faq
Frequently Asked Questions
How old do I have to be to train at Thunder Ranch?
21+ unless active duty military with current military ID.
How do I get to the Ranch from Lakeview, Oregon?
Leave town traveling north, go past the Shell gas station for another 3 miles and then turn right onto Highway 140 East, going towards Adel, Winnemucca. From here go 1.1 miles and on your left you will see a covered bridge that you should pass through.
How much ammo do I need?
This completely depends on the course, each course will have ammo requirements listed. Do keep in mind ammo restrictions as well (frangible vs non frangible) as each course changes requirements. As an added mention, if you have any ammo concerns, please reach out. Thunder Ranch does sell most common ammo for our classes.
Do I need lead free/frangible ammo?
Almost all courses (but not all) at Thunder Ranch require frangible ammunition. Please read the class description or reach out if you have any ammo concerns.
Where should I buy ammo?
Thunder Ranch does sell ammunition for most courses. If you do not see ammo listed for purchase we recommend Sinterfire. They can be contacted via phone or website below.
Phone: 814-885-6672
Website: http://sinterfire.com/trstore/
NOTE: Only order the ammunition needed for the course you are attending. Do not order additional ammunition for personal use outside of Thunder Ranch. This creates a logistics nightmare for both Thunder Ranch and for Sinterfire. Thank you for your understanding.
How soon should I order my ammunition?
With Ammo shortages we suggest to order as soon as possible. Please allow time for processing and delivery or inventory issues with your supplier.
Is there a gear list?
Each course has the recommended gear list published on the class description. However, more common gear lists can be found below:
Rifle Course Check List
- Rifle with sling
- 4-6 Magazines or more
- Ammunition – Frangible LEAD FREE
- Eyes (one set of clear)
- Ears
- Knees
- Elbows
- Hat with brim
- Magazine pouch
- Range bag
- Sunscreen
- Rain gear
- Solid footwear
- Note taking material
- Cleaning Gear
- Special Tools-torx, hex, etc.
- Manual for firearm, optic, etc.
- Handgun
- Holster
- 4-6 Magazines or more
- Ammunition – Frangible LEAD FREE
- Eyes (one set of clear)
- Ears
- Knees
- Elbows
- Handheld tactical-style flashlight (button on the tailcap)
- Hat with brim
- Magazine pouch
- Range bag
- Sunscreen
- Rain gear
- Solid footwear
- Note taking material
- Cleaning Gear
- Special Tools-torx, hex, etc.
- Manual for firearm, optic, etc.
Bolt Rifle Course Check List - Rifle with sling
- 3-5 Magazines -if external
- Bipod recommended
- Ammunition
- Ears
- Eyes (one set of clear)
- Shooting Mat
- Hands free pack (for H.A.R.T.)
- Rear bags or rests
- Impact Data Book or plain notebook
- Elbows- optional
- Knees-optional
- Hat with brim
- Sunscreen
- Rain gear
- Solid footwear
- Note taking material
- Cleaning Gear
- Special Tools-torx, hex, etc.
- Manual for firearm, optic, etc.
- NO GREEN TIPS, MAGNUMS, TRACERS.
- NO STEEL CORE, .338s, OR ZIP GUNS
Can I ship my guns to Thunder Ranch?
Unfortunately, this is not allowed. All students are responsible for the transport/shipping/possession of their own firearms. Thunder Ranch cannot receive mailed/shipped firearms on the student’s behalf.
The course I am interested in is not listed or is full. Is there a waitlist for courses?
If you would like us to check about adding you to a class waitlist please email us at info@thunderranchinc.com
Do I need to bring a lunch?
Yes, bring a lunch every day.
What type of clothing do I need?
The range deck is at 5400 feet elevation in the mountains. Be ready for any weather. Rain gear is always a must. The weather changes quickly day to day. Dress in layers.
What time do we start?
Day one starts at 8:30am. Be at the bridge at 8:05am sharp, don’t be late!
Where should I stay?
If you’re visiting Thunder Ranch via air travel, here are the most often used airports.
Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO)
Rogue Valley International Medford Airport (MFR)
Redmond Municipal Airport (RDM)
Local Lodging Info:
Fremont Inn, Lakeview Oregon
Lakeview Best Western
Hunter’s Hot Springs
There are several VRBO and AIRBNB options
RV Parks: These are 20 minutes from the Ranch
High Desert Hideaway
Junipers RV park
Wild Goose Meadows RV park
*Please Note: The bridge on to our property will not accommodate larger vehicles so please read more about that in this FAQ area.
Where should I eat while in town?
There are limited choices, some options are The Bowling Alley, Jerry’s, Snack Shack, The Nest, and Green Mountain Bakery/Pizza.
How big of a vehicle can I bring?
The bridge has a 9-foot doorway, so HUGE travel trailers and RV’s are not going to fit at all.
If you must travel with a large, tall, or oversized vehicle, there are local accommodations that can be made. Contact us for details at info@thunderranchinc.com
What kind of rifle/pistol should I bring?
One that works, that you know to work, and a spare if you can. You will need a sling as well. 4-6 magazines that you know to work as well.
What kind of scope should I bring, if the class requires one?
The one you own, if you need assistance or want recommendations on what we have seen and know to work contact info@thunderranchinc.com
Do I need a holster/sling?
Yes, very much. A quality holster that retains the pistol securely when turned upside down. Along with a solid belt.
Should I have a zero on my rifle?
Yes. Zeros are a personal preference and some may be dictated by agency policy. A 100 yard zero will be adequate and is recommended for your course.
Will I have the opportunity to mount my scope or optic, zero my rifle, or function check a new rifle?
Yes. Staff can assist if needed in mounting and zeroing. If the rifle is new, please ensure reliable function before you travel for your course.
What is your contact Info?
Please reach out with any questions, comments, our concerns from our contact page!