FAQs

Do your classes qualify for Washington, D.C. Citizen Training?
Yes.

Why so long a wait for class?
While every effort is made to expedite your order, we typically have a 4-6 week backlog. We can wait-list you for a cancellation but we rarely experience these. Rather than increase the number of students per class and reduce the instructor-to-student ratio, we insist on keeping classes small to ensure the best experience.

How many are in a class?
Our maximum class size is 12 students. Coach-to-student ratio on the firing range is 1-to-1.

Why do you offer only partial refunds within two weeks of class?
Most scheduled classes and conferences use a no-refund policy since we must still pay the hotel for the meeting room, and because we have turned away paying students to honor your reservation. In our case, we make an effort to re-advertise seats for people who must cancel or postpone their reservation to help relieve them of the expense of cancellation.

Which class is best for me?
If your interests lie in personal protection without a pistol, the Refuse To Be A Victim® course is an excellent review of defensive living techniques. For an introductory pistol class, the Basic Pistol course covers all topics, A-Z. For those who want a refresher course or just enough to qualify for a concealed carry permit, the FIRST Steps class is adequate. The natural "next step" after one of these is the Personal Protection series which includes the legal aspects of owning a pistol and more defensive shooting techniques on the range.

What if I'm an experienced shooter and only want a concealed handgun permit?
FIRST Steps Pistol will meet your requirement.

Do I have to bring my own pistol and ammunition?
No. We provide loaner pistols and ammunition for no additional charge. You are encouraged to bring your own pistol.

Why do prices vary so much for classes from different instructors?
The price range for local Basic Pistol classes, for example, is $70 - $165. Our Basic Pistol class costs $145 and is all-inclusive, including all range fees and a professional classroom. We also offer a $30 discount for the second student. When you compare courses, look for things like where the class is given, are training aids used, do you receive additional materials, instructional films, are all costs included, and the experience of the instructor.

What else do I need to bring and how can I practice before class?
I recommend that you wear protective clothing since hot cartridge cases sometimes ricochet back into v-necks, halter tops, etc. We provide ear and eye protection, targets, all class reference materials, pens, paper and refreshments. You can bring your own eye and ear protection if you have them. If not using one of our school pistols, please bring at least 30 rounds of ammunition for introductory classes and the owner's manual. Bring 100 rounds for the Personal Protection In the Home class