Florida gun range lets customers shoot at each other

Combat City, a Florida gun range, has taken the concept of target practice to a whole new level. Customers can actually engage in simulated combat against other people, shooting real guns at each other.

However, as local affiliate WKMG explains, the customers aren't using live ammunition. Owner Dave Kaplan gives visitors a choice: He can modify your own gun or you can rent an airsoft gun from the store.

"A revolver would work the same, semi auto, the action actually cycles. There's full recoil with the weapon. The assault weapon fully cycles," Kaplan said.

The airsoft don't inflict serious damage but they do hurt. An explainer on the Combat City website explains, "There is a degree of pain associated with airsoft just like paintball.  It is significantly less than paintball and without the swelling."

A trip to Combat City costs about $150, which includes the cost of the gun modification.

And for added safety, participants are outfitted in a set of protective gear including helmets and padding over sensitive areas.

"There is supposed to be a degree of pain so that you do learn from it," Kaplan said. "Someone's trying to hurt you.  You learn how to be as tactical as a civilian can be."

All of the action takes place inside a former grocery store that has been modified into an indoor combat setting.

From there, customers are broken up into teams and take part in various games ranging from capture the flag to hostage simulations.

And in a move that may shock some, children are allowed to participate as well.

"We get 'em at all ages," Kaplan said in a separate interview with Fox35, noting that one of the participants on the video was 8-years-old.

A disclaimer on the Combat City site says "all ages are welcome," adding, " We can not tell you what you or your child can handle.  There are young kids playing at Combat City on a daily basis, only you can decide."

Games can last from about 10 minutes to more than an hour. Customers are allowed to stay for the entire day.

And while most customers are going for fun, Kaplan says a growing percentage of his visitors are women who show up to improve their personal safety skills and knowledge.

"Most women walk out of here very empowered, and that's the key," says Tiffany Chapin, who teaches one of the safety courses targeted towards women.

"Most of the time, they feel a little bit uneasy, nervous.  I think it helps to have a female instructor," Kaplan said.