What (if anything) do I need to know to take a Pistol Permit Class?

[SilverBomber]

I'm in New York (not NYC). Do I need to know anything special like specific parts of the gun?

The only real experience I have with firearms is with an AK, I really know little about handguns other than what I've read on several forums.

Is it a very simple class, or should I prepare?

 

[gdvan01]

It wouldn't hurt to be familiar with the general rules of firearm safety and the nomenclature of your basic revolver and semi-auto.

 

[thexrayboy]

In all reality you don't "NEED" to know anything. Just be willing to learn.

A good quality class should give you all the basic information you need to get started. In fact you won't start out with preconcieved thoughts that may not even be true.

The more you know the better off you will be, as long as what you learn is truth and not just opinion. Find a good instructor with good references and enjoy the class. If you like you can then take more advanced classes at a
later time.

 

[ChopperKen]

The end with the hole goes toward the target.

 

[Nhsport]

The point of the class is to teach you the stuff that you will need. Most classes end up being taught at the level of the slowest least informed persom so the biggest problem for the average person is getting bored and letting the mind wander
Show up for the class on time,well rested,and in propper frame of mind to pay attention and you will do fine.
95% of the info will be common sence with a few tidbits thrown in,this material is not difficult.

 

[Spare]

I'm taking the NRA Basic Pistol Course tomorrow at Instructional Shooting Inc, in Lowell MA: http://www.instructionalshooting.com/
They sent me "Basics of Pistol Shooting: NRA Handbook" which I am supposed to be familiar with before attending. Other than that, no experience or prior knowledge is required.

 

[LiquidTension]

The class should teach you basic operation and safety. If you're already familiar with firearms you might want to put some rounds downrange with your weapon to make sure it functions properly. That is, if the class will have you shooting and doesn't supply a weapon for you.

 

[ialevy]

Be prepared for four hours of extreme boredom. Remember, until you have the permit in NY, you cannot even touch a gun. So the whole class is videos and talk. My instructor had a little plastic rifle that shot a laser, so at least some folks in the class that never even held a gun could learn how to use sights.

 

[ronto]

Take a pencil and pad and take notes...sit in the front row...bring an inquisitive mind and ask questions...get a good nights sleep before hand...and lastly and most importantly...TRY TO STAY AWAKE!

 

[CNYCacher]

In NYS, nothing.

If you are in the vicinity of Syracuse, Auburn, or Cicero, try here:

http://pstc.sunyocc.edu/corsedsc.php?CourseID=37

12/19/06 @ PSTC Tues, Sec #7 7:00-10:00 PM
12/19/06 @ Bass Pro Tues, Sec #8 6:00-9:00 PM
11/4/06 @ Gander Mtn. Sat, Sec #9 2:00-5:00 PM
12/9/06 @ Gander Mtn. Sat, Sec #10 9:00 AM-12:00 PM

I highly recommend it. The guy does a great job explaining all about guns and how they work, he brings a bunch of them for you to pick up, feel and play around with. He also does a great job of explaining NYS use of force laws, including examples. There is no shooting.

 

[SilverBomber]

Thanks for the advice. I'm near Buffalo, so Syracuse is just a bit too far for me to go. I guess I'll just sign up and go to one right away.

 

[hso]

Permit classes are not intended to teach you about your weapon. A basic handgun class should be taken if you don't have the experience. They are two different things. I would advise the basic handgun course be taken first. I've seen some truely terrifiying behavior exhibited by people in permit classes.