Cherokee Rod & Gun Club

Cherokee Rod & Gun Club started in 1955 as a non-profit 501(c)(7) organization committed to firearm safety, education, and conservation. Originally located on Beason Wells Road, the club moved to its current Reservoir Road location in Kingsport, where it operates as a members-only facility.

One of the oldest and most reputable gun clubs in the Tri-Cities area, actively involved in East Tennessee Sportsmen's Federation, Tennessee Conservation League, and the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency.

The club runs dedicated ranges and competitive matches across several rifle disciplines:

• •.22 Silhouette - Steel silhouette targets at varying distances (rams, turkeys, pigs, chickens)
• •.22 Modified Silhouette - Variation of traditional silhouette format
• •.22 Bench Rest - Precision shooting from benches
• •.22 Long Range - 4 banks of 10 silhouettes each, ranging from 80 to 200 yards. Matches use 50 rounds for score, 11 minutes per bank, with sighter shots available before scoring begins. Cost: $10 per match
• •Military Match - Vintage and modern military rifle and handgun matches

The archery program features:

• •Static targets ranging 20-50 yards on the lower range
• •3-D targets in a hunting environment (planned expansion)
• •Certified coaching from Level 2 and Level 3 USA Archery instructors
• •Beginner and intermediate classes available year-round
• •Fun shoots and tournaments throughout the season

Archery Instructors: - Jenny Dutton (Level 3 USA Archery Certified Coach) - specializes in Barebow Recurve, Olympic Recurve, Traditional Recurve, Longbow, and target shooting formats - Al Grimaldi (Level 2 USA Archery Certified Instructor) - Traditional Recurve, Compound, and 3D shooting

The W.T. "Dude" Bales Pond hosts member fishing access plus special events:

• •Catfish Derby - Annual free event for children ages 3-12 (first 50 registrants), includes trophies, prizes, and hot dog lunch. Limit 3 fish per child. Children must bring own equipment and bait (chicken livers, power baits).

Dedicated blackpowder matches with detailed rules and scheduled events. Contact the club for current match dates and participation details.

• •Ladies Day - Dedicated shooting events for women, with classes and competitive opportunities
• •Women's Shooting League - Organized program with published schedule
• •Youth opportunities - Family-oriented approach with beginner instruction across disciplines

The club requires mandatory safety orientation for new members, with a recorded video (19:19) showing range layouts and procedures. Safety rules follow NRA fundamentals:

• •Always keep gun pointed in safe direction
• •Keep finger off trigger until ready to shoot
• •Keep gun unloaded until ready to use
• •Know your target and what's beyond
• •Never use alcohol or drugs while shooting
• •Wear eye and ear protection

Detailed club bylaws, standard operating procedures, and rule books (updated 1/1/2024) are available on the website.

Membership includes access to all ranges, participation in matches, and voting rights in annual elections. The club holds social meetings and work days for facility maintenance. Online membership renewal is available.

4280 Reservoir Road, Kingsport, TN 37660 (2.6 miles past Bays Mountain sign) Phone: 423.348.8004

Found items are cataloged in the club's lost and found system accessible online.