I was given a gift certificate for an indoor range to shoot some handguns and used it late last year. It was the first time holding and using these deadly weapons. It was an uneasy yet exciting experience, but it bothered me that I didn't know much about them. I had waited and almost signed up to take the handgun safety course elsewhere, but found Hawaii Defense Foundation's (HDF) course when doing a quick web-search. What a find! The HDF one-day safety course, which was taught by a fellow named Chris B, turned out to be a one-on-one instruction. In fact, you could even say it was better, as Chris had a helper named Derek (Derrick?). The first few morning hours were in a classroom in the Salt Lake area. The instructor went over the three basic rules of safety: 1) keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction, 2) keep your finger off the trigger until ready to shoot, and 3) always keep the firearm unloaded when not in use. The only way for someone to get hurt is if all three rules are simultaneously broken. Pretty straightforward! The instructor also went over Hawaii's gun laws, handgun types, the components of the firearm, the basic foundation of holding/loading/aiming/shooting/transporting/storing, and potential problems (internally) with the firearm. I'm probably missing a few things, but virtually everything he taught me stuck in my mind--likely because he was a great instructor and it was a subject that I felt being educated (not ignorant!) about was necessary, if not mandatory. Of course, it's always easier to learn when those two things come together. Once noon hit, we traversed to the Koko Head range, where I got some hands-on experience with four different handguns of varying size. The instructor reinforced the rules at the range that he preached in the class. The time went by very quickly. In review, I thoroughly enjoyed the course. It would have been more relaxing if there were other students, but you can't really complain about one-on-1one training! Obviously, the instructor had no control over how many people would show up! It would have been more relieving if I could watch someone else struggle loading the last few cartridges (not bullets!) into a magazine. ;) Chris did a spectacular job and I would like to thank him and Derek for educating me about handguns. ...and one more thing. And to top it off, Hawaii Defense Foundation's course was the least expensive that I found out there! Now how do you beat that? read more

Let me start with the Negatives about this course: None Now let me continue with the Pro's... I found that Chris was very down to Earth and not your typical classroom style instructor where you will be bored out of your mind wishing you had been doing something better. Easter Sunday is the day I accidentally scheduled my class and I arrived with a sense of apprehension that this may not be worth my time since I rather would have spent it with my daughter and family. Yet, I left the instructional session feeling informed, educated, and confident that the next session at Koko Head was well worth the time invested. We covered safety, operation and parts of a handgun, safety, safety, safety, and then Hawaii Laws which we ended with a last Hoorah of safety. I can't emphasize the safety part because I brought along my long time girlfriend who was terrified about guns. She left feeling scared to fire and I left feeling quite confident. We arrived at Koko Head and as soon as we started squeezing off the .22 - things had changed. My gf displayed confidence from the small .22 up to the .45. We spent about 2 hours shooting and wow, I'm feeling great we chose Hawaii Defense Foundation as our starting point on a new journey. Personally, I feel like Chris demonstrated his knowledge and teaching ability about firearms and the laws in a very layman's point of view that matched nicely with legality and morality. I appreciated how Chris said to think morally about self defense and your rights of ownership v.s. how and why the laws apply. Yes, the Law is the Law - yet we have moral responsibilities and decisions to make. His fair and balanced teaching left me with a sense of ease that, "Yes, I can own a weapon yet only have to use it as a very, very last option lest I'm ready to face the consequences legally and more importantly - morally." We are planning on retaking this course with my 8 year old daughter so she too can be educated and exposed in safe way as to why and how guns can and should be used in a healthy and respectable manner. Education is key and experience hammers that in - we got both through HDF. read more

Been wanting to take a firearms safety course for awhile now, so I can purchase my own handgun(for home defense and recreational shooting, in general), and stop paying to rent a gun, buy ammo, and pay range fees(which all adds up to a lot!). So I decided to look around for a firearms safety class. Well, I'm so glad I was able to find Hawaii Defense Foundation, here in Oahu. I think HDF is great because not only do they have various firearms safety and training courses, they are also fighting for our 2nd amendment rights here in Hawaii. As for the class, the price was very reasonable compared to the ones offered by gun shops on the island(that I checked online). But most importantly, I learned a lot about not only shooting and the fundamentals of shooting(I'm a extreme beginner) but also the laws regarding firearm ownership here in HI. Chris Baker, the instructor, and his assistant instructor, were very through and patient, especially for all the beginners in the class. BTW, class size is limited to 8 students, which is great so that we got the attention that we needed from having a small class size. When we finally got to practice shooting(which took place at Koko Head Firing Range) we got to fire various auto-pistols and a revolver, with different calibers. That was very helpful in helping me determine which caliber I was most comfortable with, and which caliber I might chose when I purchase my own handgun. Again, the HDF firearms safety class was a great experience...and I would recommend them to anyone who, wants or needs a safety course in order to eventually acquire their own handgun. Or just to feel more comfortable shooting in general. read more

The Hawaii Defense Foundation provides an excellent handgun safety and basic skills course that earns the participant the affidavit required by HPD to apply for a permit to acquire a handgun. I elected to take the required course with Chris Baker because of his 2nd Amendment rights activism. I in return wanted to support him and the Hawaii Defense Foundation as we share common goals of achieving non discretionary conceal and carry law in Hawaii and removal of the infringement of our 2nd Amendment rights by current Hawaii State Law. The course was very well done. Eight hours went by quickly and was well worth it. We had about 4 hours of class time and then a lunch break followed by live shooting instruction at Koko Head Crater Gun Range. We were able to sample multiple different guns in caliber .22, .38, .40, .45 and 9mm. We fired double action and single action revolvers and many semi-automatic pistols. It gives you an introduction to what weapons are available and allows you to consider what type and caliber you might like for yourself. The tuition included use of their weapons and ammunition and also a year membership in the Hawaii Defense Foundation. They have posted videos of some of the activities and training that they provide on Range Days. I saw pulling and shooting from holsters at advancing targets in self defense scenarios that I would be interested in participating in. I look forward to participating in HDF activities. I was very pleased with the course and would recommend it to anyone who intends to purchase a handgun and also anyone that is interested in advancing 2nd Amendment rights in Hawaii. read more

All I can say is that if you want to learn about handguns take the HAWAII DEFENSE FOUNDATION's Firearms Safety Course--forget the rest! They are reasonably priced and the instructors are VERY KNOWLEDGEABLE on the subject. Throughout the class portion of the course, Christopher and Derrick imparted a lot of information about the safety, importance and rules and regulations on owning a handgun here in Hawaii. They also went step by step on the process of legally obtaining a handgun. The amount of information that these guys had to share was UNBELIEVABLE! The best part about the class portion was that you got to learn how to handle a gun properly before going to the gun range. This was the MOST IMPORTANT part for me. Actually holding an unloaded gun and learning the proper steps was INVALUABLE; especially since I've never handled one before. It made me feel a little more comfortable so that I could tackle the next portion of the class. During the gun range portion of the course, both Christopher and Derrick were CONSUMMATE PROFESSIONALS but yet APPROACHABLE to any questions you may have. I got to shoot and handle different types of handguns and it made me realize which ones were most comfortable to me. Christopher and Derrick were there every step of the way and made the experience totally WORTHWHILE! I HIGHLY RECOMMEND the HAWAII DEFENSE FOUNDATION's Firearms Safety Course for anyone out there that wants to learn and experience handguns. You won't be disappointed...I GUARANTEE IT!!! read more

When I moved on island I didn't realize the extent you had to go in order to obtain a permit for a firearm. However, protecting my family is priority and.. well...common sense. After researching as many places/associations as possible to get my Affidavit for attending a Safety Training Course-- I chose the HAWAI'I DEFENSE FOUNDATION due to it being the most reasonably priced course I could find. Ironically I felt like I got MORE out of the class than what I paid for!! I not only learned how to safely handle, use & store my firearm, Mr. Baker also discussed common errors/mistakes, parts/operations of the firearm (as well as stoppages or "misfires") , site/aim & position/stance techniques, most importantly Mr. Baker was extremely thorough and knowledgeable regarding firearm STATE LAWS. We also went to the firing range where we practiced what he'd taught in the classroom at the shooting range. The course was one-on-one, Mr. Baker was very encouraging - made me feel comfortable. Although this course is required by law; I left feeling I'd learned more than I expected I also had a great time. The Hawai'i Defense Foundation's Firearm Safety Training course is not just rewarding - I feel like I'm part of something - even after I took the course they're always there to answer any and all questions I may have. I WOULD HIGHLY RECOMMEND the Hawai'i Defense Foundation! read more

