4-Day Handgun Master Prep

Do you notice a lot of improvement with each time that you take the course?

Yes, I definitely do. Starting with the basics and fine-tuning every little detail, which shaves off time on your presentation and shooting.

What were your reasons for taking this specific course?

I'm working against the clock and I'm only as good as my training, so it's a personal achievement when I do well.

General Comments

like the instruction that we get in this course. We usually have the best of the best range masters instructing. Many of them have passed the test, so you get their personal insight on difficulty and tips to save more time.

Sometimes it's hard at the beginning of class starting off slowly. Getting back into the groove of shooting again and depending on how much you have practiced since your last visit can increase the difficulty.

The days are very long; especially on the days you shoot the test. Generally, on the 4-day course, you will shoot the test on the last two days. The test can be up to an hour and a half long. You have to stay downrange the whole time and bring all of your ammo. So, it's both mentally and physically exhausting. But, this course is excellent and fun to take!

As far as the general structure of the course goes, it's a progression of the skills tests from the beginning and intermediate handgun courses. The first test you take is the 4-Day Defensive Handgun skills test. That is also the first thing that you do when you step on the range the first day. The next test would be the intermediate and then after that the advanced. With each test, the times are quicker. The first two days are just prepping you for the master skills test and getting your times cut down to where they need to be. The master's skills test seems a lot more doable when you work your up to that from the 4-Day Defensive Handgun skills test.

I do all of my training at Front Sight, for the time being. This course has been very helpful at improving my shooting and speeding up my times.

How would you improve this course?

I think I found it most helpful, and I really enjoyed the class more when it was a little smaller. When you have two relays, it's nice because you get a break to reload. However, sometimes those breaks can kind of mess with your groove. Also, the instruction is always better when there are fewer people, because the instructors are able to give you more attention and direction.

Would you suggest this course to others?

Yes, definitely.

How did you get there?

I drove from Orange County with my dad who lives in Palm Springs, which takes about 4 hours.

Where did you stay?

I stay at either Best Western or Saddle West. It just depends on whatever one is available.

What other courses do you plan on taking in the future?

I really enjoy taking the advanced handgun courses, so I could see myself taking the 4-Day Advanced Tactics course again at some point. I would love it if they would come out with an updated course that is more scenarios based.