Really nice place but customer service was lacking. I purchased a riflescope from them. After delivery I noticed that the scope was previously mounted and used. But they did not want to take any responsibility and blamed it on the supplier. I just wanted to get an exchange for the riflescope, but they wanted to charge me 40% restocking fee for something that was previously used and returned to the supplier. Never buying anything from this place again. read more

Great location. Found an amazing deal on Groupon. Instructors were really friendly explained the safety procedures perfectly!!! Great location didn't feel intimidated or shamed for not having much experience. Will definitely recommend for anyone looking to let off steam. Have to go back and try other options!!! Please check them out great job fellas!!! read more

This was my first time at a range or even shooting a pistol for that matter. Matt did an absolutely fantastic job patiently talking me through how to handle and use a gun safely and my impending experience. I was thoroughly impressed with the whole operation, the staff's knowledge and approachability. We will be back! read more

So I've come here a few times now with my boyfriend and overall have had nothing but great experiences. We come with our own guns, ammo, eyes and ears therefore, we don't pay much so I can't comment in terms of whether or not their prices are competitive but I can evaluate the experience and staff. Let's start with the staff. The times we've been there we have interacted with the following staff members (and briefly with others which we didn't catch their names). Mickey- He was pretty awesome. He helped guide us in some new handguns we wanted to try out and he was extremely patient and friendly. If you're a first timer, he will make you feel completely at ease. He doesn't look at you like you're annoying or a hassle to deal with. He is a true professional and just overall great guy. On his side is also usually a gentleman named Matt, who is equally as awesome. Wayne- I am still trying to get use to shooting my boyfriend's shotgun (i'm always freaked out of the kick back since I'm pretty tiny) and he was the range instructor for the second half of the time we were there for. He helped improve my position and gave me tips on how to relax. He just made me feel so at ease. It really is great to know there are people there willing to help you out if you need it while on a range. He was so friendly and professional he helped me leave with a big smile on my face since I was able to successfully shoot the shotgun multiple times after he helped me get use to it. Now the reason this place doesn't get 5 stars? Well there are two. One, is a staff member I believe is named Gus. He was there as a range instructor. He wore a hat and really dark sunglasses (inside) and stood with his arms crossed. He was NOT friendly at all. Like I said we had been many times before and have always been treated so nicely that we were really taken a back at the way he spoke to us and the rest of the people on the range. You could hear him saying things like "I don't really care. That's above my pay grade to deal with." And various forms of statements to maybe friends or regulars who he seemed to know. While there I didn't see him help not one person. He just stood there, almost unhappy to even be there and created such a weird vibe for the place. It made me uncomfortable. The second is their ridiculous charge of $100 dollars for damage costs if you hit the floor, this yellow piece above the target, or the walls (PER HIT). I understand it's expensive to upkeep the maintenance of the ENTIRE place but ONE slight nick in the concrete wall or floor does NOT even come CLOSE to costing $100. So it's a bit extreme. Other than that, we keep going back here because there are more welcoming, friendly, and helpful people than any other place we've tried (like Gilbert's Range in Rockville). That place is awful compared to this range so we're very glad we found it. As long as we keep getting treated well, we'll keep driving an hour to come here! *Also a quick side note, they should really consider expanding their parking lot. It is incredibly small and on a busy night you just won't find a parking at all. We've seen people double parking and parking on the grass. * I will update this review as I continue (or discontinue) to go here. read more

I've been to a lot of ranges since I was 14. Not impressed with the tiny shooting booths for each lane. I noticed a lot of bullet holes in the the overhead baffles which makes me wonder about the safety of controlled fire on the range. Not a great selection of guns or gun accessories in the store. I was actually looking for something else other than fireclean CLP, but I guess I have to shop elsewhere. read more

