Programs

How do I sign up for programs?

• There is no charge for programs offered at the range.
• Attendees are expected to wear appropriate clothing for the activity – open toed shoes are not appropriate for outdoor programs. Participants should also dress appropriately for the weather.
• Insect repellant is recommended during season.
• Some activities require light physical exertion and may not be appropriate for some participants.
• To register for a program call 636-938-9548 ext 21 or email henges.range@mdc.mo.gov with your name and phone number.
  • If calling, leave a detailed message.
  • Please give the title of the program and the date when emailing or calling.
  • Reservations will be accepted beginning at 12:00 a.m. on the first day of registration; you will be contacted for confirmation.
  • Up to two reservations are allowed per registration; groups should contact the range for more information.
  • Space is limited and registrations are taken on a first-come, first-serve basis.
• Interpretive services are available for those with hearing loss with 5 days’ notice.
• For more information on programs offered at the Jay Henges Shooting Range email the range at henges.range@mdc.mo.gov.

Program Offerings

Basic Handgun, Part 1 & 2

2 hours classroom time, 1 ½ hours range time (Ages 16 and up)

This two-part program will include handgun operation, shooting fundamentals, safety, maintenance, and safe storage. We start with a classroom session on Thursday evening, then a live-fire session on Saturday morning. Although equipment and ammunition will be provided, you may bring your own handgun and ammunition to the Saturday morning live-fire session. Anyone under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
Effort=Moderate

Women’s Basic Handgun, Part 1 & 2

2 hours classroom time, 1 ½ hours range time (Ages 16 and up)

This two-part women's program will include handgun operation, shooting fundamentals, safety, maintenance, and safe storage. We start with a classroom session on Thursday evening, then a livefire session on Saturday morning. Although equipment and ammunition will be provided, you may bring your own handgun and ammunition to the Saturday morning live-fire session. Anyone under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
Effort=Moderate

Trigger Time – Handgun

1 hour range time (Ages 18 and up)

Trigger Time is “hands-on” personal instruction designed to make you a better marksman. There is no classroom time, just expert one-on-one instruction from one of our highly qualified staff. Participants are required to provide their own handguns and ammunition (at least 100 rounds). This program is not appropriate for beginners.
Effort=Moderate

Youth .22 Handgun

1 ½ hours range time (Ages 9 – 15)

This class for young shooters will cover the parts, operation, and safe handling of revolvers and semi-automatic pistols, followed by one on one instruction on the range. We will provide .22 caliber handguns and ammunition. Parents are welcome to come and observe.
Effort=Moderate

Basic Shotgun

1 ½ hour classroom time, 1 hour range time (Ages 11 and up)

This is an introductory program for beginning shooters who want to learn the correct way to get started in shotgun sports. We will discuss appropriate shotguns, correct fit, gauge and ammunition selection, proper stance, mount, movement, and vision. All participants will have an opportunity to break some clay targets after the classroom portion of the program. The shooting portion of this program is not appropriate for children under 90 lbs. weight.
Effort=Moderate

Women’s Basic Shotgun

1 ½ hours classroom time, 1 hour range time (Ages 11 and up)

Join us for an introductory program shooting shotguns. We will cover proper gun selection, proper fit, appropriate ammunition choices, and shooting accessories. We will learn basic shooting stance, gun mount, and movement. After a classroom session, we'll move to the trap field for a time to practice what we've learned.
Effort=Moderate

Trigger Time – Shotgun

1 hour range time (Ages 16 and up)

Trigger Time is “hands-on” personal instruction designed to make you a better shotgunner. There is no classroom time, just expert one-on-one instruction from our USA Shooting Level II staff. The shooting coach will observe shooting by each individual participant and offer suggestions on proper gun fit, position, mount, vision, and movement -- all as may be relevant. Participants will be required to provide their own 12 gauge shotgun and ammunition (two boxes of No. 8 shot).
Effort=Moderate

Introduction to Trapshooting

30 minutes classroom time, 2 hours range time (Ages 11 and up)

If you enjoy shooting a shotgun, but do not know the specifics of the game of trapshooting, then join us for this program. We’ll learn the basics of competitive trapshooting. We’ll cover appropriate guns and ammunition, rules of the game, etiquette on the field, and shoot a round for score. Trap shooting is a great lifetime sport. Firearms and ammunition will be provided, or you may bring your own 12 or 20 gauge shotgun. Shotgun experience is recommended.
Effort=Strenuous

