The NRA Basics of Pistol Shooting course is designed for individuals about 10 and up, regardless of prior shooting experience or NRA membership. This class is available in two formats:
- Instructor-Led Training – This traditional, hands-on course provides direct instruction from an NRA-certified instructor from start to finish. It is highly recommended for new shooters and those who have never attended a formal firearm safety class.
- Blended Learning – This option combines online self-study with in-person instruction. The first portion is completed at your own pace online, covering essential firearm safety and fundamentals. The second portion is conducted in a classroom and at a shooting range, where you’ll receive practical, hands-on training with an instructor.
What You’ll Learn
During this course, you will gain essential skills and knowledge, including:
✅ Firearm Safety – Learn the fundamental principles of responsible firearm ownership, use, and storage.
✅ Loading & Handling – Understand and practice the proper handling of single-action, double-action, and semi-automatic pistols.
✅ Shooting Fundamentals – Explore different shooting positions, proper aiming techniques, and dry-fire training with laser-assisted tools.
✅ Malfunction Management – Identify and clear common firearm malfunctions such as misfires, stovepipes, and hang fires.
✅ Firearm Maintenance & Selection – Learn how to choose the right pistol, properly clean your firearm, and continue skill development beyond the class.
Class Duration & Schedule
⏳ Total Duration: Approximately 8 hours
🕗 Start Time: 8:00 AM sharp
🕔 End Time: Typically between 4:00 – 5:00 PM (We prioritize thorough instruction over strict time limits.)
🎯 Live Fire Training: We aim to complete the live-fire portion the same day. However, if necessary, we will schedule a convenient time for you to finish this requirement.
🍽 Lunch: Lunch will be provided, but you’re welcome to bring your own if preferred.
Who Should Attend the Class?
I recommend this course for any responsible individual aged 10 and up. Children naturally develop curiosity about firearms, and this class provides a safe, structured environment where all their questions can be answered properly. Knowledge is the best way to prevent accidents.
Passing the Class & Endorsements
To receive your NRA Certificate, you must pass a written exam with a score of 80% or higher and earn at least a Level 1 Endorsement in the shooting qualification.
After achieving Level 1, students may attempt higher-level endorsements, with Level 4 required for those looking to become instructors.
Shooting Qualification Requirements:
- LEVEL 1 – At 10 feet, place five shots in a 4” target four times.
- LEVEL 2 – At 15 feet, place five shots in a 4” target four times.
- LEVEL 3 – At 20 feet, place five shots in a 4” target four times.
- LEVEL 4 (Instructor Level Endorsement) – At 45 feet, shoot an 8” target placing 16 of 20 shots within a 6” circle.
Cost & Payment Details
💰 Course Fee: $140 (includes all learning materials, which are yours to keep)
💳 Payment Terms: Full payment is required before the start of instruction. Students with unpaid balances will be asked to leave.
🏹 Range Fees: Live fire training will take place at Dead Center Gun Range in Buford, with range fees included in your class cost.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
❓ What is your refund policy?
You are entitled to a full refund if requested before registration closes.
After registration closes, refunds are not available; however, students unable to attend may reschedule for a future class at no additional cost.
❓ What should I bring?
✅ Mandatory for Range Training:
- Eye & Ear Protection (see options below)
- Your Firearm (if you own one)
- 200 Rounds of Ammunition (you likely won’t use all 200, but it’s better to have extra)
❓ What if I don’t own a firearm?
You have two options:
- Rent a firearm at Dead Center Gun Range ($10 rental fee) – You must purchase and use their ammunition. They allow you to test multiple firearms at no additional charge.
- Use one of my firearms – You may purchase ammunition from me in 50-round lots at the current market rate. (At the time of writing, I carry 9mm – $10/50 rounds and .22LR – $5/50 rounds, but prices fluctuate. Check AmmoSeek for the best deals.)
❓ What if I don’t have eye or ear protection?
- Eye and ear protection can be purchased at Walmart, Academy Sports, Sports Authority, or Home Depot.
- Eye Protection: Regular eyeglasses or safety glasses are acceptable.
- Ear Protection: I recommend using earplugs along with earmuffs for better noise reduction.
- Range Rentals: If you don’t have your own, you can rent protection gear at the range.
❓ Does this class qualify me for a Weapons Carry License (WCL)?
- As of 2024, 29 states have Constitutional Carry laws, meaning most responsible citizens do not need a permit to carry a firearm.
- However, obtaining a WCL (Weapons Carry License) or CCP (Concealed Carry Permit) allows you to legally carry in states with reciprocity agreements and can also speed up firearm purchases, as your background check is pre-verified. You may use the following link to apply for your Weapons Carry License:
https://www.gwinnettcourts.com/probate/georgia-weapons-carry-license
❓ What happens if I fail the course?
While some students do not pass on the first attempt, we offer support and retakes to ensure you have the best chance at success.
- If you fail the shooting portion, you may retake it at no extra cost up to 3 times. I am happy to work with you beyond class hours to help you improve.
- If you fail the written test, we will go over the results together to help you understand any missed material before retaking the test up to 3 times.
🚨 SAFETY VIOLATION POLICY:
Any student removed from class for unsafe behavior will not be eligible for a retake or a refund.
- Deliberate or Repeated safety violations will result in immediate dismissal.
- Future enrollment is at my discretion based on the severity of the violations.