The first time you visit the West Side Rifle and Pistol Range sort of feels like pulling back the curtain on some secret society. Located in the basement of a large office building in Chelsea, this subterranean shooting club, the only range in Manhattan, has been around since 1962, but many people don't even realize it exists.

If you're not already aware of it, you'll likely miss the establishment's inconspicuous plaque on the facade of the building. Walk through the nondescript lobby, past a security guard who waves you in without a second look, and descend a flight of stairs. To your left is the front door of the range, where upon entering, you'll find a pro shop with everything from gun maintenance supplies to pepper spray. Along the walls hang old NRA posters and a map displaying the states where you can legally "carry concealed."

If you lean a bit to the political left, don't be spooked by the fairly conservative veneer. The staff is friendly, funny and welcoming to everyone (just ask Rachel Maddow). On any given day, you may be shooting alongside a white knuckled newbie, an off duty officer or a crack shot fifty-something blowing off steam.

*proshop at westside rifle and pistol range*

Because of city laws, civilians must have a handgun license to use a pistol. However, novices are allowed to fire off rounds on a .22 caliber rifle without procuring a permit, a service that Westside provides as part of an introductory rifle class. For $75, individuals receive hands-on instruction from one of the range's NRA certified instructors, a Ruger 10/22 semi-automatic rifle, 50 rounds of .22 caliber ammunition and targets. First time visitors are also required to take a brief onsite safety course (approximately 20-30 minutes), a prerequisite that is waved for return visits within three months of your previous session.

The rifles have hardly any recoil, so it's easy to blow through fifty bullets in no time. Because the class is scheduled for two hours, you'll want to re-up on ammo; Additional rounds of 50 can be purchased for $10.

For anyone with previous firearm experience, the class is nothing special. However, for the uninitiated, Westside does a great job making you feel at ease and teaching you the basics. Go with a group, compare your targets (you get to keep them) and let the middling marksmen buy the post-range rounds at the bar.

ESSENTIAL INFO:

-Total Cost: $75 per person, though you will want additional rounds at $10 for 50.

-Prior to scheduling an appointment or class, you must pass a criminal background check by completing this form on the Westside Rife & Pistol Range website. The application requires a non-refunable deposit that goes toward the fee for the class if approved.

-After successfully passing the background check, which usually takes a few days, you should call (212) 929-7287 at least 5 days in advance to book your appointment. If you're going with a large group, you definitely want to give yourself at least two weeks.

-Saturday hours are 9:00AM - 5:00PM.

-Return visits within three months cost $45 (ammo and targets not included) and there is no need for the safety class and background check.

-Annual memberships are also offered at a discount if purchased within one week of your first visit.

-Visitors must be 21 and older.

NEARBY: Grab a bite at the classic greasy spoon, Eisenberg's, and get your game on at Barcade.