Training Counselors will evaluate candidates’ performance based on their ability to handle the firearms with confidence, use of appropriate training aids, following the lesson plans and meeting all learning objectives, while utilizing the teaching philosophies expected of NRA Certified Instructors. Candidates can also expect to learn the NRA discipline specific instructional methods and evaluating and improving the performance of beginning shooters. Candidates will be provided with the NRA Trainer’s Guide, appropriate Lesson Plans and Outlines, Basic Course Student handbooks, certificates, basic student examinations, NRA Marksmanship Qualification Program booklet, Basic Firearm Training Programs Brochure, Gun Safety Rules brochure, NRA Trainer’s Examination and NRA discipline specific instructor examination (minimum passing grade is 90%).

• NRA Basic Pistol Shooting Instructor—10 Hours
  • NRA Basic Instructor Training (BIT) - 6 Hours + Discipline (usually pistol)
• NRA Personal Protection In The Home - 8.5 Hours
• NRA Personal Protection Outside The Home - 14 Hours
• NRA CCW Instructor - 16 Hours
• NRA Home Firearm Safety Instructor Training—5 Hours
• NRA Basic Rifle Shooting Instructor Training—10 Hours
• NRA Basic Shotgun Shooting Instructor Training— 11 Hours
• NRA Metallic Reloading - 8 Hours
• NRA Shotgun Shell Reloading - 8 Hours

Contact us in Southeast Louisiana, to learn how to properly handle your firearms with our student courses.

To qualify as an NRA Instructor:

• Candidates must possess and demonstrate a solid background in firearm safety and shooting skills acquired through previous firearm training and/or previous shooting experience. Instructor candidates must be intimately familiar with each action type in the discipline they wish to be certified.
• Candidates will be required to demonstrate solid and safe firearms handling skills required to be successful during an instructor training course by completing pre-course questionnaires and qualification exercises administered by the NRA Appointed Training Counselor.
• Candidates must satisfactorily complete an NRA Instructor Training Course in the discipline they wish to teach (e.g., NRA Basic Pistol Course), and receive the endorsement of the NRA Training Counselor conducting that training.

NRA Instructor courses are discipline specific. During the course, candidates will learn NRA policies and procedures, basic public speaking skills, training methodology, use of a training team and training aids, organizing a course, building a budget, and finally preparing to teach. In addition, candidates will be provided the appropriate lesson plans and basic course student packets. Role-playing is a major part of an instructor course; therefore, the minimum class size should be at least four candidates, with 10-12 candidates being ideal. Candidates take turns working in teams, actually conducting portions of the course to other candidates who portray basic students.

At Gulf Coast Shooters, we’re here to support you in your journey to become a firearms instructor. Our training programs, resources, and expertise are at your disposal, ensuring that you’re well-prepared to pass on your knowledge and skills to the next generation of instructors.

Becoming a firearms instructor is not just a career choice; it’s a calling. It’s a way to contribute to the safety of your community and the future of your community. Join us in making a difference in the field of firearms training.

“Gulf Coast Shooters is an excellent source for firearm and safety training”

—Christopher. P

“Instructor Bill Long is top-notch.”

—Alexander. D

NRA Instructor Basic Pistol Shooting + Basic Instructor Training (BIT) - 17 Hours

THIS IS THE COURSE TO TAKE TO TEACH CONCEALED CARRY TRAINING.

The National Rifle Association (NRA) Pistol Instructor training is a comprehensive program designed to educate individuals on the safe and effective use of handguns. The course covers various aspects, including firearm safety, marksmanship fundamentals, teaching techniques, and legal considerations. Participants learn how to conduct NRA Basic Pistol courses and develop essential skills for instructing others in a classroom and on the range.

Key topics include firearm knowledge, shooting skills, coaching methods, and the importance of responsible gun ownership. The training also emphasizes the NRA’s commitment to promoting firearm safety and education. Upon successful completion, individuals become certified NRA Pistol Instructors, enabling them to share their knowledge and skills with others, fostering a culture of responsible gun ownership and proficiency.

