The Down Range Forum
Member Section => Down Range Cafe => Topic started by: Siggy on February 09, 2008, 02:33:28 PM
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I'm new to shooting. My wife (who has never shot before) and I would like to try one of the shooting instructional venues for a 3-5 day program. There are many of them, Gunsite, Frontsight, ThunderRanch, Seattle Firearms, SigArms Academy, Blackwater and many more...Any thoughts on these programs facilities training etc...We are mainly interested in the basics at this time and don't want to be overwhelmed. Although these are usually focused on self-defense, I'm interested in shotgun sports too. Looking for a fun trip that can give us a leg up on training. Has anyone done this? What kind of experiences have you had?
Siggy
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Welcome aboard Siggy. If you like to travel, there are folks here who will, I'm sure, advise you well. You have already done good research. But for basics, you need look no further than the NRA web site, training and education section, to locate NRA certified instructors in your neck of the woods, who can provide good, sound, local training to start both of you off on a lifetime of enjoyment (and empowerment) with the shooting sports and self defense. Basic pistol and rifle classes, which include range time shooting, are the foundation for all the advanced development you may desire.
No, I don't work for the NRA, but many of us here are trained, certified and our interests protected by them. If you are near central NC, I may see you in class one day. Good shooting, Mac.
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Where Gunsite is is extremely beautiful at the right time of the year.
There ain't nothin' to do in Paulden, but after a few days training you can do a few nights in Sedona or the Grand Canyon.
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Don't forget about Valhalla at Elk Mountain Ranch in southern Colorado. My only problem with it is it isn't close to anything.
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Don't forget about Valhalla at Elk Mountain Ranch in southern Colorado. My only problem with it is it isn't close to anything.
I think Valhalla is not with Elk Mountain Ranch any more. I got some info they went seperate ways
Look at Ayoob.com Mas has classes all over the USA
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I have taken three classes at the SIG Academy. Two were great. The Armorers Course and the Low Light Course.
The Tactical Pistol course was not tactical -- no shooting while moving, no discussion or talk about cover and concealment -- and not what I was looking for. It was more a basic pistol course. I don't think they offer the same course anymore. But I did shoot about a case of ammo. So, all was not in vain.
Bottom line here is that I am planning on a return trip to NH to take more SIG courses in the future. I thought all three were fun and I did learn things in all three. All three had women in the course. So, your wife would feel at home.
I have also taken courses locally from NRA instructors as required to get a MI carry permit. And a firearms and the law course taught by local attorneys. Both were good.
I am also thinking about taking a course from Mas.
I can also recommend the Orvis Shooting School. I have been through that one twice in VT and will go again sometime. It really helped my field shooting a lot. I think you need a refresher from time to time to correct bad habits that develop with out your being aware of them except for an increase in misses.
The Orvis school is good for females as well. In my course they took all the females and put them with a female instructor for the shooting, which was a good move IMO. They also segregate the students into smaller shooting groups by experience. Also a good move.
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Siggy
I also recommend NRA Training.
As a beginner,she may enjoy learning about many different disciplines and choosing which one she prefers.
The "NRA Women's Wilderness Experience" is a 9 day,all inclusive(even the weapons and all ammo) get away.
Here's the link... http://www.nrahq.org/women/wilderness_escape.asp (http://www.nrahq.org/women/wilderness_escape.asp)
Jim
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I would be remiss if I didn't add our facility to that list.
Take some time and check out our facility and instructors (www.usshootingacademy.com). I wouldn't be working for USSA if I didn't think it was the best all around combination of training programs, facilities, and instructors in the World.
If you have any specific questions, please contact me at your convenience.
Thanks,
Erik
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I've not been to one yet. But, they all seem like a blast. I would find one that was available and compatible for you and go have fun!... ;)
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April of 2007 I took Urban Rifle at Thunder Ranch. http://www.thunderranchinc.com
Well worth it. Am planning to go again.
--bjet
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I am the owner of Professional Marksmen Inc. and we specialize in Long Range Rifle training only. I've been teaching this for a few years now and our new facilities are perfect for the level of instruction we offer. Check us out at www.professionalmarksmen.com (http://www.professionalmarksmen.com). Take care and I hope to see you soon.