Firing range receives needed repairs, upgrades Published April 27, 2009 Base Civil Engineer Office DOBBINS AIR RESERVE BASE, Ga. -- The base civil engineers are currently coordinating a project to make several repairs at the base firing range. The $250,000 project will repair the range baffles, replace the existing operator stand, rebuild the backstop and install lighting. It will also repair the back stops by removal of bullets, replacing the surface impact belts and replacing the rubber granules that are behind the impact belts. Previously the location of the range operator stand was not ideal. It was too close to the line for good visibility and there was no shelter from the rain. The new stand will be relocated and enclosed for better protection from the elements and a public address system will be installed. The repair of the wood baffles is very important for safety because it prevents high shots from leaving the area. The existing baffles were bullet riddled, warped and rotten. The bullet holes and other damage were causing weak spots, which could allow bullets to fly outside the range. New lighting will be added, so Airmen can use the facility at night. Lighting of the firing range will allow students to complete their training during Unit Training Assembly weekends. Many times students do not have time to complete daytime training and must return later. The repair and upgrade of the firing range will allow the tower operator to more effectively control the operation of the range and will enhance the tower operator's ability to monitor weather conditions. It will also allow Combat Arms to keep reference materials, emergency tools and fluids readily available at the tower without having to worry about exposing these items to the weather. The re-faced baffles and repaired backstop will allow the range to be operated within safety guidelines, providing a safe environment for Dobbins personnel to qualify on their shooting skills. For any additional information or questions, please call the Base Civil Engineer office at 678-655-3046.