Upon completion of this course you may apply with the Louisiana State Police to be able to teach concealed carry (CHP) in Louisiana. You may also apply with the Mississippi DPS to be able to teach the MS Enhanced Permit training.

This course is 2 full days, about 20 hours and teaches the proper methods to safely use a pistol, maintain, and shoot a pistol. You’ll learn organizational and teaching skills through practical exercises and demonstrations and instructor candidates must pass a written examination.

Students will receive the NRA Trainers Guide (BIT book), the NRA Pistol Shooting Instructor Candidate Lesson Plans and Appendix. At the end of the NRA Pistol Instructor training we’ll discuss how to apply with LSP to be able to teach CHP in LA and what’s needed to teach in MS.

Cost: $450.00

• Saturday / Sunday - 2025-04-26/27
• Saturday / Sunday - 2025-07-12/13
• Saturday / Sunday - 2025-10-04/05

NRA Online Training:

https://onlinetraining.nra.org/online-courses/

Enroll now:

Once you choose and pay for your course, you will receive an email with instructions to complete your enrollment.

register | slidell, la

NRA Instructor Home Firearm Safety Course - 5 Hours

The NRA Home Firearm Safety Instructor training is a program designed to prepare individuals to teach others about safe firearm handling and storage within a home environment. Participants learn instructional techniques, classroom management, and effective communication to impart essential safety principles. The training covers firearm components, safe storage methods, and accident prevention strategies. Emphasis is placed on responsible firearm ownership, creating a secure home environment. Successful completion of the NRA Home Firearm Safety Instructor training allows individuals to become certified instructors, empowering them to educate others on fundamental firearm safety practices. This program plays a crucial role in promoting a culture of responsible gun ownership and ensuring that individuals have the knowledge to maintain a safe home with firearms.

Cost: $250.00

• Saturday - 2025-07-19

Enroll now:

Once you choose and pay for your course, you will receive an email with instructions to complete your enrollment.

register | slidell, la

NRA Instructor CCW Course - 16-18 Hours

THIS IS NOT THE COURSE TO TAKE TO TEACH CONCEALED CARRY TRAINING. BASIC PISTOL IS THE REQUIRED COURSE FOR CONCEALED CARRY TRAINING.

The National Rifle Association (NRA) Concealed Carry Weapons (CCW) Instructor training is a specialized program aimed at equipping individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to educate others on carrying concealed firearms responsibly. The training covers topics such as firearm safety, concealed carry laws, practical shooting skills, and teaching methodologies. Participants learn to conduct NRA CCW courses, emphasizing legal considerations, situational awareness, and the ethical use of force.

The program is designed for experienced shooters who wish to become certified NRA CCW Instructors, empowering them to provide effective training to individuals seeking to obtain or renew concealed carry permits. Successful completion of the training enables instructors to contribute to a safer and more informed community by promoting responsible concealed carry practices.

Firearm Instruction, Responsibility, Mental Awareness and Safety Training — is the NRA’s response to the American public’s need for a firearm orientation program for persons wishing to learn how to conceal carry and draw from a holster.

Cost: $450.00

• Saturday / Sunday - 2025-06-28/29

Enroll now:

Once you choose and pay for your course, you will receive an email with instructions to complete your enrollment.

Register | slidell, la

NRA Instructor Basic Rifle Shooting Course - 10 Hours

The National Rifle Association (NRA) Rifle Instructor training is a comprehensive program designed to educate individuals on the safe and effective use of rifles. Participants in this training learn essential skills, including firearm safety, marksmanship fundamentals, teaching techniques, and range procedures. The course covers various types of rifles, ammunition knowledge, shooting positions, and emphasizes the importance of responsible gun ownership.

