For those of you who are new to the firearms world, here’s a quick primer on how to get started. I hope these few words will peak your interest and help you enter the fun world of shooting.

“I wanna learn how to shoot, but I don’t know where to start.”

I’ve heard those or similar words quite often, and there are many ways and places “to start.” First, do your research, and then put that research into action. There are many fine and informative organizations devoted to firearms and the shooting sports. As an NRA trainer, I suggest you go to www.nra.org as your first stop. Check out the NRA programs page; it will show you dozens of opportunities relating to firearms and firearms training, and you will find lots of links to other shooting and firearms organizations. Also, a trip to http://www.nssf.org/ will provide you with links to just about everything and every place related to firearms. Both of these sites will guide you to qualified instructors and coaches, and lead you to shooting ranges and clubs in your area.

After you’ve finished your research, it’s time to choose which discipline (shotgun, rifle, or handgun) interests you the most. I strongly recommend you find a certified instructor or coach and contact them to see what courses are available. These are well trained, dedicated, and caring people who have a great interest in helping you learn how to shoot. Taking a basic firearms course is the safest, fastest, and most efficient path to enjoying the shooting sports. Not only will you be schooled in the fundamentals of shooting, but you will also learn about the responsibilities of being a firearms owner and user.

Now, it’s time to go to the range. Meet with your instructor or coach; ask about their training programs. Is it a program for beginners and novices? Are firearms available for students? Besides shooting instruction, what other firearms subjects are covered? How large are the classes? If you are comfortable with the trainer, sign up and enjoy the learning process, after all, shooting is really fun. If you have a question, send it to me at guncoach@gmail.com. If you are in the Helena area today, stop by the Broadwater Rod & Gun Club booth at the Great Rockies Sports Show. We’d love to chat with you about what BRGC has to offer and help you get started in firearms world.

Be safe and good shooting.

Colonel Smoothbore