Kona Gets Virtual Shooting Range

Zombies have taken over the Kailua-Kona area, leaving the town to fend for themselves. Luckily, they’re equipped with gear and training from The Range – Hawaii’s first virtual shooting arena that mimics a real-life shooting experience.

Gamers have been getting a kick out the simulated weaponry of guns, Tasers, Mace and batons. But it’s the zombies, thugs and outlaws that have really been giving them some good target practice.

The simulated range attracts a perse clientele of more than just gamers. Officers training for law enforcement and military personnel have taken advantage of the extra practice as well. The facility is opened to all ages; however, anyone under 18 years old must have a parent or guardian sign a waiver.

Customers pay per session and choose a scenario they would like to practice their shooting skills. A projector in a simulation room displays that scenario on a large screen. Owners expect the virtual shooting range to also be popular with visiting Japanese tourists, according to a “West Hawaii Today” report. Particularly with how rigid Japan is with its gun laws.

The idea of an all-age simulated gun range will no doubt raise questions, especially given the recent gun law debate; however, it seems that many on the Hawaii Island have been in full support thus far. Mostly because a majority of the public has already been pushing for a live-fire shooting range. Discussion for a live-fire range began in 2007 but little progress has been made thus far.

THE RANGE

• 74-5543 Kaiwi St., #A-130, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740 • Opens Tues-Thurs 12-8pm, Fri-Sat 12-10pm • 808-326-7141 • www.tothawaii.com

Photo Courtesy: Threat Options Tactical Facebook Fan Page

Posted by: Bruce Fisher on Aug 15, 2013