INTRODUCTION • HANDGUN

Introduction to Range Use – Handgun

Build safe handgun-handling skills through classroom instruction, hands-on practice and carefully coached introductory live fire.

What’s happening in this image?

The student is practicing with a blue training handgun while I help her build a safe grip and hand position before moving to live fire.

Gain Knowledge. Develop Skills.
Build Confidence.

Review This Course

A welcoming, safety-first foundation for first-time handgun students and returning shooters who want to strengthen their fundamentals. Open a section to review the details.

COURSE DETAILS

Learning Objectives

Review what you will develop through this course.

Review Section
  • Apply AFT safe gun-handling rules.
  • Identify primary handgun parts and controls.
  • Verify that a handgun is unloaded.
  • Develop a stable stance and effective grip.
  • Load, unload and reload safely using inert rounds.
  • Follow range commands and complete introductory live fire safely.
COURSE DETAILS

Four-Session Learning Experience

Review the hands-on skills and decision-making practice.

Review Section
  • Session I — Classroom foundations, safe handling, parts, controls, fit, grip and stance.
  • Session II — Instructor Bay draw technique using blue training handguns.
  • Session III — Ammunition, loading, unloading, malfunctions and simple barrel cleaning.
  • Session IV — Range orientation, coached handling and introductory live fire.
COURSE DETAILS

Prerequisites & Family Training

Review readiness, age and placement requirements.

Review Section
  • No previous handgun experience is required.
  • AFT provides blue training handguns and .22 caliber handguns.
  • Standard minimum age is 18. Students ages 16–17 may participate with an adult family member enrolled in the same course.
  • Successful completion provides an AFT certificate satisfying Oregon’s handgun-competency training requirement for a concealed handgun license; the county sheriff determines eligibility.
Tan range bag. Select to review course supplies.PREPARATION

Your Range Bag

Review Supplies
  • Eye and hearing protection.
  • Approximately 50 rounds of instructor-approved .22 LR ammunition when using an AFT handgun.
  • Closed-toe footwear and appropriate clothing.
  • Any additional items listed in the course-specific supplies email.

Contact AFT before purchasing gear specifically for this course.

PREFERRED TRAINING RANGE

Ashland Gun & Archery Club

555 Emigrant Creek Road
Ashland, Oregon 97520

Range sessions are scheduled by appointment as part of your confirmed AFT course.

Map & Directions

Is Introduction Training Right for You?

AFT welcomes first-time students, returning shooters and students preparing for the self-defense handgun progression.

Contact AFT

AFT Course Interest & Registration

Tell us about your experience, goals and scheduling needs. AFT will follow up before enrollment or payment.

Course Interest & Registration

AFT does not provide legal advice; students are encouraged to review applicable Oregon laws. AFT LLC does not participate with or train individuals or groups in unlawful paramilitary activity as described in ORS 166.660.