Shooting ranges and hunting spots near Toronto

[greenmoon]

Hi everyone,

I am new to Toronto and was wondering where can one go around here to shoot, both for target practicing and for hunting?

From what I have seen, most if not all places in the city will only allow handguns or low caliber rifles, but that's not going to work for me. I have a .30-06 rifle and a shotgun, so need a shooting range with as few restrictions on caliber as possible.

Sharon Gun Club almost fits the bill, but the thing that bothers me is the distance. It's a 40 minutes ride each way for me, something closer to the city would be better.

Also, are there any spots near the GTA where one could hunt? Small game mostly, but big game would also be considered. Not necessarily looking for a fancy hunting resort, rather something close enough to be a week-end getaway.

Any experienced hunters around here? Any input is appreciated!

[tritium4ever]

Not a hunter myself so I can't help out with that, but I can point you to a few clubs. First of all, there's basically nothing inside Toronto itself for a centrefire rifle shooter. There are a few clubs within the city but they basically cater only to handgun and .22 rifle shooters.

As you mentioned, Sharon Gun Club is one possibility. However membership to that club apparently requires the purchase of a share, and from what I can tell the only way to get one is to buy it from somebody who is already in the club and not using it. So good luck with that.

To the west, Burlington Revolver and Rifle Club (www.rangeburlington.ca) is an indoor club that allows all common handgun and rifle calibres (up to .50 BMG I think). Not sure what they allow with regards to shotguns. The range is 50m, if I remember correctly. Not much of a challenge for most rifles, but on the upside you can shoot year round without freezing your ass off.

To the east, Oshawa Skeet and Gun Club (www.gagnonsports.com/OSGC/index.htm) is also relatively close by. Rifle range out to 300m, skeet and trap fields, and room for handguns. Outdoor only.

To the north, Barrie Gun Club (www.barriegunclub.org) also has facilities for rifle, shotgun, and handgun disciplines. Not too sure on the specifics of the facilities available though.

Expect to pay $250+ per year for most of the clubs around Toronto.

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EDIT: On April 18 there's an open house at Target Sports Center, about 15 minutes north of Toronto. The store has a 25m indoor range (which it shares with a club) and it'll be a great opportunity to try out some handguns. See my thread on shooting events here: http://www.redflagdeals.com/forums/showthread.php?t=708910

[laptop-tech]

Jane and Finch.

[Denich]

Not a hunter myself so I can't help out with that, but I can point you to a fe
To the west, Burlington Revolver and Rifle Club (www.rangeburlington.ca) is an indoor club that allows all common handgun and rifle calibres (up to .50 BMG I think). Not sure what they allow with regards to shotguns. The range is 50m, if I remember correctly. Not much of a challenge for most rifles, but on the upside you can shoot year round without freezing your ass off.


regarding shotguns its slugs only

and trust me it gets damn cold there in the winter.... the only benefit is no wind

and if you are only shooting non-restricted, theres a piece of crown land halfway to barrie, its a bit of a drive but its free

[Peckerwood]

Jane and Finch.
Yes but you can only hunt for food.

Gangsta with some groceries?...It's on yo.

:D

[ricoboxing]

OP if you like hunting, you really chose a crappy place to live. Try loading up your car dressed in camo with your rifle and other hunting gear. Your neighbours will probably call 911.

[apelvin]

Im in the same boat as you and have been looking around for fields to go or clubs to join. Most clubs are hard to get into and always booked by the looks of things.
The most fun I've had was either in a field or hunt camp which either is no less than an hour or two away!
I would love to find some field around the gta outskirts to skeet shoot or even small game hunt. I would say talk to the local police or something to see who to contact on where you can shoot around here.
If you find anything, post back!! Im on the hunt too!

[UrbanPoet]

Theres only a few hand gun ranges....
But their membership fees are way to high.

Unfortunately... You'll have to travel really far to hunt or shoot @ a decent range.