
About the Course
Handgun I is a basic pistol class designed for those who have never handled a firearm before or those who have had experience, but not taken a formal handgun class. This course is also intended for those of you who have not had any formal firearms training even if you have been shooting for a number of years or for those who want a review of the “basics” no matter how much training you’ve had.
The principles of Handgun I are the basis upon which all our other classes are built. This class gives you a solid fundamental grounding and the use of the defensive pistol. If in doubt about which course to start with, take this one before signing up for the next level. You do not need any prior firearms experience to attend this class.
Topics covered include:
Proper loading and unloading
Malfunction and stoppage clearing
Discussion on the Use of Deadly Force
Handgun Selection and set up
Combat Mindset
Firearms Safety at home and at the range
Fundamentals of shooting
Presenting the pistol from the holster
Shooting from 25 yards on steel
Reactive steel target engagement
Man vs man drills
Shooting on the move
Shooting from behind barricades
Required Equipment:
Clean and oiled Handgun with three magazines
Eye & Ear Protection
Water/Snacks
300 Rounds of ammunition for your handgun
Sturdy belt with holster and magazine pouch
Factory loaded ammunition ONLY. No Reloads.
Appropriate attire – No open toed shoes or flip flops, no tank tops or low-cut tops, no shorts or skirts
Most products are available for purchase in the store, and we can special order items not in-stock.
To ensure you have the necessary equipment for your training class, please purchase well in advance!
**PLEASE NOTE: THIS CLASS IS TAUGHT IN ENGLISH ONLY AND WE DO NOT ALLOW TRANSLATORS**
Your Instructor
Scott Criswell

Scott is currently an active-duty police sergeant and oversees firearms training for his department. Scott began his law enforcement career in 2000 and has held assignments in Patrol, Street Gang Suppression, FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force, Community Oriented Policing, Street Level Drug & Gang Detective (including plain clothes operations), 11-year SWAT Team member (Entry and Sniper/Observer with two agencies), Firearms instructor (Both Academy and Department), and Field Training Officer.
Scott holds instructor certifications in both private sector and CA POST courses in handgun, carbine, shotgun, long rifle, red dot handgun (RDS), and low light firearms employment. He has also certified in many other operator level firearm and tactical courses presented by private sector companies as well as law enforcement presenters including but not limited to: Vehicle Close Quarters Battle (VCQB), Low Light Operator, Tactical Carbine, and Tactical Handgun.