First Shots Student Information

Course Goal

To teach students the knowledge, skills, and attitude necessary to shoot a rifle or handgun.

First Shots Class

The First Shots class is a one-on-one or two students. It's designed to meet the student's needs, so I start by asking what you need.

If you are a beginning student we will normally start by viewing a DVD, The Woman's Guide to Firearms.. It gives you the basics.

Then we'll go shoot. Starting from the benchrest position, I'll show you the five fundamentals of shooting. We'll start by dry firing, without cartridges, and work up to firing your first shot.

After you are comfortable shooting we'll finish up with five shots at my Home Invader target, which you take home to show off your new skill.

Class Instructions

I will meet you at the range in the morning or afternoon as we arrange. There's a map on the Buck & Bull Club page.

The class will end about three or four hours later, depending on your needs.

  • The class fee is $40 per student, or $60 for two students.
  • Feel free to bring your own beverages. (Non-alcoholic, of course.)
  • Unless you make arrangements to borrow, you will need to bring your firearm, ammunition, and equipment to the range.
  • Please do not bring firearms into the classroom. If you have a question about your firearm leave it in your car and ask me about it.
  • Please do not bring a firearm, or its magazine, to the range loaded.
  • Smoking is not permitted in the classroom.
  • Bring notepaper and pen or pencil.

Required Equipment for Shooting

  • Bring your own rifles or handguns, in good repair with no modifications that would make them less safe. I recommend no more than three guns.
  • If you are just starting out shooting you will need about 50 cartridges of the correct caliber for your firearm. Shooters who want more of a review class should bring 100 to 150 rounds.
  • You will need hearing protection. You can use ear plugs, but I recommend ear muffs as they provide better protection.
  • Eye protection is also mandatory. If you wear glasses that will be adequate. If not, bring a pair of shooting glasses or other protective glasses.

Wear comfortable clothing. However, you may be shooting with several other people and a lot of brass will be flying, so for safety reasons:

  • Shoes must cover the foot; no sandals.
  • Wear long pants, slacks, or jeans.
  • Wear a shirt or blouse with a fairly high collar.
  • Wear a cap or hat that will cover the head and protect the face.

Note that the range is considerably higher in elevation than Kerrville, and the temperature tends to be cooler.

If you are shooting a pistol a holster is not required, but will come in handy. If you shoot a semiauto a second magazine will be useful, but not required.

I will inspect all range equipment. If you have questions it will be a lot easier if you get them answered before shooting time.

Notes

I encourage participation by the physically challenged. Please request assistance if it will help you with the training.