Fundamental Handgun 1

Step 1 in the Fundamental Handgun Series, this single day course is designed to introduce a new or novice owner to the safe handling and proper manipulation of a handgun.  It is firmly rooted in baseline principles and will prepare you for further training with confidence.  Ownership, responsibility, and the elimination of fear are primary goals in this course and we address these things from a unique perspective.  

Topics include:

  • Firearms safety rules.

  • The fundamentals of marksmanship.

  • Nomenclature and maintenance.

  • Protective equipment.

  • Handgun selection, equipment, and accessories.

  • Loading, unloading, and basic manipulation. 

  • Methods of carry. 

  • Legal implications of gun ownership.

  • Target identification.

  • Live fire drills.      

  • Ammunition selection. 

This course does not satisfy any state requirement for concealed carry nor is it meant to stand alone as the only training necessary to qualify one as a gun owner.  The basics covered in this course are required to enable further, more comprehensive skill development and training offered by Standing Offhand.  The single day format of this course is designed to accommodate a specific clientele whose time requirements may prevent consecutive, multi-day training and should be considered a “first step” in the comprehensive course package offered as the Fundamental Handgun Series.   

Weapon requirements:

  • Semi-automatic handgun from a reputable manufacturer.

  • Standing Offhand STRONGLY recommends Glock handguns as these have proven themselves over decades of reliable operation in the harshest conditions.  Their rugged construction and simple maintenance equate to an ideal defensive weapon.

  • At least 2 magazines, 3 are better.

  • A holster or case capable of safely and securely containing the handgun (the trigger must be fully contained and covered by either).

 Ammunition:

  • 300 rounds ball ammo in the correct caliber.  

  • Don’t purchase hollow point, premium, self-defense, or other expensive ammunition for this course.  Inexpensive practice ammo is perfectly suitable.  

  • DO NOT purchase any ammo with a steel case or something made overseas (Russia, China, Israel, etc.); stick with US manufacturers.

 Protective equipment:

  • Eye and ear protection are required regardless of the range facilities used.  

  • If you own personal eye and ear protection, bring them. 

  • Personal sunglasses or prescription glasses are fine; clear lens glasses are advantageous on cloudy/overcast days, at night, or indoors. 

  • Standing Offhand will have protective gear on hand for client’s use.

  • Comfortable, unrestrictive clothing is encouraged.  Baggy clothing and open-toed shoes are strongly discouraged. 

Admin and Logistics:

Registration and waiver documents will be emailed upon contact and receipt of an email address.

Detailed course description, itinerary, and maps/directions provided upon registration.

Completion of a personal data sheet is required by all participants and is part of the registration process. This includes your birthdate, driver’s license number, and SSN. Standing Offhand does not provide firearms training of any kind to convicted felons or non-citizens of the United States.

A deposit of 50% is required at registration to hold your seat with the balance due no later than the morning of TD1 (cashier’s check, money order, or cash only). 

SAFETY and drama-free conduct is paramount to the successful completion of this course. Instructors reserve the right to enforce safety regulations up to and including expulsion from the course at any time if major safety violations occur or behavior degrades the safe, enjoyable, and informative environment of this course for all students, without refund.

Tuition and additional fees

Course cost: $350 per person.

Ammunition storage and delivery fee (optional): $50 per shooter.

Ammunition from any source can be delivered or shipped direct to us and we’ll have it for you when you get here.