Last I checked, having an interest in and appreciation for U.S. history, and having any level of patriotism, does not belong exclusively to MAGA or the Republican Party. History belongs to all of us. Military history belongs to all of us. Patriotism belongs to all of us. A place that teaches about the horrors of war should be especially careful not to turn division, dehumanization, and political hatred into entertainment. I paid $200 for admission for myself and nine family members to celebrate my son's 13th birthday and support his interest in military history. What I got instead was one of the most divisive experiences I have ever had at a historical site. I understood that, by the nature of this venue, I would be surrounded by people whose political beliefs and voting preferences might be very different from mine. I expected that and had no problem with it. What I did not expect was a two-hour tour led by three men who turned military history into a platform for political antagonism. The tour began with the guides essentially showing the door to anyone who might be considered "woke," followed by comments such as, "Any Democrats here are free to try out the land mine." This was followed by a gimmicky and deeply inappropriate fake drop of one of the seven unopened cans of gas associated with the mass killing of millions of people during WWII. There is a difference between studying the propaganda, hatred, and dehumanization that allow people to rationalize cruelty during war, and actively reproducing that same "us versus them" mentality. The concepts of othering, dehumanization, and moral disengagement are central to understanding how people come to view others as lesser or undeserving of empathy. Hearing political opponents casually treated as targets or punchlines in a place dedicated to the history of war was deeply disturbing. What bothered me was not that these guides were conservative or that they expressed opinions different from mine. It was the contempt and hostility toward an entire group of Americans, and the assumption that everyone visiting should share it. I brought my son and our family because we wanted to learn about history. Unfortunately, the strongest lesson we left with was how easily the very "us versus them" thinking that contributes to violence can be reproduced in the present. read more

If you appreciate war history and memorabilia, this is as good as it gets. Thank you Dragonman for sharing your personal collection for the public to tour. This is a unique experience that you will not find anywhere else, and if you do find something similar, it will hardly compare to this extensive collection. Spanning from the civil war to WW1/WW2, there are a TON of things to see. Highly, highly recommend. Staff members are all friendly and extremely knowledgeable. My only complaint is that since it is strictly a guided tour, it can go by quick and you may miss a lot, because there is a LOT to see. They offer a variety of other activities, but I only went for the museum tour. Took many photos but I attached a few. read more

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As much as i love this place, most of the history here is inaccurate. They did not use the m-43 jacket at D-day. Also you guys spelled Adolf wrong. But the shooting range is dope but please be mindful of the museum i'm sure they made the mistakes by accident! read more

It genuinely pains me to leave a negative review, as I have always liked Dragon Man and think the museum itself is very impressive. Unfortunately, my experience with their engine work has left me deeply disappointed. I sent my Shovelhead engine to them for work and was charged $1,775. I was never provided with a work order or any written documentation detailing what was done. I was told new rings were installed, but based on what I've since observed, I do not believe that to be true. What ultimately led me to write this review was how the engine was returned. I had taken great care to crate the engine securely to prevent any damage during shipping. When it arrived back to me, the engine was not properly secured in the crate. The plywood was simply tightened against the side of the engine rather than the engine being fully reinstalled into the crate. Upon opening it, I immediately noticed that the cam cover was cracked, consistent with impact damage--as if something had been dropped on it or struck it. I contacted them right away to report the damage, but the response was dismissive at best. Dragon Man himself suggested I simply continue using the engine with the cracked cam cover, which I found unacceptable. At that point, I regretted ever sending the engine there. I was also told that the pistons were "like new," despite the fact that I had personally seen them prior and knew they were worn and in need of replacement. The cylinders were also rough and clearly required machining. Based on everything I've seen, I do not believe any meaningful internal work was done. It appears the engine may have simply been reassembled with worn components and regasketed. What bothers me most is not the money, but the principle. I strongly dislike feeling taken advantage of, especially when trust and craftsmanship are involved. I have no doubt that the cam cover was damaged in their shop during re-crating, though I cannot say by whom. I do not trust the work performed and have decided to send the engine to another builder to be disassembled and inspected so I can determine exactly what, if anything, was actually done. To be clear, I still think Dragon Man has built something special with the museum, and I respect that aspect of what he does. However, based on my experience, I would never return to this shop for engine work under any circumstances. Maybe your experience will be better than mine. This was what I got. The owner's response "Hi - We are very sorry you received your motor work back with this crack. We understand people like to point fingers, however, this was shipped by a trucking company where packing was inspected even during the pickup. The motor was not improperly handled to cause a crack in the shop; what would we gain from this when we have the means to fix it before leaving the shop? Dragonman has been packing motors in crates for almost 50 years. The work requested was done as requested; nothing reused and everything replaced. We understand it's frustrating to have received your work back in this condition with the crack, but the blame needs to be redirected on a claim with the shipping company. The only issue we would understand and take responsibility for is if you did not receive an invoice, and we will happily get this out in the mail. Again, very sorry for your experience." Reply to owner reply: there was nothing wrong with the crate when it arrived you boob. Who ever packed the engine didn't even get the engine all the way into the crate. The pics are of after I removed the plywood. It was not done during shipping there was nothing wrong with the outside of the crate. This was definitely done by who ever put the engine back into the crate. You guys did me wrong period end of story. It was nothing at all to do with the shipping company and everything to do with who loaded it. Again there wasnt a single thing wrong with the crate. Also you guys didn't send back any of my packing blankets. I mean jeez. Blame it on the shipping company all you want. I'm no dummy. Take a look at the pics of how you guys positioned the engine. It's crazy makes no sense read more

