Tauranga resident Brandon Henderson could not stop grinning after shooting a revolver for the first time at the Kaimai Pistol Club's Open Day.

The first-time shooter used both rifles and revolvers on the Western action style range at the club yesterday.

Members of the Kaimai Pistol Club demonstrate a course of fire at the club's open day on Sunday.

Jenny Shuttleworth of Papamoa tries her hand at Olympic style pistol shooting at the Kaimai Pistol Club open day on Sunday.

Steve Jones (right) explains the safe use of a revolver to Brandon Henderson at the Kaimai Pistol Club open day on Sunday.

'I'd definitely like to do this again,” he said after firing the first time shots.

He was among members of the public who took part in the open day at the club's facilities near Katikati.

Club secretary Jim Anderson says the turnout was pleasing, given the wet conditions.

'We are delighted that, despite very inclement weather, over 60 visitors attended our range and most tried their hand at all forms of shooting – Olympic style, Western action style and IPSC Practical shooting.

'A lot of interest was taken in the display of unusual pistols and the explanation of their origins. From the many comments offered we believe all were agreeably surprised at the facilities available and thoroughly enjoyed the shooting experience.”

Jim says a surprising number asked for membership application forms and the club is already planning another open day – perhaps when the dry weather returns.

Before his shoot Brandon was instructed in the safe use of the firearms by club member Steven Jones of Omokoroa and his shoot was under the over-sight of range officer Barry Hopkins.

Safety is the paramount focus for the club and Jim says it is remarkable that in its 50 year history, there has never been a fatality at any Pistol New Zealand range in the country.

'There have been a few cases of people shooting themselves in the foot but there has never been a fatality and that's something few other sports can claim.”

Jenny Shuttleworth of Papamoa was among several women keen to try shooting, and she too enjoyed the experience, as did Sue Wyatt of Tauranga.

Both tried the one-hand Olympic style pistol shooting in the club's newest undercover facility.

The other ranges were exposed to the elements and while this didn't seem to worry those who took part in the day, the wet weather probably deterred a number of people from attending.