Everything you need to know about Point Blank Shooting, coming soon to Liverpool

Point Blank shooting is a state-of-the-art simulation shooting range and the ultimate, competitive socialising experience, coming to Castle street.

Following the success of there two other sites in Manchester and Newcastle, Point blank will open its third venue on Thursday 20^th May in the former basement site of Olive restaurant.

Sharp-shooting groups of up to 10 can compete to get the highest scores by shooting there way through a series of courses, individuals can choose from an extensive array of guns in their own personal armoury.

With no real-life targets or graphic imagery, it’s all about speed and accuracy, giving people a chance to test their aim and trigger reflexes against their mates or go solo to beat their own personal best.

Co-owner Mark Rushton created the concept with business partner Phil Hale after visiting a shooting range with a friend while on a family holiday in Florida.

“I came back and was telling Phil about the trip and what we’d done,” says Mark. “We thought there must be some kind of virtual shooting experience already but when we explored this further, we couldn’t believe the idea hadn’t already been snapped up’

The pair built their first Point Blank Shooting in Chill Factore in Trafford Park in April 2019, using Phil’s experience as a master builder. After successfully showcasing the idea there, they moved to Deansgate where word of mouth helped the business take off and they were able to expand.

“I spent 20 years in recruitment so I’ve seen how badly people in hospitality and the night-time economy can be treated and I wanted to do things differently, to build and nurture long-term teams who love what they do,” says Mark.

“We saw Castle Street back at the start of the pandemic when our businesses were closed and we had no money coming in, but it ticked every box. We go for a private member, speakeasy feel and because it is a basement it has that feeling of going somewhere secret. We worked with the landlord and did everything we could to make it happen and we couldn’t be happier with how it’s worked out.”

What are you shooting at?

Point Blank Shooting has over 200 different shooting scenarios and courses, It uses exceptional shooting realism with the most up to date technology.

“We absolutely understand the sensitivity around guns, so the scenarios we’ve chosen aren’t about portraying violence,” says Mark. “This is shooting as a sport that can be fun for everyone – men and women, all ages 18 and over.”

How do you get a high score?

Accuracy and reaction time are rewarded so the fewer shots you fire, and the quicker you hit the target, the better your score will be. There are score cards on each range so you can record everyone’s total. You get your score and then challenge someone else in your group to beat that, so there is always an element of competition.

Point Blank Shooting Liverpool opens on Thursday 20^th May– so what can shooters expect? Here’s everything you need to know …

Do you fire real guns?

They are airsoft guns which have had the firing mechanism taken out and replaced with laser technology developed by the Point Blank Shooting partners.

Where do you shoot?

There are five private ranges in the basement which can hold up to 10 people each, so Castle Street can have up to 50 people shooting at any time.

Do you have to come in a large group?

There is no maximum number, or minimum – you could book out the entire venue for a party, just one booth for 6 or 10, or go it alone. Point Blank Shooting has what it calls ‘frequent firers’ who try to get top of the leader board on every range.

How long does each shooting session last?

Sessions depend on group size, the minimum time is an hour- anything 4 or above, 2hours is recommended to allow enough time for everyone in the party to enjoy.

Is it safe?

Yes, there are a number of safety measures in place. All guns are electronically tagged, they’re locked within the armoury at the start and end of each session and the guns are all two-colour, so they are easy to distinguish from real guns.

What about food and drink?

Point Blank Shooting does table service with American classics likes pizza and wings, and a bottomless brunch every Sunday, but you can shoot without food, or eat without shooting, it’s up to you. There’s an extensive drinks menu including bespoke cocktails and table service throughout. There is also 2 big screens in the bar area showing live sports.

Will there be outdoor tables on Castle Street?

Absolutely, the owners are keen to make the most of Liverpool #WithoutWalls and combine the basement with outside terrace.

Do you have to pre-book?

Walk ins are welcome however booking are always recommended as ranges are usually booked up at peak times.