Youth Trap Camp

30 minutes classroom time, 2 ½ hours range time daily (Ages 11 – 17)

This three-morning camp is based on the game of competitive trap shooting. Participants will learn fundamentals of 16-yard singles trap-shooting. This camp is appropriate for participants from 6th grade through 11th grade that can physically shoot at least 100 targets per day.
Effort=Strenuous

Introduction to Youth Trap Team

2.5 hours classroom time (Ages 9 and up)

In cooperation with the Scholastic Shooting Sports Foundation, Jay Henges Range continues our seventh year in the youth trapshooting sport. Eligible participants include students from elementary school through high school. Parents and interested participants are invited to meet with the coaches for a discussion of the program, what is involved, and the opportunities available in this competitive shooting skill. For more information about this program email Jan Morris atJan.Morris@mdc.mo.gov or call 636- 938-9548. (No reservation required.)

Basic Rifle, Part 1 & 2

2 hours classroom time, 1 ½ hours range time (Ages 16 and up)

This program will include rifle operation, shooting fundamentals, safety, maintenance, and safe storage. We start with a classroom session on Thursday evening, then a livefire session on Saturday morning. Although equipment and ammunition will be provided, you may bring your own to the Saturday morning live-fire session. Anyone under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
Effort=Moderate

Youth .22 Rifle

1 ½ hours range time (Ages 9 - 15)

Interested young people who have never had experience shooting .22 rifles are invited to participate in a Saturday morning session learning safety and the proper techniques of shooting .22 rimfire rifles in a controlled safe environment. Firearms, ammunition, and safety equipment is provided.
Effort=Mild

Trigger Time – Off-hand Rifle

1 hour range time (18 and up)

Trigger Time Off-hand Rifle is a “hands-on” personal instruction designed to make you a better marksman. The instructor will observe shooting by each individual participant and offer suggestions on stance, hold, balance, breathing, sling-use, trigger-pull, sight alignment and the safe handling of firearms -- all as may be relevant. Participants will be required to provide their own rifles and ammunition (at least 20 rounds if center-fire rifle, 50 rounds if 22 rimfire). Rifle experience is recommended.
Effort=Mild/Moderate

Basics of the Modern Sporting Rifle

2 hours classroom time, 2 hours range time (Ages 18 and up)

The Basics of the Modern Sporting Rifle (AR type) course is designed to provide beginners a hands-on introduction to the safe handling and proper orientation to modern sporting rifle shooting. This course includes classroom and range time. Students will learn rules for safe gun handling at home, in the field and on the range; rifle actions, parts and operation, ammunition, shooting fundamentals, cleaning the rifle, and continued opportunities for developing rifle skills.
Effort=Moderate

Basic Archery

30 minutes classroom time, 1 hour range time (Families)

Learn the fundamentals of shooting the bow and arrow based on the Missouri National Archery in the School Program (MoNASP). This is a fun program for the family, ages fourth grade and up. All equipment will be provided.
Effort=Mild

Shooting Sports Sampler

2 hours range time (Ages 11 and up)

Are you interested in the shooting sports, but have no experience with guns or bows? Here’s your opportunity! Join us for a “try-it-out” evening at the range. We’ll offer you a chance to try different types of firearms as well as archery equipment. Find out what interests you most. All necessary equipment will be provided.
Effort=Moderate

Women’s Shooting Sports Sampler

2 hours range time (Ages 11 and up)

Are you interested in the shooting sports, but have no experience with guns or bows? Here’s your opportunity! Join us for a “try-it-out” evening at the range. We’ll offer you a chance to try different types of firearms as well as archery equipment. Find out what interests you most. All necessary equipment will be provided.
Effort=Moderate

Metallic Cartridge Reloading

2 hours classroom time (Ages 16 and up)

Now that factory rifle ammunition may cost $35 or more per box, it is worth the time and effort to learn how to reload your own rifle ammunition. We will demonstrate the simple low cost basic equipment needed for reloading rifle cartridges, and the easy methods of producing quality accurate ammunition. All equipment is provided.

Shotshell Reloading

2 hours classroom time (Ages 16 and up)

Due to the rising cost of shotshell ammunition, here is your opportunity to learn the inexpensive process of reloading shotgun shells using simple equipment. The technique is easy and will save you money over the cost of factory ammunition. This is a hands-on learning class; we'll produce quality shotshells with low-cost equipment. All tools and equipment provided.

