Do's and Don'ts When Teaching a Carry Class???

[Jim K]

"I became an NRA Certified Instructor for basic pistol this week!" And you have attended two classes, neither of which you taught. I'm sorry, but that doesn't seem like a lot of experience when it comes to teaching a class with a lot of heavy information involving the law. And you are giving out information on which may depend the continued life and/or freedom of your students.

I have held several NRA instructors ratings and IIRC that pistol course is on basic gun handling, marksmanship and range safety. There was no, and no need for, discussion of carrying a gun, self defense, handling the aftermath of a shooting, dealing with the police, right to remain silent, etc., all of which a self defense course (which is what we are talking about, no matter what it is called, when carrying a gun is involved) should cover.

As both of a bit of humor and something to think about, what do you suggest when a well endowed young lady who likes "lightweight" clothing asks for suggestions on where to carry a handgun in the summer? (FWIW, I had no answer either!)

Jim

 

[leadaddict]

You are right that the NRA certification does not qualify someone to teach "a lot of heavy information involving the law". It is, however, the one legal requirement for someone to teach a firearm safety course in Iowa for people to acquire their permits, which is why I mentioned it here. But just like carrying a gun, just because you legally can doesn't mean you should without proper knowledge and preparation.

As far as qualifications to teach the second half of this class, an hour and a half or so on the laws and handling a self defense shooting, I do believe I have the information and ability to teach what is necessary. (I don't really care to make this thread about me though. If you're truly curious send me a PM and I'll be happy to discuss me!) I'm also not afraid to admit when I don't know something and do know where I can point people with question I cannot answer. I know I can do a better job than many of the classes that are in this area right now. Maybe I'm setting the bar too low, but my students will be better off with me than with what's available now.

I'm thankful for the advise an suggestions of this thread. I knew this group would have a lot of experience taking, and giving, this type of material.

As to your last question, that's when I point her someone with more experience on such things! I know of a gun shop about 20 miles from here that carries a line of ladies clothing and accessories for concealment. I know the lady who stocks that can help her out with some ideas.

 

[RetiredUSNChief]

As both of a bit of humor and something to think about, what do you suggest when a well endowed young lady who likes "lightweight" clothing asks for suggestions on where to carry a handgun in the summer? (FWIW, I had no answer either!)

Actually...I would have given a go at this as such:

That's a very good question, because the answer is not as straight forward as many would think. There's more to carrying a firearm than simply carrying a firearm.

For example, you're not going to carry a firearm that doesn't fit your hand, so that automatically cuts out a wide selection of firearms for some. You're not going to carry a firearm that's of a caliber that makes it difficult for you to shoot. There goes another group of selections. Perhaps you have a medical condition which makes it difficult or nearly impossible to rack most semi-automatics. There goes another group of selections.

I dress warmly in the winter, with layered clothing, sweaters, jackets, and coats. This allows me a great deal of leeway in what I want to carry and how.

I dress much cooler in the summer, which tends to limit my options because it's more difficult to carry a larger firearm.

I wear button up shirts that aren't tucked in. I can much easier than my wife, who normally wears dresses in the warmer seasons.

Wearing an IWB holster provides some benefits and limitations over an OWB holster. Shoulder holsters are another category. There's purse carry, ankle carry, pocket carry, and yes, they even make a bra holster. And did you realize that having a good support system, such as a "gun belt", is every bit as important as the holster?

Are you fat, skinny, or average? What is your body shape? Given the differences between the way the hips on the average man and woman are shaped, it's generally easier for men to carry on a belt then women. And I noticed a huge difference in my own carry options when I lost 30 pounds.

You may find yourself changing some aspects about yourself in order to carry a firearm of any kind in any particular situation. Like maybe your dress habits might have to change some. Maybe losing (or even gaining) some weight. A physical training program to increase body strength.

So the answer to your question isn't as simple as "you need Brand X, Model Y, in Z caliber".

From there, I'd move any specific discussions to break times and keep to the generalities during the class.

 

[Al Thompson]

As both of a bit of humor and something to think about, what do you suggest when a well endowed young lady who likes "lightweight" clothing asks for suggestions on where to carry a handgun in the summer? (FWIW, I had no answer either!)

Belly bands work pretty well Jim.

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