EmpowerSAFE! BASICS Part 1: How to Shoot a Handgun

Description

EmpowerSAFE! BASICS: Your First Step to Confidence and Safety

This two-part course is designed to help you build the skills and confidence to safely handle and shoot a handgun—whether you’re brand new or just looking to refresh your knowledge. It’s perfect for you if you:

• Don’t own a handgun (or even if you do)
• Are new to shooting or haven’t shot in years
• Want to gain confidence before taking the LTC shooting test
• Are unsure if owning or shooting a handgun is right for you

• No Equipment Needed: Everything you need is provided (except a baseball cap).
• Flexible Scheduling: Two-part structure allows you to learn at your own pace.
• Brain-Based Learning: The separation between parts supports optimal retention and mastery of skills.

• Convenient & Affordable: Held in a local, comfortable environment, Part 1 minimizes your time and financial commitment. It’s a great introduction for anyone unsure about shooting a gun.
• Firearm Safety: Learn how to safely pick up, load, and handle a handgun in a safe, quiet, air-conditioned setting.
• Simulated Training: Experience realistic handgun handling in a controlled environment with simulation tools—no live fire, no noise, and no pressure.
• Marksmanship Fundamentals: Master grip, body position, trigger control, and sight alignment before moving to live fire.
• No Pressure: This part of the course helps you decide if shooting is right for you, without the commitment of buying equipment or jumping into live fire.

Topics Covered

In this class, you will learn:

• The Fundamentals of Firearm Safety
• How Firearms and Ammunition Work
• How to Safely and Securely Store Your Firearm
• The Fundamentals of Safe Gun Handling, including:
  • How to Safely Load, Unload, Clear, and Check You Firearm
• The basics of marksmanship, including:
  • How to build a strong grip
  • Proper body position
  • Proper use of sights
  • Proper Trigger and Breath Control
• Basic manipulations of the firearm
• Basic Ready/Retention positions

Expectations and Outcomes

At the end of this class you will:

• Know the rules of firearm safety
• Understand what "caliber" means and how to read it
• Understand how firearms and ammunition work
• Understand proper handgun grip, body position, trigger management and use of sights
• Understand proper range behavior, range rules and safety
• Have experienced simulated shooting in a safe, non-ballistic environment.
• Be ready to take EmpowerSAFE! BASICS Part 2

Types

Basic, Seminars / Lectures, Virtual Simulation, Women's Only Courses

Documentation Requirements

Valid, government-issued photo ID.

The instructor requires a copy of your Government Issued ID once you register.

Requirements

Prerequisites: None

• Students must present a valid, government-issued photo ID on site.
• Students under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a Parent or Legal Guardian.
• Students wishing to use our handgun+ammunition packages must be 21 or older.
• If you are under 21 please contact the Instructor before registering.

• Classes run Rain or Shine. Please be prepared for inclement weather.
• Cap or hat with visor
• Collared shirt - no tank tops, halters or v-necks. Exposed cleavage tends to catch hot brass.
• Closed-toe shoes - no sandals, flip-flops, open footwear or heels. The shooting range is dirt and gravel requiring flat soles.
• Be aware that long, decorative nails (extending more than 1/4Ó beyond the fingertip) can interfere with your ability to safely handle a gun.

Photos