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4-Day Defensive Handgun

Front Sight Course Review

Steve F. (Taken April 2012)

Editor's Note: This is a review for the 4 Day Defensive Handgun Course class offered at Front Sight.
  • 4 Day Defensive Handgun

  • Student: Steve F.
  • Occupation: Retired Firefighter/Paramedic
  • Weapon: Kimber Ultra compact .45 with 3 inch barrel
  • Ammo Used: 650-700 rounds
  • Number Course Taken: First time taken
  • Student Rating: 9/10
  • Course: Front Sight Course
What were your reasons for taking this specific course?

I plan on carrying concealed and, being relatively new to handguns, I thought this was a great way to learn my weapon as well as learning some safety aspects I probably don't know.

What are your general comments regarding this course?

I was very impressed with the class overall. In my chosen profession, we are always attending training. I have been to too many seminars to list. I also taught for many years. One of the things that I was surprised by was their ability to follow a timeline. There were no wasted moments.

Additionally, the caliber of instruction was first class. All – and I mean all – of the instructors were positive and encouraging to everyone. There were many levels of skill and knowledge, and it seemed to me that the instructors gave all of the attendees the coaching and attention they needed. While the days were long, almost every moment was taken up with info. I also liked that they presented legal, moral and ethical issues regarding discharging your handgun. I would like to have shot at turning targets. I am not sure why there weren't any, as my friend's previous trip they did.

The dry firing exercises we did were amazing. It was hard for me to believe how much one improves with this type of exercise.

The only thing I would suggest to improve the overall experience and safety of the class is to remove those who aren't getting it. We had two individuals – one specifically – who held up the class consistently. I will say that the instructors really spent a lot of time attempting to assist this person, but she did hold us up. Additionally, she was muzzling people throughout the class. I also attended the CCW class and was very thankful with their guidance through this process.

I wish I had seen the Tips for Training manual before attending. This may have been suggested in the paperwork, but I missed it. If it isn't included, it should be.

Do you have any tips for first-time students of this course?

Be sure to check out the Tips for Training manual before attending your course.  I think it would have been a big help to me.

Would you suggest this course to others?

Yes, I would suggest this course to others.  I have called everyone I know who shoots and told them how impressed I was with the training.

How did you get there?

I flew from Key West and drove from Las Vegas.

Where did you stay?

We stayed at Saddle West. The rooms were acceptable, though I will probably stay at the Best Western next trip.

How did you handle the ammo situation?

I purchased the ammunition from Stockpile.  The prices were comparable to what I pay at home.

How did you handle the lunch situation?

I ordered the box lunches onsite; and they were awesome but maybe too much food. The potato salad was great.  The macaroni salad wasn't, but I'm not much for that anyways.

Do you have any dinner suggestions?

I ate at the more fancy Italian place. They had a great atmosphere and good food.

What other classes are you planning to take in the future?

4-Day Defensive Handgun
2-Day Handgun Skill Builder
1-Day Glock Armorer