New Gun 101

2 hours classroom time (Ages 9 and up)

Did you get a new .22 rifle for Christmas; maybe a new deer rifle? Come to the range and we’ll learn basic operation, safety, maintenance, and spend some time learning to shoot that new gun. Bring your instruction manual if you have one.
Effort=Mild

Introduction to Firearms

2 hours classroom time

(Ages 11 and up) Let’s take a look at various types of firearms including rifles, shotguns, and handguns. We will examine the various types of actions and provide a hands-on demonstration of their working mechanisms. The presentation will include basic safety, home security, and general maintenance. This is a classroom program and does not include live shooting. If you are not familiar or comfortable with firearms, this is an informative educational introduction to firearms without the noise.

Home Firearm Safety

1 ½ hours classroom time (Ages 11 and up)

This is a basic course on the rules for safe gun handling. We will become familiar identifying various types of firearms and ammunition and how they function. Instruction on cleaning and safe storage is also emphasized in this course. We’ll take a look at the NRA Eddie Eagle® safety program for kids. This is a good place to start if you are a new gun owner, or just interested in firearms.

Deer Hunting 101

3 hours classroom time (All ages)

Deer season is right around the corner. Let’s prepare with a day filled with information. We’ll discuss hunting white-tailed deer including biology, habitat, hunting regulations, and appropriate firearms and ammunition. We’ll demonstrate and practice deer calling, discuss blinds, treestands and set-ups. This is White-tailed Deer Hunting University!

Getting Ready for Deer Season

2 hours classroom time (Families)

Planning is the responsibility of every hunter. Join us to review the necessary things we need to do to prepare for the upcoming whitetail deer hunting season. We’ll look at everything from gear, guns, regulations, and preseason tips and techniques that work in Missouri.

Deer Hunting and Calling Workshop

2 ½ hours classroom time (Ages 11 and up)

Come discover how exciting deer calling can be at this informative workshop. We will discuss calling tips and techniques for beginners as well as advanced instruction. We will then discuss how to apply calling in real deer hunting situations, exploring different scenarios that hunters often encounter. Bring a notebook, pen, and any calls you may have and learn useful deer hunting and calling tips at this information packed seminar!

Deer, Field to Freezer

2 hours, outside and inside (Ages 11 and up)

Learn the steps necessary to process your deer meat yourself. We will demonstrate how to skin and butcher the deer in simple easy steps with a minimum amount of equipment. You'll learn tips on how to make sure your venison is the best quality possible.

Bowhunting Whitetails

2 hours classroom time (Ages 11 and up)

We will discuss bowhunting techniques and how it differs from deer hunting with a rifle. Prepare yourself with a session on bowhunting gear, proper clothing, stands, calls, and techniques to improve your chances of success.

Antler Scoring

(All ages)

Now that your antlers have dried for the required 60 days, it’s time to check the official score of that big rack. We will have official scorers on duty. You may also bring shed antlers to be scored. Antlers do not have to be from this past season, any previous rack can be scored. Bring your antlers to the Education Center and see what your deer scores! (No reservations required.)

How To Use Trail Cameras

1 hour classroom time, ½ hour outside (Families)

Have you ever wondered what walks by your tree stand, hunting blind, or viewing area when you are not there? In this class we will examine trail cameras to use for hunting applications or just to see what you may be missing. We will cover different types and brands, where to set up, how to use and how to apply the information that you have gained from your photos. The program will end with the group actually setting up a trail camera and a group discussion. You may bring your own cameras and photos if you like.
Effort=Mild

Wild Turkey Management Workshop

2 hours classroom time (Ages 11 and up)

Come spend an evening with MDC Resource Scientist Jason Isabelle to discuss various topics related to wild turkey management. This workshop will cover an introduction to history, biology, habitat, harvest data and management of wild turkeys and wild turkey hunting in Missouri. A question and answer session will follow the program as well.

Wild Turkey Hunting 101

3 hours classroom time (All ages)

Our Spring Wild Turkey season is right around the corner. Let’s prepare with a day filled with information. We’ll discuss hunting wild turkeys including biology, habitat, hunting regulations, and appropriate firearms and ammunition. We’ll demonstrate and practice turkey calling, discuss blinds and set-ups, and use of decoys. This is Wild Turkey Hunting University!

Turkey Hunting and Calling Workshop

2 ½ hours classroom time (Ages 11 and up)

Come discover how exciting turkey calling can be at this informative workshop. We will discuss calling tips and techniques for beginners as well as advanced instruction. We will then discuss how to apply calling in real turkey hunting situations, exploring different scenarios that hunters often encounter. Come learn useful turkey hunting and calling tips at this information packed seminar!

