SYNOPSIS: A team of NRA Certified Firearms Instructors will provide the NRA Basic Personal Protection Course. The 8-hour course deals with the basic knowledge, skills, and attitudes essential to the safe and efficient use of a handgun for protection of self and family, and to provide information on the law-abiding citizen's right to self-defense. Follow-on and support is available after taking the course covering:
Introduction to Defensive Shooting. Explain the importance of using a firearm responsibly and ethically for personal protection. The importance of developing the proper mindset for using a firearm for personal protection and facing a life-threatening encounter will be explained. Their state of mental awareness using the four levels of awareness will be explained and evaluated. The importance of mental preparation and physical training for a potentially life-threatening confrontation will be explained.
Basic Defensive Handgun Skills. Fundamentals of defensive marksmanship will be explained and demonstrated. Defensive accuracy will be explained. Practical exercise shooting targets in the center of mass using aimed shots from a two-handed standing position will be held. The differences between cover and concealment, and identifying examples of each will be presented. Practical exercise shooting targets in the center of mass using a flashsight picture, using cover and concealment, from a kneeling position, and at close range using point shooting.
Firearms and the Law: Possession, Ownership, and the Use of Deadly Force. Key provisions of the law pertaining to the purchase, transfer, and possession of handguns will be explained. Key provisions and restrictions within the law pertaining to the use of deadly force will be stated. Potential criminal and civil legal actions that may be taken against them subsequent to a defensive encounter will be explained. Sources will be identified for detailed legal information for their specific jurisdiction.
Strategies for Home Safety and Responding to a Violent Confrontation. Strategies and methods to enhance their personal safety at home will be explained. Strategies for responding to a potentially life-threatening encounter will be described. The importance of mentally preparing for the aftermath of a violent confrontation will be explained. Methods for safely storing a personal protection handgun will be presented.
Selecting a Handgun for Self-Defense. Criteria for selecting a handgun and ammunition suited to their individual self-defense needs will be identified. Major cartridge designs available for practice and personal protection will be identified. The use, advantages, and disadvantages of each type will be explained.
Sport Shooting Activities and Training Opportunities. Identify organizations, associations, clubs, and businesses that may help hone, enhance, and expand their personal protection skills will be identified. Methods and precautions for dry-fire practice will be explained.
Course Review and Examination. Students must successfully complete the NRA Personal Protection course written examination.
Other optional NRA courses available:
- Basic Pistol Shooting
- Basic Rifle Shooting
- Basic Shotgun Shooting
- Reloading Metallic Cartridge
- Reloading Shotgun Shells
- Range Safety Officer*
- Home Firearm Safety*
- Eddie Eagle Gun Safety Program*
- Refuse To Be A Victim*
*Designates no actual shooting or live ammunition in class.
Visit SMSC on the web at http://www.SMSClub.org
Fee and class availability contact: Sue Bierly, 507/533-4307, or E-Mail: