What pistol training course should I take?

[dookie1481]

I'm getting some $$$ back from Uncle Sam for being stop-lossed in '03. I have already paid for the LAV class in Los Angeles in January and I want to attend another after that.

Please give me some recommendations.

Thanks.

Edit: Preferably after Feb/Mar. or so and on the West Coast so as to minimize travel costs.

[Ak44]

I take it your in California? I've never been to any schools, but you could always check out Gunsite, Front sight, Thunder Ranch, or a Magpul course...Good luck

[John_Wayne777]

Take the LAV class first and then form an opinion. If other LAV students are any indication, more than likely you'll want to spend the money on another LAV class.

[Ranger]

A friend of mine just took a course at Frontsite, and he is quite happy with the training and the instructors.

[Patrick Aherne]

Take the LAV class first and then form an opinion. If other LAV students are any indication, more than likely you'll want to spend the money on another LAV class.

I would not agree with this statement, but only because LAV only comes out to CA infrequently. Also, in Los Angeles, you have one of the best firearms trainers in the world, Scott Reitz of ITTS.

I've spent my money with both Larry and Scotty and would do so again. They have a similar approach to the need for accuracy, if differing methods to attain it. Neither one will steer you wrong and ITTS has classes available most weekends.

[dookie1481]

I'm actually in Vegas. I prefer something in driving distance if possible.

Jay

[Ranger]

Frontsite is something south of Vegas, but my friend said it was about a 20 or forty minute drive or so south of Vegas.

[BiggLee71]

I attended an LAV class and will now use him exclusively (or other former "Unit" member run schools along with Ken Hackathorn).Now,you may be wondering why I would limit myself to such a narrow training cadre.My answer to that is,they are the best.That simple.LAV's resume is unmatched.You know that what you learn from him is real-deal,tried and true,battle tested techniques.No hokus-pokus self invented wannabe bullshit.Its a no brainer if you ask me.
Now there may be other factors that can affect your choices such as distance.Either way,if you want quality training,your gonna have to travel (unless you are fortunate enough to live near Fort Bragg!!).
I see your in Nevada.Msgt Paul Howe has a school in Texas I believe.
Keep in mind,this is my opinion.Your in a firearm friendly state which means you most likely can get much more range time than I can.So,just attend LAV's class,retain as much info as you can and get to the range at least once a week.We had a student in Larry's class last week that was awesome with his Sig 229.I approached him and asked how he became so proficient.He said he went to the range EVERYNIGHT after work for over a year!! So,get your foundation from Larry because he literally is one of if not the best around and then practice practice practice!!

[andy t]

What skills are you training to improve / learn? If this is your first ever pistol class for concealed carry, etc..., I would recommend something that covers, mindset, legal aspects, in addition to various pistol manipulations, and marksmanship drills. I have experience with a class that was taught by Tom Givens of Rangemaster - they are based in TN, so I don't know if he teaches classes on the West Coast. Which I would heartily recommend to a beginner.
LAV is excellent, but his main focus - at least based on the advanced class - is combat marksmanship. I like to take classes with different instructors - it helps to expose me to a variety of different techniques so you can decided for yourself what works and what doesn't.
Eventually, I would also recommend you take one of SouthNarc's excellent classes that are very applicable to concealed carry in everyday civilian's world.

[dookie1481]

I really need to actually learn how to shoot, hence taking LAV's basic pistol course, but a concealed carry-oriented class is also at the top of my list. I would love to be able to fly somewhere as that would give me many more options, but that is just going to tack on too much money.

Jay