The North Saanich Rod and Gun Club is opening its doors to families, friends, and newcomers to celebrate National Range Day. This annual event, held across Canada, aims to promote safe, responsible, and inclusive firearms sports for all Canadians.
On June 7, the North Saanich range on McTavish Road will welcome visitors from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The event is designed to give people of all ages and skill levels the chance to explore sport shooting in a secure and welcoming environment.
National Range Day is observed every year around the first Saturday of June. Its main goal is to educate the public about Canada’s long-standing firearms heritage and to promote understanding of sport shooting. Across British Columbia, many local ranges are taking part by offering interactive experiences, safety lessons, and live demonstrations.
The North Saanich event is part of this wider celebration. Licensed and trained club members will be present throughout the day to assist visitors. They will offer basic instruction in safe firearm handling and guide people through target shooting exercises. Attendees will also be able to take part in friendly sharpshooting competitions designed for beginners.
Safety is the top priority. Every activity will be supervised by experienced range officers to make sure all participants follow strict safety rules. Eye and ear protection will be provided, and all firearms used during the event will be carefully managed by certified individuals.
Organizers say the day is not just for experienced shooters. It’s also a great opportunity for those who have never handled a firearm before. The event is meant to remove fear and uncertainty by offering clear information, safe exposure, and hands-on learning under expert supervision.
Over 2.3 million Canadians currently hold firearms licenses. National Range Day is a way to help the public understand this legal, regulated, and responsible community. It also highlights the role that sport shooting plays in Canadian history and outdoor culture.
Target ranges in B.C., like the one in North Saanich, are usually operated by local fish and game clubs. These clubs support not only their members but also local police forces who use the ranges for regular firearms practice. Community involvement is a key feature, and many clubs host outreach events to build trust and educate the public.
In addition to families and first-time visitors, local officials, Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs), and Members of Parliament (MPs) are often invited to these events. Their attendance helps bridge the gap between policymakers and the sport shooting community. Seeing the operations up close gives officials a clearer picture of how these ranges work and how seriously they take safety and education.
The North Saanich Rod and Gun Club encourages anyone interested in sport shooting or Canadian outdoor traditions to come out and see what the community is about. Whether you’re curious, cautious, or just looking for a new hobby, the event promises a friendly setting where all questions are welcome.
There will be volunteers on site to guide visitors, provide information about membership, and explain how to get involved in shooting sports. Food, refreshments, and light entertainment may also be available, depending on turnout and weather conditions.
National Range Day continues to grow each year as more Canadians take part. It’s a day to celebrate responsible ownership, educate the public, and build a stronger sense of community among those who share an interest in this long-standing tradition.