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Dragonman's is absolutely insane!! It's a completely different vibe than any other shoring range you'll find (and I've been to quite a few too!). You feel the freedom and open range on the drive in. Tons of funny signage, shot up cars, zombies, and no trespassing signs everywhere! Check-in was a breeze. They have 2 ranges. I stuck to the range closest to the check-in area because it was capable of handling all the firearms I brought with me. The Range Safety Officers ran the range very well and kept things moving quickly. I felt a lot of freedom to shoot as I pleased. It was also cool seeing some of the fully automatic rifles getting fired (they offered them for rent). I was a little disappointed in myself because I showed up late and didn't take advantage of touring the WWII museum area they have. I plan on coming back just for that. They also have a paintball area and it looked like an area to ride ATVs and dirt bikes. Overall, this is my favorite place in the Colorado Springs area to shoot!! read more

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Great place ! Highly recommend!Military Museum, Shooting Range, Gun Store, Dirt bike tracks 4 wheeler track,paintball. Great way to spend the day in Colorado Springs Co! read more

This place is absolutely incredible. My girlfriend and I headed down for the yearly opening day of the his museum and machine gun shoot. Mel B, also know and "Dragon Man", might have the most impressive war and weapons museum outside the Smithsonian itself. He has guns, machine guns, tanks, APC's, mortars, bazookas and vehicles. The tour is extensive and covers the revolutionary war through today. He covers everything from George Washington to the holocaust of WW2. He has hundreds of original uniforms, helmets, gear and even communication equipment. The tour takes about 90 minutes and you receive in depth background the pieces he has and how he acquired them. It's absolutely amazing. A true walk down history lane. The tour include his famous "50's" room whit hall sorts of memorabilia and cars etc from the 1950's. I simple cannot say enough about the museum. It has to be seen to be believed. As a gun store, this place is also first rate. I've purchased several rifles and pistols from Dragon Man and all the purchases have been easy, direct and honest. The prices are competitive and his daughter knows about everything there is to know about guns and their legal use. As a shooting range this place is awesome. It's well marked, outdoors, safe and simple. There are several ranges to choose from according what your shooting and the distances you are shooting. They rent guns of all kinds to shoot, including fully automatic weapons. They call Dragon Man the most armed man in America and k believe it. The press and politicians seek his opinion and various gun related matters and Mel is always happy to help. I highly recommend Dragon Man's as a museum, fun store and shooting range. They also have an outdoor motor or track and a machine shop. I can't really comment on those as I've never used them but I would guess they are as professionally run and useful as the the other rated attractions I reviewed today. Thank you Dragon Man for an incredible experience and a fabulous day out with my friends. read more

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I can't recommend the Pistol Fundamentals & Concealed Carry Permit course enough. Melissa is an outstanding instructor. She is both knowledgeable and patient. You won't find a better teacher. I'll most certainly be signing up for the intermediate course in the near future. read more

