When I signed up for this course, I didn't have any idea what to expect. I have not shot a gun since my time in the service in the Viet Nam era 1970s, and I am more than a little nervous about having one. My wife made me take the course because she is concerned that, as a club musician, I am an easy target. After all, I am the last person on the street (usually downtown or in Soulard), just got paid, and am carrying valuable amplifiers and other easily pawnable equipment. After all, my $1,200 amp will easily pawn for $25 anywhere by some douchebag meth head. So I purchased a handgun (9mm Glock 43) and took the class. It was located in a pretty run-down American Legion Hall in Maryland Heights, and was taught by an older gentleman, Dennis, who is a certified NRA instructor. At first, this made me more concerned because I am not a supporter of the NRA. He said that he was actually the youngest member of this AL post. He was really knowledgeable about all things gun-related. He is a veteran, experienced hunter, and an excellent instructor. The classroom portion of the course took 6 hours, and they actually flew by. There were only 6 students, and everyone was polite, interested, and participated in all the exercises and discussions, which covered everything from beginner (me) to advanced gun-owning. I truly learned a lot, from how to properly handle the pistol, to how to actually carry a concealed weapon, important legalities, and various scenarios and how they can play out in real life situations. Since there is no firearms range on the premises, we then caravanned to the Gateway Gun Club, where we shot 20 rounds in practice, then another 20 rounds, of which 15 must hit the target. Dennis was there supervising, and ensuring that each of us were safe and skilled enough to pass the shooting portion of the course. It would have been nice if the AL Hall would have had a range, but I really have no complaints at all. He helped me refine my grip and I put all 20 rounds in the silhouette, with 3 actually hitting the bullseye! My only real complaint is that once I completed the course, I had to take my paperwork to the St. Louis County Police Department in Clayton, which is currently like navigating through an obstacle course of barricades and narrowed streets. Now I just have to wait several weeks for approval and then go back there to pick up my official card. Cost was $85 for the course and $90 to the Police Dept. I appreciate everything I learned and may go back for the advanced course. read more