted Install – We supply materials and project oversight while your contractor does the heavy lifting.
• Design + Supply – You manage the build with your team using our custom plans and equipment.

Costs vary significantly based on scope and services. Our team can help you find the right level of support based on your budget and goals.

Navigating Permits and Accreditation

Getting your commercial range accredited is often the most stressful part of the process, but it doesn’t have to be.

Here’s how to increase your chances of approval:

• Notify local officials early about your plans
• Research zoning and environmental laws thoroughly
• Prepare answers for common concerns (noise, safety, lead disposal)
• Build relationships with planning and zoning committees
• Explore options to rezone property if needed

Meeting Regulatory Requirements

Expect to answer questions about:

• How will you manage sound mitigation?
• What is your lead containment strategy?
• What safety measures will protect customers and staff?

Spire Ranges systems are designed to meet or exceed local, state, and federal requirements. From environmentally safe bullet traps to noise-reducing baffles and lead collection systems, we ensure you’re ready for inspection.

Steps to Starting a Commercial Shooting Range Business

Choose Between Indoor and Outdoor Range Models

Indoor ranges offer environmental control but come with higher construction costs. Outdoor ranges require more land and face more zoning hurdles but are often less expensive to build.

Secure Proper Licensing and Zoning

• Apply for a Federal Firearms License (FFL)
• Verify zoning and building codes with city officials
• Join the NSSF and NRA for resources and industry support

Write a Solid Business Plan

• Factor in build costs, staffing, marketing, liability insurance, and projected revenue streams
• Determine revenue mix: lane rental, memberships, classes, gun sales, ammo, rentals

Build Strategic Partnerships

• Work with commercial real estate agents familiar with zoning
• Connect with gun and gear manufacturers for vendor relationships
• Develop promotional partnerships with local businesses and law enforcement

Maximizing Revenue Streams

A commercial range can generate revenue through:

• Hourly lane rentals
• Gun and ammo sales
• Equipment rentals
• Training classes and certifications
• Membership programs
• Event hosting (corporate outings, parties, etc.)
• Merchandising (branded gear, accessories)

To generate $30,000/month from lane time alone, you’d need 100+ customers per day. For most ranges, retail sales and training programs are crucial to profitability.

Ongoing Operations and Safety

Your facility should run like a well-oiled machine. That starts with:

• Hiring trained staff
• Enforcing strict safety rules
• Maintaining equipment and systems
• Monitoring lead and air quality
• Offering regular training for employees and customers

Spire Ranges offers support beyond installation, including maintenance plans, upgrades, and consulting.

Legal Considerations and Compliance

Your range must comply with:

• EPA regulations for lead disposal and air quality
• OSHA workplace safety guidelines
• State and local firearms laws
• Noise and zoning ordinances

Get familiar with your city’s specific requirements. The NSSF is an excellent resource for compliance guidelines.

Why Choose Spire Ranges?

Spire Ranges is a recognized leader in commercial shooting range design and construction. We offer:

• Industry-leading bullet traps, ventilation systems, and communication tools
• Proprietary rubber and steel traps for indoor and outdoor applications
• Full-scale range planning and engineering services
• On-site training, safety certifications, and post-installation support
• A collaborative approach to help you hit your business goals

We don’t just build ranges, we help you build a profitable business.

Ready to Get Started?

Launching a commercial shooting range is a serious endeavor, but with the right support and strategy, it can be one of the most rewarding investments you ever make.

Contact Spire Ranges today to schedule a consultation. Whether you need design plans, budgeting help, or turnkey installation, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.