Where on the Big Island is the best place to zero-in a new firearm?
And, what are the current laws regarding discharging a firearm on private property?
Thanks in advance for your help.

Big Island Gun Club out in Mountain View.

Isn't the gun club's range private and you have to be a member to use the range?
Isn't there anywhere on the island that's free?

http://2ahawaii.com/index.php?topic=920.msg6023;topicseen#msg6023

Check this thread..

Moki, is this area closed off now?

Thanks guys, I'm going to visit the Pauuilo site and see if it's still available and report back here when I do.   I've also heard of people going to Manuka State Park in South Point, but because it's a legal hunting area, the Fish and Game Wardens will ask to see a hunting license and cite you for poaching if you don't have one.  I know someone that goes to Mauna Kea hunting areas to sight in his rifle scopes, but there too, a hunting license is required.  Is it acceptable to find a safe spot, several hundred yards off of Saddle Road, to shoot without being in violation of some law or ordinance?  I would "prefer" to do some pistol target-shooting legally, without having to pay for the use of a range (as in a buying gun club membership).

Howzit Ah Sook.

Yes, the Pauuilo "range" is still there and available; I've been there several times; last time was about 5 months ago. It is right off the highway, next to the Pauuilo Transfer station, and right off the Old Mamalahoa highway; so expect traffic in your background and right side periphery. It is small, with one mounted bench in between two trees; there isn't alot of room for multiple shooters though I always bring an extra shooting bench and table, just in case.  I've lucked out and we were able to shoot without trying to shoehorn in with anyone else.

I'm guessing the length as I didn't measure it all the way...but I think it's only about 200-250 feet (65-85 yards at it's deepest point). We set up a bunch of pistol targets and a silhouette at 150 feet and had some fun. There are no burms, it looks mostly like a small landslide spot in a semicircular shapoe with the fairly high (20-25 feet?) back wall collecting all the bullets.

I'd say it is a gentlemans range; meaning bring alot of humility, a friendly smile and attitude, a sharp mind and good spirit. Oh, a couple trash bags and creature comforts...like losquito repellant. I don't police all the brass, just mine as I reload. I have picked up the plastic shotgun casings though, they really make the aina look messy. There isn't a lua so plan around that. First come first fire so I'd suggest going early; If someone is there ask how long they think they'll be, you never know.

I've shot at Manukaa (about the 83 mm out of Hilo. It's a haul...) you can go to either side. I don't shoot there anymore; as said, it is federal property, there are trails and ohana riding all kinds of off road vehicles. There are makeshift areas, again basically shooting intot he side of a rockslide spot so you and whomever your with should practice  high situation awareness. It's much messier than Pauuilo, there is usually choke trash and we easily fill 3-4 55 gal bags. It gets hot, again bring your creature comforts. I've never been stopped and questioned, but that's a risk you need to assess.

Aloha, Sgt C.

Sgt. CUSMC;
Thank you very much for the update.  I am very familiar with Manuka as I go fishing down at Manuka Bay and the shoreline there, and it's a real pain getting down there.  I am guessing that Pauuilo is more popular just because of ease of access.  I hope to get out there in a couple of weeks to check it out.  Thanks again.