NRA Basic Pistol

Description

The NRA Basic Pistol course is a great way for you to learn the basics of pistol shooting from the top firearms trainers at the ISRA

NRA Basic Pistol Course – Class Outline

Course Purpose

To teach the knowledge, skills, and attitude necessary for the safe handling and proper use of pistols.

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1. Course Introduction

• Course objectives and format

• Student expectations and safety emphasis

• Administrative items (waivers, schedule, range rules)

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2. Basic Firearm Safety

• NRA Rules for Safe Gun Handling

• Primary causes of firearm accidents

• Safe firearm storage and transportation

• Range safety rules and commands

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3. Pistol Parts and Operation

• Major parts of a pistol and their functions

• Types of pistols:

  • Semi-automatic pistols

  • Revolvers

• How pistols operate (cycle of operation)

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4. Ammunition Knowledge

• Components of ammunition

• Cartridge identification and nomenclature

• Matching correct ammunition to firearms

• Safe handling and storage of ammunition

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5. Fundamentals of Pistol Shooting

• Proper stance

• Grip

• Sight alignment

• Sight picture

• Trigger control

• Breath control

• Follow-through

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6. Shooting Positions

• Isosceles stance

• Weaver / Modified Weaver stance

• Benchrest (if applicable)

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7. Pistol Handling and Operation

• Loading and unloading procedures

• Verifying a pistol is unloaded

• Use of safeties and decocking mechanisms

• Safe muzzle discipline

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8. Malfunctions and Stoppages

• Common semi-auto malfunctions (failure to feed, fire, eject)

• Safe corrective actions

• Revolver malfunctions (high primer, debris under extractor)

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9. Range Procedures and Commands

• Range layout and terminology

• Standard NRA range commands

• Actions during:

  • “Cease fire”

  • Misfires or malfunctions

  • Unsafe conditions

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10. Live-Fire Range Session (Required)

• Range safety briefing

• Supervised live-fire exercises

• Application of fundamentals

• Safe gun handling under live-fire conditions

(Round count and distance are instructor-determined; qualification is not scored but evaluated for safe gun handling.)

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11. Cleaning and Maintenance

• Basic pistol cleaning procedures

• Disassembly (field strip only, if applicable)

• Cleaning tools and solvents

• Lubrication basics

• Safe storage after use

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12. Continued Training and Skill Development

• Practice recommendations

• Additional NRA courses and disciplines

• Responsible firearm ownership

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13. Course Review and Examination

• Review of key safety rules and concepts

• Written exam (open-book)

• Course critique and Q&A