Staff Reports
In a significant victory for Second Amendment supporters, the Fort Deans Rifle and Pistol Club recently triumphed over the U.S. Army, highlighting the importance of civilian rights to access military shooting ranges. This case illustrates the broader challenges that gun owners face regarding access to training facilities, which are often constrained by excessive fees and bureaucratic obstacles. The story not only captures a legal win but also symbolizes the enduring fight for gun rights and accountability at military installations.
The Fort Deans Rifle and Pistol Club, located about 50 miles northwest of Boston, had utilized the Army’s range for years without any fees. However, in a surprising turn around 2020, they were suddenly met with fees of $250 per visit, which the Army claimed were necessary for personnel and maintenance costs. This move was met with skepticism, as it seemed that the Army was attempting to profit off a facility that had historically been accessible to the public at no charge. The club, largely composed of veterans and affiliated with the Civilian Marksmanship Program and the National Rifle Association, took a stand against these unjust fees.
Legal arguments were made based on existing statutes that mandated civilian access to military ranges, so long as such use did not interfere with military training. These laws also helped protect against excessive fees for access to these facilities. The Army’s inability to substantiate its claims regarding maintenance costs and operational records further weakened its case. In March of 2025, the club’s persistence paid off as they won the lawsuit, reaffirming their rights to access the range.
Despite this victory, the challenges did not end there. Upon their attempted return to the range in May of 2025, the club encountered new arbitrary restrictions that blocked their access. In response, the club sought court enforcement, signaling their determination to fight for their rights. Just recently, several club members were finally allowed back onto the range for the first time in almost five years. While they ultimately had to agree to a nominal fee of $16.98 per outing—a significant drop from the original $250—this situation underscores the larger issues at play regarding access to shooting ranges across the country.
This case could set an important national precedent regarding civilian access to military facilities and accountability for arbitrary fees. It serves as a powerful reminder of the need for gun owners and Second Amendment advocates to remain vigilant against efforts to restrict their rights. The victory at Fort Deans is not just a local triumph; it resonates with countless gun owners and shooting clubs facing similar battles. The fight for the Second Amendment continues, as does the commitment to ensure that civilian access to these vital resources remains protected.
The Fort Deans Rifle and Pistol Club’s story is a testament to the principle that every American has the right to defend themselves and to seek the training necessary to do so effectively. As this battle unfolds, it emphasizes the need for accountability and transparency in how military resources are allocated. Gun owners must stay informed and engaged in these critical discussions to protect their rights for future generations. The fight for freedom and self-defense is ongoing, and every victory, no matter how small, reinforces the importance of standing for Second Amendment rights.
