Seeking DFW range for mountain hunt rifle validation

[JJMarsh]

Gearing up for a high-altitude elk hunt this fall and need to confirm my 7mm PRC’s drops at extended ranges. A few guys at my local gun shop recommended checking out Gritr Range for their 1000+ yard lanes, but I’d love some firsthand feedback before making the drive from Dallas.

For those who’ve shot there recently: How’s the actual target visibility at 900+ yards when the Texas heat kicks in? I’ve had issues at other ranges where mirage makes spotting impacts nearly impossible past 700. Also curious if their steel targets are sized appropriately for precision rifles - last thing I want is to waste a trip trying to hit 12” gongs at 1,000 with a hunting-weight barrel.

Weekend availability is another concern. If I’m going to haul all my gear out there, I’d prefer not to spend half the day waiting for a lane. Any tips on optimal times to avoid crowds?

Finally, do they allow realistic field positions, or is it strictly bench shooting? I need to practice off my pack and tripod to simulate actual hunting scenarios. If there are better North Texas options for practicing steep-angle shots, I’m open to recommendations - willing to drive a few hours for the right setup.

 

[Erict]

Have you looked at the website you linked to? It appears to be strictly an indoor range only and limited up to .308.

 

[Slick8]

I've never shot there but I promise in the Texas heat you'll struggle past 10am and 300 yards in the August and most of September. I actually look for rainy days as the cloud cover helps a bit with mirage.

 

[RWT]

Agree with above. Past 10:00 am and your are done spotting anything of value. I can shoot to 330 on my personal place and I am worn out on the heat so I am finishing up an air conditioned shooting house at that distance that allows prone, off pack and bench out an open door. At least I can crank the AC down to the 70’a and put a large fan on me to try and keep Some of the AC in the room. Doesn’t help with mirage so I am still finished by 10:00 But then I leave me set up ready and do a cold bore shot every time I take a break from working. Helps me realize how much I suck.

There is a range in Burnett TX that once a month lets people shoot out to 1000. You can bet it gets crowded. I haven’t been there. You may want to consider central Texas silhouette club if they still exist. They are on the backside of Dietz shooting in New Braunfels. Their steel targets are actual animal size. The 600 yard is a sheep IIRC.

 

[zrodwyo]

I would consider packing up your stuff plus a thousand rounds or so and drive to Colo or New Mexico for the weekend. You aren’t going to learn anything useful shooting at a range in Texas.

All of your data will be wrong and anyone can ring a gong on a flat range with no mountain winds.