It is always a pleasant surprise when you find a place that delivers more than expected. I only discovered Dragonman's accidental while looking through Reels on FB. As a Vietnam Veteran I found it compelling and did more research, and made a specific plan to visit on our recent trip to Castle Rock from Texas. I visited with my Father in law, a Korean War Veteran. The Staff was very friendly and extremely knowledgeable on every American Conflict from the Revolutionary War up to Afghanistan, including weapons, equipment, uniforms and vehicles. I would highly recommend this museum and guided tour. read more

If you love our country and the men and women who fought for our freedom, this is the place to go. This is by fat the biggest military collection we have ever seen and the knowledge that Dragonman and Jusin give on the tour is top notch. You gotta go and see for yourself!!! read more

Dragonman is a terrific person who owns a very large and complete museum that covers every war the USA has been in. I highly recommend you visit his museum and meet him in person, you will not regret it! read more

I've been following this guy for a few years on Facebook & had it on my bucket list to come and visit his facility. I took the opportunity over the 20th year 911 Anniversary weekend, and WAS NOT Disappointed. Mel, his 2 Tour guides & daughter Melissa were VERY Accommodating. I took the War & Hot Rod Museum tour and was Amazed at everything! I've seen it plenty on Facebook but seeing it in person IS A MUST !!! So much History is packed into Dragon land - it was - in a word - AMAZING... I also brought along a couple long guns & shot them at his GUN range. The range was ALSO very nice! $10-12 bucks allow you to shoot ALL DAY - A great deal as well. Too bad AMMO is SO damned expensive though! Mel was NOT, an old senile , mean spirited guy, as some goofs had reviewed! He is very cordial, accommodating but very busy. He has WEALTH of knowledge. To ME, a NATIONAL TREASURE Loving the American Dream! I'd give the place 6 stars if I could! Best wishes to Dragonman from his friends in Niagara Falls NY USA read more

Dragonman's - Thanks Mel, for being YOU ! - Museums Near Me - Colorado Springs, Colorado

This place is amazing! We did the guided tour.. All things military on display. The tour is about 2.5 hours in length. The staff is very knowledgeable and answered questions as we went along. There is a display for every war our American Heros were involved in. The owner himself is involved in the tours as well. The displays are put together very nice and you can get up close to see the details, please don't touch. There are a few graphic items on display so if you have a weak stomach, be warned. There is so much too see you will have to go through more than once to catch everything. The only disappointment that I have are that the uniforms and older cars are completely covered in plastic and it's really hard to see the details and the tour feels a bit rushed. read more

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Been here 4 times, it's already too expensive to be hassled by doing everything right, so your experience at this range varies on the range master. their instructions change, their experience is lacking for some, and those same range masters prefer to have control of you beyond your actions, including your firearm. Safety is important, so when is it safe to lock someone's bolt in their Armalite Rifle back into a closed position just to put it back into the open position before anyone sees. It's not that I expected no safety knowledge from the young range master on 9/30/23, but I did expect him to know when an AR-15 without a magazine in it, is open and cleared and not touch it and harass me afterwards. You're gonna have to ask if the younger range masters are on before you buy a ticket to the range, they've got an issue of acting controlling for things that aren't about safety and then acting like you're the problem when you talk about that. read more

Hands down one of the best private collections of Military equipment and uniforms. Mel (Dragonman) gives an excellent description of his collection, and is a friendly person in general. This collection is worth seeing. The store has a huge selection of firearms, and their staff is knowledgeable. Melissa, his daughter will go out of her way to help you and will help you select the right firearm for you. read more

Dragonman's - Dragon sculpture - Museums Near Me - Colorado Springs, Colorado

I have bought three guns from there and the service has always been excellent. Mel has answered any questions I had. I have also took advantage of the firing range and there is none better. read more

Typical gun range with a long firing line and long waits between when you can go down range. Great if your rifle or muzzleloader is zeroed in but too long of a process if it's not. I prefer individual shooting lanes to zero. read more

Absolutely an incredible place to visit. The tour lasted about 2.5 hours but I would have liked a whole day of listening to the knowledge that Mel has accumulated explaining the various original items collected. Everything is original. We were there the end of September 2021. The cost is super inexpensive and the artifacts range from the Civil War to Afghan action. Put it on the list to do!!! read more

