In this episode, Robert Wareham of Mountain West Firearms shares an in-depth update on the company’s ambitious plan to bring a state-of-the-art indoor shooting range to Western North Carolina. Robert explains how the original vision for Mountain West was never limited to retail— the goal was always to create a complete experience where shooters could train, practice, and learn in a modern, comfortable, and safe environment.

Listeners get an inside look at the business realities behind the project, from finding the perfect location near I-40 and U.S. 74A, to performing geotechnical studies, developing concept designs, and structuring an $8 million investment plan through private equity offerings. Robert details the painstaking due diligence process, legal requirements for SEC-compliant private offerings, and the efforts to include both large and community-based investors.

However, just as plans were coming together, Mountain West Firearms received notice of a competing offer on the property that forced an impossible decision. The seller shared contract terms with the new bidder, effectively undercutting Mountain West’s option. Unable to commit $125,000 in non-refundable earnest money on short notice, Robert and his team had to walk away from the site—losing months of work and investment in the process.

Despite the setback, Robert emphasizes that this is far from the end of the project. Mountain West Firearms remains fully committed to building a world-class range that serves everyone—from beginners to seasoned shooters, from men and women to families and law enforcement. He discusses what’s next, including exploring new sites along U.S. 74A, Hendersonville Road, or possibly outside Buncombe County to better serve the region.

The episode closes on an optimistic note: Mountain West Firearms isn’t going anywhere. The retail store continues to thrive, partnerships with major firearm brands are growing, and the dream of a high-quality, accessible indoor range for Western North Carolina is still very much alive.

Key Themes:

• Business and investment challenges in launching a firearms facility
• The importance of safe, inclusive range environments
• Commitment to community and education
• Overcoming setbacks in pursuit of a long-term vision

In this episode of Mountain West Firearms Podcast, host Robert Wareham takes listeners deep into the ongoing bureaucratic gridlock that’s halted new concealed carry handgun instructor certifications in North Carolina. From his academy setup at Mountain West Firearms, Robert explains how his team has been ready to offer state-mandated concealed carry training—but has been blocked by a state-level dispute between two commissions: the Commission for Judicial Education and Training Standards (CJETS) and the North Carolina Rules Review Commission.

Robert breaks down how a seemingly routine administrative update in early 2024 spiraled into a statewide problem. When CJETS updated its instructor certification rules, the Rules Review Commission repealed the old ones but refused to approve the new set—arguing the legislature only authorized “guidelines,” not “rules.” The result? No legal framework now exists for approving new instructors, leaving firearm educators like Robert unable to train the next generation of responsible concealed carriers.

The podcast also explores the political undercurrents behind the issue, as Robert shares his frustration with the lack of response from state lawmakers. He raises the concern that partisan politics may be quietly stalling gun training accessibility, effectively restricting citizens’ ability to obtain concealed carry permits. Despite the legal stalemate, Robert shares how Mountain West Firearms is partnering with a currently certified instructor to offer limited classes until the state resolves the issue.

Packed with firsthand insight, legislative context, and a dose of frustration, this episode sheds light on how administrative red tape can have real-world consequences for Second Amendment rights, firearm education, and lawful gun ownership across North Carolina.