WW2 Small Arms Experience

If you’re a history buff, a firearm enthusiast, or just curious about the weapons that shaped the 20th century, the WW2 Small Arms Experience in New Hampshire offers a rare chance to get up close and personal with some of the most famous guns from the WWII era. This isn’t your typical gun range visit — it’s a carefully curated, educational journey through history paired with hands-on shooting.

What makes this experience stand out? First, it’s the only program of its kind in the northeast, providing a unique blend of history, safety, and skill that you won’t find elsewhere. Second, the enthusiastic and knowledgeable guides deliver a well-balanced mix of historical context and practical handling.

That said, it’s an outdoor activity that involves handling firearms, so you’ll want to be prepared for weather conditions and uneven terrain. It’s best suited for those comfortable with walking and kneeling in various positions. If you’re looking for a fun, educational outing that offers both insight into WWII weaponry and the thrill of shooting, this tour could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Unique and focused: The only program of its kind in the northeast, emphasizing WWII small arms.
• All-inclusive: Firearms, ammunition, safety gear, and instruction are provided.
• Small group experience: Limited to four participants, ensuring personalized attention.
• History and hands-on fun: Combines storytelling with the excitement of firing real weapons.
• Outdoor setting: Be prepared for outdoor weather and terrain.
• Highly rated: Consistently receives top reviews for knowledge, professionalism, and fun.

Setting the Scene: What to Expect During the Tour

The tour begins at a private location at 623 Meany Rd, Charlestown, NH. As you arrive, you’ll immediately sense that this isn’t a typical shooting range. The setting is outdoor with a real sense of history and care. The group size is intentionally kept small—limited to four participants—to maximize safety and instruction. You’ll meet your guide, an experienced range officer and historic armorer, who will take you through the session step-by-step.

The experience kicks off with a comprehensive safety briefing. Here, you’ll learn about firearm handling, safety protocols, and the importance of respecting these historic weapons. This is especially valuable because many participants, like a wife in one review, discover they’re surprisingly good shots, even without prior experience. The guide’s stories and insights also connect each weapon to its historical context, making the experience more than just shooting — it’s a lesson in resilience, innovation, and warfare.

The Collection of Firearms: An Impressive Array

One of the most celebrated aspects of this tour is the collection of firearms you’ll get to see and handle. From pistols to rifles, and even a 30-cal machine gun, the range of weapons is remarkable. According to reviews, Pete, the guide and owner, possesses an impressive collection and shares stories that deepen your appreciation of each firearm’s role during WWII.

Participants have reported that they enjoyed shooting a variety of weapons, with one noting how “Pete had stories and interesting information that kept things going.” The opportunity to test your skill on paper targets adds a layer of challenge and fun.

While the specific models aren’t listed, expect to handle some of the most iconic weapons of the era, all with safety in mind. The firearms are provided with all ammunition, and safety gear like glasses and hearing protection are included, making it a straightforward, all-in-one experience.

Shooting Experience: Practical and Educational

The heart of this tour is hands-on shooting. You’ll be given individual instruction, allowing you to safely operate each firearm. This approach is particularly appreciated by reviews—many mention how knowledgeable and relaxed Pete is, creating an environment where you feel comfortable and confident.

Participants are encouraged to try different shooting positions—sitting, kneeling, or standing—depending on the firearm. The experience is designed to be accessible to most, with most travelers able to participate. If you can walk on uneven terrain and sit or kneel, you’ll likely find it manageable.

A standout review notes that the experience “fully recommends” the day, emphasizing the combination of history and hands-on activity. The fun comes with a sense of accomplishment—many discover they’re surprisingly effective shots, like one participant who said “my wife is a great shot with a .45 automatic.”

The Historical Context: Stories That Bring the Guns to Life

Throughout the session, the guide shares stories that connect the firearms to personal and historical narratives. According to one reviewer, it was “very informative” and “touching,” linking the weapons to real-life stories and emphasizing their significance during wartime.

This storytelling aspect enriches the experience, making it stand out from merely shooting at targets. It offers a deeper understanding of the era, the innovation behind each weapon, and their impact on history.

Practical Details: Duration, Cost, and What to Bring

The tour lasts approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes, which provides ample time for safety briefings, handling multiple firearms, shooting, and engaging storytelling. The cost is $179 per person, which, considering all firearms, ammunition, safety gear, and instruction, is quite reasonable — especially given the personalized, small-group setting.

The experience is booked on average 32 days in advance, so plan ahead. To participate, you should be comfortable walking on uneven terrain and sitting or kneeling in various positions. Since it’s outdoors, bring bug spray, sunscreen, and weather-appropriate clothing. Bottled water is provided, but bringing a snack or small lunch is recommended if you plan to stay longer.

Note that the number of participants is limited—only four per session—so secure your booking early. This exclusivity ensures you get plenty of attention and safety instructions.

The Reviewers’ Voices: Authentic Perspectives

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledge and friendliness of Pete, the host. One described him as “awesome” with “an amazing collection of firearms,” while another appreciated the “relaxed” atmosphere. Many highlight how much they learned about the weapons’ history, noting that Pete’s storytelling kept things engaging.

In particular, visitors enjoy the variety of guns and the chance to shoot them — with comments like, “You will leave having taken in more than you expected,” and “The actual shooting of the guns was amazing as well.” Several mention the emotional impact of learning about the weapons’ roles in WWII, adding a meaningful dimension to the experience.

Final Thoughts: Who’s This For?

This experience is perfect for history enthusiasts who want a tangible connection to WWII, firearm lovers eager to see and test iconic weapons, or families looking for a memorable outdoor activity. It’s also ideal for those who appreciate personalized attention and a relaxed environment.

If you’re after a structured, informative, and fun day that combines education with adrenaline, this tour delivers. Just keep in mind that it’s outdoors and involves handling firearms, so it’s best for participants comfortable with those conditions.

The Sum Up: Why You Should Consider This Experience

The WW2 Small Arms Experience offers a rare chance to step back into history with your own hands. The stories shared are as compelling as the shooting itself, making it more than just a day at the range. The knowledgeable host and small group size ensure a personalized, safe, and engaging outing.

For anyone interested in WWII, firearms, or unique outdoor activities in New Hampshire, this tour provides exceptional value. It balances historical insight with hands-on fun, making it an experience to remember.

While it does require some physical mobility and outdoor readiness, the overall quality and intimacy of the experience make it worthwhile. The reviews show it’s a favorite for many who want an authentic, meaningful, and fun way to connect with history.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the guide provides one-on-one instruction. If you’re new to firearms, you’ll be guided carefully and safely.

What should I wear?
Since it’s outdoors, wear comfortable clothes suitable for the weather, and sturdy shoes for walking on uneven terrain.

Are safety precautions taken?
Absolutely. Safety glasses and hearing protection are included, and the instruction emphasizes safe firearm handling.

How many people can join?
The experience is limited to four participants, ensuring personalized attention and safety.

What’s included in the price?
All firearms, ammunition, safety gear, and instruction are included. You just need to bring yourself and any personal snacks or water.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, on average, this tour is booked 32 days ahead. Planning early guarantees your spot.

If you’re seeking an authentic, educational, and adrenaline-fueled day about WWII firearms in a safe outdoor environment, this experience hits the mark. It’s a rare chance to handle history firsthand, guided by a passionate expert, in a setting that’s both informative and fun.