The Imperial Valley is a hot place. That should come as no surprise considering we live in the northwestern corner of the Sonoran Desert. Everyone who has lived here long enough has a story about the unique challenges our climate brings, especially when sharing them with visitors who make the mistake of commenting on the weather—particularly if they’re from somewhere greener or cooler. I often think back to the old spiral metal slide that once stood at Hinojosa Park and the countless burns it gifted me as a kid on summer afternoons.
While the Valley’s heat is simply a part of life, so is our love for recreation, sports, and spending time outdoors. Around here, you either start your activities early in the morning or wait until the sun begins to set. You pack plenty of water, find whatever shade you can, and cool off afterward with a refreshing shower. From youth sports and commercial gyms to public pools and bowling alleys, there are plenty of ways to stay active during the summer. Some activities, however, come with additional logistical and legal considerations that can make them much more difficult to enjoy during the hottest months of the year.
If I had a nickel for every person who walked into Border Tactical during the summer, drenched in sweat and asking if we knew of a place to go shooting, I’d be a wealthy man. Many people are surprised to learn that we operate a public indoor shooting range right here in El Centro. For those looking for a safe, comfortable, and legal place to practice, our range provides a convenient option without having to travel long distances or contend with the extreme desert heat.
Our indoor range is cooled using a swamp cooler system, which typically maintains temperatures about 30-35 degrees cooler than the outside air. Unlike traditional air conditioning, a swamp cooler uses evaporating water to reduce the temperature. While that means the range may feel a little more humid on exceptionally hot days, most shooters agree that spending time on a range in the mid-to-upper 70s is far more comfortable than practicing outdoors in temperatures exceeding 110 degrees.
In addition to a more comfortable shooting environment, we offer restroom facilities, beverages, and knowledgeable staff who are always happy to answer questions or provide tips on technique and marksmanship. Whether you’re an experienced shooter looking to sharpen your skills or someone just getting started, we’re here to help make your time on the range enjoyable and safe.
To help our community continue enjoying the shooting sports throughout the summer, Border Tactical has offered discounted summer range rates every year since 2021. Through September 30, we offer 50% off lane rentals, guest fees, and firearm rentals, making it even easier to stay proficient while escaping the summer heat.
Whether you’re preparing for hunting season, practicing for competition, maintaining your skills, or simply looking for a fun activity with friends or family, our indoor range provides a safe, comfortable, and welcoming place to shoot all summer long.
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