I am a complete gun novice (other than boy scouts where I fired a rifle on one occasion) but was interested in getting a firearm for home protection. I was looking for a course to get my licence, but additionally found great value in firing several types of pistols in varying calibers. This exposure lead me eventually settle on the actual pistol I wanted, a step that would have taken much longer by any other means. But what really influenced me to give 5 stars was the willingness and patience to also teach my 10 year old daughter handgun basics. She was attentive, but, like most 10 years old children, occasionally had difficulty with retaining the subtle details of movements (ie while trying to reload she would not pay attention to the barrel as it wandered to areas it shouldn't). The instructor was VERY patient, very calmly reminding her of safety issues, and taking the time to really teach her. After one round on all the caliber firearms, he had her stay at the .22 station as she clearly was more comfortable there, while others would practice with the larger caliber stations. She really enjoyed the class, as did I. Though slightly zealous about gun right that was clearly evident, I would expect nothing less, and am glad there are people like him which battle the opposite extreme and protect my rights. read more

Highly recommended! You will leave the course with a greater understanding of firearms in general! Mr. Baker is very thorough and highly educated when it comes to firearm safety, state laws, and shooting techniques! You will get personal attention to make sure you understand every aspect of firearm ownership! Mr. Baker is very passionate about this class and that enhances the educational experience! You will have the opportunity to handle and manipulate several pistols, from the guns of the old west (cowboy revolvers) to the contemporary polymers! This helped me understand what type of pistol I want to own to protect my family! The eduction does not stop at the class, Mr Baker is a great resource and has helped me several times since I took the class! I am very glad to have been trained by Mr Baker and now shooting has become a big part of my life. I try to shoot once a week and currently looking to compete, thanks to the eduction that the Hawaii Defense Foundation has provided me! If you want to learn and understand firearms, sign up, even if you have no interest in owning! You will not be disappointed! See you guyz on the range! read more

Ok, so I haven't taken any other courses in firearms safety but I have no doubt in my mind that this one is one of the best in Hawaii. The in-class portion of the course is chock-full of a lot of information from safety and operation to Hawaii laws and procedures for acquiring a firearm. Although this information may be a lot to take in, instructor Chris Baker presents it effectively and is always willing to answer questions. The on-range portion is a great follow up to the in-class portion because you get to apply everything you've just learned in class. Here, Instructor Chris displays his knowledge and patience as he guides you through safely operating a real firearm. Also note that as long as you're following the rules and being safe, this part of the course is a lot of fun! Overall, this course taught me that it is our constitutional right to own firearms and it is our responsibility to be safe and responsible in doing so. See you all at the range! read more

WHY I CHOSE HDF: Well, originally what tipped the scale toward HDF, was the PRICE. So, that's what got me to look closer and see that it was a non-profit organization. Then I read more about HDF and find that Cris Baker, (whom is the 'President'), is one of the main guy's fighting for our gun rights.... BAM!! I'm sold. THE EXPERIENCE: Well, the whole experience was great. Not only do you learn the laws, safety, and inner workings of a gun. But, you also learn stance, how to properly grip the pistol, how to trouble shoot a failure to feed or a failure to eject. There is no intimidating feeling when he's teaching. They are patient and willing to answer any questions you may have. To top it off, you leave with a smile on your face. I enjoyed it, and I Recommended it to three of my brothers that had taken the 7/8/12 class and I would encourage anyone looking for a Pistol Safety Class, to take the Hawaii Defense Foundation Pistol Safety Training. read more

Before taking this course I never knew how to shoot a gun, handle a gun, or the associated mentally when using a firearm. After this course I actually shot a gun for the first time, and properly understand all the basic aspects of a pistol. I also know about the state laws when it comes to firearms and how to follow them to the fullest extent and avoid any "oops" scenarios. I strongly recommend this course to anyone who wishes to take this course in order to purchase a firearm, there are other courses out there for upwards of $200+ from people who are in it for the money, but these people at the Hawaii Defense Foundation are in it for the principal of the matter and are more then willing to aid you in the process of obtaining your firearm, but also being able to practice with it. Even after the course is completed, they are more then willing to meet with you to ensure you understand if you have any additional questions. read more

