Frequently Asked Questions
Below you’ll find answers to frequently asked questions about Rata Academy.
What is Rata Academy?
Rata Academy is a modern shooting and training centre located in Askola, offering training, courses and events for reservists, shooting enthusiasts and authorities. It also caters to a wide range of groups, with versatile meeting and event spaces, group accommodation and award-winning restaurant services.
The centre is particularly known for its multi-level shooting range and practical training, with safety and expertise at the heart of everything it does.
Where is Rata Academy located?
Rata Academy is located in Askola, with good transport connections from Helsinki (approx. 1 hour) and Porvoo (approx. 30 minutes). Its location makes the centre easily accessible from across Southern Finland.
How do I get to Rata Academy? Is there parking available near the range?
Yes, getting here is easy!
Rata Academy is conveniently located and has plenty of on-site parking for customers.
If you are visiting the recreational side, please use entrance B2.
If you are visiting the functional training side, please use entrance B1.
Please remember that all bookings must be made at least 24 hours before the start of your shooting session.
Please arrive 15 minutes before your booking so you have enough time to get ready.
The four-digit code included in your booking confirmation serves as your door access code and becomes valid 15 minutes before your booking begins.
Who is Rata Academy for?
Rata Academy serves a wide range of customers:
- Reservists and members of national defence organisations
- Sport shooters and shooting enthusiasts
- Professionals working in law enforcement, security and related fields
- Companies and organisations that use tactical or safety-related training
- Workplace wellbeing groups and other groups
- Anyone who wants to try shooting with real firearms
The A1 side is particularly suitable for recreational shooters and basic courses, while B1 is designed for more advanced, functional training.
What is Rata Academy’s shooting range like?
Rata Academy’s shooting centre is divided into two sections: B1 and B2.
- B2 is designed for recreational shooting and basic training. It provides a safe and versatile environment for pistol and handgun practice. B2 is ideal for individual shooters, small groups and introductory training.
- B1 is a functional shooting range featuring Rata Academy’s fully adaptable, three-storey training facility. B1 enables realistic SRA practice, tactical training and multi-level scenarios, including training in and around structures, the use of cover, movement between different levels and team exercises. This makes B1 a unique training environment in Finland, combining realism with safety.
Can I participate if I have never shot before?
Yes, absolutely! We offer introductory shooting sessions for beginners, where you can try shooting safely under the guidance of an instructor. The session covers the basics of firearm handling, essential safety rules and practical shooting exercises, all under professional supervision.
It is a great way to experience shooting for the first time before moving on to other courses or training sessions.
Does Rata Academy offer training and courses?
Yes. Rata Academy regularly offers:
- SRA basic courses and advanced training
- Safe firearm handling training
- Shooting skills and situational awareness training
- Tactical training programmes and training designed for professionals
Courses make use of both the B1 and B2 ranges and often progress from basic training to more advanced, functional scenarios.
Can individuals practise at Rata Academy?
Yes. Individuals are welcome to practise at Rata Academy, but all shooting must take place under supervision and in accordance with the range safety rules. The range is not open for walk-in use, so all visits must be booked in advance or take place as part of a training session.
What is the age limit for training and courses at Rata Academy?
The minimum age for training and participating in courses at Rata Academy is 18.
As an exception, those aged 15 or over may participate with written permission from a parent or guardian. A phone number for the parent or guardian must also be provided so that their consent to participate in the shooting experience can be confirmed.
Do I need my own firearms and equipment?
Not necessarily. You can take part in some courses and training sessions without your own equipment, as firearms and protective equipment are available to rent from Rata Academy.
You can also use your own firearms, provided they are legally owned and suitable for the type of training. More detailed requirements and instructions are provided for each course or event.
What types of shooting can I practise at Rata Academy?
Rata Academy’s B1 and B2 ranges provide a versatile environment for a wide variety of shooting disciplines and training:
- SRA (Applied Reservists’ Shooting)
- Functional and tactical shooting
- IPSC and practical shooting
- Precision shooting and pistol training
- Malfunction drills and safety training
B1’s multi-level layout makes it particularly well suited for multi-firearm training and realistic training scenarios.
How can I contact Rata Academy?
You can easily contact us using the contact form on our website or by email.
Our team will be happy to help with questions about training, bookings and partnerships.
How can I take part in an SRA course?
Participation in SRA training requires:
- Membership in a reservist association
- Successful completion of the SRA shooter course and firearm handling test
- Valid shooting insurance
Around 100 SRA courses are organised across Finland each year, with Rata Academy serving as one of the training centres.
Is there an age limit for SRA courses?
You must be at least 18 years old to participate in an SRA course. Participation also requires membership in a reservist association and successful completion of the firearm handling test.
The course aims to develop safe shooting skills and situational awareness, so participants are expected to act responsibly and understand the principles of firearm safety.