Firearms Training: Why It’s Important and How to Get Started

If you’re looking to step up your game as a responsible gun owner, firearms training improves the safe handling of your customized weapon, helps your performance on the range, and gets you ready to make the right decisions with your gun out in the real world. Gun ownership is enshrined in the Second Amendment of our Constitution as an essential right that allows us to be more secure in our liberty and safety. Firearms training helps us make the most of this right. It can also be the key to expanding your freedom to bear arms as you see fit and protecting yourself in the real world and the courtroom.

Not All Firearms Training is Created Equal

It’s important to know that shooting training is not a one-size fits all. There is a wide range of class options to address specific needs in the firearms community. One thing you can be sure of, however, is that there is a firearm training class that has something you can use to remind you of gun ownership best practices, help improve a technique, or just give you another tool in your arsenal of firearms theory and practice.  A few of the top reasons people look for shooting training are:

Basic Gun Fundamentals

A basic gun handling course is a great choice for any first-time gun owner. You’ll learn some basic safety rules, proper shooting techniques, and some tips for maintaining your weapon. These short courses are a great intro to your gun and get you ready to hit the range the first time safely.

Concealed Carry Permit Training

In states where constitutional carry isn’t the law of the land, a special class is needed to allow you to carry a concealed weapon. This usually blends classroom time focusing on gun safety, legal aspects of self-defense, and defensive theory with a range qualification that proves you can safely carry your weapon. Even in permitless carry states, these remain popular for residents who need a license to travel to another state that has a reciprocal concealed carry permit agreement.

Marksmanship

Precision and accuracy aren’t just important for competition. Marksmanship shooting training helps you fine-tune your gun handling with an emphasis on creating tight groups farther out with your chosen weapon. This can include getting you ready for a competition, just brushing up on your general firearms accuracy to increase your enjoyment at the range (and bragging rights with your buddies afterward), or learning to get the most out of your performance optics.

Tactical Shooting Training

Tactical firearms training prepares you to make quick decisions under fluid situations in the real world or on a tactical shooting course. These cases focus on fast target acquisition, decision-making, and using these practical skills to bring the right firepower to bear on the right target when every shot counts.

Hunters Education

Required in many states to qualify for a hunting permit, hunter safety or training courses focus on the safety guidelines you’ll need to know while stalking prey in the field where you may potentially come into contact with other hunters after the same prey. These classes often cover state rules for the most popular game seasons and safety guidelines meant to keep accidental shooting injuries from occurring through mistakes in target identification.

Getting Your Shooting Training Started

Before beginning your firearms training, there are a few items you should do as a responsible gun owner. First, read your weapon’s owner’s manual so you understand the manufacturer’s recommendations for the weapon. If it doesn’t all make sense, be ready to ask your instructor. Make sure you have the proper cleaning materials for your weapon, ammunition that meets the manufacturer’s guidelines, and your own personal protective equipment for the range or field. It’s also a good idea to invest in an appropriate size case if your weapon did not come with one.

To find the right training for you, start by identifying your goals. Do you need basic instruction or more advanced coaching on your existing shooting skills? If you’re already an accomplished shooter, firearms training that focuses on learning about your first weapon and safety is probably a safe full of guns too late for you. If you’re new to shooting, a tactical shooting program may be too advanced. 

Next, be social. The best place to find recommendations for shooting training in your neck of the woods is from other shooters who have had a good experience with an instructor they trust. Check out local groups online, visit a meeting at your local rod and gun club, or talk to a gun seller you trust. Many times local instructors and training academies will leave a flyer or business card with them as more and more Americans are choosing to become first-time gun owners. When you get an instructor’s or firearms training school’s name, do your research. Find out what others are saying online, if the BBB has any reports on them, or ask around about their programs specifically to ensure it’s a good match for you.

Once you’ve chosen the instructor and classes you’re interested in, reach out to register for a class. Be sure to ask them what materials you will be expected to bring, the times for the classes, and if there is a rescheduling policy should something come up. Much of this information may be on their website or advertising materials, but it’s always best to verify before class day.

Get Your Gun Ready to Earn High Marks

When you need a gun that is built to give you a better shooting experience, we have the custom parts and accessories you’re looking for. We’re proud to work with some of the leading companies in firearms performance to help you get more bang for your buck with parts we’ve tested out ourselves. Sign up for our newsletter to get the latest deals sent to your email. Customize your gun with gear from the experts at JSD Supply today.