For the money, I'll go out to Rio Salado Sportsman's Club.
Here's why:
1. Ben Avery is very simple in what they offer you.
2. The range master picks out your shooting bench for you, not the other way around.
3. There are no sand bags or rests provided.
4. Going up and down the 17 to anywhere provides to be more of a PITA from central Phoenix than driving out to Mesa.
5. There's no wind protection out here from the winds that plague North Phoenix this time of year. Learn how to use some "Kentucky Windage" or you'll have a very long day here.
Don't get me wrong, its a great facility, but its not five stars worth of the greatest facility. I've shot all over Phoenix now as I shoot a lot to stay sharp, and this place is just "ok."
Though for the money, the people there are damn entertaining. I really thought some of the stereotypes about Phoenix being highly Republican and Xenophobic were just larks and jokes, but some of the shooters out at Ben Avery on a Thursday afternoon prove these to be truths instead of hyperbole.
All things being equal, I'll spend my money at Rio Salado while the desert is closed for shooting due to summer fire dangers.