Handgun & Firearms Training

Firearms enthusiasts should always practice safe handling when operating weaponry. For this reason, many shooters choose to take formal rifle or handgun training classes to reduce the risk of accidents and learn how to properly handle firearms. There are a variety of programs from which individuals can choose when selecting a training course that fits their age, sex and interests. Training courses should be carried out by certified firearms professionals.

  1. Firearms Safety Training

    • Before shooters learn to get fancy with their guns, they often take a basic firearms course outlining the safety details of shooting. According to the National Rifle Association, basic rifle and pistol shooting courses teach foundational shooting skills and weapon safety; they also instill the appropriate attitude towards firearms in general. These courses are usually 10 to 14 hours long and are broken up over a period of several weeks. At the end of the course, students often take a qualification test to earn a certificate of completion.

    Handgun Training

    • Handgun courses are offered for different levels of aptitude, from introductory to advanced. Front Sight Firearms Training Institute lists defensive handgun techniques, including tactical and nighttime handgun skills, as some of the topics covered in its training courses. The National Rifle Association encourages courses in home firearm safety for handgun owners, to maintain pistol safety around children and less experienced individuals present at the home.

    Women's Firearms Training

    • Some women choose to take firearms courses designed specifically for female shooters. Oftentimes, these courses teach specifics in how to use firearms for personal security to avoid dangerous situations, such as rape. Once women are qualified in introductory firearms training, they can opt for courses in marksmanship skills, hunting and competitive shooting.

    Youth Firearms Training

    • Children of various ages can attend courses in youth firearms training. The National Rifle Association suggests that students in preschool/kindergarten through fourth grade take a gun safety program to teach children not to touch firearms. Older children can opt for beginner's rifle courses that combine firearm safety training with rifle shooting and beginner marksmanship.

    Marksmanship Training

    • Marksmanship training courses are designed to help advanced shooters achieve perfection in their shooting. Marksmanship training often instructs shooters how to use sniper equipment, as well as skills such as using scopes, keeping a shot log, how to shoot at multiple or moving targets and how to shoot under stressful situations. Advanced courses help shooters in the methods of concealment, barrier penetration, low light and unknown distance marksmanship, according to Tactical Marksmanship Training of America.

    Advanced Small Arms Training

    • For those wishing to further their skills in handgun shooting, some institutions offer advanced pistol courses aimed at conditioning the shooting mindset. Team Spartan Tactical Training lists threat assessment, combat pistol handling, engaging several threats at once and quick reloading techniques as crucial aspects of an advanced pistol training course.