For new gun owners seeking a safe, structured introduction — and for those pursuing a Connecticut pistol permit with guided, hands-on instruction from start to finish.

The NRA Basic Pistol Instructor-Led Course is a comprehensive, in-person training experience that combines classroom learning with live-fire instruction. This format provides real-time explanation, demonstration, and guided practice throughout the day.

This course satisfies Connecticut’s training requirement for a pistol permit.

Unlike the blended format, all instruction is delivered in person. Students benefit from immediate feedback, hands-on demonstrations, and a conversational learning environment designed to build understanding and confidence step by step.

The Classroom Portion Covers:

• Firearm safety rules and safe handling

• Parts and operation of modern handguns

• Ammunition basics and how firearms function

• Proper grip, stance, and sight alignment

• Basic firearm maintenance and storage considerations

Instruction is deliberate and fundamentals-first. The emphasis is on understanding why things are done a certain way — not just memorizing procedures.

The In-Person Range Portion Includes:

• Supervised live-fire instruction

• Practical application of classroom concepts

• Safe handling verification

• Individual coaching and feedback

• Completion of required training paperwork

• On-site notary service for permit paperwork

The course is offered privately or in a small group, allowing plenty of time for questions and individual attention. The pace remains calm and unhurried. There is no pressure to perform and no “boot camp” atmosphere.

What’s Included:

• All required range time

• Firearm use and ammunition for the course

• Completion of required training paperwork

• On-site notary service for permit paperwork

• NRA Basics of Pistol Shooting handbook

• Eye and hearing protection during range session

What to Bring:

• Photo ID (required for range access and notarization)

• Closed-toed shoes

• A long-sleeve shirt and appropriate range attire

• Water (food and drink are not permitted inside the range)

• Notebook and pen

No prior experience is required. Many students arrive feeling unsure or nervous and leave feeling confident, informed, and prepared to move forward responsibly.

The goal is competence, confidence, and safe ownership — nothing more, nothing less.

Pricing:

$400 for a private course (one participant).

Additional participants are $200 per person.

Classes are limited to a maximum of four participants to ensure individual attention and a focused learning environment.

For students who prefer to complete the classroom portion at their own pace and finish with structured, hands-on instruction in person.

The NRA Basic Pistol Blended Course combines online classroom training with an in-person live-fire session. The online portion satisfies the knowledge component of the course, while the in-person range session focuses on safe handling, practical application, and skill verification.

This course satisfies Connecticut’s training requirement for a pistol permit.

After completing the online modules, students schedule a private range session to complete the required live-fire portion and receive certification. Permit paperwork can be completed and notarized during the in-person session.

The Online Portion Covers:

• Firearm safety rules and safe handling

• Parts and operation of modern handguns

• Ammunition basics and how firearms function

• Proper grip, stance, and sight alignment

• Basic firearm maintenance and storage considerations

Students complete the online portion independently before attending the range session.

The In-Person Range Session Includes:

• Review of safety fundamentals

• Safe handling verification

• Live-fire coaching and supervision

• Skill assessment required for certification

• Completion of required training paperwork

• On-site notary service for permit paperwork

The range portion is conducted privately or in a small group, allowing focused instruction and individual attention. The environment remains calm, structured, and supportive — no pressure, no intimidation.

What’s Included:

• NRA online course access code

• All required range time

• Firearm use and ammunition for the live-fire session

• Completion of required training paperwork

• On-site notary service for permit paperwork

• Eye and hearing protection during range session

What to Bring to the Range Session:

• Proof of online course completion

• Photo ID (required for range access and notarization)

• Closed-toed shoes

• A long-sleeve shirt and appropriate range attire

• Water (food and drink are not permitted inside the range)

No prior experience is required. Many students choose this option because they prefer to learn the classroom material at their own pace before stepping onto the range. The goal remains the same: safe handling, confidence, and responsible ownership.

Pricing:

$275 per participant.

Additional participants may schedule the range session together. Each participant must complete the online portion prior to attending and will receive individual certification upon successful completion.

Personalized instruction tailored to your experience level and goals — offered one-on-one or in a small private group.

This option is designed for students who want individualized attention, a customized learning plan, or a quieter, more comfortable environment than traditional classes. Instruction is built around the people present — their experience level, comfort, and what they want to accomplish.

Sessions move at a deliberate, unhurried pace. There is no rushing, no comparison to others, and no expectation that you already “know the basics.” Questions are encouraged, breaks are taken as needed, and instruction is adapted in real time based on what’s working and what needs attention.

Instruction can include:

• Fundamentals for brand-new shooters

• Skill refinement for existing gun owners

• Confidence-building for those returning after time away

• Firearm familiarization with a new handgun

• Help correcting habits or addressing specific challenges

When conducted as a small group, instruction is intentionally limited in size to ensure everyone receives personal attention. Groups may include friends, couples, or family members learning together. Beginners are never left behind, and more experienced participants are still challenged appropriately.

This option is especially well suited for:

• First-time gun owners

• People uncomfortable in large group classes

• Couples, friends, or families learning together

• Students who prefer a calm, conversational learning style

• Anyone seeking focused, practical guidance without pressure

If you’re not sure what type of instruction you need, this is often the best place to start.

What’s included:

• All required range time

• Firearm use and ammunition

• Eye and hearing protection for use during instruction

What to bring:

• Water (food and drink are not permitted inside the range)

• Closed-toed shoes

• A positive attitude

Pricing:

• $150 per hour (one participant)

• $100 per additional participant, per hour

• Sessions are limited to a maximum of two participants

Personal safety begins long before a crisis. This seminar is designed to help everyday people make informed, practical decisions about their own security.

The Refuse To Be A Victim® seminar is a nationally recognized crime prevention program focused on awareness, mindset, and practical safety strategies. It is not a firearms class and does not involve live-fire instruction. Instead, it provides a structured overview of how to reduce vulnerability at home, at work, and while traveling.

The goal is simple: understand risk, recognize warning signs, and make deliberate choices about your personal safety plan.

Topics Covered Include:

• The mindset of personal responsibility and situational awareness

• Crime prevention strategies at home

• Travel and public-space safety considerations

• Vehicle safety and parking lot awareness

• Technology and personal information security

• Basic self-defense considerations and tools

• Understanding legal considerations related to personal protection

The seminar encourages discussion and questions. There is no pressure to adopt any specific tool or method. Participants are presented with options and encouraged to decide what makes sense for their individual circumstances.

Who This Seminar Is For:

• Individuals who want to feel more prepared and less vulnerable

• Parents interested in family safety planning

• College students or young adults

• Community groups, clubs, or small organizations

• Anyone who prefers prevention over reaction

No prior experience or background knowledge is required.

Format:

The seminar is typically conducted in a classroom-style setting and can be delivered privately or to small groups. The atmosphere is conversational, respectful, and practical.

Participants leave with a clearer understanding of personal safety principles and a framework for making thoughtful, responsible decisions.

What’s Included:

• Structured seminar presentation

• Participant handbook

• Time for questions and discussion

Pricing:

Private session pricing available upon request.

Group rates are available for organizations or community groups.