Beginner Handgun Class Near Chattanooga
New to handguns? Our Basic Pistol class is built for you. It is a three-part series at Shooter's Supply in Hixson, TN, near Chattanooga, with classroom learning and live fire on our 12-lane indoor range. Safety comes first at every step, and our instructors are NRA and USCCA credentialed. You do not need any experience to start.
How the Basic Pistol series works
Basic Pistol is a series of classes at our Hixson store: Part 1, Part 2 and Part 3. Each part is booked on our class calendar, where you will find the current dates.
Part 1: the foundation
Part 1 is for people who are new to handguns or want a solid base in handgun safety and handling. It is led by an experienced NRA Certified Instructor. You will learn:
- Handgun safety rules and responsible firearm handling.
- Stance, grip and aiming.
- How to load, unload and clear a handgun.
- How your handgun works.
- The fundamentals of shooting, including trigger control and sight alignment.
Part 2: trigger control, malfunctions and one-handed shooting
Part 2 builds on Part 1. You will practice trigger prep and trigger reset, learn to clear common malfunctions such as failures to feed, failures to eject, stovepipes and double feeds, and train strong-hand and support-hand shooting.
Part 3: an introduction to intermediate techniques
Part 3 builds on your fundamentals with shooting on the move, target transitions, controlled pairs and reloads.
What to bring
Bring your own handgun, or rent one. Ammunition is sold at the store, and we recommend at least one box for your handgun. Hearing and eye protection are provided if you need them. Bring a photo ID, because we check ID, and sign your waiver online before you come to save time at the counter.
The class includes live fire on our range, where every shooter follows the same range rules, including eye and ear protection on the line.
What it costs
A private lesson for one person is from $75. Group class prices and dates are on the class calendar. Plans change, so please read our cancellation policy before you book.
Group class or private lesson?
A group class gives you a set path through Parts 1, 2 and 3. A private lesson is one-on-one and shaped around your goals, from a complete beginner to an advanced shooter, so you can move at your own pace. Lessons can cover handguns, AR-15s, shotguns, and cleaning and maintenance. When you book a private lesson, you can ask for a woman instructor in the notes. Women and first-time shooters are welcome, and you can read more on our women and first-time shooters page.
Thinking about a carry permit?
Our Tennessee enhanced handgun carry permit class is a testing class, not a teaching class. You need to know how to load, unload and make safe your handgun, and how to shoot, before you take it. If you are new to shooting, we highly recommend taking Basic Pistol first. After Part 1, you will be well prepared for the qualification course. See the Tennessee carry permit class page for the details.
Where and when
Shooter's Supply, 4824 Hixson Pike, Hixson, TN 37343
Phone: (423) 875-4868
The store is open Monday to Saturday, 9:00am to 6:00pm, and Sunday, 12:00pm to 6:00pm. If no date on the calendar works for you, email tactical@shooterssupply.com, call us, or come in and tell us which days you would like to see.
Ready to learn?
Pick a date that suits you and book your spot.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need experience for the Basic Pistol class?
No. Part 1 is designed for people who are new to handguns, and all skill levels are welcome.
Does the class include shooting?
Yes. Basic Pistol includes classroom learning and live fire on our indoor range.
What should I bring?
Bring a photo ID. Bring your own handgun and ammunition, or buy ammunition and use a rental. Hearing and eye protection are provided if you need them.
Can I take the carry permit class instead?
The carry permit class is not for beginners. It is a testing class, so we highly recommend Basic Pistol or a private lesson first.
Can I ask for a woman instructor?
Yes. When you book a private lesson, put your request for a woman instructor in the notes.
Where is the class held?
At our Hixson store, 4824 Hixson Pike, Hixson, TN 37343, near Chattanooga.