I've never shot a rifle before, and after my wife gave me money for Christmas and said "buy the damn Henry, you've been talking about it for ten years", I bought the rifle at a Frederick gun show, called The Machine Gun Nest; found I could shoot it there, and went. I knew the range was there because you pass it when going to get your emissions tested; but didn't know what to expect, especially for a rookie. I called and found out the Saturdays were particularly busy, but that's the only time I could go, so I showed up before they opened for the day and still was about the fifth in line. Since I had never been there, I had to watch a video, and read/sign online waivers, and the waiting line was five or six deep by the time I was finished (even though they have 3 or 4 guys taking care of folks at the registers). The person I'd first spoken with took care of me once I was ready, without having to go through the line again, and got me on the next available position. I made some rookie mistakes about carrying my rifle to the ammo and not taking the ammo to the rifle; and when I was finished, carrying the unloaded rifle to put it in its case and not taking the case to rifle; and being told once not to point the rifle up when I was loading it but ALWAYS pointing it down range; but no one was cross or condescending. One of the safety officers asked if this was my first time on the range and when I said yes, was told "if they need to tell me this again I'd be asked to leave" and if I did it when I came back, I wouldn't be allowed to use the range again. There's a place to wash your hands as soon as you exit the range, so it's easy to remember the rule you read and signed about washing your hands right away to remove lead residue. The whole operation is clean and safety conscious. I enjoyed myself so much that when I returned in a couple of weeks, my wife's boss wanted to come, too. He enjoyed it so much he's going to come back. read more

WATCH OUT FOR PREDATORY 'DAMAGE' CHARGE! They charge $100 fee for hitting the target carrier (A big piece of replaceable steel). Note: The signs only say they'll charge you for hitting the floor, ceiling, or walls Problem is, if a neighbor is shooting a target at 6yds, and you are shooting at 25 yds, it is very likely that your neighbors bullet can hit your target (even if he's properly aiming!) or target carrier. Anyway. They charged me $100 fee for some scratched paint that might not have even been from us, so we're not coming back ever again. Lanes were small and cramped, parking on a Sunday was difficults read more

Hidden Gem - Great Place I took my two kids 16 and 13, they absolutely loved it. Staff member Chris was extremely helpful. He walked us through the whole process from the minute we stepped in the door. They also have some great specials such as Match Night, Date Night and Family Day. We will definitely be returning guest. I am little rusty behind a firearm so I need more time on the lanes. I am very happy we found this place its something we can all do together. More importantly they teach everyone gun safety. Aja R. read more

Awesome! This was my boyfriend and I first time at a shooting range and the staff made it absolutely worth the trip up to Frederick. The staff was amazing and helped us with every step of the way. Natalie was great she took the time to walk me through shooting my target and helped calm my nerves. Definitely an experience we won't forget ! read more

Had a wonderful time here. Everyone was helpful, attentive and answered all of the questions we had. We will be back for more time, classes and we will be purchasing fire arms from here. read more

Súper great service and perfect for beginners. Even on their busiest day, they were able to get our waivers signed, guns rented, safety talk done, and THREE lanes for the 9 of us in under 30 minutes. Clean and friendly! read more

Amazing. My first visit- and definitely won't be our last. My boyfriend and I purchased the rifle package for two on Groupon. We have both handled and used firearms before but only pistols. We came on a Saturday but it was very crowded, so we signed the waivers and watched the safety video, then left and came back on Sunday just before the members only hours ended. The staff were friendly and professional and I felt very safe as soon as I walked in (all of the staff were armed). Rick helped us out and walked us through everything we needed to know. Bernie was out on the range monitoring everyone and he was fantastic. Funny, friendly, helpful, and non-judgmental(thanks for helping me work on my stance and holding the weapon!) Range was very clean and Bernie was always sweeping. Each lane had a little shelf and some hooks where you could keep your belongings while you fired. We were using an AR 15 and had an hour of range time and we quickly breezes through our 80 rounds , then we got two more boxes of 20. After those boxes of 20, my boyfriend Adam was about to go get us some more, but unfortunately there was a family emergency and we were cleaning up to go. A family member called the range and the staff members were kind enough to run out onto the range and grab us to tell us and let us use the phone (since we weren't paying attention to our cell phones as we were firing). I couldn't get over the kindness and understanding of the staff. While our day was cut short, we still had a fantastic time and don't have enough good things to say about this place. Cant wait to return. Thank you all again! read more

