A Woman’s First Time at the Gun Range: A Firearms Instructor’s Guide
My First Gun Range Experience
I will always remember my first time at a gun range as if it were yesterday. In fact, it was many years ago, but the mixed emotions of nervousness and curiosity will never be forgotten. I remember feeling intimidated by everything that I didn’t know and wanting to learn it all, while not fully understanding that the process is a journey…not a one and done! However, the more I practiced, the more proficient and confident I became. Thankfully, I was in a very nurturing environment with seasoned firearm owners who were very patient with me.
Creating the Right Environment for Female Students
As a firearms instructor, I often revisit my first experience when I am meeting a female student for the first time because I want to be authentically present when determining where they are on their journey and meeting them there. I realize that some of the same feelings I remember are likely some of what she is experiencing in the moment. It is important for the training environment to feel welcoming and supportive, especially for most women. I have also learned that women typically respond best to an instructor who is relatable, responsive to their questions, and offers a judgement-free training space.
Finding a Qualified Instructor
Finding a qualified instructor is the first step on the journey. It is important for a woman’s instructor to exhibit patience and encouragement, while guiding students through the information that will ultimately lead to empowerment and increased confidence. Instructors want their students to feel safe, supported, capable, and knowledgeable after first experience. When students step out of their comfort zone and challenge their fears. The first experience will determine whether a female student returns for additional training or not. It is a critical step in her journey that should be taken very seriously with careful consideration of the woman’s journey.
Why Women Seek Range Training
Women seek range training for a variety of reasons including, but not limited to, self-protection, new hobby, and a newly acquired firearm due to divorce and even the death of a significant person who she has always relied upon for her personal safety. Some are seeking a sense of independence and the strength to overcome fears about firearms. Others are seeking a supportive community and a sense of camaraderie. There is a sense of community among women at gun ranges. Although women have varied backgrounds, they also have an eagerness to learn and grow. Understanding the dynamics of the path to her range experience helps to ensure that she walks away from the range feeling accomplished in her decision to embark on her mission. It’s a journey into expanding her boundaries and gaining self-defense skills for self-defense or personal development.
What to Expect: Preparing for Your First Visit
Many women will begin their journey researching what to expect from the first time at a gun range. This research likely includes types of guns, firearm safety, what to wear, and general range etiquette. One of the most challenging aspects of the first visit is knowing what to expect and what is expected of her when she walks through the doors. Some women feel a little intimidated just by walking into the range. How she is greeted and guided through the next steps in her process are critical aspects of her confidence building and often determines if she’ll return.
Her first day at a gun range can be very overwhelming. It can feel very daunting for anyone who has had little to no experience. It is helpful to set expectations before proceeding to the range. Ideally, an overview of what to expect, familiarity with the firearm that will be used, and a full understanding of how the firearm operates is a great start in building the confidence needed on the range. Ensuring that she understands the key firearm fundamentals helps her to be successful during her range experience. Qualified instructors who provide step-by-step instructions and welcome any questions help to calm the nervous and anxious student.
Firearm and Range Safety Rules
Safety is always paramount and the importance of following the safety rules cannot be overstated. Learning and committing to memory the firearm safety rules must be primary focus for anyone seeking to become a safe and responsible firearm owner. Understanding the rules helps to ensure safety on the range. It also helps new owners to be aware of others who may not be safe on the range. In addition to firearm safety, a range safety briefing is necessary and should include specific range procedures, commands, and protocols. Preparing a student for “the bang” is very challenging for a new and nervous student. Reviewing the importance of protective equipment, such as eye protection, ear protection, no low-cut tops, and closed-toe shoes, helps to avoid unintended injuries on the range. The loud noises may create anxiety, which generally dissipates as the time on the range progresses.
Firearm Knowledge and Range Expectations
Her first time on the range may also be the first time she handles a firearm. Instructors can help you find the right firearm fit, which is extremely important for accurate shooting. Learning to respect the firearm and its proper use is the core of her experience. Spending time discussing how the firearm operates and walking her through the fundamentals, such as grip, stance, sight alignment, sight picture, breathing and trigger control and follow-through, help to allay her fears about the firearm. In addition, it is helpful to set expectations about managing recoil, although it will become more obvious on the range after the initial shots. She should expect to feel some fatigue after an extended period of shooting. Working alongside an instructor while on the range will help the student to become more confident, comfortable, and capable as she continues her journey forward.
Her First Shot
As she approaches the firing line and her adrenaline begins to increase, her instructor will load one round into the chamber, showing her this process and prepping her to take that all important “first shot.” As she recalls what she has learned about the fundamentals, she will pick up the firearm, aim it at her target, and press the trigger. Her success is measured by hitting the target…anywhere on that piece of paper. As she processes her mixed emotions in the moment, she realizes that she accomplished her goal through the power of the first shot. The instructor will obtain immediate feedback from her to determine whether she is ready to move forward with the subsequent shots, through observation and verbal feedback. This process is repeated for several rounds, and the student is continuously evaluated for safety and capability.
Reflections and Next Steps
Upon completion of her initial range experience, the instructor will conduct a review of the experience through dialogue with her. Immediately following the range experience is the best opportunity to obtain her genuine reflections and determine her best next steps. The instructor can use this conversation to highlight her greatest strengths on the range and identify areas where she should concentrate on building her skills. Helping her to determine the next steps of her training journey gives her confidence to continue pursuing the path towards responsible firearms ownership and usage.
The Journey Continues
Firearms training is never a “one and done.” Stressing the importance of range practice and how it builds proficiencies are vital to anyone who chooses to become a safe and responsible firearm owner. Subsequent gun range experiences will be filled with sharpening technical and mental skills, as well as enhancing awareness and empowerment. This journey is marked by careful preparation, confronting fears or apprehensions, and stepping outside of one’s comfort zone. Everyone remembers their first time on the range. The lessons learned regarding discipline, focus, skill development, and enhanced confidence reach beyond shooting on a range. They help her to gain a new sense of independence, strength, and resilience. There’s an empowering energy that presents itself when learning new and powerful skills.
It is Time to Get Started: Options for Women
If you have been considering beginning your journey and feel hesitant, there is an instructor to assist you as you embark on your personal protection journey. Some ranges offer women-only classes which may ease some of the anxiety of beginning the process alone. There’s something special about women learning a task together that provides a safe and supportive journey. The shooting range may become a place where you challenge yourself individually, while becoming part of a larger community. Individual coaching is also available for those learners who prefer one-on-one instruction. Learning at your own pace and comfort level is the key. There are many women who took their first step on their firearm journey that has proven to be rewarding and empowering. Keep an open mind and don’t allow other’s perceptions or your own anxiety to prevent you from trying something new. You never know where this journey will lead, but the valuable lessons of focus, preparation, satisfaction, and growth will undoubtedly apply to other aspects of your life.
