Basics of pistol shooting

The Basics of Pistol Shooting course teaches safe handling, proper technique, and foundational marksmanship skills for semi-automatic pistols and revolvers. Whether you've never held a handgun or want to build a stronger foundation, this is where confident, responsible pistol shooting starts.

CERTIFICATION
NRA-Aligned Basics of Pistol Shooting

FORMAT
In-person, Hands-on Instruction

WHO'S IT FOR
Beginners, new gun owners, and anyone looking to build a solid pistol shooting foundation

NRA

ALIGNED
CERTIFICATION

100%

HANDS-ON
INSTRUCTION

0

PRIOR EXPERIENCE
REQUIRED

LA

BASED IN
LOS ANGELES

ABOUT THIS CERTIFICATION

BUILD the foundation every responsible pistol owner needs

Whether you're a first-time shooter, a new gun owner, or someone who wants to develop proper technique from the ground up — the Basics of Pistol Shooting course gives you the safe handling skills, marksmanship fundamentals, and practical knowledge to shoot with confidence and responsibility.

This course covers both semi-automatic pistols and revolvers — how they function, how to handle them safely, and how to shoot them accurately. You'll spend the majority of your time on the range with hands-on practice, guided by ERE's experienced instructors who prioritize safety and real skill development over rushing through a checklist.

You won't just know how to handle a pistol when you leave — you'll understand why every technique exists and how to apply it correctly every time you shoot.

Course callout: NRA-Aligned Basics of Pistol Shooting Hands-on range instruction · Safe handling to live-fire practice · No prior experience required.

CURRICULUM

what you'll learn

What the Basic Pistol Instructor Course Cover

01

The Four Rules of Firearm Safety

Every session starts here. The four fundamental rules of firearm safety are the non-negotiable foundation of every responsible shooter — you'll know them, understand why they exist, and apply them automatically.

02

Pistol Types, Actions & Mechanics

How semi-automatic pistols and revolvers work — actions, components, how rounds are chambered and fired, and what happens mechanically when you pull the trigger. Understanding your firearm builds confidence and safety.

03

Safe Handling & Loaded / Unloaded Verification

How to safely pick up, carry, point, load, unload, and verify the status of a pistol. These are the everyday handling skills every pistol owner must have before they ever head to the range.

04

Grip, Stance & Natural Point of Aim

The physical foundation of accurate shooting — a proper two-handed grip, a stable shooting stance, and how to find your natural point of aim so your body is working with you, not against you.

05

Sight Alignment, Sight Picture & Target Acquisition

How to use your sights correctly, what proper sight alignment looks like, and how to consistently acquire your target before pressing the trigger — the skills that separate accurate shooters from frustrated ones.

06

Trigger Control & Follow-Through

Trigger control is where most shooters struggle. You'll learn how to press the trigger smoothly without disturbing your sight picture, and how to follow through correctly after every shot to build consistency.

07

Ammunition Selection & Safe Storage

What different calibers and cartridge types mean for a pistol owner, how to select appropriate ammunition, and California-compliant safe storage practices to keep your firearm secure at home.

08

Malfunction Recognition & Safe Clearance

Common pistol malfunctions happen — misfires, failures to feed, stovepipes. You'll learn how to recognize each one and clear them safely so you're never caught off guard at the range or at home.

WHO SHOULD TAKE THIS COURSE

Built for Anyone starting their pistol journey

First-Time Shooters — Never held a handgun before? This course is designed specifically for you. We start at the very beginning and build your skills step by step in a safe, welcoming environment.
New Gun Owners — You've purchased your first pistol. Now learn how to handle it safely, store it properly, and shoot it accurately before you head to the range on your own.
New California Residents — Moving to California and want to understand your responsibilities as a handgun owner? This course covers both the fundamentals and California-specific storage and safety requirements.
Returning Shooters — It's been a while. This course is a great way to refresh your fundamentals, correct any bad habits, and rebuild your confidence before getting back on the range.
Women New to Firearms — ERE's instructors create a supportive, non-intimidating environment where new shooters can learn at their own pace without judgment.
Anyone Who Wants to Shoot Confidently & Responsibly — You don't need a specific reason. If you want to learn to shoot a pistol safely and accurately, this course is for you.

WHAT YOU'LL NEED

What to bring to class

A valid government-issued photo ID

Comfortable, closed-toe shoes and clothing you can move in

Eye protection and ear protection (if you have your own — we can advise on what's available at the range)

A willingness to learn — everything else is provided

Contact us when you register and we'll send you a complete preparation checklist before your class date.

UPCOMING COURSES

Ready to start shooting?

Try a free intro class first - or jump straight into the full Fear to Fire Weekend experience.

FREE · NO EXPERIENCE REQUIRED

"BE READY" FREE INTRO CLASS
FREE

Location: Hollywood Production Center · 1149 N. Gower St., Hollywood, CA
Duration: 60 minute class · 45 minute instruction + 15 minute Q&A session
Covers: CPR, Stop the Bleed, AVIRT, Pistol Safety & FSC Overview
Dates: Saturday, August 15th from 11am-12pm

LIMITED SEATS · SEPTEMBER 12 - 13, 2026

FEAR TO FIRE WEEKEND - PISTOL
$695

Location: Oaktree Gun Club · 9am-5pm · Both Days
Day 01: Red Cross, CPR / AED / First Aid · Stop the Bleed · AVIRT + FAK Kit included
Day 02: NRA Basics of Pistol Shooting + California FSC Test
Included: Over $480 in certifications and gear · Gun rental & ammo extra

$150 non-refundable deposit reserves your seat. Balance will be split into two equal payments. Deposit applicable to future courses in the same calendar year if you need to reschedule.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Got questions? We've got answers

Do I need any prior experience to take this course?

None whatsoever. This course is designed for complete beginners. We start from the very beginning — safety rules, how a pistol works, and how to handle one safely — before we ever get to live fire. If you've never touched a gun before, you're in the right place.

Will I actually get to shoot during this course?

Yes. Hands-on live-fire practice is a core part of the Basics of Pistol Shooting course. You'll apply everything you learn in the classroom on the range under the direct guidance of an ERE instructor.

Do I need to own a pistol to take this course?

No. Contact us in advance and we can advise on firearm availability for the course. If you own a pistol and want to bring it, let us know when you register so we can confirm it's appropriate for the course format.

Is this course appropriate for women who have never shot before?

Absolutely. ERE creates a welcoming, supportive environment for all new shooters. Many of our students are women shooting for the first time — you'll never feel rushed, judged, or out of place.

What is the NRA alignment of this course?

ERE's Basics of Pistol Shooting course follows NRA-aligned curriculum standards, ensuring you receive structured, comprehensive instruction built on nationally recognized firearms education principles.

Can I book a private session for friends or family?

Yes. ERE offers private group sessions for the Basics of Pistol Shooting course. Contact us for group pricing and to find a date that works for your group.

What should I wear to class?

Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes and clothing you can move around in. Avoid low-cut shirts or open-toed shoes — brass casings eject during live fire and can cause burns on exposed skin.

How long is the course?

Ready to learn to shoot with confidence

The Basics of Pistol Shooting course gives you the safe handling skills and marksmanship fundamentals to shoot responsibly from day one.

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