A property referred to on realty websites as “Laurel Hill Farm” recently came to my attention. The house is modest with a large plot of over 78 acres. All-in-all it appears as a comfortable country home. But that’s not what caught my attention. Turns out, this property is home to the Jerry Barnhart Shooting/Training Facility which has a long reputation as training center of choice for marksmanship students both public and private.
Built in 1993, it includes these capabilities that makes it a shooter’s paradise:
• Shoot out to 500 meters.
• Two 360 deg ranges.
• Multiple flat ranges.
• Approximately 1 mile of gravel roads to all range areas; built to withstand the weight of a loaded tractor/trailer truck. Graveled parking areas as well as graveled areas for prop storage.
• Exterior perimeter berms are 30’ high, edged with boulders along roadside for aesthetic purposes. Interior berms range from 20’ – 25’ high.
• Two secure lockup areas.
• Security cameras and alarm system in all buildings. Dusk to dawn lighting at both entrances and around all buildings.
• Multiple hunting blinds in undeveloped areas; as well as a large pond to attract wildlife.
My understanding is that there are some additional capabilities which training companies would be able to take advantage of and will need to can’t t the seller if interested. As extensive as the campus is, there’s still room for additional construction such as specialized ranges, a bunk house for students, etc.
If that wasn’t enough to get your attention, this is the best part. I found out that the property is protected by the Michigan Sport Shooting Range Act (SSRA).
I checked into it and it’s true. As it goes, the facility endured a nine year legal battle with the township, eventually being awarded a unanimous ruling from the Michigan State Supreme Court that it is a protected shooting range under the Sport Shooting Range Act (SSRA) amended July, 1994. This makes it a unicorn, because such protections would not available if built today.
Protected under this law, this facility is “grandfathered” against local zoning controls, representing a near-impossible-to-replicate asset. This legal security overcomes a massive barrier to entry, ensuring long-term operational viability.
For those interested in acquiring this turn-key facility, it is situated minutes from local restaurants and stores with hotels less than a half-hour drive. Additionally, the Detroit airport only an hour away which makes this convenient for students.
Here’s a video of the property.
Finally, this is a link to the listing for those interested in acquiring this pretty and continuing a legacy of firearms training in central Michigan.
www.zillow.com/homedetails/3371-Noble-Rd-Oxford-MI-48370/24335469_zpid
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