Whether you are interested in recreational shooting, competition, hunting, gun collecting, historical reenactment, home safety, or personal protection -- the basics are where to start! NRA Basic Firearm Training Courses teach you the safety principles and help you develop the knowledge, skills, and attitude that are needed to successfully pursue your shooting interests.

Since 1871, one of NRA's major objectives has been to provide basic training in the safe and proper use of firearms. Today, 50,000 NRA Certified Instructors throughout the United States continue this fine tradition of public service by conducting NRA Basic Firearm Training Courses. Courses are offered in the following disciplines:
Pistol
Rifle
Shotgun
Home Firearm Safety
Personal Protection
Muzzleloading Pistol
Muzzleloading Rifle
Muzzleloading Shotgun
Range Safety Officer
Metallic Cartridge Reloading
Shotgun Shell Reloading

What will you learn in an NRA basic course?
Using the NRA training method of Total Participant Involvement, basic courses provide hands on learning opportunities in the following areas:

safe firearm handling
firearm parts and operation
ammunition and its function
shooting fundamentals and an opportunity to develop them on the range
how to select, clean and store a firearm
review of various activities available to help participants develop and improve their shooting skills
Attractive certificates are awarded to participants who successfully complete each basic course.

NRA's FIRST STEPS Program
FIRST (Firearm Instruction, Responsibility and Safety Training) STEPS is the latest addition to the NRA's training programs for new shooters. It provides hands-on orientation to one specific rifle, pistol or shotgun model in as little as three hours, including a one-hour shooting session on a range.

How can you find an NRA basic course in your area?
NRA instructors are located in virtually every community throughout the United States. For a list of instructors in your area, contact the NRA Training Department at 703-267-1430 or click here to find an NRA course near you!

What materials are available on the basics of shooting?
NRA publishes student manuals for each course in the program. While they are not a substitute for hands-on training, they are helpful and you can order them directly from NRA. Contact the NRA Training Department for a Basic Firearm Training brochure.

When you've finished your course, not only will you have learned the basics, you will be on your way to pursuing a lifetime of shooting. By joining one of the nearly 10,000 NRA-affiliated clubs located across the U.S., you can meet people who share your interest, and make lasting friendships. For more information about NRA affiliated clubs, call 800-672-2582.

Enroll in a course today! Contact the NRA Certified Instructor nearest you!
Find An NRA Course Near You!

For more information about the NRA's Basic Firearm Training Program, please call the Training Department's automated voice menu system at 703-267-1430.