So you want to learn how to shoot? Maybe you already know, but you just want to get better?
Whatever your motivation, finding a qualified weapons instructor can be one of the best decisions you make. The problem is not all instructors are created equal.
Here’s how to separate the wheat from the chaff.
Finding the Right Instructor For You
There are all sorts of private gun instructors out there who offer their services, but some of them are a nightmare. First of all, you need to figure out why you want to shoot and what is most important to you about firearms.
Perhaps you want to improve your shooting, cleaning, safe storage, and handling ability? The right instructor can help you with that.
You want an instructor who actually understands trigger control, how to aim properly, safe gun handling, and dealing with different kinds of weapons in the right way, instead of treating them all the same.
It is very important you find an instructor who truly cares about safety and doesn’t just go through the motions. It’s important they also challenge you a bit and upgrade what you already know.
If they’re just going over everything you already know, then it’s a waste of your time.
No matter where you are on the firearms-knowledge spectrum, define what it is that you wish to accomplish through instruction, then seek an instructor who advertises as having or is known by trusted friends to have skills/knowledge you want. #MentorMonday https://t.co/NqootL7QA5
— Let’s Go Shooting (@LetsGoShootUSA) December 27, 2021
Achieving Your Gun Goals
The best kind of instructor will help you achieve your gun goals and answer your queries around guns, gun safety, self-defense, and the best way to treat your gun in general.
Whether you’re target shooting or just learning the parts of the weapon, the right instructor should be moving at your pace. They should not be going overly slowly or rapidly in a way that confuses or frustrates you.
If you ask them to slow down, they should do so. The right instructor doesn’t make you feel like a newbie, even if you are. They meet you at your level and move with you.
Whether you’re getting one on one training or part of a group class, the best instructor for your needs will treat you like an individual and pay attention to ways that you can use help.
They will notice things like stance, breathing, and your ability to focus. They will then offer realistic and practical advice to you on how to improve, and personally assist you in improving.
Actually my friend that is a certified military firearms instructor tells me that police officers are quite undertrained at handling firearms as well. That may explain why they “freak out” and go to gun way too quickly during conflict.
— BackAtItJNFDeux (@BackAtItJNFDeux) December 24, 2021
The Bottom Line
When choosing an instructor, prioritize quality over quantity. Don’t be afraid to change instructors if one is not working out for you.
Read reviews and pay attention to other people’s experiences with an instructor: sometimes they have bad reviews for a reason!
Good luck out there as you work to find the best person to train you to be a better shooter and gun owner.
