As of filming in 2020
If you’re a gun owner considering living in Bakersfield, California, you need to know about Five Dogs Shooting Range. It is one of the premier shooting facilities in the region and a testament to why Bakersfield is a pro-2A community where serious shooters thrive.
This guide walks you through every range at Five Dogs, what you can shoot, distances, and why this facility makes Bakersfield such an appealing place for gun owners relocating to California.
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About Five Dogs Shooting Range
Five Dogs is a full-service shooting facility located in Bakersfield that caters to every skill level and firearm type. Whether you are a competitive shooter, hunter, recreational enthusiast, or someone new to firearms, the range has dedicated facilities for you.
The bottom line: If you can think of a firearm, Five Dogs probably has a place to shoot it. The facility accommodates everything from .22s to high-powered rifles to archery to clay sports.
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The Ranges at Five Dogs: A Detailed Breakdown
1. Archery Range
The archery range extends to 65 yards and is situated past the tree line on the property. It is perfect for archers preparing for hunting season or those who want to practice traditional archery in a safe, controlled environment.
Best for: Bowhunters, archery competitors, anyone getting ready for fall hunting.
2. Five Dogs Action Shooters Range
This is the home base for tactical pistol shooting and multi-gun competition. The Action Shooters group hosts frequent competitions including tactical pistol events, three-gun competitions, and practical shooting sports.
Best for: Competitive shooters, tactical training participants, action sports enthusiasts.
3. High-Powered Rifle Range
The high-powered rifle range is extensive, with options for both paper and metallic targets at varying distances:
- Paper targets: Out to 100 yards
- Metallic targets: Starting at 185 yards on the hills, extending to 550 yards at the top
You can shoot virtually any rifle caliber here. The range accommodates everyone from hunters zeroing rifles to long-range competition shooters.
Best for: Rifle enthusiasts, hunters, long-range shooters, precision rifle competitors.
4. Handgun Ranges (Multiple Configurations)
Paper Target Range (Any Caliber)
Handguns from .22 up to .50 caliber on paper targets. No high-powered rifles and no shotguns are permitted. This range is strictly for handguns.
Metallic Silhouette Range (Center Fire)
This range serves higher-caliber handguns from .380 to .50 caliber shooting at metallic targets.
.22 Only Ranges (2 Ranges)
Two dedicated metallic target ranges for .22 shooters offer targets ranging from 25 yards to 165 yards. These ranges are excellent for affordability and practice volume.
Best for: Pistol shooters of all levels, competitive handgun sports, practice shooters on a budget.
5. Permission Range
A private-use range is available on a first-come, first-served reservation basis. If the range is open and not booked, you can reserve it for your exclusive use. Call ahead to get your name on the list. This option is perfect for group outings, training sessions, or dedicated practice time.
Best for: Groups, formal training, private practice sessions.
6. Kern Shooting Sports
Kern Shooting Sports operates at Five Dogs and offers the following services:
- High-powered rifle competition
- Long-range .22 competition
- Hunter Safety Classes
- NRA-Sponsored Youth Classes (they provide ammunition)
- General safety training for all ages
This is an excellent option if you are new to shooting or want formal instruction before hitting the range solo.
Best for: Beginners, youth, competitive shooters, hunters needing certification.
7. Sporting Clays (20-Station Course)
Located on the back side of the property, the 20-station sporting clays trail simulates bird hunting with clay targets thrown over your head, through ditches, and at various angles.
Important: Bring your own shotgun and clay targets. Five Dogs provides the trap throwers and field. You bring the gun and ammo.
Best for: Shotgun enthusiasts, hunters, clay sports competitors.
8. Trap Throwers (Clay Targets)
Five Dogs provides trap throwers if you want to bring your own clay targets for shotgun practice. Tables and benches are available in the field.
Best for: Shotgun shooters who prefer the flexibility of informal clay shooting.
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What You Need to Know Before You Go
What You Can Bring
You can bring virtually any firearm or bow imaginable. The facility accommodates rifles, pistols, shotguns, archery equipment, and even cannons and mortars (yes, really). Specifically, you can bring any rifle caliber, any handgun caliber (.22 to .50), shotguns (designated areas), bows and crossbows, and specialty weapons (with approval).
What You Need to Bring
- Your own firearm(s) and ammunition
- Eye and ear protection
- For clay sports: your own shotgun and clay targets
Note: Five Dogs does NOT provide firearms for rental due to liability and insurance requirements. You must bring your own.
