New shooting complex opened by NWTF in Edgefield

Sporting clays, rifle range, more available

The National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) is about much more than wild turkeys, and that has never been more evident than it is with their new project, the Palmetto Shooting Complex in Edgefield. The recently-opened complex is open to the public.

The NWTF saw a need in the area for this type of complex, and through funds they raised, along with a partnership with the SCDNR, who receives funds for such projects through sales tax on hunting, fishing, and other outdoor products, they decided to build it.

The collection of ranges is truly a state-of-the-art facility, and although it is open and fully functional as a shooting location, still more is yet to come in terms of camping, housing, a lodge, and fishing ponds. And it’s not just for turkey shoots. Far from it!

So far, the complex has two sporting clays courses, five trap fields, and five skeet fields. Still to come include a 3D archery course, rifle range, and a pistol range. A 9300-square-foot pavilion is in place for hosting events, and a bigger lodge is in the works.

NWTF CEO George Thornton said what many folks don’t understand is just how big of a contribution the shooting sports makes to fund programs that benefit outdoorsmen and the fish and game we pursue.“Hunters play a huge and vital part in funding programs to conserve habitat and wildlife in the United States. But an unsung hero in conservation is the shooting sports community. These shooters may not even realize impact they are making with every box of shotgun shells they buy, or every .22 bullet they send downrange,” he said.

You don’t need to be a member of the NWTF to use the shooting complex, but NWTF members do receive a discount when using the facility. The discount ranges from 10% to 20% depending on the membership level.

The Palmetto Shooting Complex is open Wednesdays through Sundays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and is located at 535 Gary Hill Rd in Edgefield. For more information on the facility, and to see what other resources are offered by the organization, visit the NWTF website.