I've been to several indoor and outdoor gun ranges in the area, and The Machine Gun Nest is the best! The place is very clean and inviting, and they have a quick and efficient safety video and waiver system. You only need to watch the video and sign the waiver once. After that, you just walk in and pay. The range staff has somehow managed to find the perfect balance of maintaining a safe environment without making you feel like you just stepped into Nazi Germany, as is the situation I have found on many other ranges. If you follow their common sense rules, and know what you are doing, they leave you to shoot unhindered. Their safety officers are always just a few feet away to keep everyone safe, but they don't hound you if you don't need need it. Of course, if you need assistance, they are there to provide it, and they offer shooting instruction for new shooters. I'm always leery of strangers shooting around me, but the range staff's watchful eye kept me at ease. Their prices are very reasonable, and their hours of operation are great. I didn't shoot any of their rental guns, but they have a vast array of cool weapons to try out. I'm an experienced shooter but I feel the environment at The Machine Gun Nest is well suited to new shooters as well. I had a great first experience at The Machine Gun Nest and I'll definitely be back. read more

When I first walked in, I knew this was a professional staff. They talked me through the rental of a handgun and then I went to the range. The one thing I want from the range is to feel safe. I don't need some idiot shooting all over the place. I felt very safe at this place. I eventually got my HCL through them and bought a Sig P320 from them. They made the process as easy as possible. Once I became a member, they even gave me some tips that helped my shooting. They are very knowledgeable and have a lot of experience. If you want a professional place, this is the place. 5 stars!!! read more

I love this range! The staff are extremely friendly and helpful. Even if you have never shot a firearm, they will go out of their way to make sure you feel comfortable and have a safe and fun time. And if you have questions, they will take the time to explain it to you without judgement or arrogance. I had an issue with a new AR pistol I built, and they helped correct it right there on the spot. And, they are the only indoor range in the area that will let you shoot anything (no tracer or steel core ammo) up to and including a .50 BMG. You can even shoot a 12 Guage shotgun as long as it's a slug. If you have ever wanted to see what it is like to shoot a fully auto (and even suppressed) gun, this is the place to do it. They have the most popular full autos to shoot. And they even give you a free shirt after you are done. I highly recommend this range! read more

I have nothing but good things to say about TMGN. The staff was friendly, knowledgeable and helpful. The selection of firearms was very impressive. The enviornment is extremely safe but also welcoming and enjoyable. There is a short waiver to fill out and instruction, if needed, is given on the use of firearms. The safety officer on the range was very helpful without being intrusive. The prices are very reasonable and the hours should accomdate any schedule. The Machine Gun Nest is a welcome addition to Frederick and I will be going back many times and can only encourage others to do so as well. read more

Fantastic place! Great Staff and the range officer is extremely helpful. Great to see a lot of women shooting. Saw a lot of couples and some kids. A real family friendly place!!! I am definitely going back again and again! read more

AWESOME EXPERIENCE!! My friends and I double dated here last weekend and the expereince was PERFECT!!! We had a groupon and there was not one issue with upholding the groupon and we were able to have the full experience without any additional exspenses. They were also very patient as for the first few moments we were all standing around looking like deer in headlights. We all felt very welcomed and well informed. Very excited to return for Friday date nights! read more

Went there for the first time last week to celebrate our friend's birthday. I was really nervous, as I'd never even touched a gun, but the instructor was very patient, and helped me out. When all was said and done we had a great time, and we will be going back. read more

Very nice. Very helpful. Very pleasant experience. Yelp wants me to make the review longer, but I have nothing to add.

Had an amazing afternoon here. Great instruction, easy check-in, knowledgeable and personable staff. I highly recommend whether you're a beginner or seasoned pro! read more

What can I say . These guys are always friendly and social . My wife shot for the first time at TMGN and she loved it . I've been to Gilbert's in Rockville and the experience is like night and day. 5+ stars read more

A great facility. The staff is eager to make your experience a pleasure. They are extremely knowledgeable regarding all things firearm related. read more

Friendly, safe, and clean. Worth the drive (up to 45 min for me)

Staff are amazing, really helpful... lanes are clean. superb selection of rentals. Highly recommended for any level of shooter.