Safety and Training
If you are new to shooting or want to refresh your skills, Kern Shooting Sports offers hunter safety certification, NRA youth classes, and general safety training. These programs are highly recommended, especially if you are relocating to Bakersfield and want to explore shooting sports responsibly.
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Why Five Dogs Matters for People Living in Bakersfield
Bakersfield is a Pro-2A Community
Bakersfield, California, has a strong gun culture and is solidly pro-Second Amendment. Unlike many California cities, shooting sports and firearms ownership are embraced here rather than stigmatized.
Unmatched Facility Variety
Between the archery range, tactical courses, high-powered rifle ranges extending to 550 yards, multiple handgun ranges, sporting clays, and youth programs, Five Dogs is truly comprehensive. You will not find this range of options in most California cities.
Competitive Shooting Community
If you are into competitive shooting (three-gun matches, tactical pistol, long-range rifle, or sporting clays), Bakersfield has an active community. Five Dogs hosts regular events and attracts serious competitors.
Hunting-Friendly Culture
Bakersfield’s proximity to Sierra hunting grounds and the pro-hunting culture make it ideal for hunters. Five Dogs serves that community with sighting-in ranges, hunter safety classes, and facilities for all skill levels.
Affordability
Shooting sports in Bakersfield are more affordable than in many California regions. Cheaper range fees, lower ammunition costs due to local competition, and the community’s support for gun ownership all contribute to overall affordability.
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Visitor Information
Location
Five Dogs Shooting Range, Bakersfield, California
Operating Hours
Open during regular business hours (confirm current hours before visiting)
How to Reserve the Permission Range
Call ahead to reserve the private-use range. Availability is first-come, first-served, subject to current bookings.
Cost
Range fees vary by facility (confirm current pricing on their website or by calling)
What to Expect
Expect a well-maintained facility with professional staff, clearly marked ranges, and a community of serious shooters. Whether it is a Monday afternoon or weekend, you will find people at every level. Beginners taking safety classes and competitive shooters practicing for matches both use these facilities.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I rent firearms at Five Dogs?
A: No. Five Dogs does not provide firearms for rent due to liability and insurance. You must bring your own.
Q: What calibers can I shoot at Five Dogs?
A: Nearly everything. Rifle calibers range from .22 to .50 and beyond. Handguns run from .22 to .50 caliber. Shotguns, bows, and specialty weapons are also accommodated. Check with staff for any specialty requests.
Q: Do I need a membership?
A: Five Dogs operates on a per-visit fee basis. No membership is required.
Q: Are there youth classes available?
A: Yes. Kern Shooting Sports offers NRA-sponsored youth classes where ammunition is provided. Hunter safety classes are also available.
Q: Can I bring my own clay targets for shotgun shooting?
A: Yes. Bring your own clay targets and shotgun. Five Dogs provides the trap throwers and field.
Q: How far out can I shoot?
A: Distances range from 25 yards (handgun ranges) to 550 yards (high-powered rifle range with metallic targets).
Q: Is Five Dogs beginner-friendly?
A: Absolutely. Kern Shooting Sports offers safety training and youth classes. Start with instruction if you are new to shooting.
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Living in Bakersfield: More Than Just Real Estate
If you are a gun owner or shooting enthusiast considering a move to California, Bakersfield stands out. It is one of the few places in the state where firearms ownership is embraced rather than discouraged, shooting sports are part of the community culture, facilities like Five Dogs provide world-class range access, and you can afford both a home and regular range time.
Five Dogs Shooting Range is just one reason why Bakersfield appeals to gun owners, hunters, and outdoor enthusiasts relocating to California. Add affordable real estate, proximity to Sierra hunting grounds, and a strong pro-2A community, and you have a compelling lifestyle package.
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Ready to Move to Bakersfield? Let’s Talk.
If you are a gun owner or shooting enthusiast considering living in Bakersfield, there is much more to explore. You will want to know about neighborhoods perfect for your lifestyle and investment opportunities in a growing market.
Download the Bakersfield Insider Guide to learn:
- Where gun-friendly neighborhoods are located
- Bakersfield’s real estate market trends
- Lifestyle factors that matter to relocating professionals
- Investment opportunities in the area
Or fill out our buyer intake form to discuss your move with an agent who understands what matters to you. This includes the lifestyle factors that make Bakersfield unique.
Bakersfield is waiting. Let us find you the right home.
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Five Dogs Shooting Range has been serving Bakersfield’s shooting community for years. Visit them to experience world-class facilities and a welcoming pro-2A community.
