Learning about firearm safety, how to properly purchase and use a firearm, and obtaining my concealed carry license were goals I set for myself and accomplished at the end of last year. Although I felt completely outside my comfort zone, I knew taking these steps were important to me. Mainly because of the current state of our world and society in general.
During the course with Concealed Coalition, our instructor began by stating that the world seems more hostile than ever. He shared how you could be an innocent person minding your own business and suddenly find yourself in a situation where a firearm is present or needed. When he asked, “What made you take this course?”
I responded, “For protection.”
The course was filled with men and women there for the same reason and others. We all learned about specific laws in place surrounding firearms, the steps to purchase them, how to properly use and store them, and different strategies surrounding the choice about when and where to use one if needed. We also learned about the importance of being responsible firearm owners.
Concluding the course, I received my certificate and applied for my concealed carry license. After my license arrived, I made my way to the gun range for the first time. And I was honestly terrified. I’d never been to a range, and when I saw different men and women entering with their firearms and could hear shooting from the range rooms, I felt nervous and intimidated.
When it was my turn to select a firearm, bullets, a target, and my safety gear, I stood in my shooting lane and froze.
A guy shooting in the lane next to me saw how hesitant I was and said, “Are you okay?”
“I need help and don’t know where to start,” I replied.
He was very kind, patient, and understanding as he stepped in to give me some pointers about loading my firearm, fixing my stance, and positioning my aim towards the target. Before I made my first shot, I was still scared.
“What are you afraid of?” He asked.
“I just don’t want to make a mistake,” I said.
Then he replied, “After you shoot for the first time, you’ll get better and more comfortable with it.” “I’ll be right here if you need me.”
And he was right. While it took some getting used to, I eased into things and continued practicing.
He also shared stories with me about his first time at the range, talked about the different firearms he had, and told me to hit him up when I decide to return. I was glad we met.
If you’re interested in learning more about firearm safety and how to obtain your concealed carry license, I highly recommend exploring your options. Even if you’re scared to, move through the fear and learn everything you can.