Hey there, fellow Hoosiers! If you’re a novice shooter, someone who hasn’t pulled the trigger in ages, or just curious about getting some practice in, you’ve probably wondered about the real costs involved in heading to a gun range. As the owner of The Shooting Academy in Westfield, Indiana—where my team and I hold USCCA certifications—I’ve spent years helping beginners like you feel comfortable and confident on the range. I’ve personally visited spots across central Indiana, from Indy Arms Company in Indianapolis to Range USA in Carmel (and even the now-defunct Parabellum Firearms, which was reportedly shut down by the state in October 2025 due to air lead hazards). In this post, I’ll break down the typical costs specific to our area, share insights from my experiences, and include some case studies to help you budget your first (or next) trip. We’ll focus on what matters most for beginners: straightforward pricing, hidden fees to watch for, and tips to keep things affordable and safe.
Remember, if you have zero shooting experience, many ranges (including mine) require or strongly recommend a basic class on gun operation and safety before you hit the lanes. These classes are a smart investment—think $75–$150 for a 2 hour private session—and they ensure everyone stays safe. At The Shooting Academy, we also offer beginner-friendly intro classes tailored for novices, emphasizing fundamentals like stance, grip, and range etiquette.
Breaking Down the Core Costs: What You’ll Pay to Shoot
Shooting range costs in central Indiana generally fall into a few buckets: range time (lane rental), targets, safety gear, ammunition, and optional gun rentals. Prices can vary by range, but expect to spend $30–$80 for a solo hour-long session as a beginner, depending on what you bring. Here’s a detailed look, based on current 2025 rates from local spots I’ve frequented.
-Range Time (Lane Rental)
This is your entry fee to use the shooting lane. Most indoor ranges in central Indiana charge by the half-hour or hour, with differences between handgun and rifle lanes. Some allow sharing a lane for a flat add-on fee, which is great for couples or friends. Note: Outdoor ranges exist (like some in nearby Madison County), but they’re weather-dependent and can require a membership—and can be less beginner-friendly due to exposure to elements. Indoor spots like ours are climate-controlled for year-round comfort. https://theshootingacademy.com/seasonal-training-indoor-vs-outdoor-shooting-schedules-in-november/
- Typical Pricing:
- Handgun Lanes: $20–$24 per hour for the first shooter.
- Rifle Lanes: Often higher, $25–$30 per hour, due to ventilation and backstop requirements.
- Half-Hour Options: Available at some places for $18–$24, ideal for quick practice.
- Add-Ons: Second shooter usually $10–$13 flat.
No big seasonal price fluctuations here—ranges stay steady year-round—but expect crowds in fall and winter when cold weather drives folks indoors. Access typically requires a valid US-issued government ID, and minors need adult supervision.
Local Example
- At Indy Arms Company (Indianapolis): Pistol lanes are $15 for 30 minutes or $20/hour for the first shooter ($10 flat for a second). Rifle lanes are $30/hour for the first shooter ($10 flat for a second). They have a weekday lunch special (M-F, 10am–2pm): $10/hour for pistols, $20 for rifles—perfect for beginners squeezing in a session.
- At Range USA-Carmel: $26/hour for any lane (no rifle/handgun split noted), plus a one-time $6 range maintenance fee (valid for 12 months). Additional shooter: $13. They require a free liability waiver, good for a year.
- At My Range, The Shooting Academy (Westfield): We keep it simple and affordable for novices—handgun lanes start at around $18 for 30 minutes. We don’t differentiate hugely between rifle and handgun, and we allow flexible half-hour blocks to ease beginners in without committing to a full hour. For frequent visitors, our memberships start at $28.99/month for unlimited shooting, which includes priority access and discounts.
Pro Tip from Experience: As a range owner, I’ve seen beginners overestimate their stamina. Start with 30 minutes—it’s plenty for your first time focusing on form without fatigue. One novice we worked with tried a full hour and ended up rushing shots; halving it next time made all the difference in building confidence.
-Targets
You’ll need something to aim at, and ranges sell paper targets on-site.