Key components of the training include classroom instruction and hands-on range experience, allowing participants to develop proficiency in both teaching and shooting rifles. Successful completion of the NRA Rifle Instructor training enables individuals to conduct NRA Basic Rifle courses, sharing their knowledge and promoting safe and responsible rifle use within their communities. This program plays a crucial role in fostering a culture of firearm education and ensuring that individuals are well-equipped to handle rifles safely and effectively.

Cost: $350.00

• Sunday 2025-02-16

Enroll now:

Once you choose and pay for your course, you will receive an email with instructions to complete your enrollment.

Any date | slidell, la

NRA Instructor Basic Shotgun Shooting Course - 11 Hours

The National Rifle Association (NRA) Shotgun Shooting Instructor training is a specialized program designed to educate individuals on the safe and proficient use of shotguns. The course covers various aspects, including firearm safety, marksmanship fundamentals specific to shotguns, coaching techniques, and range procedures. Participants gain knowledge about different types of shotguns, ammunition selection, shooting positions, and the principles of shotgun shooting.

The training combines classroom instruction with hands-on range experience, allowing participants to develop the skills necessary to teach others effectively. Upon successful completion, individuals become certified NRA Shotgun Shooting Instructors, enabling them to conduct NRA Basic Shotgun courses. The program emphasizes responsible gun ownership and promotes a culture of safe and enjoyable shotgun use. By imparting their expertise, certified instructors contribute to building a community that values firearm safety and proficiency with shotguns.

Cost: $350.00

• Sunday - 2025-09-07

Enroll now:

Once you choose and pay for your course, you will receive an email with instructions to complete your enrollment.

register | slidell, la

NRA Instructor Basic Personal Protection In The Home Course - 9 Hours

The National Rifle Association (NRA) Personal Protection in the Home Instructor training is a specialized program focused on equipping individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to teach others about effective home firearm safety and self-defense strategies. The training covers essential topics such as firearm safety, defensive shooting principles, legal considerations, and home security strategies. Participants learn to conduct NRA Personal Protection in the Home courses, emphasizing the responsible use of firearms for personal protection.

The program includes both classroom instruction and practical range exercises to ensure participants can effectively convey the concepts of home defense. Successful completion of the training enables individuals to become certified NRA Personal Protection in the Home Instructors, empowering them to share critical knowledge about home security and responsible firearm use. This program plays a vital role in promoting self-reliance and safety in the context of personal protection within the home.

Cost: $350.00

• Sunday - 2025-04-13

Enroll now:

Once you choose and pay for your course, you will receive an email with instructions to complete your enrollment.

register | slidell, la

NRA Instructor Basics of Personal Protection Outside The Home Course

- 14 Hours

• Basic Level—9 Hours
• Advanced Level - 5 Additional Hours

The National Rifle Association (NRA) Personal Protection Outside the Home Instructor training is a specialized program designed to educate individuals on the safe and effective use of firearms for personal protection outside the home. The training covers crucial aspects such as situational awareness, defensive shooting techniques, legal considerations, and strategies for carrying concealed firearms responsibly. Participants learn to conduct NRA Personal Protection Outside the Home courses, emphasizing real-world scenarios and the ethical use of force.

This program includes both classroom instruction and practical range exercises, enabling participants to develop the skills necessary to teach others about personal protection in varied environments. Successful completion of the training qualifies individuals as certified NRA Personal Protection Outside the Home Instructors, allowing them to contribute to the community’s understanding of responsible concealed carry and personal safety practices beyond the home setting. The program emphasizes the importance of preparedness and responsible firearm ownership for personal protection in diverse situations.

Cost: $450.00

• Saturday / Sunday - 2025-09-13/14

Enroll now:

Once you choose and pay for your course, you will receive an email with instructions to complete your enrollment.

