ranges/public-land
Dutchess County Pistol Association
Wappingers Falls
•62.7 miles from New York City
Founded in 1937, the Dutchess County Pistol Association exists for one core reason: dedication to handgun safety. That mission has earned them multiple Club of the Year awards and made them the Hudson Valley's central hub for pistol shooters of all levels. DCPA operates hybrid indoor/outdoor ranges....
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01 // OVERVIEW
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Overview
Location details and information
Founded in 1937, the Dutchess County Pistol Association exists for one core reason: dedication to handgun safety. That mission has earned them multiple Club of the Year awards and made them the Hudson Valley's central hub for pistol shooters of all levels.
DCPA operates hybrid indoor/outdoor ranges. Their most popular facility is Range 2, a 50-yard action range with full cover out to 50 yards and heated, enclosed shooting lanes—essential when winter temperatures drop.
Ranges are open seven days a week for casual member shooting. No waiting for a match or event to show up and practice.
They host sanctioned events throughout the year:
- •USPSA (2nd Sunday monthly, March-November, 9 AM start) — Five-stage matches with speed and accuracy scoring. Shooters from beginners to nationally ranked competitors participate.
- •IDPA — Self-defense scenario shooting designed for average shooters and professionals alike.
- •Steel Challenge, Cowboy Action, 2700 Precision Pistol — Weekend matches year-round.
- •Bullseye, Steel Plate, Practical Action — Weekday activities, some open to the public.
IDPA and USPSA are open to non-members, making them easy entry points if you're not ready to join.
NRA Basic Pistol Course is their core class for new shooters seeking formal instruction. Safety instruction is mandatory for all first-time participants.
Third Saturday of each month, March through October, 12:30 PM.
- •Ages 6+: Air rifles
- •Ages 12+: .22 caliber rifles
- •Ages 14-20 (with completed NRA Basics): .22 caliber pistols
No membership required. No participation fee. DCPA provides all equipment, ammunition, and safety gear. Safety certification is awarded on first participation.
"They are our future — bring a kid." This isn't rhetoric at DCPA; it's operational philosophy.
NY SporteRifle League (September-March, Thursday evenings) — Postal .22 rifle competition, $3/week, $5/match for members. Over 40 teams statewide compete through DCPA's range.
DCPA has hosted the Empire Games and World Police & Fire Games, events that draw competitors from across the region and beyond.
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- •Location: Wappingers Falls, NY (Hudson Valley)
- •Membership: Required for range access, but many competitions and all junior programs open to public.
Fire Restrictions Active
Check current conditions before visiting. Smoking and open flames may be prohibited.
Safety Information
- •Check current conditions before visiting
- •Follow all posted safety guidelines
- •Respect other shooters and maintain safe distances
Pro Tips for Visiting
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[IDPA](/handbook/idpa-uspsa) — Self-defense scenario shooting designed for average shooters and professionals alike.
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[Steel Challenge](/handbook/steel-challenge), Cowboy Action, 2700 [Precision Pistol](/handbook/bullseye-pistol) — Weekend matches year-round.
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Bullseye, Steel Plate, Practical Action — Weekday activities, some open to the public.
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Ages 6+: Air rifles
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Ages 12+: .22 caliber rifles
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Ages 14-20 (with completed NRA Basics): .22 caliber pistols
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