Dragon man's is my go-to range in the Colorado Springs area. Not only is it open to the public but the price ($12/day) can't be best. Sure you can go to an indoor range if the weather is too cold for you but if you're not a member you'll be paying $25/hr and you can be booted to make room for a member. The main cons are 1) Yes, it's outdoor so weather is a consideration. 2) Bring some kind of magnification to check your target or be prepared to wait until the range goes cold. 3) Target stands have a minimum distance so doing a "36yd zero" isn't possible. Also, target stands are pallets and get blown down with regularity on windy days. If Dragon man reads this I would definitely suggest digging holes at 25yds out to 100yds on the rifle side and 3yds to 10 yrs on the pistol/shotgun side so people can run a variety drills. Target stands could be 2x4s with cardboard backing - easy to make, easy to maintain. read more

I enjoyed my day at Dragonman's range. It's like most ranges and the safety protocols are on point here. He has plenty of ammunition in stock of all calibers. He also has plenty of weapons for sale at good prices. The range cost was $12, and I felt that was fair. I'll return to fire a few more rounds down range and take a tour of the museum. read more

Guy behind the counter was a nice guy. The owner was completely unprofessional and very rude. Do not recommend. They didn't let us shoot or browse guns. As a minority Vet, I would direct my brothers to look elsewhere. Didn't even bother letting him know that I served. Probably wouldn't have cared anyway. Racist. read more

Do not go here. The owner Mel is completely unprofessional without no regard for customer service. Me and three buddies were here for a work event and decided to get some shooting in. We get to the place and the guy behind the counter was very nice. We told him we wanted to rent and shoot. Before he could get us singed in, He says he needs to check with the "boss man" to see if he wants to rent guns today because it was windy outside." 30 seconds later, he comes back from "boss man's" office and says "Sorry, he is not going to rent guns today." We were disappointed, but decided to browse the guns they had there. Keep in mind there was no other customers in the shop. A minute later "boss man" comes out in a huff, and asks his employee if we were from Colorado? (Keep in mind this is while the employee had a gun out for us and was showing it. We were all 3 feet away from each other.) The employee says "No, they're from Texas." Boss man says "Well then they can't buy a gun anyways. They're wasting our damn time! We have work to do." (Again he does this right in front of us.) He never looked us in the eye or spoke directly to us. He just basically wrote us off and wanted us out. We said ok and just walked out. Bottom line is that the owner Mel needs to treat customers better. His behavior was uncalled for an utter disgrace. This man does not deserve your money. read more

Amazing LOVE YOU DRAGON MAN you're place is like heaven on earth a historians dream playground read more

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Kind staff, willing to help and give tips!! Was a GREAT first time experience there and we'll definitely be returning! Thank you guys a ton. read more

This is the most awesome museum in America. Thank you Dragonman for being the patriotic hero that you are. You have made a place for all Americans to learn and remember our heritage and honor those who have made this country what it is(or used to be). EVERYONE should tour this museum and listen and learn! And it's fun besides. read more

Absolutely freaking awesome! Came to CO to experience this awesomeness. People complaining about bloody mannequins is too funny... always do your research about going places before leaving stupid reviews about stuff that only applies to your own inconvenience. Anyway... just know that you will NEVER see the stuff Dragonman has anywhere else. Also the depth of knowledge presented by Dale and Mel was very vast. Them guys rock! I am still in awe with the amount of items presented at Dragonman's private museum! This is a must! Yes it's always busy but they accommodate everyone. read more

Took the Dragonman museum tour today, August 15, 2021. 110 people attended, which were split into 2 groups of 55. 55 was WAY too many people in a group. The experience was reduced by many notches. Photos were difficult to take except what was right in front of me, we were all in each others way, you'd get spread out way down the line and not see what the guide was speaking about, it was hard to get the space/time to really study the amazing displays, and other negative issues.... But, having said that, this is the most comprehensive collection of World War II items I have ever seen. And I have seen a lot. I have traveled extensively to US and European museums. Wow!! Dragonman's museum is a must see home run! This is a Herculean effort of collecting and displaying war memorabilia. Do not miss seeing Dragonman's museum, just prey you get a reasonably sized tour group. 20 is probably a good tour size limit. read more

