The Machine Gun Nest in Baltimore: Indoor Shooting with Pistol and Rifle Lanes
The Machine Gun Nest is an indoor range in Baltimore County that operates separate pistol and rifle bays, allows shooters to bring their own firearms or rent from the shop's inventory, and functions as both a range and a retail operation selling ammunition and accessories on site.
What The Machine Gun Nest actually is
Located in the Dundalk area of Baltimore County, The Machine Gun Nest combines shooting range access with a retail firearms and ammunition shop. The facility maintains dedicated lanes for pistol and rifle use, with the rifle bay set back to accommodate longer distances. Unlike outdoor ranges, the indoor setup runs year-round and requires no weather planning. The range enforces standard safety protocols including mandatory eye and ear protection, a range safety briefing for first-time visitors, and floor staff monitoring during all shooting sessions. It is neither a tactical training facility nor a competition venue; it exists primarily as a place for recreational shooters and practicing marksmen to use equipment under controlled conditions.
Range access, pricing, and what's included
Day passes run $20 for pistol-only shooting or $30 to shoot in both the pistol and rifle bays. Ammunition is sold on site at market rates; a box of 9mm rounds typically costs $12 to $15, depending on brand and current supply. Handgun rentals are available at $15 to $25 per firearm; rifle rental pricing should be confirmed directly, as it varies by model. Targets are provided, and most shooters bring their own ammunition, though buying in-house keeps the transaction simple and guarantees compatibility with range standards. Range time is typically sold in two-hour blocks during regular operating hours, though exact session lengths should be verified when calling ahead.
How it compares to other Baltimore-area ranges
The Machine Gun Nest occupies a middle position among Baltimore County indoor ranges. It differs from Ben Avery Shooting Range in Timonium, which is further north and larger, with more shooting bays and a broader selection of rental firearms, making it the choice for shooters who want more capacity or longer rifle distances. The Machine Gun Nest is more accessible from central Baltimore and downtown and operates with smaller groups, making it less crowded during off-peak hours. It is also distinct from outdoor ranges like the Baltimore Rifle Club, which requires membership and suits serious sport shooters training for competition; the Nest appeals to casual recreational users and beginners who need a simple pay-per-visit model. For shooters near Dundalk or the eastern side of the city, The Machine Gun Nest reduces travel time compared to Timonium or points west.
Who it suits and who it does not
The range works well for first-time shooters who want hands-on practice in a controlled environment without membership commitment, for recreational pistol enthusiasts who shoot monthly or quarterly, and for gun owners who want to keep their accuracy sharp year-round. It is a reasonable fit for someone renting a firearm to try shooting for the first time. It is not suited to competitive marksmen seeking precision rifle coaching or 600-yard distances, to high-volume shooters who need lower per-round ammunition costs, or to anyone seeking group instruction beyond basic range orientation. If you own a firearm and want to practice unsupervised, it works; if you want formal training or are building a specific skill, you should inquire about available instruction beforehand.
What a first visit involves
Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early to allow time for processing and the safety briefing. Bring a valid photo ID and your own eye and ear protection, or budget an extra $5 to $10 to rent or purchase them if you do not have them. If you are renting a firearm, staff will walk you through its operation, show you how to load and clear it safely, and ask about your experience level. You will be assigned a lane in either the pistol or rifle bay depending on your range pass. Staff will briefly review range rules: keep the gun pointed downrange at all times, do not handle ammunition near the shooting line unless actively loading, and follow all range commands. After that, the bay is yours for the duration of your paid time. Cleanup is typically your responsibility; police your spent casings and remove your targets before you leave.
Hours, parking, and practical logistics
The Machine Gun Nest operates Tuesday through Sunday; exact hours should be confirmed by phone, as they vary by season and may shift. Parking is on-site and free. The facility is accessible by car from I-695 via Route 40 heading east, with ample lot space. No public transit directly serves the location, so a car is necessary. The range enforces a walk-in-friendly policy, but calling ahead to confirm availability during busy weekend hours prevents a wasted trip. It does not require membership or advance reservation for regular range time, though rentals may benefit from a quick phone call to ensure the specific firearm you want is in stock.
The Machine Gun Nest fills a practical need for Baltimore-area shooters who want reliable indoor range access without traveling to Timonium or beyond, and it remains one of the few indoor facilities east of the city that allows both pistol and rifle shooting under one roof.
