Handgun Owner Foundations

Description

Whether you are new to firearm ownership or looking to reinforce your existing knowledge, this curriculum provides a practical and legally informed education rooted in real-world application. The courses emphasize safe handling, confident operation, and compliance with state and federal regulations - empowering participants to train, carry, transport, store, and use firearms responsibly. Upon completion, students will have the knowledge base necessary to own and operate firearms with confidence, competence, and accountability.

Topics Covered

1. Buying and Selling Firearms
This course explains the legal and practical steps involved in purchasing or selling a firearm. Participants will learn how federal and state laws regulate private sales, dealer transfers, and background check requirements under the Brady Act. It also covers the importance of verifying buyer eligibility, proper recordkeeping, and recognizing red flags in potential transactions. By the end, students will understand how to complete lawful firearm transfers while protecting themselves from potential liability.

2. Handgun Function & Fundamentals
This course introduces the key mechanical components of handguns and how they operate. Students will gain an understanding of actions, safeties, magazines, firing mechanisms, and how to identify common malfunctions. Practical instruction ties each mechanical concept to its legal and safety implications, including how improper maintenance or modification can affect lawful use. The course provides a solid foundation for responsible ownership and confident handling.

3. Firearm Security & Storage
This course reviews the legal and practical standards for securely storing firearms to prevent unauthorized access. It examines storage requirements under both state and federal law, including child access prevention statutes and safe storage mandates in certain jurisdictions. Participants will compare options such as safes, lockboxes, and trigger locks while learning best practices for home, vehicle, and travel storage. Emphasis is placed on maintaining quick access for lawful defense while ensuring compliance with applicable laws.

4. Holster Selection
Selecting a proper holster is essential for both safety and legal compliance. This course helps participants evaluate holster styles, materials, retention levels, and carry positions for their firearm and body type. It also explains how certain holster designs relate to state-specific open and concealed carry regulations. By understanding holster function and fit, students can carry confidently and responsibly in accordance with applicable laws and best practices.

5. Firearm Safety Rules
This course reinforces the core rules of firearm safety and their legal importance in preventing accidents and negligent discharges. Students will learn the reasoning behind each rule, how to apply them in various environments, and how courts may interpret negligence in firearm-related incidents. The course also covers safe range conduct and storage habits that align with statutory safety expectations. It’s an essential foundation for every responsible firearm owner.

6. Loading & Unloading Handguns
Students will learn the proper procedures for safely loading and unloading a variety of handgun types, including semi-automatic pistols and revolvers. The course emphasizes muzzle discipline, visual and physical safety checks, and situational awareness during handling. Legal considerations are also addressed, including how to demonstrate a clear firearm during inspections, transport, or law enforcement interactions. Through repetition and understanding, participants will gain confidence in performing these critical tasks safely and lawfully.

7. Handgun Ammunition 101
This course provides a comprehensive overview of handgun ammunition, including caliber selection, cartridge components, and the relationship between ammunition choice and firearm performance. Students will learn to identify the correct ammunition for their firearm, store it properly, and understand the legal implications of using reloaded or specialty ammunition. The course also covers transportation and recordkeeping considerations under state and federal regulations. Both new and experienced owners will gain insight into how ammunition affects safety, reliability, and lawful use.

8. Handgun Marksmanship Fundamentals
This course builds the foundation for accurate, consistent, and responsible shooting. Students will study essential techniques including stance, grip, sight alignment, trigger control, and follow-through. In addition to improving accuracy, the course connects these fundamentals to lawful self-defense and use-of-force standards, emphasizing the importance of controlled, intentional shooting. Participants will finish with practical drills and a clearer understanding of how training supports both skill and legal accountability.

9. Range Safety & Etiquette
A well-run range depends on everyone understanding and following established safety and conduct rules. This course explains range commands, the role of range officers, and how to handle malfunctions or cease-fires safely. It also covers the legal obligations of shooters under local ordinances, range liability rules, and incident reporting requirements. Whether you’re visiting a public or private range, this course ensures you can train safely, courteously, and within the law.

10. Prohibited Areas for Firearms
This course details where firearms may not lawfully be carried under federal and state law. Topics include schools, government buildings, private property with posted restrictions, and locations covered by the Gun-Free School Zones Act. Participants will learn how to identify signage with legal authority, research applicable statutes, and avoid inadvertent violations. Practical guidance is provided for planning travel and understanding exemptions for lawful transport or permit holders.

11. Transporting a Firearm
Participants will learn the legal requirements for transporting firearms in vehicles, aircraft, and across state lines. The course explains unloaded transport standards, locked container requirements, and how to comply with the Firearm Owners Protection Act (18 U.S.C. § 926A). Real-world examples help clarify how to remain lawful during roadside stops, hotel stays, and travel through restrictive jurisdictions. Students will finish with clear guidance on how to move firearms safely, securely, and in compliance with all relevant laws.

12. Police Encounters While Armed
This course prepares gun owners for safe and lawful interactions with law enforcement while carrying a firearm. Students will learn when and how to disclose firearm possession, what information officers may request, and how to exercise their rights respectfully. Legal discussion includes “duty to inform” laws, consent searches, and best practices for compliance during traffic stops or investigative encounters. The course emphasizes calm communication, situational awareness, and lawful decision-making to help every encounter end safely and professionally.

Types

Basic, Handgun Fundamentals, Seminars / Lectures