The Civilian Marksmanship Program (CMP) announced a major expansion project at Camp Perry in Port Clinton that will strengthen the future of marksmanship training, competition and youth development in the United States.
The project is scheduled to break ground on Aug. 3 with an estimated completion date of December 2027. Once complete, the new facility will build upon the success of the Gary Anderson CMP Competition Center by adding:
This project represents a significant investment in CMP’s core mission and within the future of competitive marksmanship. It is also a significant investment in the future of the national trophy rifle and pistol matches, which have made Camp Perry one of the most historic and important marksmanship destinations in the country.
New indoor gun range planned
With the expansion, the CMP will offer a modern indoor venue that complements the existing air gun range and extends the scope of events that are able to be hosted at Camp Perry — ensuring the site continues to serve as the home of national-level marksmanship competition for decades to come.
At the center of the project is a new indoor range with 32 firing points capable of supporting 50-meter and 25-meter rifle and pistol events. The range will also allow CMP to conduct rimfire sporter competitions at both 50 and 25 yards, giving the organization added flexibility to host a broader mix of rifle and pistol programming in a controlled, weather-independent environment.
Stadium seating for 400
The range will include stadium seating for more than 400 spectators, creating a significantly improved viewing ability. The added capacity will allow CMP to host larger championship events and give spectators a better opportunity to enjoy the excitement of competitive marksmanship at the highest levels.
The added space will also allow CMP to bring in the CMP Mobile Range, which features 80 additional Megalink 10 meter electronic targets. That would double CMP’s indoor air gun capacity at Camp Perry from 80 to 160 firing points.
With that expanded capacity, major events such as the National JROTC Championships and USA Shooting’s Winter Air Gun Championships will be able to promote growth while providing competitors, coaches and spectators with a better overall event experience.
A major part of the expansion will be the relocation of the CMP North Store into the new facility. The CMP will continue to offer its traditional selection of surplus rifles, 1911 pistols and ammunition, while also expanding its retail offerings to better serve the athletes competing in the new range with selections of competitive firearms, shooting accessories and equipment used by both rifle and pistol athletes.
Lounge to be added for competitors
Additionally, the facility will include a new competitor lounge, providing athletes a comfortable place to relax, gather and recover after a full day on the ranges. The space will give visitors a dedicated area to connect outside of the firing line. The lounge will also support hospitality functions, special events, receptions and other activities during major competitions.
Furthermore, the new facility is consciously designed to provide a year-round competition and training environment – creating new possibilities for NCAA rifle, USA Shooting events, Junior Olympic development, JROTC competitions, pistol events, CMP Rimfire Sporter, training camps, clinics and CMP’s own National Matches programming.
By combining air rifle, air pistol, smallbore rifle, pistol, finals capability, athlete support areas, retail space, spectator seating, a competitor lounge and enhanced store operations, Camp Perry will be better positioned to serve as a complete destination for marksmanship enthusiasts.
Other planned features include athlete staging areas, increased storage, improved match operations space, a catering area and a warming kitchen. These spaces are intended to better serve guests during large competitions and special events.
This expansion is not only about adding square footage – it is about creating a facility that helps grow the sport, supports athletes at every level and gives CMP the ability to serve the marksmanship community for decades to come. From junior athletes attending their first major match to elite competitors pursuing national and international goals, the project is designed to create a professional, welcoming and highly functional environment.
The News-Messenger/News Herald
This article originally appeared on Port Clinton News Herald: Camp Perry announces major expansion to boost marksmanship training
Reporting by USA Today Network / Port Clinton News Herald
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By USA Today Network | USA TODAY Network