Any Date | slidell, la

NRA Chief Range Safety Officer Course - 8 Hours

Pre-Requisite Requirement - NRA Range Safety Officer Course Certificate - 8 Hours

The NRA Chief Range Safety Officer (CRSO) training is an advanced program designed to educate experienced individuals on the highest level of range safety practices. Participants learn about range standards, inspection procedures, emergency protocols, and leadership skills necessary to oversee and manage shooting ranges safely. The CRSO training emphasizes the role of a chief range safety officer in fostering a culture of safety and ensuring compliance with established standards. Successful completion of the NRA CRSO training certifies individuals to serve as leaders in promoting and maintaining the highest level of safety at shooting ranges. As a CRSO you may certify others as a RSO and will be knowledgeable on how to write a SOP for range operations.

Cost: $350.00

• Sunday - 2025-06-08
• Sunday - 2025-08-24

Enroll now:

Once you choose and pay for your course, you will receive an email with instructions to complete your enrollment.

register | slidell, la

Pre-requisite:

The NRA Refuse to Be a Victim Instructor training is a program designed to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills to teach personal safety and crime prevention strategies. Participants learn about home security, cyber safety, travel security, and other topics to empower individuals with tools for avoiding dangerous situations. Successful completion of this training allows individuals to become certified NRA Refuse to Be a Victim Instructors, enabling them to educate others on proactive measures for personal safety and crime prevention in various aspects of daily life.

Cost: $350.00

• Sunday - 2025-07-20

Enroll now:

Once you choose and pay for your course, you will receive an email with instructions to complete your enrollment.

register | slidell, la

Are you passionate about firearms and law enforcement, with a desire to pass on your knowledge and expertise to the next generation of officers? Becoming a trainer in  firearms can be a fulfilling and rewarding career path. At Gulf Coast Shooters, we are dedicated to training the trainers, and in this section, we’ll guide you on how to become a trainer in the field of firearms training.

1. Gain the Required Experience:

To become a credible firearms trainer, you must first gain experience in the field. This typically involves working as a law enforcement officer, a Certified Firearms Instructor or join a shooting club, a competition or hunting, during which you will develop a greater understanding of firearms, safety protocols, and real-world applications. The more experience you have, the more valuable your insights will be to future students and instructor candidates.

2. Obtain the Necessary Certifications:

Certifications are essential in the world of firearms training. You’ll need to obtain certifications such as:

• NRA Instructor Certification: The National Rifle Association (NRA) offers a range of instructor certifications, including pistol, rifle, shotgun, and more. These certifications provide a solid foundation for firearm training.

• Legal and Ethical Training: Understanding the legal and ethical aspects of firearm use is crucial. Seek out courses and certifications related to the legal use of force.

3. Develop Excellent Communication Skills:

Being a trainer involves effective communication. You need to be able to convey complex information in a clear and understandable manner. Practice your teaching skills, both in classroom settings and on the firing range. The ability to provide positive feedback is invaluable.

4. Stay Informed and Continuously Improve:

The world of firearms is constantly evolving. Stay up-to-date with the latest techniques, equipment, and legal changes. Attend workshops, seminars, and training programs to enhance your knowledge.

5. Join Professional Associations:

Consider becoming a member of professional associations related to law enforcement training, such as the International Association of Law Enforcement Firearms Instructors (IALEFI). These associations offer networking opportunities and access to valuable resources. Join civilian organizations that support the firearms industry, training and shooting sports such as the Glock Shooting Sports Foundation (GSSF).

6. Gain Experience as an Assistant Instructor:

Before becoming a lead instructor, it’s often beneficial to gain experience as an assistant instructor. This allows you to learn from seasoned trainers and build your teaching skills. You’re welcome to assist Gulf Coast Shooters in the discipline that you’re certified to gain experience and continue to learn.

7. Create a Curriculum:

Develop your own training curriculum tailored to the needs of law enforcement agencies and your students. Your curriculum should cover firearm safety, marksmanship, tactics, technique and legal aspects of firearm use.

8. Seek Employment or Start Your Own Training Business:

Once you’ve gained the necessary experience, certifications, and developed your curriculum, you can either seek employment as a firearms trainer with a law enforcement agency or start your own training business.