About Banner Shooting Range
Banner Shooting Range represents the gold standard for publicly accessible, professionally managed shooting facilities in central Iowa. Located at 13796 Elk Horn Street in Indianola, this state-managed facility operates under Iowa Department of Natural Resources oversight, bringing institutional credibility and safety focus to recreational shooting. With a solid 4.5-star rating across 97 reviews, Banner has earned its reputation as one of the finest outdoor ranges in the Des Moines metropolitan area.
The facility’s comprehensive layout accommodates virtually every shooting discipline. The rifle range extends to 100 yards with multiple lanes configured for bench rest and standing positions, making it suitable for both casual shooters sighting in hunting rifles and serious marksmen working on precision. Seven dedicated handgun lanes provide a separate, secure environment for pistol practice, reducing cross-lane congestion and enhancing overall safety. For clay target enthusiasts, five manual throwers support trap and skeet shooting, while steel target areas serve both centerfire and rimfire shooters, including dedicated .22 targets that appeal to younger shooters and experienced competitors alike. The range even includes an archery facility, making it a truly multi-purpose shooting sports destination.
What distinguishes Banner from many private facilities is its philosophy of equipment assistance and shooter development. The range provides complimentary lead sleds and precision shooting rests, transforming what could be a passive experience into active skill-building. Staff members like Mike have earned specific mention from customers for taking time to assist with sighting in rifles and muzzleloaders - the kind of hands-on guidance that typically comes at premium facilities. This generous approach to equipment and education reflects the DNR’s commitment to promoting safe, responsible shooting sports participation across the state.
Operationally, Banner maintains strict safety protocols that, while occasionally viewed as overly rigid by some, clearly contribute to its excellent safety record. Eye and ear protection requirements, alcohol prohibitions, and mandatory range office registration create a structured environment where everyone knows the rules and expectations. The covered shooting benches provide weather protection and permanent work surfaces, eliminating the improvisation required at bare-bones ranges. The presence of indoor restrooms and target sales on-site addresses practical needs that enhance the shooting experience beyond just the ranges themselves.
Financially, Banner delivers exceptional value. Individual hourly rates of $12 and family/couple rates of $18 remain affordable compared to many commercial ranges, while annual memberships at $260 (individual) and $320 (family, valid at multiple DNR ranges) offer tremendous savings for regular shooters. This pricing structure reflects the DNR’s mission to promote public hunting and shooting sports rather than maximize profit margins.
The range does observe seasonal limitations, closing during winter months when temperatures drop below 20°F or heat advisories exceed safe shooting conditions, and operates with reduced weekday hours. However, these constraints largely reflect environmental realities and the unpaid volunteer labor that supports many range operations. The facility’s consistent operation Friday through Monday during its season, with both weekend and single weekday access, accommodates most shooter schedules.