By Molly Snyder Senior Writer Published Jun 16, 2009 at 12:09 PM

I grew up on Milwaukee’s East Side, in a community of hippies and academics, so toy guns were a big no-no. I never even owned a squirt gun. In fact, when I asked my mother for one, she said "we don’t like guns" and bought me a baton instead. I learned to twirl, but I always wanted to give shooting a whirl.

About five years ago, I spent time at a family member’s cottage on Washington Island and, while my kids napped, we shot soda cans with a BB gun. It was incredibly fun, and surprisingly, felt quite satisfying. Turns out, my aim ain’t too bad, either.

Although I have no intention of joining the NRA or packing on a regular basis, I am interested in shooting responsibly at a range and I’m wondering where I should go. Any suggestions for locations or tips for a novice?

Don't worry, Mom. I'll be careful.


Molly Snyder started writing and publishing her work at the age 10, when her community newspaper printed her poem, "The Unicorn.” Since then, she's expanded beyond the subject of mythical creatures and written in many different mediums but, nearest and dearest to her heart, thousands of articles for OnMilwaukee.

Molly is a regular contributor to FOX6 News and numerous radio stations as well as the co-host of "Dandelions: A Podcast For Women.” She's received five Milwaukee Press Club Awards, served as the Pfister Narrator and is the Wisconsin State Fair’s Celebrity Cream Puff Eating Champion of 2019.