Phoenix-area shooting range sees spike in gun training after San Bernardino shooting

PHOENIX — A Valley shooting range has seen an increase in gun training after last week’s attack in San Bernardino.

Caswell’s Shooting Range in Mesa normally averages about 10 to 12 students a class, but since the Dec. 2 shooting attack, that number has risen to 30 a class.

General Manager Bridger Kimball said he had to bring on extra staff to accommodate the higher demand for training. He said a mass shooting can change the way people think.

“They want to be able to defend themselves,” Kimball said. “Some people feel like a sitting duck if they don’t have their gun on them.”

He said the training can be very beneficial for first-time gun users. Instructors will work with students to make sure they are comfortable with their gun. And Kimball recommends new gun owners to get trained if they plan to carry.

“I’m not a huge fan of selling somebody a gun and not showing them how to use it and sending them out on the street carrying it,” Kimball said.

Caswell’s has also seen an increase in gun sales since the San Bernardino shooting. The shooting range offers group classes and private instruction as well. Among the most popular classes include the basic pistol course and the concealed carry course.

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