Shooting Sports & Archery in Monterey County
From the public Laguna Seca Rifle & Pistol Range and South County's large Astoria Range to Jim Cox Archery Shop in Salinas and club-based match shooting, Monterey County offers a small but real shooting sports and archery ecosystem for every level.
Safety First — Read Before Visiting Any Range
Firearms and archery are inherently dangerous activities that require strict safety practices and compliance with all federal, state, and local laws. This page is an informational directory only — EverythingMC is not a range operator and does not provide instruction.
All Visitors Must:
- Sign any required liability waiver before shooting or spectating
- Follow all posted range rules at all times
- Obey all staff and Range Safety Officer instructions
- Wear proper eye and ear protection
- Practice safe gun handling rules at all times
- Inspect archery equipment before each use
First-Time Shooters Should:
- Take an introductory class before shooting independently
- Only shoot under the supervision of a qualified instructor
- Start with low-caliber firearms or beginner archery equipment
- Ask range staff any questions — no question is too basic
- Follow archery lane etiquette: shoot only when the range is clear
Youth & Waiver Rules at Monterey County Ranges
At the County of Monterey's Laguna Seca Rifle & Pistol Range, all shooters and spectators must sign a liability waiver before entering, and a parent or legal guardian must sign for any minor. Children under six are not allowed on the range premises. Children six and older may fire rifles, and children 14 and older may fire handguns — in every case only with direct parent or legal-guardian supervision. Rules vary by facility, so confirm age, waiver, and supervision requirements with each range before you go.
California & Monterey County Firearms & Archery Regulations
California has some of the strictest firearms regulations in the nation. All shooters must comply with the California Penal Code regarding firearm transport, storage, and use — firearms must be transported unloaded and in a locked container. Monterey County and its incorporated cities may have additional local ordinances, and lawful discharge of firearms and bows is restricted in much of the county. Outdoor archery shooting is generally limited to established ranges and private property where it is legally permitted; recreational bow discharge on most public and residential land is not allowed. Always shoot only at legal, established ranges and respect all county discharge restrictions.
Hours, pricing, allowed calibers, weather closures, and facility policies can change without notice. Always verify details on the official range website or by phone before visiting.
🏔️Public & Multi-Discipline Ranges
Laguna Seca Rifle & Pistol Range
Monterey (Laguna Seca Recreation Area)
The County of Monterey's official public shooting range inside the Laguna Seca Recreation Area — first-come, first-served handgun, rifle, and shotgun shooting with paper and steel targets.
All shooters and spectators must sign a liability waiver. Minors must have a parent or legal guardian sign the waiver. Children under six are not allowed on the range premises. Children six and older may fire rifles, and children 14 and older may fire handguns — in every case only with direct parent or legal-guardian supervision. Eye and ear protection required.
Astoria Range
South Monterey County
Billed as Monterey County's largest shooting range — a South County facility offering handgun, shotgun, and long-rifle shooting plus firearms-related courses.
Follow all posted range rules and Range Safety Officer instructions. Eye and ear protection required. Confirm waiver, age, and supervision requirements with the range office before your first visit, and comply with all California and Monterey County firearm regulations.
Monterey County Swiss Rifle Club
Gonzales
A club and match-shooting community near Gonzales — the best route for experienced shooters, with some matches open to the public through La Gloria Silhouette and Carmel Gun Club events.
Match and club shooting requires strict adherence to club rules and Range Safety Officer instructions. Eye and ear protection required. As access is event-based, confirm eligibility, waivers, and supervision requirements with the club before attending.
🔫Indoor Ranges & Pro Shops
Jim Cox Archery Shop
Salinas
Monterey County's clearest archery anchor — a professional archery pro shop in Salinas offering Saturday lessons, equipment, and bow expertise.
Inspect all archery equipment before each use and follow lane etiquette — shoot only when the range is clear. Note that lawful bow discharge is restricted across much of Monterey County, so practice archery only at established ranges and permitted locations.
🏹Archery Shops & Ranges
Jim Cox Archery Shop
Salinas
Monterey County's clearest archery anchor — a professional archery pro shop in Salinas offering Saturday lessons, equipment, and bow expertise.
Inspect all archery equipment before each use and follow lane etiquette — shoot only when the range is clear. Note that lawful bow discharge is restricted across much of Monterey County, so practice archery only at established ranges and permitted locations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about shooting ranges and archery in Monterey County
This guide is for informational purposes only. EverythingMC encourages safe and responsible participation in all recreational activities.
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