The Gun Course

This course will teach foundational firearm safety principles.
Develop an understanding of firearm types, components, and operation.
Instill respect for firearms and their responsible use.
Prepare students for safe, supervised hands-on range training with a professional instructor.

Tuition for the course is $300 for the 6 month course.*

Fees for this course will include private lessons from a professional instructor. These custom lessons can be tailored to the needs of each student to meet the course objectives and the goals of each student. The fees can go towards supplies and equipment based on the students needs and the requirements of the instructor. *

*Fees and tuition are subject to change based upon approval of UFA scholarship requirements.

Week 1: Introduction to Firearm Safety

Understand the importance of gun safety and the fundamental rules.

Lessons

Why gun safety matters: Statistics on firearm accidents and prevention. The four universal firearm safety rules:

Week 2: Types of Firearms and Their Uses

Learn about different types of firearms and their purposes.

Lessons

Overview of firearms: Handguns, rifles, shotguns. Common uses: Self-defense, hunting, sport shooting, law enforcement. Differences in firearm actions (e.g., single-shot, semi-automatic, bolt-action).

Week 3: Firearm Components and Mechanics

Understand how firearms work and their key parts.

Lessons

Basic firearm components: Barrel, trigger, magazine, safety, sights. How firearms operate (e.g., firing cycle, loading/unloading). Importance of proper maintenance and storage.

Week 4: Safe Handling and Storage

Learn proper techniques for handling and storing firearms safely.

Lessons

Safe handling procedures: Checking if a firearm is unloaded, passing a firearm to someone. Safe storage: Gun safes, trigger locks, and cable locks. Childproofing and preventing unauthorized access.

Week 5: Legal and Ethical Considerations

Understand the laws and ethical responsibilities of firearm ownership and use.

Lessons

Overview of federal and state firearm laws (age-appropriate summary, e.g., age restrictions, background checks). Self-defense laws and the concept of “reasonable force.” Ethical considerations: When and why to use a firearm (or not).

Week 6: Situational Awareness and Decision-Making

Develop skills to assess situations and make safe decisions around firearms.

Lessons

Importance of situational awareness: Identifying risks and avoiding dangerous situations. De-escalation techniques and avoiding conflict. Recognizing when a firearm is not the solution.

Week 7: Preparing for Range Safety

Prepare for safe behavior at a shooting range with a professional instructor.

Lessons

Range safety rules: Following range officer commands, eye/ear protection, range etiquette. What to expect during hands-on training (e.g., loading, firing, clearing malfunctions). Mental preparation: Staying calm and focused.

Week 8: Review and Transition to Hands-On Training

Consolidate knowledge and prepare for professional range instruction.

Lessons

Review of key concepts: Safety rules, firearm types, handling, storage, laws, and range safety. Q&A session to address student concerns about range training. Next steps: Contacting your certified instructor and range.