Are you interested in becoming a member of Pioneer Sportsmen, Inc. and joining a community of outdoor enthusiasts? Pioneer welcomes prospective members to learn about our club and the membership process. Attending a Pioneer Quarterly meeting is a great first step. These meetings are held on the first Thursday of each quarter at 7:00 p.m., with the exception of October, when the annual meeting takes place at 6:00 p.m., including annual membership renewals from 4 – 6 p.m.
To be considered for membership at Pioneer Sportsmen, Inc., prospective members must fulfill the following requirements:
1. Complete and Submit a Membership Application
The first step is to submit a Pioneer Membership Application. Pioneer prefers that you use the online form for application submission, which streamlines the process. For those who prefer a paper application, you can scan and email it to [email protected] or mail it to Pioneer Sportsmen, Inc., PO Box 403, Concord NH 03302.
Pioneer Membership Application
2. Provide a Criminal Background Check
For the safety and security of all members, Pioneer Sportsmen, Inc. requires all prospective members to submit a recent criminal background check. This check must be completed within the last 6 months by the NH Department of Public Safety or an equivalent state agency. Please note that a concealed carry license does not substitute for a current criminal background check. You can obtain a criminal background check either by mail or in person from the Criminal Records Unit located at 33 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03305.
Criminal History Record Requests | NH State Police
3. Demonstrate Gun Safety and Handling Course Completion
Pioneer Sportsmen emphasizes safety and responsible gun handling. Therefore, applicants must provide proof of attending and successfully completing a gun safety or gun handling course within the past 5 years. Acceptable courses include, but are not limited to, the NRA Basic Pistol course or the SIG Sauer Academy Handgun 101. The Pioneer website also provides a list of instructors offering qualifying classes. The course must be at least two hours in duration and include live range time. Active participation and classification in NRA or IDPA shooting sports also meet this requirement. Please be aware that the NH Fish and Game Hunters Safety course does not fulfill this requirement. This requirement is waived for current Law Enforcement Officers (LEOs) and active-duty military personnel. If you have any questions regarding course eligibility, please contact Vice President & CRSO Chip Mark for clarification. This requirement is not applicable for Archery Only members.
4. Pass the Range Rule or Archery Test
All prospective members are required to complete and pass Pioneer’s Range Rule Test or Archery Test with a score of 90% or higher. These tests are open-book, allowing you to familiarize yourself with the rules. Successful completion of the test is mandatory before attending the New Member Orientation. You can find Pioneer’s Range Rules and the associated test(s) on the Pioneer website.
Range Rules Test
5. Attend a New Member Orientation
Attending a New Member Orientation is a crucial step in the membership process. This orientation covers several key aspects of Pioneer Sportsmen, Inc., including:
a) Safety and Club Rules Review
The orientation includes a comprehensive review of general firearm or archery safety rules, Pioneer’s specific range rules, the club’s by-laws, and proper usage of Pioneer’s facilities. This ensures all members understand and adhere to safety protocols and club guidelines.
b) Range Walk-Through (Firearm Members Only)
For firearm members, the orientation includes a walk-through of all ranges, both indoor and outdoor. This provides a detailed overview of each range and the specific rules that apply to each to ensure safe and appropriate use.
c) Safe Gun Handling Qualification (Firearm Members Only)
A safe gun handling qualification is required for firearm members. During this qualification, you must demonstrate your ability to safely handle your firearm and accurately shoot 10 rounds (with at least one reload) at a full-size IDPA target set at 50 feet. If using a pistol, all 10 rounds must hit the target. Rifles are permitted, but they must be pistol cartridge or rim-fire only. If using a rifle, all 10 rounds must hit the “zero” deduction area, which is the 8-inch circle in the center of the IDPA target.
6. Payment of Dues and Orientation Fee
Upon successful completion of the New Member Orientation, new members are required to pay membership dues and a one-time $25 orientation fee. Annual membership dues are $150 and are payable each October. For new members, dues will be prorated based on the month in which you complete the new member orientation, making it fair for those joining throughout the year.
Probationary Membership
New membership at Pioneer Sportsmen, Inc. is probationary for the first year. Membership within Pioneer is considered a privilege and can be revoked by the Board of Directors if a new member fails to demonstrate good judgment, integrity, and good sportsmanship. All Pioneer members, including associate members and guests, are responsible for adhering to all applicable rules, regulations, and by-laws, which are available on the Pioneer website. Non-compliance can lead to immediate loss of membership privileges and forfeiture of any paid dues or fees.
Pioneer Sportsmen encourages all members to actively participate in meetings, engage in their chosen disciplines, and contribute to the maintenance and improvement of the Club’s premises. We look forward to welcoming you to our community of pioneer sportsmen!
