How to prepare for a shooting class

Published on March 9, 2025
Duration: 7:59

This guide outlines essential preparation for attending a shooting class, emphasizing basic firearm handling proficiency, safety, and appropriate equipment. It advises against excessive pre-class practice, recommending consistent dry fire and maintaining current skill levels to allow instructors to effectively identify and correct habits. The focus is on being safe and capable of fundamental operations, not on being an expert.

Quick Summary

To prepare for a shooting class, focus on safe firearm handling, including loading, unloading, and clearing malfunctions independently. Maintain muzzle discipline while moving laterally. Bring a compact or full-size pistol with at least 10-round capacity and a trigger-guard-covering holster. Avoid excessive pre-class practice; instead, engage in regular dry fire and maintain your normal routine.

Chapters

  1. 00:01Common Question: Am I Ready for a Class?
  2. 00:34Required Firearm Handling Skills
  3. 01:10Comfortable Lateral Movement
  4. 01:30Skill Expectations in Class
  5. 02:08Equipment Recommendations
  6. 02:27Pistol Size and Magazine Capacity
  7. 03:06Holster and Magazine Pouch Requirements
  8. 03:31Instructor Expectations Based on Skill Level
  9. 04:52Drill Expectations and Skill Levels
  10. 05:52Pre-Class Practice Strategy
  11. 06:20Recommended Pre-Class Training
  12. 07:05Show Up As You Are

Frequently Asked Questions

What basic firearm skills are expected before attending a shooting class?

Before attending a shooting class, you should be able to safely load and unload your firearm, clear common malfunctions independently, and maintain muzzle discipline while moving laterally. These fundamental administrative gun handling skills ensure you can operate your firearm safely and follow instructions.

What type of pistol is recommended for a shooting class?

For most shooting classes, a compact or full-size pistol is recommended, similar in size to a Glock 19. It's also advised to use a firearm with a magazine capacity of at least 10 rounds to accommodate drills that require more ammunition.

Should I practice extensively before a shooting class?

It's generally not recommended to over-practice with live ammunition before a class. Instead, focus on consistent dry fire training and maintaining your normal practice routine. This allows the instructor to accurately assess your current skill level and provide targeted feedback for improvement.

What equipment do I need for a shooting class?

Essential equipment includes your firearm, a holster that covers the trigger guard, and 3-5 magazines with compatible pouches. Ensure your firearm is reliable and you are comfortable with its operation for basic tasks.

More Training & Techniques Videos You Might Like

More from Joel Park

View all →