Ground was ceremoniously broken on the Wyoming State Shooting Complex (WSSC) on April 25 in an event befitting The Cowboy State, although shovels didn’t get the headlines. It was the M1 Garand used by U.S. Sen. John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) and Wyoming Gov. Mark Gordon (R) to deliver the first official shot on the 2,000-acre site that got the attention—rightfully so.
“This is a day that Wyoming will remember,” said Patrick Giles, WSSC CEO. “The shots heard round Wyoming weren’t just symbolic—they were a declaration. Wyoming is open for business when it comes to shooting sports, and we are going to build something here that makes the entire state proud.”
The WSSC mission is to become to become a premier destination nationwide, and its growing funding indicates the goal is within reach. The state legislature authorized $10 million for its construction in March 2025, but at last month’s groundbreaking ceremony, a Civilian Marksmanship Program (CMP) challenge grant was announced. Under its terms, for the next three years, CMP will match donations made by individuals or the industry, dollar-for-dollar, up to $10 million.
“World-class does not happen overnight, but CMP’s $10 million challenge grant ensures a faster pace to accomplishing our vision,” said Glenn Ross, Chairman of the WSSC Joint Powers Board.
Construction has already begun at the complex, which is located only seven miles from Cody, Wyo. Core infrastructure is complete, and interior roads can be seen across the complex. The site’s action-shooting venue was recently approved, and it meets requirements of major shooting disciplines.
WSSC also includes an event center, complete with retail area, multi-purpose conference hall, classroom and catering kitchen. The CMP is working in partnership with the project, sharing its expertise on operations and range design. It will also have a store at the site.
A grand opening for the new complex is scheduled for mid-2027.