I highly recommend taking course from HDF not only if you want to purchase a handgun, but also if you just want to learn about firearms and how to operate them. During the classroom portion HDF teaches how a handgun works, imparts a good understanding of basic gun safety, and shows how to handle different types of pistols BEFORE going out to the range. I found the hands on part of the classroom portion to be VERY helpful, as we were taught how to clear a handgun, secure a proper grip, and how to test a trigger. This made me considerably less nervous when we went down to Koko Head to shoot. And of course, the range time was a hoot! We got to shoot four different firearms for nearly two hours, from a humble .22 Walther then working our way to the .40 Glock. It's highly addictive, I can't wait to purchase my own firearm :) The whole experience is informative and a lot of fun. Thanks HDF! read more

I've been wanting to take a gun safety course for a while since our house got broken into. Of course I made my husband take this course with me so we both know how to safely operate a hand gun. I did some research online and came across HDF which by the way was one the cheapest and fastest in getting properly certified. Some places took 2 days to complete the course of which we did not have the time to do so. Chris was right on when it came to teaching his class. He was pretty funny too which is a plus in my husbands books because he gets very bored fast and tends to not pay attention. We got to go to the firing range and do some time firing all types of guns which is really good because I found out really fast what gun fit me and my needs. Overall it was a great class to go and well worth the money~I am definitely sending my friends his way =) read more

I highly recommend Mr. Baker's firearms course. I went into this course with almost no knowledge on firearms, ammo, or anything along those lines. After completing the classroom part of the course I had a better knowledge of not only the importance of firearm safety, but a better understanding on the different parts of the gun, ammo, etc. He is very open for questions, even now if I have questions on anything I can ask him. The second part of the class was actual shooting and this is where everything you learned comes into play. He tries his best to work with you one on one to make sure everything works for you from how you hold the gun to how you stand, sight picture etc. This is a great person to know because he is always willing to help in anyway he can. He is very knowledgeable. read more

I highly recommend the Hawaii Defense Foundation. We had a very good experience today. Very informative(safety, laws, etc...), hands on, organized, professional, personal instruction. Yeah, and it's soooo NOT boring! Time just flew by. Especially had a blast at the range! Chris was our instructor. Cool guy! He's very knowledgeable of the laws surrounding firearms here in Hawaii, and passionate about helping you learn as well. He, along with the good folks of the "Hawaii Defense Foundation", is proactive and determind to bringing about change to Hawaii's unconstitutional gun laws. COME ON OUT HAWAII, AND SUPPORT THE "HAWAII DEFENSE FOUNDATION'S" FIGHT FOR OUR 2ND AMMENDMENT RIGHTS!!! -Aloha, Brandon read more

Fantastic course. Chris Baker is a great Instructor. He is extremely knowledgeable regarding all Hawaii gun laws, fireams safety, handling and firing ALL types and calibers of handguns. He also provided insightful home defense strategies and scenarios. On the range he was extremely helpful and patient and stressed safety above all else. I am glad I took the training from HDF and would highly recommend their course. In addition the class size was small (9 people) and everyone had ample opportunity to shoot each gun multiple times at the range. All in all it was a very instructive and practical course and an a enjoyable educational experience. I will be taking further instruction from HDFin the future and I have urged my wife to take the basic course as well. read more

My husband and I took the safety course from Chris and we recommend this course from Chris. He is very thorough and has an extensive understanding of different types of firearms. He makes sure you are handling the gun properly and constantly going over the 3 important safety points of handling firearms. His class is reasonably priced compare to other places. He is very patient and me being a female that never ever touched a gun before, I felt very comfortable with Chris. He has a passion for amendment rights and being able to protect ourselves from harm ways. Support Chris and his Hawaii Defense Foundation , it will be a valuable lesson. read more

Great course from a great group of people. As a former service member the value of going over the basics every now and then is often overlooked. Chris and the team at Hawaii Defense Foundation offer a great introduction to the operations of firearms and safety. I took a course thinking it was just a check in the box on the way to being able to purchase a handgun in Hawaii. I came out realizing that even as a former MP in the Marines firearms safety and use is a perishable skill that needs regular training. Thanks the Chris and the HDF i can continue to hone my skills and expand my collection. read more

Just completed the Gun Safety Course with Chris of the Hawaii Defense Foundation and have to thank him for giving a complete training course for anyone who is planning on owning or using a hand gun. Class instruction was informative and in a relax setting. His knowledge of handguns and simplified teaching made it easy to understand. His use of visual aids and detailed explanation of gun components were second to none.Got to fire a a variety of handguns of different calibers and enough rounds to feel comfortable with the handling and operation of every handgun. Highly recommend this class. SOLID read more