Throughout the many ranges on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, the crack of rifles and the  thundering of artillery is a common occurrence.
 
However, Camp Pendleton is also home to a range that emits little to no sound. This range is  known as the Rattlesnake Canyon Archery Range and it provides Archers of all backgrounds the  opportunity to hone their craft.

“We have our hunters who practice archery so they can be the best they can be,” said Micheal  Tucker, a game warden with Environmental Security Department, MCB Camp Pendleton. “We  also have archers that focus solely on archery as a sport.”

Rattlesnake Canyon Archery Range promotes safer hunting practices on base by ensuring that  bow hunters have every opportunity to be confident with their equipment. Archery is a difficult  method to use while hunting game species. Having a range to practice on is vital for ethical  hunting.

“I love archery as the head coordinator of the deer hunt,” stated Tucker. “We can accommodate  more hunters and have a much larger hunting effort through archery.”

For many, archery is a method to ensure spiritual fitness. The intense focus and discipline that is  required to become proficient with any form of bow and arrow becomes an escape. Similar to  other outdoor activities, the connection to nature and the repetitiveness keeps many grounded  and mission ready.

“Archery is a focus activity that promotes resilience much like fishing or meditation,” added  Tucker. “Rattlesnake Canyon Range is available all the time and does not conflict with other  Marine Corps training ranges.”

The range’s location allows for sunrise to sunset hours of operation and uses a first come first  serve system. At the moment this is the only archery range on Camp Pendleton. However, the  Pendleton Sportsmans Club has been working to have another opened on 27 Jan. The new range  will be located near the Las Flores Ranch House and will allow archers closer to the area the  same opportunities as the Rattlesnake Canyon Range.
 
For anyone seeking more information on these ranges may contact the Pendleton Sportsmans  Club via email at psc.cpen@gmail.com.