Shotgun Patterning for Turkey Hunting Workshop

1 hour classroom time, 1 hour range time (Ages 11 and up)

What is your maximum effective range to harvest a turkey? What shot size should you be using for turkey hunting? These questions and more will be answered in this informative program on shotgun patterning for turkey hunting. We will help you find the most effective choke/shotshell combination for your shotgun. Come discover the answers at this educational handson program!
Effort=Moderate

Hunting Fall Turkeys

2 hours classroom time (Ages 11 and up)

The fall turkey season can be a great time to go turkey hunting, not only is it typically cooler, the leaves are changing colors and the season is the full month of October, with the opportunity to harvest two birds in the same day if you desire. Fall turkey hunting differs in many ways from spring turkey hunting and offers more opportunities and less pressure from hunters. Join us for an informative seminar on hunting turkeys during the fall season. We will cover calling, set up, tips, techniques and many other topics.

Dutch Oven Cooking

2 hours classroom time (Families)

Join us for an informative and tasty program of Dutch Oven cooking. We will learn what kinds of ovens are appropriate, how to use and maintain them, and how to prepare the fire for cooking. A tasting session will follow the cooking.

Effective Wingshooting for the Hunter

2 hours classroom time, 6 hours range time (Ages 15 and up)

The Effective Wingshooting for the Hunter program is designed to teach hunters to be more proficient when using non-toxic shot. This is a free two-part program open to the public and will cover numerous topics useful to upland game and migratory bird hunters. Participants will learn about wounding rates in waterfowl, performance differences of steel and lead shot shells, and how to improve wingshooting and distance estimation skills.
Effort=Strenuous

Youth Waterfowl Clinic

3 hours classroom time, 2 hours outdoors (Ages 9 – 15)

In cooperation with Delta Waterfowl, we will offer a day of learning about hunting waterfowl. Topics include waterfowl identification, regulations, proper shotgun and ammunition, and more. After a break for lunch, we’ll shoot over decoys, have some fun duck and goose calling, and watch retriever demonstrations.
Effort=Moderate

Dove Season Warm-up

2 ½ hours range time (Ages 11 and up)

Bring your shotgun, 4 boxes of #8 shot, and warm-up for dove season. We’ll create typical hunting scenarios to practice your wingshooting for the September 1st opener.
Effort=Strenuous

Bowhunter Education

3 ½ hours classroom time daily (Ages 11 and up)

This certification meets the requirement for states that mandate Bowhunter Education in order to purchase a bowhunting permit. This 3 part program includes bowhunting equipment, hunt preparation, shot placement, trailing and recovery techniques, and tree stand set up and safety. Reservations can be made online at: http://my.registered. com/event/studentchooseevent, or call 636-938-9548.

Youth Hunter Education Day Camp

Various inside and outside times (Ages 11 – 15)

Our annual Youth Hunter Education day camp incorporates the Missouri Hunter Education Certification Course as well as shooting activities and other hunting and outdoor related skills. A birth certificate is required for age verification. Participants will bring their own lunches Monday through Thursday and we will provide a pizza party on Friday. Thursday’s programs will be held at Powder Valley Nature Center. For reservations, you must call the range office at 636-938-9548.
Effort=Mild

Introduction to Map & Compass

1 ½ hours classroom time, 1 hour outside (Ages 11 and up)

This is an introductory program for anyone interested in outdoor direction finding, whether hunting, hiking, backpacking, or any outdoor activities off the beaten path. We will learn how to use a topographical map, the proper use of a navigation style compass. Dress for the weather, we'll be outside for part of this program.
Effort=Mild

Cold Weather Survival

2 hours classroom time (Families)

Prepare yourself for cold weather activities. Our program will provide information on selection of proper clothing, outdoor gear, fire-building, shelters, direction finding, avoiding weather-related hazards plus other outdoor tips to make your winter experiences safe and enjoyable.

Predator Hunting 101

2 hours classroom time (Ages 11 and up)

Predator hunting is a great past time and can be done at times of the year when other hunting seasons are not open. Not only is this sport fun and exciting, it can be very inexpensive to get into. This introductory program will cover the basics of predator hunting. We will talk about equipment needed, set-ups, calling, decoys and other topics. Information covered will be basic as well as some advanced tactics.