Ranger, GA AAR - Apr 5-6, 2026

[UpACreek]

What a fantastic way to break in a new range!

Ten of Centimeter's friends gathered in Georgia for a few days, traveling from Texas, Illinois, New Jersey, and across Georgia. Some had never met before, but by the end of the long weekend, I think it's safe to say they all left as friends.

We had a great mix—four returning Appleseeders and six newcomers, ranging in age from 9 to 60-something. We soaked in the torrential rain and the morning history with high spirits. Our first Hits Count Target made it clear we had some work to do—though two of the youngest shooters hit the shingle!

Thankfully, the rain let up around lunchtime, and the rest of the shoot went much more smoothly. Centimeter did an outstanding job as line boss on Sunday, while also sharing the 2nd Strike and leading quite a bit of the instruction. As the day progressed, the improvement across the board was remarkable. We ended Day 1 with a Memorial Volley.

One of the newest shooters showed especially impressive progress— switching to shooting left-handed due to cross-eye dominance—and by the end, his groups were consistently no larger than a silver dollar. Everyone improved significantly, but just as memorable was how supportive and encouraging the group was throughout. They helped each other constantly, creating a positive and collaborative atmosphere with a healthy dose of kidding - no, we cannot change Centimeter's forum name to Safe Direction.

With many staying overnight at the range, we also had time to share meals and stories. The food was fantastic—Centimeter made chili, Rob brought eggs and fruit, and everyone contributed something to the table. 

We lost half the shooters on Day 2 - it was a Monday and expected.  The ones that stayed jumped right in.  We heard quite a few DOM/DOW stories and finished learning all the positions.  By the end of Day 2 we had shot 3 AQTs.  Everyone shot over 170.  A few shooters were just a couple shots from a Rifleman score, but we just got worn out and had to call it quits.

A couple of shooters were able to stay much of a third day.  The 3 of us were able to shoot Rifleman scores - they did a great job of calling the line for me and both expressed interest in joining us as volunteers when their lives/jobs allow.  They immediately started shooting left handed after shooting those Rifleman scores and did nearly as well.  All in all, it was a busy, exhausting, and truly rewarding few days. I hope to see everyone again at another event soon—or at least hear that you've made it to one closer to home. 


I am very thankful for everyone's patience.  I did not expect so much rain and I had hoped to have moved the firing line forward during the week.  We had to take a bobcat break to add a few inches of mulch to the mud so no one drowned during the first Hits Count Target. IAO at it's finest.


Centimeter tells the 2nd Strike


Monday morning review - Centimeter explains how the targets are talking to us.


One benefit of people staying here is we got to play after the official day was done.

A favorite quote of the weekend (besides the kids' senses of humor) was one of the repeat Appleseeders - "Once I found Appleseed and learned how to use a sling it changed my world."  They all seemed to appreciate the history as much as the marksmanship fundamentals.  Love it!