It began in the early post war years – not sure which one, when Tony and Ted met at a local fencing club. Tony had his University colours and Ted was competing at National level. At the club they discovered a mutual interest in “skill at arms” and in particular with pistols. As both had firearms (legit) they teamed up looking for places to shoot. There were plenty of indoor rifle ranges for small-bore but the clubs themselves were suspicious and unfriendly. In the end it came down to Pilning and with the goodwill of the T. A. (and the range warden) we were allowed access on vacant dates. Rifles always took precedence!

By now word was spreading in that mysterious fashion of grapevines and the nucleus of the club was forming.

Then sometimes in the early 1950s a breakthrough came when we were allowed into Filton to use the RAF range. Luxury! This was a much more convenient location, much tidier facility and offered regular practice for all calibres.

About this time as well one began to detect a slight relaxing of attitudes towards pistols. Both the NRA and NSRA had reinstated their notional meetings and several members began to take a serious interest in these at Bisley. The T. A. were also allowing us the use of the Drill Halls such as Flying Fox. And so with some measure of stability in about 1955 the club formally established itself as Bristol and District Rifle and Pistol Club (B&D&PC).

However all was not well. Towards the end of the decade the influence of the Cold War plus other foreign problems, was becoming obtrusive. These were causing concerns for the authorities over security. Thus it was that as a civilian organisation we eventually received the heave-ho from the military establishments of Filton and Flying Fox. This change did have the effect of concentrating the mind on the search for a permanent home. Many options were viewed and considered but in about 1960 negotiations were finally concluded with the late Lord Wraxall for the use of our present home, Failand.

We did not then obtain the security of tenure we now enjoy. That came later. Also as more of the site was still in use by the quarry people our facilities then were much more limited. Cars were parked at the Pub and access was on foot down the side of our hole in the ground. Some climbing skills were necessary until a path with steps were made. Even so the descent in wet weather could be somewhat hazardous.

As time passed efforts were made to improve conditions. With new blood and enthusiasm these efforts increased until we have now what must undoubtedly be regarded as one of the best private club ranges in the West.

How many can boast a pub on their very doorstep!!!

Ted ( a founder member).

To read an article from Target Gun, May 1992, about the club click HERE

Copyright BDRPC 2007