For over 20 years, Scottsdale Gun Club (SGC) has carved out a unique niche. SGC pioneered the concept of a "guntry Club" - a play on country Club - transforming the traditional range into an immersive, luxury experience. This innovative business model has since inspired a wave of upscale retail shops and indoor shooting ranges across the country. 

Founding Vision

The idea for SGC was born in 1999 when Terry Schmidt, owner of a smaller firearms outlet called The Armory, saw the potential for a larger facility catering to civilian shooting enthusiasts. This vision gained urgency following the 9/11 attacks, which led to a surge in demand for civilian training and safety instruction. 

By 2004, SGC opened its 30,000-square-foot facility featuring 24 public shooting lanes, eight private lanes, classrooms, and a lounge. The Club's grand opening attracted a large number of members, ranging from standard packages to the exclusive Titanium Membership.

Strategic Location

A large part of SGC’s success comes from its location in North Scottsdale, one of Arizona’s most affluent areas. The Club's journey began in 2002 with the purchase of 2.2 acres in Scottsdale Airpark. Constructing the 30,000-square-foot facility came with a hefty price tag of $8.2 million, a substantial investment compared to other Arizona cities at the time.

The investment paid off - today, an equivalent commercial property in the area would cost more than double. This strategic location required a deep understanding of real estate and demographic trends. As the first gun range in the area, SGC gained a first-mover advantage, creating barriers to entry for new competitors and securing its position in a limited market.

Adapting to Market Demands

Over the years, SGC has continually adapted to meet the evolving needs of its customers. While SGC’s typical clientele is the affluent firearm hobbyist, the Club has expanded its offerings to attract women, families, and younger generations. The Club offers over 35 training courses, from introductory pistol classes to advanced tactical training, and hosts events like Date Night and Ladies of Liberty to engage new demographics.

Every year, SGC attends SHOT Show to explore new prototypes and place orders for upcoming firearms. Before the event, SGC solicits input from customers on which booths to visit. After the show, SGC sends recaps with photos and videos of the new guns they checked out. This customer-centric approach not only keeps inventory fresh but also strengthens customer loyalty by involving them in the buying process.

Balancing Accessibility with Exclusivity

SGC offers membership options catering to a wide array of clients. Its standard membership is $35 per month, an economical choice for anybody who shoots twice or more a month. Non-members are welcome to rent firearms and use the range at competitive prices, making it a popular destination for vacationers and bachelor parties. 

Still, its prime Scottsdale location naturally draws a wealthier clientele willing to pay for luxury and exclusivity. SGC meets this demand with its Titanium Lounge, a VIP section with premium amenities such as retina-scan entry, historical firearms displays, and high-end decor. The lounge regularly attracts high-profile visitors, including business moguls, celebrities, and athletes. 

The Experiential Retail Advantage

While e-commerce has eroded brick-and-mortar retail, it has also heightened consumers' desire for immersive experiences. Successful brands now focus on creating environments that foster meaningful interactions and engagement. SGC pioneered this shift in the gun industry, blending retail, education, training, and community engagement.

This approach has created a premier destination where customers not only visit but spend the entire day. "We open at 10:00 AM every weekday, and at 9:50, we have a line at our door." commented Dylan Buzzard, Director of Marketing, “It’s part of their routine, similar to being a member of a Country Club.” 

Strategic Partnerships

A cornerstone of SGC's success is its strategic partnerships with leading firearms manufacturers. These brands eagerly collaborate with SGC, providing allotments for new firearms, demo products, and giveaways. They recognize the value of SGC’s strong reputation and loyal community, which enhances the visibility and prestige of their products.

One notable example is SGC’s partnership with Nighthawk Customs, a manufacturer renowned for its high-quality custom firearms. “We attract a lot of wealthy collectors who want one-of-a-kind items,” Buzzard noted, “Sometimes these Nighthawks get sold before I can even post a photo to social media.” This exclusive access to premium firearms strengthens SGC’s industry clout and reputation as a premier destination for discerning enthusiasts.

Serving Those who Serve

SGC's deep-rooted connections with law enforcement and military reinforces its standing as an integral part of the local ecosystem. The Club hosts a variety of events, including Marine Raiders, America's Mighty Warriors, and local military fundraisers. SGC also offers discounted membership packages to military and law enforcement personnel.

Additionally, the Club holds an annual Law Enforcement Demo Day, featuring live demonstrations, manufacturer representatives, and standard-issue gear. To further support these agencies, the Club offers trade-in liquidation solutions, purchasing firearms to aid their budgets while simultaneously expanding its inventory of used guns for customers.

The Future of Scottsdale Gun Club

Two decades after opening, SGC shows no signs of slowing down. Future plans include potential expansions, enhanced services, and continued community engagement through events and educational programs. As the Club evolves, one thing remains constant - a commitment to providing the ultimate shooting experience.

Watch Scottsdale Gun Club's 20th Anniversary Video below. For details on memberships, rentals, firearms purchases, and training, visit https://scottsdalegunclub.com/.