Course Overview

This class is for those who are new to firearms and want to learn the safe handling and use of handguns.

Due to the amount of information given during this class, we find that separating it into two days gives the student a chance to “rest, & digest” the information given, and not be overwhelmed. The classroom portion the first day approx. 4 ½ hours and the range portion on the second day runs approx. 4 hours.

Duration: 8.5 hours (two 4 hour days)

Maximum Participants: 8

Children under 16 years of age by prior arrangement. Parent or guardian must attend class with minor.

Day 1: Classroom (4.5 hours)

• The two common types of handguns, and how they function
• Action types and how they differ
• Ammunition components and basic projectile types
• Magazine loading
• Legal aspects of firearm ownership
• Safe storage and transport
• Common malfunctions
• Range etiquette and procedures
• The basics of handgun shooting and marksmanship, including:
  • grip
  • stance
  • sight alignment and sight picture
  • trigger control
  • follow through

Day 2: Range (4 hours)

Each student is individually coached through loading and firing the following handguns:

• Browning 1911-.22 caliber
• Sig Sauer P238 in .380 caliber
• Sig Sauer P229 in 9 mm
• Springfield XD in 9 mm
• Mil spec 1911 in .45 caliber
• Smith and Wesson revolver in .38 special

If any student feels overwhelmed by a particular handgun, we have them step back to and shoot the .22 in its place. This does not happen often.

Our goal with this selection of handguns is to expose the student to several calibers, grip sizes, and action types so they may realize the variety of handguns available and the importance of selecting their own firearm to suit their preference.

California Firearm Safety Certification

We do offer the California Firearm Safety Certification test after class on Day 1. This certification is necessary if you are planning on purchasing a firearm in California. We do not charge for this test, but there is a $15 fee charged by the State of California. You can find a study guide, with sample test questions at:

https://oag.ca.gov/sites/all/files/agweb/pdfs/firearms/forms/hscsg.pdf

Fee

$225 and includes all firearms, ammunition, and range fees. Eye and ear protection are also available.

Schedule

To register for a class, please contact Janet Norris 408-804-3044.