DFW Gun Range and Academy
#59 of 100 things to do in Dallas
Dallas, Texas is home to a premier shooting destination that has earned the title of “Best Shooting Range” in the Dallas-Fort Worth area: the DFW Gun Range and Academy. This veteran-owned, state-of-the-art indoor facility offers a unique blend of professional firearms training, immersive shooting experiences, and a welcoming atmosphere for everyone from first-time visitors to seasoned marksmen. Featured in indie films and documentaries, the range has also been called the “Best Place To Have A Bachelorette Party in Dallas”, proving that it’s not just for hardcore enthusiasts.
Whether you are an international traveler wanting to try something uniquely Texan, a family seeking a safe and educational introduction to firearms, a corporate group looking for team-building, or a local wanting to hone your skills, this guide provides everything you need for a successful visit.
Key Details at a Glance:
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Address: 1607 West Mockingbird Lane, Dallas, TX 75235
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Phone: 214-630-4866
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Hours: Mon-Fri 1pm-8pm; Sat-Sun 11am-8pm
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Vibe: Professional, safe, immersive, and welcoming to all experience levels
Hours of Operation & First-Time Visitor Policy
Opening Hours
The range is open seven days a week, offering flexible hours for visitors.
| Day | Hours |
|---|---|
| Monday – Friday | 1:00 PM – 8:00 PM |
| Saturday – Sunday | 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
⚠️ First-Time Visitor Policy (Important)
For safety reasons, first-time visitors cannot rent a gun if alone, regardless of experience or skill. No exceptions are made. First-time visitors must either:
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Bring a friend,
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Bring your own firearm and ammunition, or
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Participate in a Ranger Experience (includes a dedicated instructor).
This policy ensures a safe and controlled environment for everyone, especially beginners.
Age Requirements
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Minimum Age: Children aged 6 and older can shoot if accompanied by a parent or guardian.
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Youth Shooters: Children 10-17 can shoot only when accompanied by an adult 21 or older, and kids 10-12 are limited to .22 LR firearms.
Tickets & Experiences
DFW Gun Range offers a variety of packages and experiences to suit every interest and budget.
Ranger Experiences (Instructor-Led)
These are the most popular options for groups, tourists, and first-timers. Each includes a dedicated certified instructor, all necessary equipment, and a safety briefing.
| Experience | Description | Firearms Included | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jungle Ranger Experience | Step into an immersive jungle forest for a “Night Ops” session shooting zombie targets | One MK 25 handgun, three rifles (TTI V7 Harbinger, AR-15, AK-47), one MP5 submachine gun | Groups, tourists, thrill-seekers |
| Texas Ranger Experience | Starts in a 1850s-styled western saloon, shooting varmint targets with antique-style firearms | Colt Python .357 Mag revolver, Smith & Wesson model 19, Henry “Golden Boy” .44 Mag Lever Action, E.R Amantino “Double Defense” 12-gauge Coach Gun, Ruger Vaquero .45 Colt | History buffs, fans of the Old West |
Lane Rental & General Range Access
For those bringing their own firearms or renting a gun with a companion, standard lane rental is available. While specific current pricing is not listed on the official site, comparable DFW indoor ranges charge $20-$25 per hour for lane rental. It is recommended to call ahead to confirm current rates.
Professional Training & Classes
DFW Gun Range offers a wide array of courses taught by NRA-certified instructors.
| Class Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Texas License to Carry (LTC) | Classroom coursework, written test, and shooting proficiency test required to obtain a Texas LTC permit |
| Youth Firearm Safety | Beginner-friendly courses for young shooters to learn safe handling and fundamentals |
| Intro to Handguns/Shotguns/Rifle | Basic courses for first-time owners or those wanting a refresher |
| Intermediate Handgun/Shotgun/Rifle | Skill-building courses for those with some experience |
| Defensive Carbine/Handgun/Shotgun | Advanced tactical training for personal defense |
| Private Lessons | One-on-one instruction with a certified instructor, starting at $100/hour |
Activities for Adults & Children: A Diverse Shooting Experience
👨🖥️ For Adults: Professional Training & Group Events
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Immersive Ranger Experiences: The Jungle and Texas Ranger Experiences are designed for adults and groups, offering a thrilling, Instagram-worthy shooting adventure.
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Corporate & Group Events: The range specializes in bachelor/bachelorette parties, corporate team building, and birthday parties. Packages include private briefing rooms and instructor supervision.
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Texas LTC Certification: Adults can get certified to carry a concealed handgun in Texas through a comprehensive course.
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Advanced Firearms Training: For experienced shooters, the range offers defensive carbine, handgun, and shotgun tactical training.
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Professional Gunsmithing: On-site gunsmiths provide inspections, repairs, and modifications for a variety of firearms.
👧 For Children & Families: A Safe, Educational Experience
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Youth Firearm Safety: The range offers beginner-friendly courses for youth to build confidence and learn safe habits in a controlled environment.
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Family Range Days: The facility is built to support shooters of all ages, allowing for a family-friendly range day. Children as young as 6 can shoot when accompanied by a parent.
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Hands-On Training for the Whole Family: The range encourages families to learn the fundamentals together, creating a shared experience.
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Private Lessons for Youth: One-on-one private training sessions are available for youth, with a parent or guardian present, ensuring personalized and safe instruction.
International Visitors & Non-US Citizens
DFW Gun Range warmly welcomes international guests. This is a popular activity for tourists seeking an authentic Texas experience.
Requirements:
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Valid Passport: International visitors must bring their valid passport for identification.
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Visa Requirements: Check the official website or call ahead if you have a Non-Immigrant Visa, as additional paperwork may be required.
“If you are a foreigner visiting Texas for few days, you can’t miss out on the Army Ranger Experience at DFW Gun Range… Safety is taken very seriously, and that’s why this is the only place I will bring my family and friends.” — A visitor from Israel
Parking & Getting There
🚗 Driving & Parking
Address for GPS: 1607 West Mockingbird Lane, Dallas, TX 75235
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The range is located on Mockingbird Lane between Stemmons and Harry Hines.
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Parking: Ample parking is available on-site.
Accessibility
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Wheelchair Access: The indoor facility is accessible.
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Rental Equipment: Eye and ear protection is available for rent.
What You Can Bring & Do
| Category | Allowed | Prohibited |
|---|---|---|
| Firearms | Bring your own (unloaded and cased) | Black powder firearms |
| Ammunition | Bring your own for your own guns | Armor-piercing, tracer, and incendiary ammo |
| Shooting Technique | Holster draw, one-handed, controlled rapid fire | Dual wielding |
| Full-Auto | Legally registered Class 3 firearms | Unregistered NFA items |
Tips for Your Visit
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Bring Valid ID: All visitors must present a valid government-issued photo ID (or passport for international guests).
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Know the First-Time Policy: If you are a first-time visitor and want to rent a gun, bring a friend, bring your own firearm, or book a Ranger Experience.
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Book an Experience in Advance: For group events or the popular Ranger Experiences, it is recommended to call ahead or book online to secure your spot.
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Listen to the Instructors: The staff is highly trained and safety-conscious. Follow their instructions for a safe and fun experience.
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No Outside Instructors: Outside instructors are not allowed. All training must be conducted by the range’s certified staff.
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Plan Your Visit: The range can be busy on weekends. Arrive early or visit on a weekday for a more relaxed experience.
Stay Connected:
Follow DFW Gun Range and Academy for the latest news, promotions, and event announcements.
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Official Website: https://www.dfwgun.com/
If you have any experience with this place, please share it with us in the comments below!