While it might be “under the radar” of many local residents, a whole lot of gun enthusiasts are well aware that the Big Piney Sportsman’s Club exists and enjoy taking advantage of what the facility has to offer.
Located on Highway B a few miles east of Houston and west of Raymondville, the club boasts several high-quality shooting venues, including a 600-yard benchrest range (outfitted with 20 stations and a roof) that is good enough to have hosted the International Benchrest Shooters (IBS) 600-Yard Nationals last September and the 2014 Missouri State Championships. The club’s grounds also include a variety of pistol ranges and shorter rifle ranges. The package is worthy enough that educational organizations like the Fort Leonard Wood-based Tactical Analysis Group LLC (TAG) uses the club to host training for law officers and other gun-carrying professionals.
Whether it’s a “3-gun” match among club members, a regional F-Class (prone position) match, or something as big as an state championship, there’s almost always something going on at the club each weekend that draws people – and their wallets – from other counties or states to the Houston area. Club president Bob Roach likes to point out how competitive events hosted at the facility have a profound impact on the local economy.
“I don’t think people have a clue how much money gets spent in the area by people who come out here,” Roach said. “Lots of ammunition gets bought at many local stores, as well as other shooting supplies and things people need. And of course, the motels, gas stations and restaurants all benefit in a big way.”
The Big Piney Sportsman’s Club’s roots can be traced to several decades ago when five avid shotgun fans gathered weekly to fire their weapons. Now club membership includes more than 200 people (men, women and children), including many from several surrounding states.
Lots of information – including how to join and a schedule of activities and competitions – can be found on the club’s website, www.bigpineysportmansclub.com. Roach can be reached by email at admin@bigpineysportsmansclub.com.