I cant say enough nice things about this place! We came with a group of four this afternoon, one with no experience. Larry, our range officer, was nice enough to give her some pointers and teach her a few things that made her much more comfortable. In fact, I think she's now hooked! I've been here several times and its consistently great all around. Highly recommend for beginners and experienced shooters as well. In my opinion, TMGN is hands down the best range in the DMV area!!! read more

What a breath of fresh air?! I have been shooting both professionally and recreationally for the better part of my adult life. And this place is by far my favorite in-door range ever. The outside of the establishment is kept well manicured and very clean. Upon opening the door I was greeted by a very modern lobby/front desk area. They have plenty of sexy guns on display. The staff was very approachable, which in it self is worth 5 stars. Every range I've gone to is staffed with guys who are very condescending and lacking knowledge outside of your average "fudd" spectrum. Even after showing my LE and military credentials, I would be treated as a child. At this range it's the opposite. I was treated as a responsible adult. The process of signing a waiver and getting a lane was seamless, and very cheap. 3 targets and a lane for $23. Amazing. The firing lines themselves are also kept well clean. Even by particular military standards. There is ample ventilation, and the climate control is perfect! The line coaches are very nice and approachable as well. They're also very knowledgeable and treated me as an adult as well. I'm probably going to get a membership. Very worth it. read more

Today was my second time here and I must say it was awesome!!! The staff is more than excellent! They're knowledgeable,helpful,friendly,and seemingly good people. Leigh was the range guard today,and was nice and helpful,but not judgemental (my second time shooting), Michael was behind the counter and gave solid advice as to what to shoot. While I shot almost everything they had,the staff was spot on every step of the way. I really cannot express how great this place is for beginners!!! read more

Nice range. Top notch. Range safety officer is around but not up your butt creating a safety distraction like some ranges. They dont clock watch so if you over stay a few minutes they dont give you a hard time. Staff is friendly. I dont usually have high regards for people in polo shirts and 5.11 pants because they look to tactical for practical, but I over look it here. Great place to put holes in paper and buy a few supplies. read more

Amazing staff, everyone is super friendly and helpful. Great experience and I will be coming back soon.

One of the most well run places I've ever been to. The store was clean, well run, and modern with many guns on display. Staff was very professional and friendly and helped you feel comfortable with the guns. Kyle, our recruit who helped us, was awesome and is a straight up bro. Highly recommend! read more

Revision of my initial 5 star review. Just want to do a shout out to Sean, Bob, Matt, and the lady with the glasses. (Unfortunately I never caught her name) Everyone I mentioned has a great personality and very amiable. Been a member for about 7 months now and I can't say anything but praise. I've mostly had interactions with Sean, he's helped me get my AR15 and it was smooth as butter. He was very patient with me during the paperwork process and helped me become more aware of MD gun laws. Matt, the owner, helped me a lot when I initially got into shooting. Made me aware of the 180 gun rule without being condescending and let me know in advance what the benefits of becoming a member was without the extra BS. I called once if they could help me out with my trigger spring and he said it'd be free, when I went to pick up my Marlin the copay was $58, he explained to me that it was a more difficult job than expected, but since he did say it would be on the house, he would bite the bullet for me. Not something you expect from a gun range, I respect him keeping his word even though he didn't have to, tbh I was ready to pay for the work but he refused!! My favorite quote from him was, "we don't send out bullshit ads or spam emails, just the upcoming events they may be hosting or sales that might benefit you." Didn't interact with Bob much, but whenever he's at the counter he's always been helpful and addressed my needs accordingly. As for the lady with the glasses, when one of my rounds went off, which sounded off to me (it sounded light) but before I could pull the trigger again on my father's Marlin 60, she yelled at me to stop so she could check on it. It was ONLY then I realized it may have been a squib round. It wasn't, and the barrel was clear, but her quick actions could have prevented a catastrophe. Really appreciate all the folks at TMGN and what you guys do, they're really attentive to their customers members or not. Hope you guys have a Happy New Year's, looking forward to staying as a member and taking advantage of all the advice that you guys have to give. I drive 45 mins to this gun range and it is worth the haul, you really won't get better service or friendliness from anyone else in MD, I've gone to 7 different gun ranges before becoming a member at TMGN and I don't regret it. read more

