What is Handgun Fundamentals?

The fundamentals aren’t boring when they actually work. This course builds the habits that keep you consistent on demand. If you’re new to handguns or haven’t had real instruction before, this is where you start — clear, practical coaching that gets you comfortable and confident with every shot.

“When I attended Chad’s class I was a timid girl with a gun and scared to even handle it. I left after one day feeling confident and in control.” — Leslie S.

Build Confidence That Lasts

This course is built for people who want a reliable base: safe handling, consistent presentation, and a trigger press that keeps your sights where they need to be.

“Chad teaches in a way that’s easy to understand and unbelievably patient. 10/10 would recommend.” — Ashley P.

This isn’t a lecture or a competition class — it’s real, hands-on coaching that makes you comfortable, capable, and ready to progress.

By the end of the class you'll be able to:

Load, unload, and operate your individual handgun so nothing feels intimidating.
Establish a repeatable grip and stance that improves first-shot accuracy.
Present the gun cleanly and index to the dot/sights with purpose.
Press the trigger deliberately with minimal disturbance to your sights.
Run simple dry-fire and live drills you can practice on your own.

How we’ll get there

➤ Firearm Handling & Routine
Clean, practical steps for loading, unloading, and handling your pistol so you leave with a repeatable routine.

➤ Grip, Stance & Presentation
Small changes, big results — a structured progression that builds a consistent platform for recoil management and follow-up shots.

➤ Trigger Press Fundamentals
Build a repeatable press that keeps the gun on target when it fires.

➤ Dry → Live Progression
Every drill starts dry, then moves to live fire with immediate feedback so you see measurable improvement.

“I expected to walk away with just some knowledge about basic handgun use, but I left confident and ready to train more.” — Judith J.

Who this course is for

Anyone who wants a solid, no-nonsense foundation with their handgun — whether it’s your very first class, you’re new to shooting, or you just want to get comfortable before stepping into one of our other classes.

No prior experience required — perfect if this is your first time with a handgun; we’ll teach safe, repeatable handling and get you shooting with confidence.

Class size & expectations

Small class size for meaningful, individual coaching.
You’ll be expected to follow range protocols and stay engaged.

What to bring

A reliable, modern semi-automatic handgun (no revolvers)
Range rentals are welcome if the range offers them
Minimum 150 rounds of ammunition
Holster: optional. If you have an OWB you prefer, bring it — great. If you don’t, bring your pistol secured in a hard case or range bag. We will not be conducting holster draws in this class.
2–3 magazines
Eye and ear protection
Comfortable clothing, closed-toe shoes,
We will be outside so a collapsible chair, water, and snacks are recommended.

Ready to build something that lasts?

This half-day sets the foundation so your next steps — whether red-dot work or Defensive Handgun 1 — actually matter.

Ready to keep building? Students attending Foundational Pistol can roll right into Intro to Red Dot that afternoon for half price.

We’ll see you on the range!