- Typical Cost: $1–$3 each, depending on size and type (basic bullseye vs. silhouette).
- Local Insights: At Indy Arms, expect around $1–$2. Range USA charges similarly, often with bundles. At The Shooting Academy, we offer targets for $1.75, and we encourage reusing them for multiple sessions if they’re not too torn up—saves you money as a beginner practicing basics.
-Safety Equipment (Eye and Ear Protection)
Mandatory for everyone—don’t skimp here.
- Rental Cost: $2–$5 per item (eyes $2–$3, ears $3–$5). Some ranges bundle them for $5–$7.
- Purchase Option: Buy your own for $10–$20 total; it’s reusable and pays off after 2–3 visits.
- Local Examples: Range USA rents ear protection for $3. At The Shooting Academy, rentals are $5 for the eye and ear combo, but we sell affordable sets in our shop. Indy Arms has similar pricing.
Beginner Tip: Bring your own if you have it—sunglasses won’t cut it for eyes, and basic earmuffs are fine. As an NRA-certified team, we always double-check fit for safety.
-Ammunition
This can be the biggest variable, especially if you’re renting a gun.
- Typical Cost: $20–$50 for a box of 50 rounds (9mm around $20–$25, .223 rifle $30+). Prices fluctuate with market, but central Indiana averages are reasonable.
- Key Note: Some ranges require you buy their ammo for rentals or certain calibers—often at a 10–20% markup to ensure quality and safety. At Indy Arms, centerfire rifle ammo must be purchased there. Range USA mandates on-site ammo for rentals. At The Shooting Academy, you’re welcome to bring your own or buy ours at market prices—no inflation. On-site ammo for our rentals are a requirement as well.
-Gun Rental (If You Don’t Own One)
Great for trying before buying.
- Typical Cost: $10–$25 per gun, plus ammo.
- Local Examples: Indy Arms: Handguns $10 each or 3 for $25; rimfire rifles $15; centerfire $20. Range USA: Handguns/long guns $20, specialty $25 (over 70 options available). At The Shooting Academy, rentals start at $10–$15, with a focus on beginner-friendly models like Glocks or .22s.
Safety Note: Rentals often require you to be 21+, and first-timers at places like Range USA need a companion shooter.
Hidden Costs and Savings Tips
Beyond the basics, watch for:
- Maintenance/ Waiver Fees: Like Range USA’s $6 annual.
- Classes for Beginners: $50–$150, as mentioned—required at some spots for no-experience folks.
- Memberships for Savings: If you go monthly, they’re a steal. Range USA’s Basic is $29.99/month for unlimited shooting and free rentals. Ours at $28.99/month includes guest privileges. Indy Arms starts at $34.95.
From my experience, the “hidden” gem is group deals—bring a friend to split costs. Also, avoid peak times (weekends) to dodge waits.
Quick Comparison Table
| Range | Pistol Lane (1st Shooter) | Rifle Lane (1st Shooter) | Gun Rental | Ammo Policy | Membership |
| Indy Arms Company | $15/30min or $20/hr | $30/hr | $10–$20 | Must buy for centerfire rifles | $34.95+/mo |
| Range USA-Carmel | $26/hr (any) | $26/hr (any) | $20–$25 | Must buy for rentals | $29.99+/mo unlimited |
| The Shooting Academy | ~$18/30min | Similar to pistol | $10–$15 | Bring own or buy market price | $28.99+/mo unlimited |
Wrapping Up: Get Started Without Breaking the Bank
Shooting in central Indiana can cost as little as $30 for a quick beginner session or up to $75+ with all the bells and whistles—but with planning, it’s accessible. My expertise? Focus on safety classes first, bring what you can, and consider memberships if you’re hooked. Ready to try? Swing by The Shooting Academy in Westfield—we’d love to guide your first shots. Book a class or lane at our website or call (317) 399-7918. Stay safe, shoot straight, and see you on the range! https://theshootingacademy.com/what-to-expect-on-your-first-trip-to-the-shooting-range/