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Broadcasting from the floor of the SHOT Show, the hosts Amanda Suffecool and Rob Campbell welcome Brooke and Paul from The Range Network to discuss their mission of strengthening the gun range industry. Paul explains that the idea grew out of an earlier initiative he helped pilot with the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) called Industry Roundtable, which brought together ranges, retailers, manufacturers, and vendors to openly discuss shared challenges. When COVID halted that effort just as it was preparing to expand nationwide, Paul regrouped with encouragement from Brooke and refocused specifically on supporting gun ranges. Their belief is simple: without healthy ranges, participation in shooting sports declines, and Second Amendment engagement weakens.

The Range Network operates as a free, collaborative community for range owners. Through virtual “huddles”—structured Zoom-style meetings—and occasional in-person gatherings in regions like Houston, operators share best practices, compare notes on issues like staffing and insurance, and troubleshoot common business challenges. Paul emphasizes the concept of “pre-competitive information,” borrowing from cooperative business models in other industries, where competitors share operational insights that don’t undermine their unique branding or marketing strategies. The goal is to elevate the entire industry rather than guard minor advantages.

Brooke notes that the network has grown to more than 120 ranges across 45 states and even includes participants in Canada. The huddles are intentionally vendor-free to avoid sales pitches, creating a trusted space for candid discussion. The conversation also explores regional differences in customer bases and how ranges often cater to distinct audiences—tactical shooters, casual recreational shooters, competitive shooters, or sporting clays enthusiasts. Rather than competing, The Range Network encourages local partnerships and cross-referrals so ranges can serve diverse interests and keep customers engaged in the sport long-term.

Tied to the nonprofit-style networking effort is their for-profit venture, MyCaliberCard.com. For an annual membership fee, cardholders receive discounts at participating ranges and on select products. The program incentivizes shooters to visit new ranges—especially while traveling—and builds community among members. Participating ranges can offer exclusive discounts, and some even bundle the card into their own memberships. Revenue from the card program helps fund continued development of tools, software, and industry initiatives, including product launches like the debut of the Henry Supreme Rifle with Henry Repeating Arms. Together, the Range Network and My Caliber Card create a mutually supportive ecosystem designed to drive traffic, improve operations, and strengthen the shooting community nationwide.

Later in the show, the hosts shift to an interview with Melissa Bachman, host of Winchester Deadly Passion on the Sportsman Channel. Melissa shares her journey from working unpaid production jobs—driving long distances daily to gain experience—to launching her own hunting television show. She recounts the risks she took, including financing her first year of airtime without sponsors, and stresses that relentless work ethic and persistence fueled her success more than luck.

Bachman discusses her passion for authentic storytelling in the field, filming hunts exactly as they unfold without scripting outcomes. A lifelong hunter, she now focuses on encouraging families and women to get involved in hunting, highlighting the bonding experiences it creates. She describes processing and donating harvested meat, mentoring new hunters, and pursuing diverse game—from whitetails and elk to nighttime alligator hunts in southern states. Throughout the conversation, she underscores that hard work, resilience, and love for the outdoors turned her ambitious dream into a sustainable career.