Met dragonman. He was not very friendly. grouchy because we wore our respirators in the store . Told us to bring cash next time. They didnt have very much ammo. My son made a comment about all the signs leading up to the compound. Dragonman said come here after hours and find out. Wow! Ok. I dont think I will come back all . The range was ok took forever for everyone to set up their targets on pallets bring a staple gun. I didn't feel comfortable enough to do any more shopping after we were done would have liked a tshirt or something. But naw not a welcome atmosphere. read more

Amazing place for all of your shooting needs. Range is nice and big and you can shoot a lot of different caliber weapons. Price is good, especially since you don't need a membership. Range safeties run a good range and ensure everyone is safe. If you want to rent guns, you can't right now due to Covid but that was a plus for the range. You can also dirt bike and go paint balling. You can bring kids to the range as well. Love going to dragon mans. read more

I went in there to buy a gun, this young girls who answered phones tried to be helpful, I told her I needed to speak to someone that was more informative. She tells this older gentleman that I needed help, he was rude to her about answering the phone, anyway, he bluntly tells me he's busy and basically wasn't interested. He told me that maybe the guy over there could help me, he just stood there. They let me just walk out. So, unless you know exactly what you're looking for, don't bother with them. I'm not sure they need the sales anyway. They were just rude! read more

So worth the trip if you're in Colorado Springs. Everything is authentic. He said 95% of everything still works. Very cool.

My boyfriend was so excited about taking this tour. He had a really good time. We love walking through war museums and learning more about war history. My boyfriend is also a huge gun nut, and loves learning the history behind all types of guns. The tour was interesting; however, it was hot, crowded, rushed, and 2.5 hours long. You may ask how I can describe it as "rushed" when it was over two hours long. That's because there is SO much so see! So much to see, small spaces and a tour group of 60+ people with one tour guide (Dragonman himself) is a bad combination if you are looking to take your time to look and read everything there is to see. I would suggest a smaller tour group, more frequent tours, an intermission at some point, and the availability to walk through the tour and take your own time. We could have spent all day there if allowed, and would have been happy to pay more to do so! Overall, Mel/Dragonman is very knowledgeable, his whole site is amazing, and my boyfriend had a great time. I will add-- if you're looking to socially distance I do NOT recommend taking this tour at the present time. Like I said, large groups, small spaces, and no mask requirement so most weren't wearing masks. read more

Range gets the job done. The range master was friendly and helpful as this was our first time at Dragonman's. The intervals of fire and ceasefire weren't terrible like others suggested. Plenty of pallets available for your target. Extra targets and ammo available for purchase at great prices. Covered and non covered lanes. And don't forget to get your camera out for the spectacle as you enter. It's one you won't forget and gets the point across that there is zero tolerance for trespassing. Will definitely be back read more

I went in today with the intention of renting some firearms and utilizing the range. This experience went downhill very fast. The individual behind the counter was friendly before the owner, Mel, came out and told him (never spoke to my friends or I despite us being directly across the counter) that we were a waste of time and should leave. My impression of him is a racist, rude and unprofessional man baby that ruined an otherwise great trip to this city. read more

museum is amazing, great staff, clean and good amount of selection of firearms. The range could definitely add some improvement to the walkway since it becomes a mud pit once the snow melts, it doesn't necessarily bother me but im sure some people do. I would prefer to shoot steel targets even if I have to pay a bit more since I understand they need constant maintenance or if I can bring my own it'll be even better. Overall great place! read more

Unbelievably awful ownership. There's no concept of customer service. Owner is outright rude for no reason. I will never come back and I would caution anyone who considers coming here to check other ranges nearby. Avoid this place like the plague. read more

One of the most amazing placed I've ever been to. The military museum tour is incredible and one of the most educational and in-depth tours I've ever attended. It's like the Smithsonian of the Rockies. Great shooting range and awesome people. read more

I love Mel's place. One of the most extreme places you will ever visit and full of local color (the shot up and strafed--with twin fifties!--vehicles that line the road in are a plus!). One of the few gun shops with its own range on-site. Dragonman's is an integral part of Colorado Springs' unique culture, and is unlike any other place on the Front Range, or even in Colorado. Worth a visit, and a purchase. read more

We surprised our 8 year old with a family trip from California !!!! What a memory we will never forget and we will be back. Great hosts and very knowledgeable! read more

Incredible experience if you are remotely interested in the history of the US Military! He's always adding new things and this is one of those experiences that makes you proud to be an American! read more