Sidney Paul Gordon Shooting Range Marks a Month of Milestones

The Sidney Paul Gordon Shooting Range in La Luz has closed out November with a surge of activity, improvements, and community spirit that underscores its growing role as one of Otero County’s most vital recreational and training facilities.

A Range Alive With Activity

November saw 1,288 visitors pass through the gates, including 29 competitors in events hosted by the La Luz Shooting Club and the Otero Practical Shooting Association. The range’s popularity continues to expand, drawing not only local residents but also participants from across the Southwest.

Law enforcement agencies remain steady partners in the facility’s mission. Ten agencies—including the Alamogordo Police Department, Otero County Sheriff’s Office, New Mexico State Police, and even the Union Pacific Railroad Police—utilized the range for training during the month.

Project Appleseed: A National Connection

One of the standout events was a Project Appleseed marksmanship clinic, which drew instructors and participants from as far away as Phoenix and Idaho Falls. The clinic expended 1,575 rounds of donated .22LR ammunition, with support from the FOLLR Foundation ensuring youth participation.

Local Shoot Boss Bill Butler assisted visiting instructors, while national coordinator Tracy from El Paso brought her trailer stocked with supplies. The event not only advanced instructor credentials but also showcased Otero County’s hospitality, as visiting families found themselves welcomed and supported during unexpected travel challenges.

Concealed Carry and Competitive Matches

Five independent firearms instructors conducted concealed carry classes for more than 35 students, reinforcing the range’s role as a safe training ground for responsible gun ownership.

Meanwhile, the A Girl & A Gun Women’s Shooting League and the Otero Practical Shooting Association hosted matches that drew record numbers. The shotgun match at month’s end attracted 27 shooters—nearly quadruple last year’s turnout. Expanded bays allowed for more stages, accommodating newcomers and those with mobility challenges.

Community Moments: From Veterans Day to Gender Reveals

The range’s open-door policy on holidays (excluding Thanksgiving and Christmas) brought in over 70 shooters on Veterans Day. Thanksgiving weekend was even busier, with more than 230 visitors, including a unique gender reveal party hosted on the 100-yard bay. Staff member John Vansickle volunteered his time to serve as Range Safety Officer, ensuring the event was both festive and safe.

Infrastructure Improvements

November also marked significant progress in facility upgrades:

• Three ADA-compliant parking pads were poured.

• Replacement of two aging canopies began, with three new shade structures scheduled for completion in January.

• The FOLLR Foundation continued renovations to repurpose the old computer lab into two meeting rooms, with volunteers carefully dismantling outdated infrastructure.

Range Master Mark Douglas expressed gratitude for the support: “From our loyal customers to the FOLLR Foundation and County Commissioners, these improvements are making the Sidney Paul Gordon Shooting Range the best in Otero County.”

Digital Footprint: Social Media and Google Trends

While in-person activity soared, online engagement showed mixed results.

• Facebook: 6,376 views (down 30.5% from the prior period), 68 interactions (down 27.7%), but followers rose to 1,503 (+1.1%).

• Google Business Profile: Interactions fell 23.4% compared to November 2024, yet views increased 13.6%, with mobile searches accounting for nearly two-thirds of traffic.

Search terms most commonly leading to the range’s profile included “shooting range near me” and “Sidney Paul Gordon Shooting Range, Rock Cliff Road, La Luz.”

Looking Ahead

With canopy replacements continuing into December and new shade structures slated for January, the Sidney Paul Gordon Shooting Range is poised for an even stronger 2026. The facility’s blend of law enforcement training, community events, and national-level marksmanship clinics ensures it remains a cornerstone of Otero County’s recreational and civic landscape.

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