This is the NRA’s core introduction to safe pistol handling and marksmanship, taught by an NRA Certified Instructor. It is built for complete beginners and is equally useful to experienced shooters who want their fundamentals checked properly.

What this course covers

• The NRA gun safety rules
• Revolver and semi-automatic pistol operation
• Ammunition — how it works and how to choose it
• Pistol selection and safe storage
• The fundamentals of marksmanship
• Pistol inspection, cleaning and maintenance
• Shooting range safety
• Live fire training on the range

How you qualify

You complete a nationally standardised shooting qualification on the range with an NRA Certified Instructor, and pass the student examination.

What you receive

• The NRA Guide: Basics of Pistol Shooting handbook
• A course completion certificate signed by the NRA Secretary and your instructor
• Evidence of passing the standardised qualification

Course details

• Format: Classroom and live fire on the range
• Prerequisites: None — open to all, whatever your experience
• Schedule: Can run as a single day or across several shorter sessions

Price: $100

Common questions

Do I need to own a pistol?
Contact us before booking to confirm what is available.

I have never fired a gun. Is this the right course?
Yes. It assumes no prior experience.

Does this count toward other NRA courses?
Yes. The Basic Pistol certificate is one accepted way to meet the prerequisite for Personal Protection In The Home.