Firearms training courses worth the money

[faded.glass]

I’ve taken a few courses over the years, and some were really helpful while others felt like basic range time with a pricier ticket.
Which firearms training courses have you taken that were truly worth the cost?

 

[Mark]

I've done Gunsite 250 and a Thunder Ranch handgun class, and both were worth the money. The instructors really focus on getting the basics right, not just running through drills. You definitely leave a better shooter.

 

[Alan]

WV defensive courses like Antares Defense consistently get strong reviews for real-world reps.

 

[axeslinger]

Haven't seen any defensive courses since concealed carry permits are no longer required. My first course was taught by a guy working at a gun shop (years ago). It was a two evening course and very informative. Didn't immediately apply for a license. Prior to the pandemic I took another course (all day event) taught by an NRA certified instructor at a local big box store. The company was called Legal Heat and was a bit pricey. Less informative but taught common sense.

 

[30calflash]

Courses can be definitely worth the money, I've been pleased with the ones I took.

The only thing I can say is that now a lot of classes are taught by former military, instead of civilian or law enforcement. Civilian and LEO taught classes seem to spend time on shoot/no shoot drills, concerns for others downrange, etc. From a liability perspective that's something to consider.

Military training is far different and could, if used in a self defense scenario, get you into a lot of trouble. Not all classes are taught as such but I've heard feedback from others who took them and it was mostly lots of trigger time with little concerns of what happens in a civilian SD shooting.

 

[Buzzer]

Courses can be definitely worth the money, I've been pleased with the ones I took.

The only thing I can say is that now a lot of classes are taught by former military, instead of civilian or law enforcement. Civilian and LEO taught classes seem to spend time on shoot/no shoot drills, concerns for others downrange, etc. From a liability perspective that's something to consider.

Military training is far different and could, if used in a self defense scenario, get you into a lot of trouble. Not all classes are taught as such but I've heard feedback from others who took them and it was mostly lots of trigger time with little concerns of what happens in a civilian SD shooting.

That’s a fair point. Good civilian training should include judgment, accountability and not just burning through ammo.