About Smokin Barrel
Smokin Barrel Gun Store and Shooting Range stands as Southern California’s largest indoor shooting range, strategically located in Simi Valley just off Los Angeles Avenue. The facility has earned a commanding 4.6-star rating across 286 reviews, establishing itself as the premier destination for shooters seeking professional-grade facilities combined with exceptional customer service. With 22 state-of-the-art climate-controlled shooting lanes, Smokin Barrel delivers a premium shooting experience that caters to both beginners exploring firearms for the first time and seasoned competitors honing specialized skills.
The physical facility itself sets the standard for modern indoor ranges. The 22 lanes feature advanced wireless target systems with 360-degree rotation capabilities, allowing shooters to customize their training setup with precision. The facility includes specialized bays for different shooting disciplines - from standard handgun lanes to a premier rifle bay rated for .50 BMG ammunition and a dedicated ‘Ti Advanced Training Simulator’ for specialized firearm instruction. Climate control throughout the facility ensures year-round comfort regardless of Southern California’s weather patterns. This technical sophistication, combined with meticulous facility maintenance, creates an environment where shooters can focus entirely on their performance without worrying about environmental distractions or safety concerns.
What truly distinguishes Smokin Barrel is the depth of expertise and genuine customer care demonstrated by the staff. Multiple reviewers specifically mention staff members by name - Mark for his patient guidance on red-dot sight zeroing and Don for his exceptional training instruction - indicating that the team’s reputation extends far beyond the range itself. New shooters consistently report feeling welcomed rather than intimidated, a critical factor that removes barriers for beginners exploring firearms education. The staff communicates knowledgeable safety practices naturally, offering useful tips without condescension while maintaining firm safety standards. The operation positions itself explicitly as ’the most customer friendly firearm venue in Ventura County,’ and the review feedback validates this commitment. Pricing for range access and accessories remains reasonably structured, with targets starting at just $2 and ranging upward depending on complexity. The facility accepts walk-in shooters with no reservation requirement, accommodating both spontaneous sessions and planned training programs. The integrated gun store offers extensive inventory for those interested in purchasing firearms, and the facility provides professional rentals and comprehensive firearms safety training classes for all skill levels.
Operating seven days weekly from 10am to 7pm Monday through Friday and 10am to 6pm on weekends, Smokin Barrel accommodates diverse schedules across Ventura County’s working and weekend population. The location’s accessibility combined with no-appointment-required policy makes it easy for regular shooters and curious newcomers alike to visit when it fits their schedule. For shooters seeking a professional, welcoming, and technically sophisticated indoor range experience in Southern California, Smokin Barrel represents a destination facility rather than a convenience choice - and the 286 reviews consistently reinforce that reputation.