It doesn't matter if it your first class or an advanced class, the right instructor can be the difference between a great experience and a frustrating one.
You have identified a
couple classes or instructors that look interesting, but how do you know you
have found “the one”? Talk to him or her. If they are not willing to
spend a few minutes answering questions, move on to the next instructor on your
list. If you have to leave a message, or send an email, give them at least 24
hours to get back to you. Most of us have day jobs, and we teach shooting
because it is our passion. We love it! But, that means it can take us a day to
get back to you. Once you get in contact, what questions should you ask?
Following are some suggestions that should help you get a sense of the
instructor and their personality so you can judge if you would be comfortable
with them.
·
Are you a NRA Certified Pistol
Instructor?
·
Are you following a NRA approved
curriculum?
·
How many students are in an average
class?
·
Is there range time included in this
class?
·
What is the ratio of instructors to
students on the range? (If it is less than one instructor for every two or three
students consider going to the next instructor on your list.)
·
Do I have to have my own pistol or will
you have guns I can shoot?
·
Are you the one who will be teaching my
class, and if not, what can you tell me about the instructor I will have?
·
How long have you been teaching?
·
What kind of shooting do you do? (The answer you are looking for here can vary
depending on the type of shooting you want to do. If you are learning for
defense, you want someone who practices defensive shooting techniques. If you
are interested in competing, you might want someone who competes.)
·
What is the number one priority for this
class? (SAFETY!)
·
Where will the class be held?
·
What range do you use?
·
Does the range have eye and ear
protection I can borrow?
·
Are there any additional costs above the
tuition? (This may include having to provide your own ammunition or targets, or
pay a range fee.)
·
If you have any physical limitations or
restrictions you may ask if they have experience with your particular needs.
These should give you a
sense of the instructor, and how you will respond to him or her. Ask any other
questions you may have, such as; “How do you handle nervous students?” Are you
comfortable with the person you spoke with, their answers, and attitude? The
introduction to shooting can be a little scary and you want someone to lead you
through the first shots that you feel comfortable with and trust. If you are
not satisfied, keep looking! I promise there is an instructor out there for
you. The adage “You have to kiss a lot of toads to find a Prince” applies to
finding the perfect instructor. We all have different needs, and there is at
least one perfect toad, or instructor, out there for you. Your first class can
set the tone for the rest of your shooting experience. If you leave with a huge
grin thinking, “That was AWESOME!” your instructors job was done well and you
will want to come back and do it again! If not, returning to the range can be a
little intimidating and might not be a high priority.
Good luck and keep training!
Safe Shooting!
