In an effort to make myself slightly useful to the community that reads these rambles, I am planning on writing small reviews of the classes I take. When I was starting on this quest to concealed carry, I did a lot of reading and wondering about what classes to take first. Most everything I read was good but it didn't really help me decide what to start with or where to go from there. Hopefully, these small reviews will provide something of a trail to anyone else in a similar position.
I will review each course based upon the following 7 criteria, with a score of 1 to 5, 5 being excellent and 1 being below expectations. A course may receive a score of N/A in a category if it is not applicable. In my reviews, I will attempt to keep focused on the material presented, as different places and instructors may heavily color the overall impression of the course. So, without further ado, my system:
Level: entry, intermediate, advanced, etc.
Lecture: what material is covered in the class via speaking or presentation. Higher scores for material that is clear, practical, and relevant to firearms and safety.
Range Time: the time, number of rounds, coaching, and so on. Higher scores for safe, skill building time.
Materials Provided: Texts, manuals, handouts, useful things to take home. Higher scores for materials that are useful for future reference.
Equipment Provided: ammo, weapons, holsters, variety of equipment, etc.
Value: cost versus returns, I'll try to list the price of the course here as well, but these can vary depending on season, location, and registration discounts.
Recommended For: who I would recommend the class for.
Opinion: my personal rant and rave about the class, not included in scoring.
Excluding Level and Recommendation, this gives us a maximum of 25 points.
In my rating scheme, I will take into account how accurately the advertising reflects the course. For example, if a course says you must provide your own handgun and 200 rounds of ammo, then they might get a 5 in equipment provided, even though they didn't provide anything.
Hopefully this all makes good sense.
Reviews will appear the first week of each month, if there is to be one that month.
I try to attend several courses every year but if there is one in particular that you would like reviewed, let me know and I'll see what I can do.
I try to attend several courses every year but if there is one in particular that you would like reviewed, let me know and I'll see what I can do.
Similarly, if you offer courses and want me to review yours; a tuition break would be a great incentive!
If you have any questions about my reviews, comment or e-mail me and I'll do my best to answer them.
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