BYU–Idaho senior Zane Schmidt is shooting his shot — literally — with the launch of a new local airsoft business known as Teton Tactical.

Teton Tactical is bringing new options to Rexburg.

“Just being able to provide students with something else," said Schmidt. "Another option for entertainment that’s fun.”

But Schmidt isn’t simply aiming to make a quick buck off stressed-out students; he wants to help them leave that stress behind.

“Being a young college kid, I kind of know what’s fun up here,” Schmidt said. “There’s not a lot of people doing stuff like this, and I saw a chance to fill that gap.”

Schmidt doesn’t just run the business; he hosts the events himself. For Schimdt, the experience is more than just shooting plastic BBs. It’s about connection.

“At first, people can be uncomfortable,” Schmidt said. “But watching them kind of light up or figure out how it works and get comfortable with it has been really fun for me to be a part of.”

All event details can be found in Teton Tactical’s Instagram bio.

“The process is simple and can be summed up in three steps,” Schmidt said. “Sign the waiver in the Instagram bio, schedule a day, then make the payment.”

Signing up is simple.

“About an hour or two before the event, I send out the location,” Schmidt said. “We usually meet up there, and I leave a message in the group chat so people can coordinate rides. Once everyone arrives, I go over the waiver, have everyone sign it, and then walk them through the guns, the rules and the layout of the arena. I also answer any questions before we get started.”

The location varies depending on the circumstance, but is often hosted near Bear World.

“It’s a free arena, which is awesome,” Schmidt said. “We’ve got cover, boundaries and everything you need to play. It’s kind of a sweet spot. There’s not a ton of traffic down there — sometimes you’ll see paintballers or others, but for the most part, it’s just us.”

Schmidt acknowledges that Teton Tactical is still in its early stages and welcomes feedback.

“It’s a small business and I’m still kind of ironing out all the details, trying to figure it out, but feedback is welcome, and it’s a great time.”