I recently had a co-worker ask me about an advertisement in the paper offering an out of state concealed carry permit class. As was I talking to him, I learned he really does not know what states our permit is honored in. In our state the permit system is a “shall issue” and does not have a requirement of taking a basic course. He expressed his desire to get some instruction, but has never taken a formal firearms course and was not sure if this is what he was looking for. At this time I started to explain about my business which is offering NRA Handgun courses, and the variety of topics covered just in the basic course. As we were talking, I mentioned about some of the materials he would receive such as NRA Guide to the Basics of Pistol Shooting, and Concealed Carry Holster Guide.
I began to think, what does the average gun owner know about picking a training course or even what to look for? As I considered how someone similar to my co-worker with no formal experience with firearms training would select a training course. I realized there were many factors to consider. It really does not matter whether they are planning on taking your basic class to get a permit or seeking out training to improve their own skill set. With this in mind, I came up with three points for a potential student to consider when picking a trainer and a course.
First factor to consider, does the instructor hold any current certifications as a firearms instructor such as: NRA Instructor Certification, listed as an instructor on your state’s approved concealed carry instructors list, or other certifications.
Second, what experience does this instructor have in teaching firearms courses? For example, has the instructor taught firearms courses to law enforcement or military in the past since retiring, or do they still hold these positions.
Third, are they a local instructor who you have easy access to their courses? Will this instructor offer advanced courses to increase your skill sets after completing the basic course? When asked about staying current with firearms training as an instructor, are they able to provide a satisfactory explanation about their own co
