Gemini Rising

CCW Class

In accordance with California law if you want to be a CCW holder, you need to take a 16 hour class. Personally speaking, I'm fine with it. I was introduced to guns when I was 18 in Basic Training. We had two weeks of intense training with an M16 Rifle. Also in basic, I had training with a 38 pistol. Throughout my Army career I've shot various guns to include a 45 caliber pistol, 9mm pistol, M203 grenade launcher, and an M60 machine gun. I "grew up" learning gun responsibility. How to take it apart, clean it, zero a weapon, fire a weapon, and I've never been afraid to not fire a gun. Getting my CCW in the current climate in the state of California is a smart thing to do and I'm always up for good training.

My class was held in Piru, about 20 mins from me. I'd never been to this range, but it was well laid out . There were lots of firing bays which was nice. It was a like finding a hiding gem close to home. Fees were about standard, which, unfortunately were/are high in California.

The first day was on a Saturday. We had four hours of law, which went by quickly. Our instructor was very knowledgeable and patient. We went over a lot of scenarios and applied the law to see if we were legal or not. We had to bring out own lunches because we were out there so after a quick sandwich lunch in my car it was time for the range. For LA county we need to fire 24 shots at 3 feet, 5 feet, and 7 feet to qualify with our gun so we did drills starting at 10 and 15 feet. It was fun to get out and shoot. The temp was in the 90's though, and sadly, bet 2 and 230 I was a heat victim. I had to sit out about an hour in the shade, drinking water and using a cloth to wet myself down to cool down. Once I was recovered, I was able to finish the drills. I did the class with 3 other guys.

And on that first day, I was the only one with a headshot.



The next day, Sunday we started at 8 am again. We did 3 hours of law and then watched a slideshow presentation regarding mental health which is mandatory. After another 30 min sandwich lunch (I ate canned chicken, pita, cuties, and chips both days) we were off to the range for more drills. I was fine this day. The temps were in the 80's and I brought more water to drink. I was also very good about staying in the shade when needed. We started the qualification shoot around 315 pm and it took about 45 minutes to finish. When it was over, we cleaned up, put our guns away and got our certificates. I uploaded my certificates to the Sheriff's website and I'm just waiting my final appointment to go down and get my permit. The website says it takes 6 weeks, but I suspect it will be closer to 8-12 weeks.

I would definitely recommend my instructor and his business and I'd go back for more classes. I really appreciated his patience and his teaching style. I need to write him a testimonial when I find some time. Actually, I'm kind of amped to take more gun classes, but time is not my friend. Maybe when I retire.