NRA Pistol Instructor Course — Includes Basic Instructor Training BIT

Develop the skills to teach safe, confident, responsible handgun ownership.

Being a capable shooter is a starting point. Effective instructors must also explain clearly, demonstrate safely, recognize student difficulties, and create an environment where people can learn.

This course prepares instructor candidates to organize and teach the NRA Basics of Pistol Shooting course. Through classroom instruction, practical teaching exercises, and range assessments, you will develop your ability to guide students through firearm safety and foundational pistol skills.

At Not Today Self-Defense, we bring serious training and approachable instruction to instructor development. Expect active participation, constructive feedback, and opportunities to practice teaching.

Basic Instructor Training Included

BIT introduces the foundation of NRA instruction, including instructor responsibilities, teaching methods, lesson preparation, training aids, and course organization. Candidates practice presenting information and working as part of an instructional team.

Pistol Instructor Training

The pistol portion focuses on teaching handgun safety, operation, and shooting fundamentals using the NRA curriculum. Candidates participate in demonstrations, practice presentations, student coaching, and practical assessments.

Course Focus

NRA instructor responsibilities and training procedures.
Preparing and presenting lessons.
Teaching safe handgun handling and pistol operation.
Explaining and demonstrating shooting fundamentals.
Coaching students and providing useful feedback.
Organizing classroom and range instruction.
Demonstrating teaching ability and shooting proficiency.

Prerequisites

Candidates must possess solid firearm safety and pistol shooting skills. Completion of the NRA Basics of Pistol Shooting student course is required before instructor training.

Candidates must also complete a pre-course questionnaire and demonstrate their knowledge, safe handling, and shooting proficiency through a pre-course assessment. Contact us before registering if you need to complete the student course or have questions about eligibility.

Duration: 16 hours, including Basic Instructor Training and pistol instructor training.

Course Materials: NRA Trainer’s Guide, Pistol Instructor Candidate Packet, and Basic Pistol student materials.

Certification Requirements

Attendance alone does not guarantee certification. Candidates must successfully complete the required assessments, teaching exercises, shooting qualification, and instructor examinations, and receive the Training Counselor’s recommendation. NRA credentialing requirements and applicable fees also apply.

What to Bring

A detailed equipment list, ammunition requirements, and arrival instructions will be provided before class. Come prepared to participate, practice teaching, and receive feedback.

Not Today Self-Defense
Train. Prepare. Protect.
Serious training. Approachable instruction.

Instructor Course - NRA Pistol Instructor (with BIT) - Instructor Course