I came with a group of people from new york an i Just would like to say thanks to gus..oh I mean dalton..lolll...for a great experience,he is a good instructor,really made things easy..hope to come back soon..... read more

first time at the machine gun. clean facility, friendly knowledgeable staff, rest rooms are very clean and a wide variety of firearms to purchase and rent. my wife fired two shots and i finished the 98 rounds that was left. we had a great time. read more

Great customer service! It was my wife's first time shooting and she was very nervous. But the staff did an awesome job of putting her at ease and encouraging her. For first time customers, they ask you to watch a 5 min safety video and sign a waiver using an iPad. The place is very clean. read more

This place was great! The people there are really friendly and helpful! They made me very comfortable my first time shooting a hand gun. The place is clean, well maintained and professionally run. Very good experience! read more

Prior to yesterday I would have given this place five stars, however yesterday I was hit with the aptly named "predatory" fee of $100 for allegedly striking the carrier! I had recommended this place to two of my friends. We were shooting .45's and .22's from 7 yards. We are all experienced shooters with many years behind us. The SRO came by at one point, pulled our target in and said we must have struck the carrier. We denied this as we never heard a metallic ping or saw a spark. It actually looked like the yellow paint had flaked off in the corner. There were no scores or indents from a bullet strike. When we went to leave and collect our license, we were told that we hit the carrier and to pay the $100 fee. Naturally we disputed this claim. The proverbial "he said she said". I guess it's shame on us for not checking the paint quality of the carrier before shooting. We asked them to check our targets, look at our groupings, and they would be able to see how proficient we are. They refused to do this but sent someone out to check with the SRO. They came back and said it was not a ricochet but a strike from a .22. They then proceeded to show us a carrier that they pulled from behind the desk that must have been struck by a .45 or .50 bullet head on - obvious damage but in no way relevant to what we were disputing. I asked them if they check the carriers after every lane change and was told they check them every morning. I countered with the fact that we were not the first group on that lane today and they then changed the story to "we check them after every lane change". We told them we would never be back. They still insisted on the fee, though they said they would drop it to $50. WOW! A very interesting business plan - charge a regular customer who brings in two new people the "predatory" fee and lose all future business and get poor internet reviews. Somehow that model/math doesn't add up to me. Of course, based upon the number of people that have been hit with this, maybe they're on to something. I'm reminded of the MasterCard Commercial 3 people shooting for one hour $36 6 Targets $12.72 Cost to re-paint yellow carrier $1 Bad internet review and BBB Complaint - PRICELESS I would not recommend this place! read more

one of the nicest most professional ranges i've been to. super helpful. very knowledgeable. fills up fast. wish it were larger. you will love it. read more

Beware! You are likely to spend and extra $100 or more!! Our group of four seasoned shooters were told we chipped the paint on the target carrier - a mechanism build and designed to be shot at. Anyone who has ever shot at a range knows that bullets occasionally hit the carrier. It's a fact of life. The carrier is BIG and only about 7 inches from the head of the target. Some ranges ban head shots to help minimize such damage. This place fines you $100 - each time! Frankly I don't think we were actually shooting at the time the damage allegedly occurred but even if we did hit it, a policy that fines people $100 for hitting it is unfriendly, unwelcoming and ridiculous! Frankly, I am a fairly good shot but the threat of a $100 fine made me so uncomfortable that I would only aim from the chest line down. When the damage occurred the range officers didn't discuss it with us, giving us a chance to dispute it. The fine was just on our bill as we left. In addition to this the lanes are cramped and the staff is smotheringly helpful with an air of smug superiority. The entire experience was unpleasant from the moment we walked in to spend 20 minutes at an electronic podium signing our life away to the moment we walked out the door $100 poorer. We won't ever be back!!! read more