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Just wanted to update my post: I did reach an available safety officer on the 4th try, and we set up and completed the safety evaluation early one weekend morning. Nothing scary, just making sure that one knows basic safe handling of firearms, the basic range safety rules, and start soaking the applicant in the "every shot must hit the berm/backstop" mantra (with encroaching development all around them, this is a huge focus in their safety rules now). I attended the 2.5 hour orientation (history, general issues and range-specific uses/limits) and under their new bylaws, the board of directors will approve the membership application (rather than the general membership). It seems like, overall, the ARC is starting to recognize that their size needs some level of delegation and all the volunteers and RSO's I've seen so far have been nothing but friendly and helpful, even if somewhat overscheduled. I'll certainly post back after some actual experiences on the range, but so far everything I've seen indicates a very well-maintained property, good and dedicated people in the "management" ranks, and a very cost-effective way to get shooting in. The only downside (for me) is the 45 minute drive! I'm looking forward to some fun plinking as well as serious shooting in the coming months.

This seemed like a good thread to chime in on; I've been working (casually) to get a safety evaluation for the last 5 or 6 weeks. There was a little confusion as it looks like the ARC brought their website down (that had all the membership info on it) - possibly due to a site hack? - so I started emailing based on recommendations. So far I've worked through three of the eight evaluators, but hopefully I'll hit the jackpot at some point. All have responded very timely and been very friendly - but just too busy at the moment. I do agree that some level of coordination would be a big plus for new members, but maybe putting up the barrier to entry is intentional to keep out those with just passing or casual interest?

One thing that I noticed in the current membership information is that they no longer mention any "mandatory volunteerism"; rather, they say volunteering is "requested" of all members as that's what makes it a club. I also have zero problem with giving my time, but I do like having the option of when and where to do it.

I'll continue my quest to reach a safety officer who has time in their schedule, and I am looking forward to becoming in a member in the fullness of time.