Whether you've never shot a firearm before or are looking to improve your skills, a new virtual shooting range has opened in the Valley that could spark your interest.
Modern Round "is a place to shoot and be social. It's just like shooting a real gun, but without the live ammo," according to its website.
Modern Round
Guests will use replica firearms to play over 40 games and shoot at a projection screen, including Duck Hunter, Saloon Shootout, Gnome Slayer, and zombies. They also offer target and skills games to work on accuracy and timing.
For the sharpshooter, they offer advanced "shoot or don't shoot" simulations.
Some of the games can be played by one person or two people, if you want to work together or go against each other.
Modern RoundThere are 20 shooting lounges and six people can be in each lounge. There are four pistols--two recoil and two non-recoil--and a rifle at each area. The recoil firearms have a CO2 cartridge to provide a life-like kickback.
If you get hungry from the range, you can order food and drinks from the bar. The menu features chef-inspired dishes, like Southern Fried Chicken and Waffles, and Filet Mignon Sliders. For dessert, they have bacon-wrapped Oreos.
Cocktails include specialty rimmed glasses like a Chocolate Martini with an Oreo-rimmed glass.
It will be located in the old Fox & Hound restaurant just south of the Loop 101 (Agua Fria Freeway) and Bell Road.
The lounge is open and will be celebrating its grand opening on Friday, June 10.
SAFETY
In any scenario, alcohol and firearms are a bad idea. Chris Castille, chief technology officer, said safety is of the utmost importance.
"While we're here to have fun at Modern Round, we do take firearm safety to heart," he said. Each shooter watches a safety video before going into the lounge and if someone breaks the rules, staff members will step in. Here are Modern Round's safety rules.
Children 11 and younger are not allowed in the shooting lounges. However, if you're between 12 and 17 you can become a "junior member" and shoot in the lounge with parent permission and supervision.
Castille stresses that Modern Round is for entertainment, but that they do practice and ensure proper gun safety.
Modern RoundPRICING
Modern Round's pricing is similar to how TopGolf operates. You purchase an annual membership card for $5 and then access to the range. An hour of time varies between $25 and $45 an hour, depending on when you go. If you want the advanced "shoot, don't shoot" simulation, there is a $10 upgrade.
TRAINING
Modern Round offers three classes right now for first-time shooters, women and junior members.
If you're between the ages of 12 and 17, you can become a junior member and will be allowed on the range with parent permission and supervision.
In each of the classes, instructors will go over firearm safety, the proper grip, stance and range etiquette.
Peoria is the first location for Modern Round, but Castille said they are actively scouting for locations around the country.
IF YOU GO:
Modern Round
8320 W. Mariners Way, Peoria AZ 85382
623-388-6900
www.modernround.com
