Female shooting group beginning.

Female shooting group beginning.

SHERMAN TOWNSHIP — Gun ownership and the complex laws surrounding the use of firearms is a significant topic around the nation. The 2017 Pew Research reported 42 percent of American households currently own a gun and 22 percent of women personally own a firearm. With women being the largest growing segment of this historically male dominated demographic, the industry scrambles to meet their needs.

This influx of female shooters created a void in the industry: the absence of a safe, warm, and welcoming environment where women can learn and practice with other women. For ladies new to shooting, the very male driven industry can be intimidating and condescending. To meet this need, The Well Armed Woman (TWAW) Shooting Chapters, Inc, (501(c)3) began launching shooting chapters across the country to create woman-friendly opportunities to practice and learn. A new chapter is beginning in Mason County.

TWAW Mason County, MI Shooting Chapter will give women of all experience levels the opportunity to be introduced to issues important to women shooters, learn safe gun handling skills, and train together.

TWAW Mason County, MI Chapter is being spearheaded by Susan McCray-King and Karen Zimmerman, local female gun enthusiasts. Events will be held monthly and are open to all women 21-years-old or older that may legally possess firearms. TWAW Shooting Chapters has partnered with the Fin and Feather Club of Mason County, 3276 N. Darr Road, to be the host range for these monthly events. Time will be devoted to discussion and classroom education as well as time on the range learning and practicing safe gun handling skills at each monthly event.

Participants will be required to pay $10 range fees and costs of ammunition unless they are a member of the Fin and Feather Club, then the range fee is waived. Annual TWAW Chapter membership dues of $50 offers members local and national discounts, a chapter hat and member kit, and is used to cover chapter expenses, insurance and events. First time attendees are not required to join.

The first shoot is scheduled for Thursday, April 19, 2018 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Fin and Feather Club, 3276 N Darr Road, Scottville, MI 49454

Reservations are required.

Women interested in learning more can contact Susan McCray-King or Karen Zimmerman at twawmasoncountymi@gmail.com  or visit TWAW Shooting Chapters, Inc. website at www.twawshootingchapters.org